Mastering Lacrosse Pockets and Pocket Styles

Men’s Low Lacrosse Pockets

Low Lacrosse Pockets sit very close to the throat of the lacrosse stick and allow the ball to rest vertically in the stick so that one-handed cradling/dodging is easier. This security with a Low Pocket makes many attackmen choose this setup for their sticks because they want to use their other arm as a shield when dodging.

Any player looking to be an elite feeder should consider a Low Pocket. Moving the ball quickly with your wrists can make you get extra A’s on the stat sheet and make every player on your team your best friend. Getting the ball to other players after drawing a slide can be difficult if you need to wind up to throw, which is why it’s the best lacrosse pocket for attack for anyone dodging to feed rather than score.

Men’s Mid Lacrosse Pockets

Mid Lacrosse Pockets are essentially for all players. Any position can use a Mid Pocket and young players should especially consider using a Mid Pocket. Trying a Mid Pocket lets you see what you want more or less of before choosing a side. While some may stick with a Mid Pocket their whole career, some may decide to change to a Low or High Pocket.

Mid Pockets are the best of both worlds. You get the feeding ability of a low pocket, the quick control of a high pocket, and extreme versatility. Lots of players prefer how Mid Pockets are very customizable for benefits from all styles of stringing. The more options that are available, the more you can be able to include in your stick.

Men’s High Lacrosse Pockets

High Lacrosse pockets are most useful for defensive players and players that want to have superior control or big shooters. The ground ball ability of a High Pocket is one of the best attributes that makes it an easy choice for defense. Since picking up the ball is the most important task of the defensive players once they cause a turnover, having a high pocket lets them control the ball after picking it up more quickly so they can evade the ride from the offense.

Having a High Pocket also lets shooters wind back more, then really snap the ball. This release can be a major factor that allows players to rip off some high bounce shots or low stingers that appear to be going high so that the goalie will avoid the shot accidentally. The High Pocket allows you to have a release that is best for the outside shooter as well as a defenseman or wing player looking to capitalize on ground balls.

Men’s Faceoff Lacrosse Pockets

Given the inherent demands of their role, faceoff specialists regularly subject their lacrosse heads to significant stress, causing them to undergo deformation over time. Due to this wear and tear, the lacrosse head tends to pinch, leading to a tighter channel.

In response to this phenomenon, a prevalent trend among faceoff specialists is to intricately string the pocket over the sidewall. This strategic approach serves a dual purpose: maintaining the legality of the pocket while facilitating a swift and efficient release of the ball when securing a successful faceoff.

Men’s Hybrid Pockets “Trameshional”

The Trameshional Pocket, which gained my attention through Connor’s 2014 tutorial on Lax All-Stars, has been a part of the lacrosse scene for some time. While it may not be the most durable option in the long run, it offers a distinctive sensation, impressive ball control, and an eye-catching appearance. Explore Connor’s detailed article on the Trameshional Pocket for an in-depth understanding of its unique features and benefits.

Men’s Box Lacrosse Pockets

The bag is a very controversial lacrosse pocket. Lots of box lacrosse players like how Baggy Pockets really lets you get a lot of feel. You also get a very controlled cradle with a Baggy Pocket that you won’t get with a shallow one.

Your biggest worry with a Baggy Pocket would be getting too baggy. You can’t fly too close to the sun, or you’ll get burned! A pocket that is too baggy can get you a penalty, so check out our article on stringing rules.

Men’s ArmorMesh Lacrosse Pockets

Armor Mesh is a trailblazing lacrosse brand that crafts high-performance pockets with their revolutionary Free-Flowing Woven Technology. Armor Mesh produces Spider Wire and Pegasus versions for men’s players and Valkyrie Runner for women. The mesh is inspired by gladiatorial chain link armor and provides an unparalleled feel and ball control. Its flexibility, combined with consistent tautness, ensures a smooth release. The uncut diamonds minimize resistance points, offering optimal control during plays.

Dual-sided options cater to different preferences, enhancing grip, torque, or channeling accuracy. The cordage, 100% hydrophobic and ten times more potent than steel, is lightweight and waterproof, even floating on water. Armor Mesh is dedicated to elevating the lacrosse experience, merging passion with innovation for the game’s future.

Men’s Traditional Lacrosse Pockets

Traditional pockets have a timeless charm and are crafted using leather or synthetic materials. The classic look has been cherished by players for generations and popularized by pros like Lyle Thompson. Modern mesh options are known for their convenience, requiring significantly less maintenance and break-in time when compared to traditional pockets. Despite their low-maintenance nature, these mesh pockets deliver outstanding performance and a satisfying feel, so they have become a preferred choice among lacrosse players.

Traditional pockets offer excellent ball control, making them ideal for precision passes and shots. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the game, the allure of a traditional pocket’s craftsmanship and performance is hard to resist.

Men’s Warp Lacrosse Pockets

The Warp is the newest innovation in lacrosse anti-stringing. Warp Pockets are attached to the head itself, and the pocket is one piece of synthetic with holes in it. They were initially somewhat overpriced but have been reduced and made more affordable.

Warps are made for extreme consistency and are very versatile for many players. Warrior will be making plenty of Warp options in the future and will likely change quite a bit.

Men’s Channel Mesh Lacrosse Pockets

Channel Mesh is a synthetic style similar to the Warp, just a piece of mesh instead of a head. Unlike Warps, Channel Mesh Pockets are more durable and highly customizable.

Each style of Channel Mesh has special benefits, but consistency is one aspect they all possess. There’s a great chance that if you pick up some Channel Mesh wherever your first shot goes, your second will follow.

Lacrosse Goalie Pockets

Lacrosse goalie pockets should prioritize the creation of a well-defined channel and a tight, evenly-strung top string. The depth of the pocket is contingent upon the goalie’s age and height. Taller goalies benefit from a deeper pocket, leveraging their height for better control. Conversely, youth or shorter lacrosse goalies may struggle with deep pockets, leading to challenges in clearing the ball adequately.

Since clearing is the second most crucial aspect of a goalie’s responsibilities after making saves, achieving the right pocket is paramount for optimal performance. It is essential to strike a balance, aiming for a centered moderate channel. This approach ensures a tight channel in the goalie stick and avoids excessive whip, contributing to greater accuracy and control during play.

Quad Sidewall Lacrosse Goalie Pocket

The quad-sidewall pattern offers both visually appealing aesthetic and functional advantages for goalies. Its unique appearance sets goalies apart, leaving a bold impression when successfully implemented. This pattern facilitates a well-defined channel with a low to mid pocket, enabling smooth ball release, which is particularly beneficial for long clearing passes.

The pliable nature of the mesh enhances ball control and reduces rebound rates on shots. The quad sidewall pattern also helps minimize rebounds by adding stretch to the pocket when absorbing powerful shots. Despite not adhering to traditional standards, opting for a quad sidewall allows goalies to showcase a distinctive style, signaling experience, and expertise in their craft.

Women’s Lacrosse Pockets

Elevate your performance with the right women’s lacrosse pocket. Discover a range of styles designed to suit different playing preferences.

Women’s Armor Mesh Valkyrie Runner Pockets

Valkyrie Runner pockets, available in black, platinum white, and yellow; are designed to give you the ultimate ball control and feel. Armor Mesh is 100% waterproof mesh that ensures consistent performance in any weather, while the zero bagging out guarantee means your pocket stays dialed in game after game.

Valkyrie Runner Key Features:

• Unmatched Ball Control and Feel: Experience a new level of precision and confidence with the Valkyrie Runner’s advanced design.
• 100% Waterproof: Play fearlessly in any conditions, knowing your pocket will perform consistently.
• Zero Bagging Out: Enjoy a pocket that stays perfectly shaped, even after intense gameplay.
• Fully Customizable: Tailor the pocket to your exact playing style for optimal performance.
• Smooth Release and Quick Break-In: Get game-day ready with a pocket that performs from the first whistle.

Women’s Flex Mesh Lacrosse Pockets

Now available on Gait Women’s Lacrosse Sticks and as a separate accessory, the Women’s Flex Mesh Lacrosse Pockets have garnered attention. These synthetic runners feature small slits that effectively lock the knots in place, offering a notable enhancement.

Notably used by players like Charlotte North, the flex mesh is an excellent choice for experienced players and those new to lacrosse, making it a versatile option for many players.

Women’s Hex Lacrosse Pocket

Unlock unparalleled performance with the Women’s Hex Pocket designed for Maverik Women’s Lacrosse Sticks. Crafted with a state-of-the-art braided runner pocket system, this pocket offers an extraordinary fusion of intense grip, pinpoint control, and a sweat spot for catching during gameplay.

Whether attacking the goal or defending against opponents, the Hex Pocket empowers you to be confident in every game scenario. Elevate your gameplay and feel the difference, as the innovative design of the Hex Pocket ensures a reliable and responsive performance, giving you the edge you need to dominate the lacrosse field.

Women’s Mesh Lacrosse Pockets

In contrast to men’s lacrosse, traditional-style pockets have traditionally been the preference among women’s players. This happened until StringKing introduced their women’s mesh, a new popular option.

However, the landscape shifted once Gait, STX, and Maverik began innovating with new traditional pockets tailored for women, regaining popularity.

Women’s Ladder Lacrosse Pockets

Women’s Ladder Lacrosse Pockets deliver exceptional ball control and a smooth release, making them popular among skilled players. The unique design features a center track crafted from leather, either meticulously handmade or pre-made by brands like STX. The STX ProForm pocket, known for its pre-stretched premium leather, offers elite-level hold, ball retention, and a consistent sweet spot for advanced players.

For players seeking a truly personalized pocket, handmade options like the STYLIN’ STRINGS LACROSSE Women’s Ladder Kit offer complete customization. These kits provide everything you need to create your own unique ladder pocket. The leather center track is carefully attached using sidewall or crosslace, resulting in a distinctive ladder-like appearance that maximizes control and feel.

Women’s Lock Lacrosse Pockets

STX Women’s Lock Lacrosse Pockets have proven to be an upgrade over previous factory pockets. They come equipped on most STX Women’s Complete Sticks. While there will always be inconsistencies with factory-strung sticks, these pockets are celebrated for their improved consistency, providing players with a reliable and uniform performance on the field.

Additionally, they offer an enhanced feel, giving players better control and precision when handling the ball. Their durability is another standout feature, ensuring that these pockets withstand the rigors of the game, making them a top choice for dedicated lacrosse players.