Last updated on May 29th, 2025 at 10:07 am
As a professional lacrosse coach and player, I know how crucial it is for attackers to choose the right lacrosse head. The lacrosse head is the top part of the stick that holds the ball, and it can make a big difference in how well you play. In this guide, let us explore why choosing the right lacrosse head is important and what to look for.
Importance of Choosing the Right Lacrosse Head
Choosing the right lacrosse head is essential for attackers because it affects your control, accuracy, and speed. A good lacrosse head helps you catch and throw the ball more easily, making it easier to score goals. It also helps you keep the ball in your stick while running and dodging defenders. As a coach, I always recommend that attackers look for a lacrosse head that suits their playing style and position on the field.
Best Attack Lacrosse Heads and Our Reviews
When it comes to choosing the best lacrosse head for attackers, there are several top-rated options that players and coaches alike recommend. This list has been compiled with my personal experience, feedback from my student players, and insights from fellow coaches. At Laxbee, we always strive to recommend the best possible gear options for our audience.
STX Surgeon 700 Review
The STX Surgeon 700 lacrosse head is extremely durable, lightweight, and high-performing, making it ideal for serious players seeking excellent control and accuracy
- Durability: The head is built to last, withstanding intense play and various weather conditions.
- Lightweight: Its lightweight design enhances speed and maneuverability on the field.
- Stringing Ease: The head is easy to string, allowing for a highly customized pocket.
- Performance: Offers excellent control and accuracy, making it a reliable choice for serious players.
After testing the STX Lacrosse Surgeon 700 Unstrung Head, I found it to be exceptionally durable and lightweight. The solid construction held up well during intense play, and the ease of stringing allowed me to customize the pocket for better control and accuracy. The head is initially stiff and requires a break-in period, but the quality and performance justify the higher price. Overall, it’s a reliable and high-performing lacrosse head that I would recommend to serious players.
Expert’s Advice
While STX Surgeon 700 head is a great option for pro players and due to the performance it offers the price is a bit on the expensive side, so always keep an eye out for sales, discounts, or special offers by STX. Some of the players found this head to be a little stiff, regarding stiffness, it’s important to note the gradual break-in process—using the head regularly in practice will help it become more flexible over time. During the break-in period, make sure to adjust the stringing as needed to ensure the pocket forms correctly and aligns with your playing style. You can use a lacrosse rebounder for this purpose.
Evo Warp Pro 2 Review
This lacrosse head offers an innovative design with a pre-strung pocket, providing good initial control and enhancing speed
- Innovative Design: Modern design with a pre-strung pocket for convenience.
- Lightweight: Enhances speed and maneuverability.
- Initial Control: Provides good control and accuracy when first used.
- Ready-to-Use: Ideal for players who prefer not to string their own heads.
- Enhanced Speed: Lightweight design helps improve overall game speed.
I haven’t personally tested this head but some of my students have been using it for a few months to give you the actual feedback on its performance
After testing this Lacrosse Head, we found several positive aspects. The head’s design is innovative, and the pre-strung pocket offers convenience for players who prefer not to string their own heads. While the pocket did require some adjustments over time, it initially provided good control and accuracy. The head is lightweight, which enhances speed and maneuverability on the field. Although it showed some wear sooner than expected, it performed well during intense play. For players looking for a ready-to-use option with a modern design, the WARRIOR Warp Lacrosse Head has some appealing features.
Expert’s Advice
The pocket of this head tends to lose shape over time, so it’s important to regularly adjust and maintain it to retain its form. Ball control can be an issue as the ball may not sit well in the pocket, but practicing with the head and making minor adjustments can help improve handling1. Durability is a concern as the head shows wear and tear sooner than expected. To extend its lifespan, handle it with care and avoid excessive rough use
Maverik Tactik 3 Lacrosse Head Review
This lacrosse head initially performs well, offering good ball control, decent playability, and a satisfactory experience on the field.
- Initial Performance: Provides good control and accuracy when first used.
- Lightweight: Enhances speed and maneuverability on the field.
- Convenient Design: Pre-strung pocket offers convenience for players who prefer not to string their own heads.
- Good Ball Control: Initially offers reliable ball handling and shooting accuracy.
- Modern Aesthetics: Features a sleek and modern design.
After testing the Maverik Tactik Lacrosse Head, I found several areas that need improvement. The durability was a significant issue, as the head showed signs of wear and tear much sooner than expected, especially during intense play. Additionally, the head’s stiffness made it challenging to achieve the desired pocket shape and maintain good ball control. The price also seemed high for the quality and performance offered. Furthermore, the stringing holes were not ideally placed, limiting customization options and making it difficult to string the head to my preferences. While the head initially performed well, these issues make it hard to recommend for serious players looking for long-term reliability and customization flexibility.
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Expert’s Advice
Durability is a concern as this head shows signs of wear and tear sooner than expected, so it’s essential to handle it with care and avoid excessive rough use to extend its lifespan. The head is quite rigid, which makes it challenging to shape the pocket and control the ball, but regularly using it in practice will gradually break it in and soften it. Additionally, the stringing holes are poorly placed, so experimenting with different stringing techniques or seeking advice from experienced players can help optimize the pocket setup.
Importance of Selecting the Right Head for Performance
Choosing the right lacrosse head is essential for attackers because it directly impacts their performance on the field. Here are a few reasons why:
- Control: A good lacrosse head helps you maintain better control of the ball, which is crucial for making precise passes and shots.
- Accuracy: The right head can improve your shooting accuracy, helping you score more goals.
- Speed: A lightweight and well-designed head allows for quicker movements and faster shots.
- Durability: High-quality heads are more durable and can withstand the physical demands of the game, ensuring they last longer.
Budget Attack Lacrosse Heads
When you’re looking for high-quality lacrosse heads that won’t break the bank, there are some excellent options available, which are ideal for newbies as well as seasonal players
STX Stallion 200 Review
This lacrosse head offers excellent initial control and accuracy, a lightweight design for enhanced speed, and a convenient pre-strung pocket for immediate use
- Excellent Initial Control: Provides great control and accuracy right out of the box.
- Lightweight Design: Enhances speed and maneuverability on the field.
- Convenient Pre-Strung Pocket: Ready to use without the need for stringing.
- Good Ball Handling: Offers reliable ball handling and shooting accuracy.
- Modern Aesthetics: Features a sleek and appealing design.
After testing the STX Lacrosse Stallion 200, I found it offered excellent initial control and accuracy, with a lightweight design that enhanced speed and maneuverability. The pre-strung pocket was convenient, though the head was initially stiff and required breaking in. Durability was a concern, as it showed wear quickly, and the stringing holes limited customization. Despite these issues, its overall performance makes it a solid choice for players seeking a reliable and high-performing stick.
Some Disadvantages along with their solutions
Stiffness: Initially the head feels slightly stiff as compared to other heads mentioned in this article.
Regular use will help break it in and improve flexibility.
Durability: Shows signs of wear and tear sooner than expected.
Handle with care and avoid excessive rough use to extend its lifespan.
Stringing Holes: Poorly placed stringing holes limit customization options.
Experiment with different stringing techniques or seek advice from experienced players to optimize the pocket setup.
Silverfin Lacrosse Camber Head Review
This lacrosse head is budget-friendly, customizable, visually appealing, and suitable for beginners, offering easy stringing and decent ball retention.
- Affordable Price: The head is budget-friendly, making it accessible for players who don’t want to spend too much.
- Customization Options: Offers a variety of customization options, allowing players to personalize their equipment.
- Good Aesthetics: The design and color options are visually appealing.
- Suitable for Beginners: Provides a good starting point for new players who are not yet playing at a high intensity.
- Easy to String for Basic Setups: Basic stringing setups are relatively straightforward, making it user-friendly for those new to stringing.
After testing the Silverfin Lacrosse Camber Head and found several positive aspects. The head is affordable, making it accessible for players on a budget. It offers a variety of customization options, allowing for personal touches. it can be a good option for players who like to experiment with different positions. The aesthetics are appealing, with a sleek design and attractive color choices. It’s suitable for beginners, providing a good starting point for new players. The head is also easy to string for basic setups and offers decent ball retention. Overall, the Silverfin Lacrosse Camber Head has several strengths that make it a worthwhile option for those looking for budget-friendly and customizable lacrosse equipment.
Important Considerations
The head of this product has durability issues, tending to crack or break after a few intense games; reinforcing the head with stronger materials or using it for less intense play can extend its lifespan. The poorly designed stringing holes make achieving a proper string job difficult, so using a stringing guide or seeking help from an experienced stringer can be beneficial. The stiffness of the head limits flexibility and control, but regularly flexing the head during practice can gradually increase its flexibility, or balancing the stiffness with a more flexible shaft can assist as well.
Comparison of Performance vs. Cost for Lacrosse Heads
When comparing performance and cost, it’s important to find a balance that suits your needs:
Performance: Higher-end heads often offer better control, accuracy, and durability. However, many budget options still provide excellent performance for their price.
Cost: While top-tier heads can be expensive, budget-friendly options can still help you play effectively without spending too much.
What to Look for in a Lacrosse Head for Attack
When choosing a lacrosse head for attackers, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you get the best performance on the field:
Face Shape
The face shape of a lacrosse head can greatly impact your play. A narrower face shape provides better ball control and accuracy, which is ideal for attackers who need to make precise shots. A wider face shape, on the other hand, can make catching easier, which is beneficial for beginners.
- Narrow Face Shape: Offers better ball retention and accuracy, making it easier to shoot precisely.
- Wide Face Shape: Provides a larger catching area, which can be helpful for newer players still developing their skills.
Weight
The weight of a lacrosse head is crucial for performance. A lighter head allows for faster movements and quicker shots, which can be a significant advantage for attackers. However, it’s important to find a balance, as a head that’s too light might not be as durable.
- Lightweight Heads: Enhance speed and agility, allowing for quicker shots and faster dodges.
- Heavier Heads: Often more durable and can provide more power in shots, but may slow down your movements slightly.
Stiffness and Durability
Stiffness and durability are important for the longevity and effectiveness of a lacrosse head. A stiffer head provides more power and accuracy in shots, while a more flexible head can offer better control. Durability ensures that the head can withstand the physical demands of the game without breaking or deforming.
- Stiff Heads: Ideal for powerful shots and precise passes, but may be less forgiving on catches.
- Flexible Heads: Offer better ball control and are more forgiving on catches, but may lack the power of stiffer heads.
- Durability: High-quality materials and construction ensure the head lasts longer, even under intense play.
Pocket Placement
The placement of the pocket in a lacrosse head affects ball control and shooting accuracy. A high pocket is great for quick releases and accurate shots, while a low pocket offers better ball control and cradling. Mid pockets provide a balance between the two.
- High Pocket: Facilitates quick releases and accurate shooting, ideal for attackers who take a lot of shots.
- Mid Pocket: Offers a balance of control and quick release, suitable for versatile play.
- Low Pocket: Enhances ball control and cradling, making it easier to protect the ball from defenders.
Stringing Holes
Stringing holes are essential for customizing the pocket of your lacrosse head. More stringing holes allow for greater customization, enabling you to adjust the pocket to your preferred style of play. This can enhance your control and performance on the field.
- More Stringing Holes: Provide flexibility in stringing the pocket, allowing for a highly customized setup.
- Fewer Stringing Holes: This may limit customization options but can still provide a solid, reliable pocket.
Strung vs. Unstrung
Lacrosse heads can come either strung or unstrung. Strung heads are ready to use right out of the box, which is convenient for beginners. Unstrung heads allow for complete customization of the pocket, which can be beneficial for more experienced players who have specific preferences.
- Strung Heads: Convenient and ready to play, ideal for beginners or those who prefer not to string their own heads.
- Unstrung Heads: Offer the opportunity for complete customization, allowing experienced players to create their perfect pocket.
By considering these factors, you can choose a lacrosse head that best suits your playing style and helps you perform at your best on the field. As a coach, I always remind my players that the right equipment can make a significant difference in their game, so take the time to find the lacrosse head that feels right for you.
Lacrosse Head Rules
When playing lacrosse at the high school or college level, it’s important to be aware of the regulations regarding lacrosse heads. These rules ensure fair play and safety for all players.
High School Regulations for Lacrosse Heads
In high school lacrosse, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) sets the rules for equipment, including lacrosse heads. Key regulations include:
- Head Dimensions: The lacrosse head must be between 6 to 10 inches wide at its widest point.
- Pocket Depth: The pocket must be deep enough to hold the ball but not so deep that the top of the ball is below the sidewall when the stick is held horizontally.
- Shooting Strings: Only four shooting strings are allowed, and they must be within 4 inches from the top of the head.
College Regulations for Lacrosse Heads
For college lacrosse, the NCAA governs the rules for equipment. These regulations are similar to high school rules but with some differences:
- Head Dimensions: The head must be between 6 to 10 inches wide at its widest point, similar to high school rules.
- Pocket Depth: The pocket must be deep enough to hold the ball but not so deep that the top of the ball is below the sidewall when the stick is held horizontally.
- Shooting Strings: Only four shooting strings are allowed, and they must be within 4 inches from the top of the head, just like in high school.
Attack strategies vary across formats, so understanding the nuances of girls’ lacrosse (like modified stick rules and gameplay differences) ensures your head choice aligns with the style of play.
Compliance and Penalties
It’s crucial for players to ensure their equipment complies with these regulations. Non-compliant equipment can result in penalties, including the removal of the player from the game until the equipment is corrected. Regular checks and maintenance of your lacrosse head can help avoid these issues.
For more details, you can check out our article on lacrosse rules to better understand the rules.
How We Rate Attack Lacrosse Heads
When evaluating and rating lacrosse heads for attackers, we use several key criteria to ensure we recommend the best options available:
Performance
We assess how well the lacrosse head performs in real-game situations. This includes evaluating its control, accuracy, and ease of use. A high-performing head should help attackers make precise passes and shots while maintaining good ball control.
Durability
Durability is crucial for a lacrosse head, as it needs to withstand the physical demands of the game. We look at the materials used and the overall construction to ensure the head can endure intense play without breaking or deforming.
Weight
The weight of the lacrosse head is important for speed and agility. We prefer heads that are lightweight yet sturdy, allowing attackers to move quickly and make fast shots.
Stiffness
Stiffness affects the power and accuracy of shots. We evaluate how stiff the head is and how it impacts the player’s ability to shoot and pass accurately.
Pocket Customization
The ability to customize the pocket is essential for attackers. We consider the number and placement of stringing holes, which allow players to adjust the pocket to their liking for better control and performance.
Compliance with Regulations
We ensure that the lacrosse heads meet the regulations set by governing bodies like the NFHS and NCAA. This includes checking dimensions, pocket depth, and shooting string placement to ensure the heads are legal for play.
A high-performance lacrosse head is crucial for attackers, but it’s only part of the equation. Pair it with the right lacrosse gloves to ensure a secure grip and wrist mobility for quick dodges and precise shooting. Footwork is equally vital—whether you’re accelerating past defenders or planting for a shot, the right lacrosse cleats provide the traction and agility needed to maximize your head’s potential. For female attackers, our guide to women’s lacrosse cleats dives into sport-specific designs that balance speed and stability under women’s lacrosse rules.
Attack strategies vary across formats, so understanding the nuances of girls’ lacrosse (like modified stick rules and gameplay differences) ensures your head choice aligns with the style of play.
Comprehensive Guide to Buying the Best Lacrosse Head for Attackers in 2025
Choosing the right lacrosse head is crucial for attackers who need precision, control, and durability on the field. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choice.
- Understand Your Playing Style: Your playing style greatly influences the type of lacrosse head you should choose. If you’re an aggressive attacker who takes a lot of shots, you’ll need a head that offers excellent accuracy and power. If you prefer dodging and quick passes, look for a head that provides superior control and quick release.
- Consider the Face Shape: The face shape of the lacrosse head affects ball control and accuracy. Narrow face shapes are ideal for precision and shooting accuracy, while wider face shapes are better for catching and ball retention.
- Evaluate the Weight: A lightweight head allows for faster movements and quicker shots, which is beneficial for attackers. However, ensure that the head is still durable enough to withstand the physical demands of the game.
- Check the Stiffness and Durability: Stiff heads provide more power and accuracy in shots, while flexible heads offer better control. Durability is essential to ensure the head lasts through intense play without breaking or deforming.
- Look at Pocket Placement: The placement of the pocket can influence your ball control and shooting accuracy. High pockets are great for quick releases, mid pockets offer a balance of control and quick release, and low pockets enhance ball control and cradling.
- Stringing Holes: More stringing holes allow for greater customization of the pocket, enabling you to adjust it to your preferred style of play. This can significantly enhance your control and performance on the field.
- Strung vs. Unstrung: Decide whether you want a strung or unstrung head. Strung heads are ready to use right out of the box, which is convenient for beginners. Unstrung heads allow for complete customization, which can be beneficial for more experienced players.
Tips and Recommendations for Making the Best Choice
- Try Different Heads: If possible, try out different lacrosse heads to see which one feels best for you. This hands-on experience can help you make a more informed decision.
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other players and experts to get insights into the performance and durability of different heads.
- Consult with Coaches: Your coach can provide valuable advice based on your playing style and needs.
- Consider Your Budget: While high-end heads offer superior performance, there are also budget-friendly options that provide excellent value for money.
Faqs
What is the best attack head in lacrosse?
One of the top choices for attack heads in lacrosse is the Maverik optic 3.0. This head is highly regarded for its lightweight and stiff design, which provides excellent control and accuracy. Its tight face shape and shortened throat make it easier to handle the ball, especially during one-handed cradling and quick maneuvers around defenders.
What is the best lacrosse head in the world?
The STX Stallion 900 is often considered one of the best lacrosse heads worldwide. It stands out due to its superior performance, combining a lightweight design with exceptional durability. This head is favored by players at all levels for its ability to enhance both offensive and defensive plays.
Does a lacrosse head make a difference?
Yes, the lacrosse head you choose can significantly impact your performance. The head affects how well you can pass, shoot, catch, and control the ball. Different heads offer various levels of stiffness, weight, and face shape, which can improve specific skills like accuracy, power, and ball retention. A well-chosen head can enhance your overall gameplay and effectiveness on the field.
How to pick the right lacrosse head?
Understand Your Playing Style: Choose a head that complements your style, whether you focus on shooting, passing, or dodging.
Face Shape: Narrow faces are better for accuracy, while wider faces help with ball retention.
Weight and Stiffness: Lightweight heads are ideal for speed and agility, while stiffer heads provide more power and accuracy.
Pocket Placement: Decide on the pocket placement that suits your control and release preferences.
Stringing Options: More stringing holes allow for greater customization of the pocket, enabling you to tailor it to your specific needs.
What makes a good attacker in lacrosse?
Stick Skills: Proficiency in passing, catching, and shooting with both hands.
Dodging: Ability to maneuver around defenders using quick, agile movements.
Vision and Awareness: Excellent field vision to set up scoring opportunities and make quick decisions.
Off-Ball Movement: Constantly moving to create space and exploit defensive weaknesses.
Communication: Coordinating with teammates to execute offensive plays effectively.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the right lacrosse head is essential for attackers to perform their best. This guide covers top-rated and budget-friendly options, key factors to consider, and compliance with high school and college regulations. By understanding features like face shape, weight, stiffness, and pocket placement, attackers can select the best head for their playing style, enhancing their control, accuracy, and overall effectiveness on the field.
Quick Guide to Understanding Lacrosse Offensive Formations