Are you new to lacrosse and wondering how to string a lacrosse head? Or maybe you’re a seasoned player looking to improve your game with a custom-strung stick. Either way, stringing a lacrosse head is an essential skill for any player. By customizing your stick to your playing style, you can improve your accuracy, control, and overall performance on the field.
Stringing may initially seem intimidating, but it can be a fun and rewarding experience with the right tools and techniques. There are many ways to string a lacrosse head, and each player may have unique preferences. However, there are some basic steps that every player should follow to ensure that their stick is legal and performs well on the field. In this article, we will guide you through the process of stringing a lacrosse head, from choosing the right materials to tying off the final knot.
How to String a Lacrosse Head: Gathering Materials
Before stringing your lacrosse head, you must gather the necessary materials. Here are the things you need to consider:
Selecting a Stringing Kit
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to purchase a stringing kit that includes everything you need to string your lacrosse head. These kits usually come with mesh, strings, and shooting strings. Some kits even include a stringing manual to help you get started.
Choosing a Lacrosse Head
Next, you need to consider the type of lacrosse head you want to use. There are different types of lacrosse heads, each with its unique features. Some are designed for attackmen, while others are for midfielders or defensemen. Make sure you choose a head appropriate for your position and playing style.
Selecting Mesh and Strings
Once you have your lacrosse head, select the mesh and strings you want to use. Mesh comes in different materials, such as nylon and polyester. Make sure you choose the one that fits your playing style. Strings come in various thicknesses and materials as well. Some players prefer thicker strings for better grip, while others prefer thinner ones for better ball control.
When selecting your mesh and strings, make sure you choose ones that are appropriate for your position and playing style. For example, if you’re an attackman, you may want a mesh with a lot of hold and a shooting string that provides a lot of whip. If you’re a defenseman, a mesh with less hold and a shooting string offers more accuracy.
(Related: Why People Love ECD Lacrosse Hero 3.0 Mesh)
In summary, follow well the guide above, you have your very first steps to learn how to string a lacrosse head.
Preparing the Head
To string your lacrosse head, you also need to prepare it properly. This task involves removing the old strings, cleaning the head, and prepping the holes. Here’s how to do it:
Removing Old Strings
If you buy a new lacrosse head, you can skip this step. But if you have an old one, you must remove any old strings. To do it, use scissors or a stringing tool to cut them away carefully. Be sure to remove all the strings, including the shooting, sidewall, and top ones.
Cleaning the Head
Once you have removed the old strings, it’s time to clean the head. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the entire head, removing any dirt or debris. If there are any stubborn spots, you can use a toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to scrub them away. Dry the head thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Prepping the Holes
The final step in preparing your lacrosse head is to prep the holes. This involves widening the holes slightly to make it easier to string the head. To do this, you can use a drill bit or a stringing tool. Simply insert the tool into each hole and twist it gently to widen the hole. Be careful not to widen the holes too much, as this can weaken the plastic and make the head less durable.
Stringing the Head
In this section, we’ll break down the steps to learn how to string a lacrosse head with three sub-sections: Starting the Top String, Stringing the Sidewalls, and Attaching the Bottom String.
Starting the Top String
The top string is the first string you’ll attach to your lacrosse head. It’s crucial to start with a good knot to secure your stringing. To start:
- Tie a knot at the end of your string and thread it through the top hole in the sidewall.
- Loop the string around the top of the head, and thread it back through the same hole in the sidewall.
- Repeat this process for the second hole in the sidewall, and continue down the head until you reach the bottom.
Stringing the Sidewalls
The sidewalls are the strings running down the lacrosse head’s sides. They help to hold the mesh in place and make the shape of the head. To string the sidewalls, start by threading your string through the first hole in the mesh, then through the first hole in the sidewall. Then, loop the string around the outside of the sidewall, and thread it back through the same hole in the mesh. Repeat this process for each hole in the mesh, make sure to keep the string tight as you go.
Attaching the Bottom String
The bottom string is the last string you’ll attach to your lacrosse head. It helps to hold the mesh in place, and gives the head its depth. To attach the bottom string, tie a knot at the end of your string, and thread it through the bottom hole in the sidewall. Then, thread the string through the bottom row of diamonds in the mesh and keep the string tight. Once you’ve threaded the string through all of the diamonds, tie a knot at the end of the string to secure it in place.
By following these steps, you can string your lacrosse head easily. Remember to take your time and keep your strings tight, and you’ll have a head that’s ready to take on the field.
(You maybe want to know what is an illegal lacrosse pocket to string the head correctly)
Finishing Touches
You may be satisfied to learn how to string a lacrosse head, now it’s time to make some finishing touches to ensure your pocket is just right. Here are a few sub-sections to help you make those final adjustments.
Adjusting the String Tension
The tension of your strings is crucial to the performance of your pocket. If it is too loose, your ball may bounce around too much, making it difficult to catch and throw accurately. If the tension is too tight, your ball may get stuck in the pocket, making it challenging to release quickly.
To adjust the tension:
- Use your fingers to pull the strings at different points along the pocket. If you notice any slack, tighten the strings by pulling them tighter.
- If you notice too-tight areas, loosen the strings by pulling them looser.
- Keep adjusting until the tension feels just right.
Trimming Excess String
Once you’ve adjusted the tension of your strings, you may notice some excess string hanging off your head. This extra string can get in the way during play, so it’s important to trim it.
Use scissors to trim any excess string carefully. Ensure not to cut any important strings. It’s better to trim too little than too much, so take your time and trim slowly.
Breaking in the Pocket
Before you hit the field, it’s important to break in your pocket. This will help ensure that your pocket performs at its best during play.
Use a ball to repeatedly throw and catch with your head to break in your pocket. This will help mold it to the shape of the ball, making it easier to catch and throw accurately.
By making these finishing touches, you can fine-tune your pocket to perform at its best.
You can refer this video to learn more about how to string a lacrosse head:
How to String a Lacrosse Goalie Head
There are differences when stringing a lacrosse goalie head. The main thing is that a goalie head has a wider face and a deeper pocket than regular ones. This allows the goalie to catch and save the ball more easily. Additionally, goalie heads have more sidewall holes and different stringing patterns than regular heads. The goalie head also requires specific knots and stringing techniques to create a pocket suitable for the goalie’s playing style. Therefore, it is important to follow specific instructions when stringing a goalie head.
This video may help you:
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to string a lacrosse head. With your newly strung head, you are ready to take on the field and dominate the game. Remember, proper stringing is essential for optimal performance, so take the time to perfect your skills.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Experiment with different stringing techniques to find what works best for you.
- Keep your head clean and debris-free to prevent damage to the strings.
- Practice regularly to maintain your stringing skills.
With these tips and the knowledge you have gained, you are well on your way to becoming a lacrosse-stringing master. Good luck, and have fun out there on the field!
