You are here: Home/Lacrosse/ Best Lacrosse Head Reviews 2021: Specs, Video & Guide
"Note that the products discussed on our site are independently selected by (obsessive) editors. At no extra cost to you, things you buy through our links may earn us a commission"
Best Lacrosse Head Reviews 2021: Specs, Video & Guide
Do you know that owning the best lacrosse head can significantly improve your game? Whether you’re just getting started in the world of lacrosse or you’re a seasoned player looking to make an upgrade, choosing the right head matters. The best lacrosse heads for your position and playing style can noticeably raise your level.
Heads are a crucial part of your lacrosse stick. While they may seem tough, they’re not immune to issues. Everything from weather conditions to the quality of the plastic can negatively affect your technique. So, it’s important to choose one that works for you.
The lacrosse heads we use today have only been around for about 50 years. Before the 1970s, lacrosse players used basic heads made out of wood. Modern heads have a lot more to offer players. Not only are they more durable than ever, but manufacturers are able to create options for individual positions.
Choosing the right lacrosse head isn’t always easy. Subtle differences in design can make all the difference on the field. To help you on your search, we’ve created this guide. We break down some of the best heads on the market and provide some valuable information that you need to know.
Best Lacrosse Heads for Defenders, Middies, and Attackers
The key to choosing the best lacrosse head for you is to consider how you play. Like any sport, your playing style will change based on your position on the field. As such, it’s good to match your head with the types of techniques you’ll be doing.
Attack
Attackers are responsible for scoring goals. Typically, they’ll stick to the offensive side of the field and receive passes from midfielders. To be a successful attacker, you need to have precise shooting skills and impeccable control. As you can probably guess, those two characteristics can be improved with the right lacrosse head.
Attack lacrosse heads are designed with control in mind. They usually have tighter throats to ensure that players can easily line up the shot and follow-through while retaining their accuracy. The head and pockets are also modified slightly. A narrower head provides a snappier shot while a mid to low pocket makes it easier to move while cradling.
Midfield
Midfielders, also lovingly referred to as “middies,” are the backbone of any team. They support attackers and perform a wide range of tasks on the field. Unlike attackers, midfielders aren’t limited in terms of position. They often run up and down the field. Thus, they need great endurance and ball control skills.
The unique thing about midfield lacrosse heads is that they’re focused on versatility. Middies have to act as both the offense and defense. As a result, they need equipment that’s flexible enough for shooting, passing, and everything in between. Most midfield lacrosse heads are designed with characteristics of defensive and attack models. For example, they’re usually quite durable for those defensive moments. Yet, they’re also light enough to make swift shots and fast passes.
Another key element is the scoop. Middies must grab the ball and pass it to attackers. The scoop for midfield heads is rounded, allowing players to grab the ball quickly from any angle.
Defense
The goal of the defensive line is to prevent the opposing team from scoring. They work alongside the goalie to intercept shots. Defenders will also steal balls from the other team to pass to midfielders or attackers. If you’re a defensive player, you’re probably not going to be making any goals yourself. Instead, your job is to be the other team’s worst nightmare. Your lacrosse head should reflect that.
Defense lacrosse heads are made for checking and interception. From a construction standpoint, defense heads are considerably more durable than those made for other positions. This is to ensure that the gear holds up during a hard check. You’ll also notice that the head is much wider. A wider head makes it easier for players to catch and steal a ball. As for the pocket, it’s usually a bit higher for quick release.
The EVO 4X head from Warrior is an excellent lacrosse head that’s designed to make you a force on the field. It’s strategically designed to provide you with flexible performance and pinpoint accuracy when shooting.
Best Position Use:
The cool thing about this Warrior lacrosse head is that it can be used by either attackers or midfielders. When used by offensive players, the stiffness of the head can help with accuracy and control. The unit uses a unique Symrail design. Basically, this means that the inside and outside of the sidewall are symmetrical. How does this improve your game? Well, it helps to cut back on the overall weight of the head without sacrificing any stiffness.
It’s easy to see how that can benefit attackers. However, midfielders can take full advantage of that Symrail design as well. Middies need to have a head that’s tough enough to withstand checks. However, it also has to be light for all that running. This head checks off both of those boxes.
Features:
Built to be stiff
Lightweight construction
Flexible stringing holes
Specifications:
Available in multiple colors
Only weighs 6.4 ounces
Narrow throat
Symrail design
Pros
Symmetrical interior and exterior provide superior stiffness
Durable build
Can be used for more than one playing position
Cons
Doesn’t come with strings
Not wide enough to be used by goalies or defense players
Conclusion:
Whether you’re an attacker or a middie, this head will make you a force to be reckoned with on the field. The strategic design is great for improving your game and providing you with the power and accuracy you need to succeed.
The stx duel U is a faceoff specialty head designed to allow the faceoff specialist to dominate the x
STX is one of the most trusted manufacturers of lacrosse gear. The Duel U head is a welcome offering that’s made for tough face-offs.
Best Position Use:
Like the previous option, this model is great for both attackers and midfielders. Attackers can take advantage of the throat plug. The head gets a bit narrower towards the shaft, which can provide greater control as you take shots.
For midfielders, the lacrosse head offers a flexible middle zone. There are also dual sidewalls, which make the head incredibly tough. As a result, it’s great for defensive techniques used by middies.
Features:
Dual sidewall construction
Additional screw hole for stability
Throat plug
Scalloped scoop
Specifications:
Mid-low pocket
NFHS and NCAA legal
Weighs less than 6 ounces
Pros
Additional screw provides more torsional stability
Has strategic flex points
Throat plug provides versatility and better control
Durable sidewalls
Cons
Doesn’t come with strings
Scalloped scoop can fold over with ground balls
Not great for defenders or goalies
Conclusion:
There’s no question that the STX Duel U can serve you well on the field. It’s expertly designed to be flexible enough for a wide range of playing situations. What’s not to love?
Brine is all about providing players with options regardless of how they choose to play lacrosse. The Clutch Elite head is no different. It’s available in a couple of different versions, accommodating the needs of young high school and college players.
Best Position Use:
Whether you get the HS or X version of the lacrosse head, the core design of the equipment is built for attackers and midfielders. The head is versatile enough to be used with both positions, allowing you to change positions effortlessly.
The profile of the head is relatively narrow. Plus, the holes are arranged to create a deep-set pocket. These two elements work in tandem to provide you with better control of the ball.
Features:
Core-Tech sidewalls
Deep-set pocket holes
Throat plug
Scalloped scoop
Specifications:
Available in HS and X specs
Lightweight design
Pros
Stiff construction
Narrow throat provides better control
Cons
Doesn’t come with strings
Not great for defenders or goalies
Conclusion:
There’s a lot to like about the Brine Clutch Elite lacrosse head. It’s a well-made piece of gear that’s catered towards younger players. While professionals might not get all the performance capabilities they need, the head is great for younger players who are developing their skills.
Enhanced groundball play with STX’s new, patent pending, Speed Scoop, allows for quick and effortless scooping by minimizing scoop drag on turf and grass
Need a lacrosse head that can take a beating? Take a look at the STX Hammer. STX has managed to create a robust piece of gear while keeping the weight light and comfortable enough for any player.
Best Position Use:
The Hammer is purposely made for defensive players. This is evident through the wider shape and ample support. When you look at this head, you’ll notice that there are three sidewall braces. They add rigidity to the head and ensure that it can hold up well to checks.
There’s also a bottom brace for added support. That brace creates a higher pocket, which allows you to quickly release the ball to midfielders. Despite all of that toughness, the head is considerably light. STX uses C-Channel technology to add strength to the plastic while keeping the weight down.
Features:
C-Channel technology
Multiple sidewall braces
High pocket
Speed scoop
Specifications:
Weighs about 5.6 ounces
Wider shape
High pocket placement
Pros
Much lighter than other defense heads
Speed scoop improves groundball pickups
Tough construction
Cons
Top of head prone to damage
No strings included
Not great for attackers or midfielders
Conclusion:
With the Hammer from STX, you can take on opposing players without missing a beat. Thanks to its tough build, it’ll hold up well to even the toughest plays.
The Mirage lacrosse head from East Coast Dyes is one of the light options on the market. It takes advantage of some clever design elements to keep the weight to a minimum while still providing ample strength.
Best Position Use:
The lightweight build of this head makes it perfect for both midfielders and attackers. Middies will appreciate the decreased weight as they run up and down the field. Plus, it has a flat scoop to stop ground passes.
For offensive players, the head has a narrow face and mid-low pocket. These features provide enhanced control during cradling. The curve is also quite minimal. It’s a nice middle-ground for those who want the best of both worlds.
Features:
Narrow face
Mid-low pocket
UV-Resistant material
Specifications:
Weighs less than 5 ounces
Minimal curve
Available in black or white
Flat Scoop
Pros
Easy to pick up groundballs
Lightweight build
Angled sidewall supports provide durability
Cons
Not as stiff as other options
No string included
Conclusion:
All in all, the Mirage lacrosse head is a powerhouse on the field. The unique shape and clever design cues help you make fast and snappy shots.
A Complete Buying Guide for Top Rated Lacrosse Heads
What Makes the Best Lacrosse Head?
Beyond the core design, there’s a lot that goes into a high-quality lacrosse head. On top of choosing the right option for your playing position, you need to consider the following factors.
1. Strung vs. Unstrung
Ultimately, the decision to go with a strung or unstrung lacrosse head comes down to personal preference. For beginners, it’s always recommended that the head is strung by a professional. Players usually develop their stringing skills and preference as their skills develop. Getting a strung head right off the bat is easier and eliminates the learning curve.
With that being said, seasoned players can get strung heads as well. Many head manufacturers design their units with stringing versatility in mind. These heads can be arranged in a few different ways, which provides that flexibility that comes with unstrung heads.
If you already have the necessary stringing skills, unstrung options are great. You can arrange the mesh how you want. With an unstrung model, you’re able to fine-tune the head to work for you. Just make sure that the hole arrangement suits your stringing style.
2. Head Shape
While they all look similar at first glance, lacrosse heads have subtle differences in their shape. Earlier, we went over how some of those shape variations can benefit certain playing positions. Wider heads are ideal for defense players, as they make catching and intercepting the ball easier. Meanwhile, a narrow head and pinched throat offer the control you need for making shots as an attacker.
Another thing to consider is the shape of the scoop, which is the top part of the head. You can get either flat or curved scoops. Flatter scoops are great for beginners because they’re easier to lift balls off the ground. If you’re an advanced player, curved scoops are the way to go. The curved shape provides a bit more accuracy during shots and passes.
3. Mesh Type
The mesh used to create the pocket can vary in quality. In the past, there were two main types of meshes. However, recent advancements in mesh technology have led to a slew of different options to choose from. Ultimately, the right choice is an individual preference. It’s about how you want the ball to feel and perform. Plus, the differences in quality affect how the mesh holds up.
Soft Mesh: As the category would suggest, soft meshes are much more pliable than their harder counterparts. The biggest benefit of soft mesh is that you can feel the ball better as you move. This mesh is also easier to string onto your head and doesn’t require any break-in time. The downsides? Well, because the material is soft and porous, it’s notorious for holding onto moisture. Soft meshes also tend to lose their shape over time.
Hard Mesh: If you get a hard mesh, you’re investing in something that’s going to last. This option is built to be durable. Usually, hard meshes aren’t affected by inclement weather. Plus, the strung pocket holds onto its shape. Unfortunately, with that durability comes some sacrifices in feel. Because the mesh is so rugged, you’re not going to have that same price feel as you make your way across the field. Additionally, you have to spend some time breaking the mesh in before it gets just right.
Wrap Up
Don’t let a bad lacrosse head affect your game. Lacrosse is a complex sport. It’s not just about how you move. Your gear plays a critical role in how successful your offensive and defensive techniques play out. The best lacrosse head will ensure that you’re prepared for anything on the field.
Paul is a compulsive tinkerer and inventor who loves writing about latest machines technology. He is especially inclined towards home improvement, exercise and outdoor equipment that every sports enthusiast and house dweller would love to get their hands on.
The EVO 4X head from Warrior is an excellent lacrosse head that’s designed to make you a force on the field. It’s strategically designed to provide you with flexible performance and pinpoint accuracy when shooting.
