Best Defense Lacrosse Shafts for Goal Protection! Full 2023 Reviews!

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Are you a die-hard lacrosse defender looking for the perfect shaft to protect your goal best?

Look no further! We have scoured the top lacrosse manufacturers and tested dozens of shafts, ultimately settling on our top picks. 

We give full reviews of the best defense lacrosse shafts available in 2023. Read on to find out which is perfect for your skill level, budget, and style of play!

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Take Away Key Points:

  • Lacrosse defense shafts are longer to prevent attacking player from scoring and protect the goal and goalie
  • The reviews contain the best defense lacrosse shafts for the 2023 season
  • Ensure you consider multiple factors before selecting the final solution for your needs

Best defense lacrosse shaft in 2023: Choose your fighter!

$$ - StringKing Men's Metal 3 Pro Defense Lacrosse Shaft - The best defense lacrosse shaft offers the Smart Taper technology. It adds strength to weaker points without changing the size. Suitable for all defensive players.

$$ - Warrior Evo QX Carbon Lacrosse Shaft Defense 60" - Best carbon fiber shafts with improved quality and sturdy design. Ideal for a rough game and cannot bend during a flex. But not heavy-duty.

$$ - Maverik Lacrosse Mission Defense Shaft - The stiffest lacrosse shaft due to alloy material. Ideal for tough play. Suitable for midfielders and defenders.

$ - STX Lacrosse Handle 6000 - Most durable with the best composite materials to last longer. Ideal for all defenders.

$ - Brine King Beat Defense Shaft - Best ergonomic design for maximum comfort when using the shaft. The DIE technology ensures proper. Still, issues with the holes in the shaft.

$ - Brine King Swizz SC Defense Shaft - Best firm grip for maximum ball control when operating on the field. Suitable for long-distance drills and actions.

$ - EVO DEF SHAFT - Best pressure-free design for extra ball control and different defending drills and action in the designated field area. It doesn’t create additional pressure on your hands.

$$ - TRUE TEMPER COMP 4.0 Defense Lacrosse Shaft - Most flexible and lightweight for ultimate resistance and durable technology. The shaft also features maximum strength to keep the opponents away.

StringKing Men's Metal 3 Pro Defense Lacrosse Shaft - Best Smart Taper technology
  • Brand: ‎StringKing
  • Product dimensions: 60 x1x1 inches
  • Item weight: 360 grams
  • Material: alloy
  • Best for: lightweight design

The StringKing is the best defense lacrosse shaft currently on the market! The new shaft contains a newly-improved design, with increased control for older and young players.

The new version of the defense lacrosse shaft contains extra durability thanks to the updated alloy and smarter distribution. Instead of the traditional shape and materials, these new defense shafts offer raised texture. Thus, players will dominate while playing, and the defensive shaft offers more strength for more powerful checks.

Lacrosse players like the defensive shaft due to unchanged specs and weight ratio. Although improved in design and structure, the balance is intact. Therefore, this is the lightest shaft available and features a firm grip, balance, and control for the game. The players can feel the difference but without any changes to the game.

However, for defenders looking for extra leverage, there is a stronger version of 400 grams. The defense shaft has a slightly greater weight ratio, but it's more durable, with more force when you want to throw checks.

Finally, the affordable price makes the defense lacrosse shaft available to all defenders looking for the most comfortable grip and improved durability.

Pros
  • speed
  • durability
  • power
  • comfortable grip
Cons
  • not visible

Warrior Evo QX Carbon Lacrosse Shaft Defense 60" - Best quality
  • Brand: ‎Warrior
  • Product dimensions: 60x1x1 inches
  • Item weight: 380 grams
  • Material: Carbon fiber
  • Best for: both the defensive and offensive end

The Warrior defense lacrosse shaft is currently one of the best defense lacrosse shafts!

The Warrior lacrosse shaft is made of carbon fiber. As a result, it provides the best durability, sturdiness, and improved structure. In addition, the defense lacrosse shaft does not add more pounds to the updated version of the lacrosse stick.

The players have control of the Warrior stick and lacrosse shaft while playing. The stick is lightweight and high-quality for flex and transition and cannot break too soon. Even when you add the head to make the complete stick, the speed and lightweight design remain the same.

The defense lacrosse stick features a comfortable grip even with the defense gloves, and it won't create extra pressure on your hands. Additionally, the Warrior cannot slide away easily in your hands, so the lightweight shaft will be stable for the end of the play.

The defense lacrosse shaft is the best long-pole lacrosse stick for the defense and midfielders. You need to snag the ball out of the stick and push it upward for the transition. Thus, the Warrior carbon fiber shaft features a tactical grip in crucial areas and has two end cap options.

Pros
  • lightweight
  • speed
  • comfortable grip
Cons
  • questionable durability

Maverik Lacrosse Mission Defense Shaft - Best stiff design
  • Brand: ‎Maverik
  • Product dimensions: 60x1x1 inches
  • Item weight: 360 grams
  • Material: scandium alloy
  • Best for: the adjustable butt end

The Maverik defense lacrosse shaft is another durable, premium-quality stick on the market. The defense lacrosse stick is lightweight but stiff for all defense moves and scoops. So, the defense lacrosse shaft will allow you to perform all the actions more effectively than a flexible one.

Thanks to its texture and material quality, the defense lacrosse stick has the ideal size and weight ratio, as it won't put extra pressure on your hands during the play. The carrying position keeps the same speed even when you add the head. There won't be any changes to the lacrosse shaft while playing.

Defenders will have enough power for checks, as the lightweight shaft cannot quickly bend or slide from your hands. Due to its shape and durable material, the defense lacrosse shaft is ideal for the toughest checks or a fast lacrosse ball, so you can hold it firmly all the time. The grip is comfortable, and you can use it for the entire game without any pressure.

The defense lacrosse shaft also features an adjustable butt end that allows the defense to move the butt end for a more comfortable grip during the play.

Pros
  • adjustable butt end
  • durable
  • comfy grip
Cons
  • /

STX Lacrosse Handle 6000 - Best durability
  • Brand: ‎STX
  • Product dimensions: 60.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches
  • Item weight: 480 grams
  • Material: alloy
  • Best for: composite materials

When you think of the best lacrosse defense shaft, do not skip the STX lacrosse 6000 defense shaft. The lacrosse defense shaft uses durable and sturdy material for composite construction, ensuring more robust use and a prolonged lifespan. Thus, you can use it for tougher conditions, and the external weather elements, pressure, impacts, and forces cannot damage it so soon.

The lightweight design will not add extra pressure or weight when you add the corresponding lacrosse head. Thus, you can perform all actions and ensure maximum performance on the lacrosse field. In addition, you will have maximum ball control, and the lacrosse shaft will help you operate quickly on the field without any additional issues or weight.

The firm grip will also ensure more control and stability inside your hands, even when wearing lacrosse gloves for an extended period. The lacrosse shaft will not move around or slip away, as you can hold it firmly even for tougher gaming conditions and play until the very end. You can forget about pressure and pain or blisters - the shaft is octagonal and will quickly match your grip and holding needs.

Pros
  • durable
  • sturdy
  • reliable
  • stable
Cons
  • /

Brine King Beat Defense Shaft - Best firm grip
  • Brand: ‎Brine-Warrior Lacrosse
  • Product dimensions: 60.5 x 1. x 1.5 inches
  • Item weight: 0.99 pounds
  • Material: alloy
  • Best for: DIE technology

The Brine lacrosse defense shaft is ideal for all defenders and long-stick midfielders, regardless of their ages or level of play. The lacrosse defense shaft is suitable for both beginners and advanced defensive players, making the overall performance advanced and optimal for the best gaming needs. In addition, the lacrosse defense shaft will provide maximum performance and ensure you don't have any issues while playing on the field.

The Brine lacrosse defensive shaft is ideal for its lightweight yet reliable and durable composition. The lacrosse shaft does not add extra weight or pressure while using it, but it only increases the overall performance, making it ideal for more prolonged use. Thus, the lacrosse shaft can serve you well for different operations and actions on the field.

The shaft is also ideal for its firm grip and safety standards. You can hold it in your hands, even when wearing gloves, for an extended period, and the ergonomic design will not add pressure, pain, or discomfort to your hands and fingers. The DIE technology also increases the safety of your hands, so there won’t be any pain or blisters while performing for an extended time.

Pros
  • coat finish
  • beat grip
  • durable
  • ergonomic design
Cons
  • issues with drilled holes

Brine King Swizz SC Defense Shaft - Best firm grip
  • Brand: ‎Brine-Warrior
  • Product dimensions: 61 x 1 x 1 inches
  • Item weight: 1 pound
  • Material: alloy
  • Best for: ball control

Another Brine lacrosse defense shaft will blow your mind due to its advanced technology and construction. Unlike the previous models, the new lacrosse defense shaft offers an improved construction, as it offers a better weight-to-strength ratio. Thus, the alloy construction does not add extra weight, pressure, and pain to your hands when holding the shaft for an extended period. So, you maneuver and operate the shaft according to your needs.

Due to the strategically designed glide grip, the Brine lacrosse defense shaft uses the raised grip pattern, maximizing stick control in your hands. So, there won’t be moving or sliding down, and similar issues once you perform on the field. The lacrosse shaft will be stable, and you can easily use it for basic and advanced drills and similar actions on the field.

Thanks to the friction grip texture, the lacrosse defense shaft will not create pain or blisters on your hands. The finish coat will offer only suitable structure and texture for optimal use and performance of the lacrosse defense shaft. So you can use it for an extended period without any issues. Besides, the table construction offers the best ball control.

Pros
  • durable
  • reliable
  • strong
  • sturdy
Cons
  • /

EVO DEF SHAFT - Best ball control
  • Brand: ‎Warrior
  • Product dimensions: 60 x 1 x 1 inches
  • Item weight: 390 grams
  • Material: composite materials
  • Best for: pressure-free design

The Warrior EVO DEF lacrosse defense shaft is ideal for all defenders and long-stick middies due to its strong and composite design. The lacrosse defense shaft combines various strong and reliable materials, creating the ultimate strength and power while using it for an extended period. So, the new, improved technology ensures maximum sturdiness, and long-lasting construction while using it for a longer time.

Thanks to the ideal weight to strength ratio, the Warrior lacrosse defense shaft is ideal for different drills, and operations while defending your designated side of the field, goalie and goal. Hence, you can perform different catching, passing and throwing actions, especially long-distance ones, and make the best use of the lacrosse defense shaft.

In addition, the firm and stable grip uses the superior finishing technology, to ensure maximum stability and safety to your hands. You can use the shaft and hold it in your hands for an extended period, and there won’t be extra pressure, pain or discomfort to your hands. Thus, the lacrosse defense shaft increases the overall performance, making your defending skills improved in no time. And, as the shaft offers strong performance, you will have maximum ball control during the game.

Pros
  • stable
  • sturdy
  • reliable
Cons
  • lacking an end cap

TRUE TEMPER COMP 4.0 Defense Lacrosse Shaft - Best flex technology
  • Brand: ‎TRUE TEMPER
  • Product dimensions: 61 x 2 x 2 inches
  • Item weight: 390 grams
  • Material: carbon fiber
  • Best for: flexibility & energy-absorbing system

The final winner in our reviews is the wonderful TRUE TEMPER lacrosse defense shaft. The shaft is ideal for its MARTFLX 5 profile and provides a stiffer flex than competitors. The flex technology transfers more energy directly to the checks. Simultaneously, the lacrosse shaft is still flexible enough to absorb energy for increased sturdiness and reliability. So, the lacrosse shaft offers maximum durability.

The lacrosse defense shaft ensures maximum strength and resistance thanks to its SMARTPLY fiber angles. Thus, the lacrosse defense shaft is optimal due to its shaft wall, through up to twenty-five layers of unidirectional carbon fiber. The lacrosse shaft offers the maximum balance of industry-leading-impact resistance and flexibility. So, the unit will help you perform better in the lacrosse field.

In addition, you will notice the fine texture finish, ensuring the ultimate feel and touch without pressure, pain, or discomfort while holding the defensive lacrosse shaft in your hands for an extended time. You can easily hold it in your gloves; the shaft will not move or slip away once you play. Thus, you can operate well and perform different field drills when defending your goal and goalie.

Pros
  • grip
  • finish touch
  • durable
  • flexible
  • lightweight
Cons
  • /

Selecting the best lacrosse defense shaft: Complete buyer's guide

When looking for the best lacrosse defense shafts, you must consider various factors to ensure the best features. Let's take a look below.

1. Content

The best lacrosse shafts offer premium-quality, heavy-duty materials. Such content ensures the shaft can endure the pressure while playing the defense position.

If defense lacrosse shafts use carbon fiber, alloy, and similar metal structures, they are ideal for tough games.

best lacrosse defense shafts

2. Durability & sturdiness

Ensure the best lacrosse shafts are substantial and resistant enough to help you defend your position and avoid easy breaking.

The best shafts should be heavy-duty, so once you choose high-quality materials, the shafts will resist impacts, forces, and pressure during the game.

3. Grip

Best lacrosse shafts should be lightweight and comfortable for your hands. So, if the shaft is comfortable, light, and easy to maneuver while holding it, you can go for it.

In addition, the shafts should remain stable in your hands, even against the most aggressive opponents.

4. Shape

It would be best to try different lacrosse shafts to find the most suitable one for your grip. The choice depends on the player's preference. You can find octagons, speed, tradition, and concave shapes to try and decide the best defense shaft for you.

5. Price

Regarding price points, you can find various defense lacrosse shafts ranging from $60 to more than $200.

Although the pricier shafts require more money, the shafts offer improved features - better performance, premium quality, and better heavy-duty structures. Such shafts will last for an extended period than the cheaper versions.

FAQs

What is the lightest defensive lacrosse shaft?

Warrior Evo QX Carbon Lacrosse Shaft Defense 60" is the shaft currently.

What type of lacrosse stick do defenders use?

The defenders use long sticks to poke check and keep the attackers away.

Why are lacrosse defense sticks longer?

best long pole lacrosse stick

The defense sticks are longer to allow the defenders to keep up with the opponents and take the ball away when protecting the goal and goalie.

What Gait stick is best for defenders?

The best Gait stick for defenders is the Gait Air Head. It is designed for defense and midfield players for more dynamic and aggressive games.

So, what's the best defense lacrosse shaft? 

The best defense lacrosse shaft is undoubtedly the StringKing Men's Metal 3 Pro Defense Lacrosse Shaft. Thanks to its improved structure, the shaft contains innovative taper technology, covering all previously weaker points.

Although a newer design uses more heavy-duty materials, the shaft hasn't changed the primary dimensions and size. Thus, it's easy to maneuver and play aggressively.

Moreover, the light shaft cannot break easily and will remain stable in the player's hands even in the toughest games and fastest balls.

StringKing Men's Metal 3 Pro Defense Lacrosse Shaft 400 Grams (Black)*
  • More durable. -- Metal 3 Pro lacrosse shafts feature an improved alloy and smarter material distribution to make them stronger, and more durable options ensure everyone can find a shaft tough enough for them.
  • Improved alloy. -- Better manufacturing makes the Metal 3 Pro alloy stronger, and analyzing warranty claims helped us reinforce weak spots without adding extra weight.
  • Better options. -- Metal 3 Pro shafts come in more durable options to stand up to physical play, so everyone can find the strength they need at a price they love.

Final Words

Defensive players must be able to count on their shafts to perform under pressure.

With so many factors to consider, choosing the best defense lacrosse shafts for your needs can be challenging.

But by considering the most important qualities, you can narrow down your options and find a shaft that will help you excel in the field.

Do you have any other tips for choosing the best defense lacrosse shaft? Please share them with us in the comments below!

Freddy Woods

Freddy is the heart and soul of Lacrosse Runner. As a former athlete, Freddy is very passionate about Lacrosse. He keeps up with the sport's changes and innovations and often tests the new equipment released by the leading manufacturers. Read more here