Lacrosse is a game of speed, coordination, and agility. But like most sports, quality equipment is also an important part of performing well on the lacrosse field. If you are looking to get started playing lacrosse, choosing the right equipment can be the difference between fun and frustration.
Early lacrosse sticks were often carved with intricate designs, and some Native Americans valued their lacrosse sticks so highly that they were buried alongside them. While modern lacrosse is a very different sport from the original game played by tribes in the eastern United States and Canada, lacrosse sticks are still an important – and personal – piece of equipment.
Length
Proper length has a lot to do with what position you're interested in playing. Attackers use the shortest sticks so that they can move quickly. Defensive players use longer shafts so that their reach and blocking ability are as wide as possible. Goalies use medium-length shafts as a compromise between agility and reach.
Since the right length also depends on your height, it's a good idea to have someone at a lacrosse or sporting goods store ensure that any stick you choose is appropriate for you. If you are joining a team or league, you should also check their length requirements to make sure you get an allowed stick.
Material
Lacrosse sticks come in a wide variety of materials and alloys. Manufacturers are constantly striving to create sticks that are strong and durable but lightweight and agile. While advanced players may use sticks made from titanium or scandium, these materials are more expensive, and their maneuverability can be difficult for new players.
The best material for beginner lacrosse sticks is aluminum alloy. These sticks are inexpensive but relatively lightweight. They are balanced enough to also be appropriate for all positions.
The head of a lacrosse stick is made up of a pocket that is laced with shooting strings. Lacrosse heads are very complicated – for this reason, many advanced players buy their head and shaft separately. However, for a beginner, it usually makes more sense to buy a complete stick.
Generally speaking, there are three things that beginners will want to look for in lacrosse heads:
- Pockets can be unstrung or pre-strung; beginners usually choose a pre-strung pocket
- Narrower heads are more accurate in passing, while wider heads make catching and blocking passes easier; beginners will benefit from a wider lacrosse head
- The head can be attached to the stick at different angles; for beginners, an "onset" head that simply extends from the stick is good for learning fundamentals
Being able to hold a stick and see whether it feels right is an important part of buying a stick. Even someone who has never played lacrosse before can, with a little guidance, decide whether a stick feels comfortable or not. That's why buying lacrosse sticks in person is an excellent idea.
If you have more questions about buying the right kind of lacrosse equipment, visit a website like http://www.breakawaylacrosse.com/ for help.
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