Selecting the Right Lacrosse Shafts
Introduction
Lacrosse may not be the most popular sport in the world, but it has a dedicated following and its fans are passionate about the game. Choosing the right lacrosse shaft isn't just a matter of preference, but also of performance. A lacrosse shaft is the backbone of your lacrosse stick, and it determines the strength and versatility of your shot. To find the right one for your game, you need to consider a few factors, such as the weight, material, and flex of your shaft.
Weight
The weight of your shaft is an important factor to consider when choosing the right one for your game. Generally, lighter shafts are better for speed and agility, while heavier shafts are better for power shots. The weight of a lacrosse shaft is typically measured in ounces. Shafts range from 4 ounces to 6 ounces, with 5 ounces being the most common. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with a lighter shaft and gradually move up to heavier ones as you develop your skills.
Material
The material of your lacrosse shaft is also an important factor to consider. Lacrosse shafts are typically made of either aluminium or composite materials. Aluminium shafts are typically heavier, but they are also more durable and less expensive. Composite shafts are lighter and provide a better feel, but they are also more expensive and less durable. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with an aluminium shaft and eventually move up to a composite one.
Flex
The flex of your lacrosse shaft is also an important factor to consider. The flex of a lacrosse shaft is typically measured in millimetres. Shafts range from 0 millimetres to 30 millimetres, with 10 millimetres being the most common. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with a stiffer shaft and gradually move up to a more flexible one as you develop your skills.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lacrosse shaft isn't a decision to be made lightly. You need to consider the weight, material, and flex of your shaft to ensure that you get the right one for your game. The weight of a lacrosse shaft is typically measured in ounces, the material is typically aluminium or composite, and the flex is typically measured in millimetres. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with a lighter, stiffer shaft and gradually move up to heavier, more flexible ones as you develop your skills. With the right lacrosse shaft, you'll be sure to take your game to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can any lacrosse head fit on any shaft?
Yes, lacrosse heads are designed to fit on shafts universally. While some people may experience difficulty fitting different manufacturers' heads and shafts together, it is generally not an issue. If you encounter a tight fit, you can use a towel in the throat of the head to tap the shaft into place.
2. How do you know what size lacrosse stick to get?
To determine the proper size lacrosse stick, you can remove the rubber cap known as the 'butt' at the end of the stick, cut the shaft to the desired length, and then put the cap back on. A common guideline is to have the player hold the stick about a third of the way down from the stick head, parallel to the ground.
3. Can you use a wooden shaft in lacrosse?
Yes, it is legal to use a whole wooden stick in lacrosse, not just a wooden shaft. According to the rules, the crosse (stick) can be made of wood, laminated wood, or synthetic material, with the head approximately perpendicular to the handle.
4. What size lacrosse stick for a 14-year-old boy?
For a 14-year-old boy, the recommended length for a lacrosse stick shaft is typically between 26 to 60 inches. According to the rules, the combined stick length (shaft and head) can be anywhere between 37 to 72 inches for youth defensemen, but it is advised to have a stick length equal to the player's height or slightly shorter.
