Are you looking for a new lacrosse head for your stick?
If you are, then chances are, you would have been overwhelmed by all the options available on the market. That is perfectly normal, as long as you don’t settle for mediocre lacrosse heads. Any experienced player will be able to tell you how important it is to buy high-quality gear.
So, without further ado, here is your guide to the best lacrosse heads of 2023.
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Table of Contents
- Best Attack & Midfield Lacrosse Heads for Men: Top 9 Picks for 2023
- #1. Maverik Lacrosse Optik - Top Pick Attacker Lacrosse Head
- #2. Warrior Evo 5X Unstrung Lacrosse Sticks - Best for Value
- #3. Evo Warp Pro 2 Strung - The Most Ambitious Budget-Pick
- #4. STX Lacrosse Ultra Power - Fantastic Mid-Ranger
- #5. Maverik Kinetik Unstrung - Excellent for Shooters
- #6. Maverik Lacrosse Tank Universal Unstrung Head - Best Head for Defensive
- #7. STX Lacrosse Stallion 700 Unstrung Head - The Best Lacrosse Faceoff Heads
- #8. Warrior Evo 5 - Affordable Option for Midfielders
- #9. STX Lacrosse Stallion Omega - Unmatched Design
- Lacrosse Head 101
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lacrosse Head
- Lacrosse Head Stringing Guide
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
Technically, you have to consider a variety of lacrosse head features before you find one that suits you best.
Please read our articles on best goalie heads, best defensive heads, or best face-off heads if you want to find one of them.
This review will look at 9 of the highest-rated attack/midfield lacrosse heads on the market. But before we get to them, here is a summary of the top 3 items.
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Best Attack & Midfield Lacrosse Heads for Men: Top 9 Picks for 2023
Best Feature | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
Top Pick Attacker Lacrosse Head | Maverik Lacrosse Optik | |
Best for Value | Warrior Evo 5X Unstrung Lacrosse Sticks | |
The Most Ambitious Budget-Pick | Evo Warp Pro 2 Strung | |
Fantastic Mid-Ranger | STX Lacrosse Ultra Power | |
Excellent for Shooters | Maverik Kinetik Unstrung | |
Best Head for Defensive | Maverik Lacrosse Tank Universal Unstrung Head | |
The Best Lacrosse Faceoff Heads | STX Lacrosse Stallion 700 Unstrung Head | |
Affordable Option for Midfielders | Warrior Evo 5 | |
Unmatched Design | STX Lacrosse Stallion Omega |
The fact that this lacrosse head is used by one of the greatest dodging attack-men, Jordan Wolf, speaks for itself. We are dealing with a high-quality, elite lacrosse head here, designed to provide better ball control, velocity, and accuracy.
Since lacrosse is a traditional sport, I guess that you'd rather buy domestic equipment manufactured in the USA.
Who knows more about lacrosse than Americans, right?
Well, all Maverik gears are produced in the USA, promising superior quality, premium materials, and challenging testing.
This lacrosse head was made of DURATOUGH materials that provide essential strength and stiffness while retaining its properties in different weather.
What is more, the head owns its stiff design to the XRAIL TECHNOLOGY as well, since it distributes the pressure to the opposite rail, reducing the weight significantly while enhancing the sturdiness.
As for the catch and release, the LEVEL 2 BOTTOM RAIL creates a low-mid pocket, which allows the players to perform a powerful, quick release and focus on the game.
Finally, the tension lock provides more precision in stringing, making it easier to locate a defined shooting channel.
All in all, this is one fantastic budget-friendly attack lacrosse head, clearly designed to resist the passage of time. Every penny spent on the design has been wisely used, resulting in a long set of features you can find in the high-end models.
Importantly, this lacrosse head meets both NCAA and NFHS specifications.
- Affordable
- Well-designed
- Quick-release
- XRAIL technology
- The tension lock
- DuraTough material
- Not as reliable as the high-end models
Warrior is a familiar name with professional lacrosse players with great reliability and high-quality products. Continuing the tradition, Warrior Evo 5X is among the best-sellers on the market.
Warrior Evo 5X is an upgraded version of Evo 4X released in 2018 with the help of advanced technology. It still has the Sym-Rail design in Evo 4X, which can reduce weight but also add more stiffness and stability. Moreover, it offers extra durability that can withstand several games.
What makes Evo 5X the outstanding product on the list is the Loc-Throat technology that removes shaft rattle. Moreover, this feature will provide internal and external pressure for a snug fit. However, you should know that Evo 5X cannot be used with solid shafts and screw holes.
Another remarkable feature of Evo 5X is the Tilt-Tech string hole design. This feature allows you to string your lacrosse head the way you want it. You can customize the tension for your reference and achieve the perfect ball release.
In general, Evo 5X is a great choice for midfield positions and professional attackers. It also comes in several colors that allow you to choose the one that matches your gears.
- Sym-Rail design to reduce weight and add stability
- Loc-Throat technology for a secure fit
- Tilt-Tech string hole design makes it versatile to strung
- Suitable for offensive midfielders and attackers
- Comes with no string
- Not suitable for defenders and goalies
Next off, we have a strung attack lacrosse head, one of the Warrior’s warp models. Even though warp models are generally unpopular among lacrosse players, Warrior continued changing and upgrading the line implementing the advice from word-class athletes and their own research.
The Evo Warp Pro 2 was released in 2019, ready to help you dominate the field with its novel design, specially built for better hold, release, and ball control.
As an attack-man, you need to release the passes and shots quickly. With that in mind, Warrior made the Evo Warp Pro 2 with a tighter face and a mid-low pocket that allows a better grip of the ball, general control, and hold.
Deciding not to leave anything to chance, Warrior implemented three different whip options to this warp lacrosse head: ML1, ML2, and ML3.
The ML1 was specially designed for swift attack-men and midfielders who need to get their feeds and shots off quickly, while the ML3 was intended for players who shoot from the outside and need a bit of an added hold-shot speed. The ML2, as you can assume, represents the balance between these two.
The material resists all weather conditions, and the fantastic diamond configuration with a premium pocket screams durability. Still, Warrior additionally incorporated the Sym-Rail technology that guarantees longevity and consistency, making it worth the money.
Personally, I am not a fan of warp models, but I have to admit that they really put some effort into this one, and it is worth considering.
- Three whip options
- SYMRAIL technology
- Mid-low pocket
- Better ball control
- Durable
- Stiff
- A bit expensive
The next pick is Will Manny’s and Marcus Holman’s attack lacrosse head of choice, the Ultra Power Lacrosse head by STX. All the power this head has to offer hides in the merging of four critical design features: channel lock, EnduraForm, PowerRamp, and SpeedScoop.
Incredible PowerRamp technology significantly improved the consistency and shot speed, elemental for every lacrosse offense man. Yet deep offset allows reliable ball retention and better feel since good ball control matters in every position.
Ground balls are sort of a defensemen's focus, but the offense can also have a perfectly fast pickup with the SpeedScoop that minimizes drag for more scooping efficiency.
If you’re not familiar with the Channellock system, it’s a stringing system that allows more precise and advanced control of the pocket.
The final thing I’d like to mention is the EnduraForm system, a feature well-known when it comes to the STX equipment. It represents an innovative proprietary formulation that enhances the toughness and temperature-resistance of the heads.
When it comes to the price, I would say this lacrosse head is a mid-range to high-end product, definitely worth buying. It is perfect for both high-school and college players since it meets both NCAA and NFHS specs.
As for the brand, it is all a matter of preference.
With STX, you can never go wrong, yet some people like Warrior or Maverick models more. Luckily this product is a part of the SportStop.com exclusive TEST DRIVE Program, so you can test it out and return for credit money if you are not satisfied.
- Strong
- Reliable
- SpeedScoop
- Channellock
- EnduraForm
- PowerRamp
- Some customers complain about durability.
First released in 2018, Maverik Kinetik doesn't back off. This fantastic lacrosse head is still very popular and often bought due to its timeless superior design. It is specifically built for power players, always in the midst of the action, eager to take their chances to score.
You probably figured by now that Maverik makes lacrosse equipment for each position specifically. This lacrosse head is designed for an outside shooter. What that means is that it was designed for velocity, accuracy, and swift actions.
Tension locks really tighten up the mesh, enabling you to adjust the pocket precisely and get the most of your gear. At the same time, X-Rail technology distributes the stress evenly and makes the head stiff and durable without compromising the weight.
With multiple stringing holes, you will be able to string the Maverik Kinetik in a billion ways. However, the Level 4 Bottom Rail was engineered for a mid-high pocket that provides more power and consistent hold.
As for consistency, the strong Duratough material remains consistent in different weather conditions and doesn't break easily. And when such a material is combined with the optimized design, you get unmatched control and on-point performance that never fails.
You can find this model in three different colors, black, white, and gray. Overall, it's a decent product, pretty affordable, and reliable.
The players who tried this head out have nothing but words of praise. They were thrilled to see how beautifully the head strings and genuinely satisfied with the accuracy.
- Accuracy
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Affordable
- Strings perfectly
- Not the highest quality
Maverik is a rising star in the lacrosse equipment field with a lot of great-value products that satisfy professional players. And the Maverik Tank Universal head is a lacrosse head that is specifically designed for elite defensemen.
Tank Universal is a machine that offers you ultimate power and agility. With the help of this Tank Universal, you can deliver fierce checks and scoop the ball with ease.
The Tank U possesses a wide surface for intercepting passes and disrupting your opponent. It is why the Tank U is valued as one of the best options for defensive players.
As you can see, the Tank U features a Maverik’s 4-strut design that offers the stiff design to withstand extended use. You won't have to be worried about bending your head during the game.
Moreover, the Tank U lacrosse head is equipped with a level-5 bottom rail design that offers greater control off the ball. Thus, you can channel the ball into the pocket every time in your games.
Besides, the Tank U allows you to have multiple options to string your head to meet your requirements. You can also customize the pocket options from mid to high to fit your games.
Lastly, you can rest assured about the quality of the Tank U lacrosse head. It is 100% made in the USA and comes with a six-month warranty.
- Pure defensive lacrosse head
- Level-5 bottom rail
- Maverik’s 4-Strut design for extra stiffness
- Made in the USA
- No string included
- Only for defensive
This product is made with face-off players in minds and can also be used by middies and attack players.
The scoop design of the STX Lacrosse Stallion 700 Unstrung Head can handle extended ball possession and provide greater precision to strengthen your defensive moves.
This feature also comes in handy when trying to deflect the ball from a risk zone and helps to play a lofted shot.
STX made the headpiece with the company’s new patent pending “Speed Scoop,” which allows for quick and effortless scooping while reducing scoop drag on grass and turf.
The head is made with the iconic two-sidewall brace design, enabling optimal stability when checking and scooping ground balls. And a dual sidewall – which indicates the presence of two rows of support structures making it one of the best head for face-off situations.
The new stallion 700 design is 5% lighter and 25% stiffer than previous stallion models. Its C-channel technology uniformly distributes stress on the sidewall, allowing for additional strength and stability between the lines. This set you up for a defensive power game.
Additionally, the product is molded to withstand heat, UV, humidity and ground impact pressure. This rugged construct ensures maximum durability without brittleness, breaking and warping.
You will find three color variations of black, grey, and white to choose from, and it meets both NFHS and NCAA regulations.
- Available in three colors
- A patent-pending Speed Scoop which enables quick scooping
- UV, humidity and heat resistant
- C-Chain technology for pressure resistance
- No strings
Next off, we included another fantastic model from Warrior, this time one from the Evo line, the Warrior Evo Five. This is a reliable, high-quality lacrosse head, specially built for midfielders with all the essential features, built to enhance your performance.
Comparing Evolution four with the Evolution five line, we noticed only two innovations: the LockThroat and TiltTech technology.
The LockThroat technology is an honestly beneficial addition. It eliminates the rattle and keeps the head more stable. Namely, as you lock the head to a shaft with a screw, the LockThroat flares out and puts external and internal pressure on the pole, keeping the head ultra-stiff.
When it comes to TiltTech technology, it gives stringers a chance to get creative and optimize the tension of the pocket, enhancing the ball release.
The head is designed with a mid-low pocket for advanced control and stability. Therefore the offensive midfielders or goal-scorers will find it incredibly convenient and handy.
Like other Warrior models, this lacrosse head also incorporates the SYM-RAIL technology that provides additional stiffness and, at the same time, reduces the weight. The head weighs barely 5.5 ounces.
When it comes to the price, the product is pretty affordable, not the most cost-efficient offer you can find, but still way cheaper than high-end models. It was released in 2018, so I would not consider it the first option for professional use.
- SYMRAIL technology
- TILTTECH technology
- A mid-low pocket
- Stable
- Better ball control
- Affordable
- Not the highest quality available
As the cherry on top, I saved another STX model, this time the Lacrosse Stallion Omega. This lacrosse head for midfielders comes with a set of super balanced features that will support the incredible performance. Let’s look into it.
It is no secret that all STX heads feature incredible proprietary polymers that enhance the strength. But, Omega proprietary polymers show absolutely the best weight to strength ratio of all STX models.
Next, it includes the redesigned SpeedScoop that makes ground balls incredibly easy to gather even from higher angles.
The interlock system makes stringing on the inside rail effortless thanks to the tightened channels for better hold and accuracy.
But, this is not the end of innovations. This advanced STX head also includes the deepest legal offset, improving the ball retention and general ball feel.
You can string this head in many different ways thanks to the optimized stringing hole placement. At the same time, the updated stallion rail geometry offers enhanced force and durability, all you need as a midfielder.
The price is pretty adequate, given the model’s specifications, so this is the most expensive model on this list. Yet, I wouldn’t hesitate a second since the model shows honestly high quality and won’t break easily.
All in all, STX Stallion Omega is a lacrosse head worth buying with a bunch of innovations that most certainly count on the field.
- Many stringing options
- Strong
- Reliable
- Lightweight
- Excellent ball retention
- Easy scooping
- Expensive
- Limited warranty (sixty days)
Lacrosse Head 101
The central piece of lacrosse equipment for a lacrosse player is the stick. It is what players use to catch, pass, and throw the ball. It is impossible to play the sport without it.
The purpose and structure of the lacrosse stick have not changed much. It is made up of two parts: the shaft and, of course, the headpiece, which will be the focus of this content.
In the past, the headpiece was constructed from wood and leather. Nowadays, their design is modern and streamlined, and the material from which they are made has been revolutionized. It is now made of a variety of substances. Most products are manufactured from materials like plastic and carbon.
Lacrosse stick heads are typically shaped like a scoop. The shape allows you to catch, scoop, stop and throw the ball.
1. When do you need to buy a lacrosse headpiece?
While you enjoy the thrill of the game, your gear takes a beating. It will be bumped, scraped, strained, and exposed to all kinds of weather conditions. And no matter how sturdy it is, you can’t expect it to last forever.
Eventually, your headpiece might start to show cracks or even break. It may also start to show discoloration. If you see any of these signs, then it is time to invest in a new headpiece.
However, it is also best to remember that a beginner stick might probably not be able to take the strain required of an experienced player’s equipment.
2. Lacrosse head rules
If you are playing at the high school level, you will need to go a lacrosse head that conforms to the rules defined by NFHS.
As per these rules, the minimum width of the head should be no less than 6.5 inches and the maximum width no more than 10 inches at the widest part of the head. Typically, heads which conform to these rules are known as NFHS heads.
If you are playing at the college level, you must get a lacrosse head that conforms with the rules laid down by NCAA. The lacrosse heads which meet these rules are known as NCAA heads. These heads are legal for use in college-level games but are not allowed in youth or high school games.
Finally, a special legal variety of lacrosse heads known as ‘universal heads’ are also available in the market. These heads conform to the NCAA as well as NFHS rules and are allowed for use on all level. These include youth, college level and high school level games.
Finding a head which is legal according to the rules of your respective level is important.
If you carry a head which is not legal according to the rules, you may be barred from playing in the game. Alternatively, if an illegal head is discovered during the game, you and your team may be penalized for it.
3. Types of lacrosse heads
Manufacturers often make sticks for different roles like a goalie, defender, midfielder, and an attacker. This is because the dimensions and contour of the head can affect the way a player handles the ball.
Here is some information on the heads used by players in specific positions:
a. Goalie
Goalies use a unique type of stick. Their headpieces are broader to help them catch and stop the ball. These headpieces typically have fewer contours. You can find best lacrosse goalie heads in this article here.
b. Defender
Defenders need to use their sticks to handle ground balls and checks. They need a sturdy stick that can survive this type of pressure.
c. Face-off midfielder
The primary requirement for a face-off headpiece is that it should be flexible enough to bend without breaking or cracking.
d. Attack/midfielder
Attackers need equipment that is exceptionally lightweight. Their sticks and headpieces often weigh the least and are narrower than defenders and goalies’ gear. If you are an attacker, then look for a product that is arched and contoured.
As an attacking player, you need a lacrosse head that will help you in the offensive play. In this position, you will need to make hard passes, shoot the ball accurately and swiftly get the ball off the ground without losing it.
Typically, attack/midfielder heads are more flexible then defense heads. Attack heads come with more flexible sides. This ensures that the attacking player is able to quickly get a ball off the ground when need be.
Another distinguishing feature of attack heads is that they come with narrow throats and pockets. A narrow profile ensures that the attacker is able to keep the ball safe while carrying it. Narrow pocket also enables a more accurate shooting, allowing the attacker to make accurate passes and shots.
Most attack heads also feature a slight curve along their throat where they meet the shaft. This curve enables an attacking player to channel more power into his shot and achieve better accuracy when shooting the ball.
e. Beginner
If you are a beginner at the lacrosse game, the best option for you is to go with a lacrosse head that comes pre-attached with a shaft. In other words, a complete stick is your best bet. Such sticks typically feature lacrosse heads which are specifically designer for the beginners.
A beginner lacrosse head typically features a wide enough face which allows you to catch the ball relatively easy in the beginning. It is also preferable if you go with a lacrosse head that is made from a softer mesh and is not too stiff.
This will ensure that when you catch the ball, it will not simply bounce off the head. So you will be able to gradually develop ball control.
Lacrosse heads for beginners also tend to have a flatter scoop which allows the player to easily get the ball off the ground.
f. Stringing
Some holes run along the side of the scoop through which you can thread the string or mesh. Unfortunately, most lacrosse heads that you can buy come without any mesh. You will probably need to string it yourself.
You can choose between different types of netting. It is much easier to install mesh than string. Most stringing kits will come with instructions on how to do this.
Check out this video for easy to understand instructions for stringing your stick.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lacrosse Head
1. Shape
You might think that all lacrosse heads are the same shape, but that is just not true. Remember that equipment for different roles come in different dimensions.
To play the sport optimally, you need the ideal gear to set you on the right track.
2. Weight
The weight of the headpiece depends on its dimensions and material. Most of them are very light, but you might be surprised how big a difference a few ounces make. It can significantly impact your game style.
You should make sure that the product is suitable for your role and style.
3. Colors
The color of the headpiece is not the most critical factor, but it is still worthy of consideration. You will preferably want to buy a product that matches the stick and perhaps even your uniform.
Remember that when you look good, you feel good.
4. Mesh or No Mesh?
As I have mentioned lacrosse heads are often sold without any net. In this case, you need to string it yourself. There are also services that will do this for you.
But all of this means that there will be extra costs involved.
Lacrosse Head Stringing Guide
Stringing a lacrosse head is quite easy if you follow the guidelines. Usually, you will be able to manage an awesome 10-diamond mesh on your own and this will serve you well in the game.
- Step 1: Fold the row of diamonds into two rows so that you clearly see only 10 diamonds on the top.
- Step 2: Pass the string through the 1st diamond and pull it back over the sidewall rail of the head.
- Step 3: Put the string through the second sidewall hole and in this way, secure the 1st diamond of the head tightly to the 1st and 2nd sidewall holes of the head.
- Step 4: Push the string through the 2nd diamond and pass it through the 1st scoop hole on the head.
- Step 5: After passing the string through the scoop hole, pull it back and secure it tightly.
- Step 6: Tie the 3rd hole to the 1st scoop hole in a similar way and then push the string through the 4th diamond and then through the 2nd scoop hole. Secure the string tightly.
- Step 7: Pass the string through the 5th diamond and then push it up through the 2nd scoop hole.
- Step 8: Push the string through the 6th diamond and then push it under and up through the 3rd scoop hole. Pull the end back away from the scoop and tie it under itself.
- Step 9: Pass the string through the 7th diamond and the 3rd large scoop hole and tie it in a similar manner.
- Step 10: Follow the same routine with the 8th mesh diamond and the 4th large scoop hole. Do the same with the 9th mesh diamond and the 4th scoop hole. Finally, peg the 10th mesh diamond to both sidewall holes on either side of the head and then pull the string back over the rail. Pull as tight as possible and finally tie it in a secure 8-shaped knot.
Your lacrosse head has been strung and is ready for use!
Check out the video HERE for easy-to-understand instructions for stringing your stick.
FAQs
What is the best lacrosse attack head?
Out of all the lacrosse heads for attackers that we found, I would single out the Maverik Lacrosse Optik as the best.
What is the best middie head in lacrosse?
Middies will undoubtedly go crazy after the Maverik Lacrosse Tank Universal Unstrung Head.
What is the lightest lacrosse head?
The lightest lacrosse head ever is the Brine Clutch Elite weighing 4.3 ounces.
Final Thoughts
That was all! I shared my piece of wisdom, and I sure hope it helped you find the best gear for what you need.
If you liked this content, check out some of the other articles we wrote with a bunch of cool tips and tricks that could be of use on the field.
In the end, I’d like to look back at the best lacrosse heads for attackers and midfielders: Maverik Lacrosse Optik and Maverik Lacrosse Tank Universal Unstrung Head.
These models are very reliable, robust, and stiff with innovative technology and customized design.
If you eventually set for them, stay assured they won’t let you down!
