How To String A Lax Stick: The Ultimate Pro Guide To Pocket Performance

Mastering how to string a lax stick transforms a standard piece of equipment into a precision weapon by optimizing pocket depth, legal channel width, and release velocity. Achieving an elite-level pocket requires precise knot tension, exact string measurements, and a thorough understanding of how mesh interacts with sidewall diamonds.

Pre-Operation & Equipment Checklist

Proper stringing requires patience, a methodical approach, and the correct hardware to ensure your stick meets official specifications while maximizing on-field performance. Whether you are stringing a high-end attack head for maximum whip or a defensive head for structural rigidity, preparation prevents structural failure during gameplay.

• Essential Gear, Tools, and Materials:
  
  
  • One unstrung lacrosse head (NCAA or NFHS compliant depending on your league).
  • One piece of performance lacrosse mesh (semi-hard or semi-soft nylon/weather-resistant armor mesh).
  • Sidewall strings (typically 2 long strings, approximately 27-30 inches).
  • Top string (1 piece of durable braided nylon).
  • Shooting cords/laces (2 to 4 varying nylon or leather strings for the release channel).
  • Bottom string/nylon.
  • Heavy-duty scissors or utility shears.
  • Lighter or matches for melting synthetic string ends to prevent fraying.
  • A puller tool, pliers, or awl for tightening knots.
• Prerequisite Knowledge & Standards:
  
  
  • Familiarity with basic lacrosse knots (Interlock, 1-Is-In, 2-Is-In, and Inside/Outside Whips).
  • Understanding of NCAA/NFHS head dimensions, specifically the minimum channel width requirements (must allow a standard ball to pass through without getting stuck).
• Project Scope & Benchmarks:
  
  
  • Estimated duration: 45 to 90 minutes for a meticulous, game-ready string job.
  • Budget: 15 to 35 USD for premium mesh and strings.

Step-by-Step Lacrosse Head Stringing Workflow

Step 1: Securing the Top String

1. Begin at the top corner of the lacrosse head by threading your top string through the topmost sidewall hole on one side, feeding it through the designated top row diamond of the mesh, and anchoring it securely.
2. Alternate weaving the top string through the alternating diamonds of the mesh top row and the corresponding plastic holes along the scoop of the head.
3. Pull each iteration extremely tight to eliminate any slack between the mesh and the plastic scoop, preventing the ball from catching on the frame.
4. Tie off the top string on the opposite sidewall with a secure double-half hitch knot and use your lighter to melt the frayed end.

Pro-Tip: Keep the top string tight against the plastic by pulling downward on the string after every single loop, ensuring the mesh hugs the scoop tightly.

Step 2: Weaving the Sidewall and Creating the Pocket

1. Determine your pocket placement (high pocket for quick releases, mid pocket for versatility, or low pocket for maximum ball retention and dodging).
2. Attach your sidewall string to the top hole below the scoop, leaving a short tail to tie off later.
3. Thread the sidewall string through the side diamond of the mesh and anchor it to the plastic using your preferred knot type (such as an Interlock knot for a tight hold or a 1-Is-In knot to create a distinct pocket bag).
4. Continue down the sidewall, maintaining symmetry between the left and right sides unless you are deliberately building an asymmetrical pocket.
5. As you approach the middle of the head (the sweet spot of your intended pocket), use stacked knots like "2-Is-In" or "KSI" (Knot-Stack-Interlock) to pull the mesh inward, forming a tight, defined channel that guides the ball straight out upon release.

Warning: Never skip more than one diamond per sidewall hole unless you are executing a specialized transition, as uneven diamond skipping creates a dangerous, illegal pocket hook.

Step 3: Installing Shooting Cords and Bottom String

1. Insert your shooting cords or nylon laces horizontally across the upper face of the mesh, weaving them over and under the diamond rows based on your desired release feel (straight laces offer a smooth release, while rolled nylon cords add whip and hold).
2. Tie off the shooting cords securely to the sidewall holes, ensuring they do not drop below the legal maximum depth threshold (the ball cannot sit lower than the bottom of the sidewall plastic when viewed from the side).
3. Anchor the bottom string through the lower vertical rows of the mesh and secure it tightly through the bottom-most holes or the throat attachment screw hole of the lacrosse head.
4. Adjust the tension of the bottom string to control the final exit angle of the ball, then trim and melt all remaining string tails.

Material Properties and Pocket Style Comparison

Common Stringing Failures and Field Fixes

Even experienced players occasionally encounter performance issues after stringing a new head. Recognizing these common errors and applying immediate fixes will save your stick during practice or game day.

• Root Cause: The ball hangs or delays during release (Excessive Whip).
  
  
  • Actionable Fix: Loosen the shooting cords or replace tight, rolled nylon cords with flat, straight leather or synthetic laces to flatten the release path.
• Root Cause: The pocket shifts significantly during wet weather conditions.
  
  
  • Actionable Fix: Pre-stretch your mesh before installation, and use waterproof, weather-resistant performance mesh coated in factory wax or specialized polymers.
• Root Cause: The legal channel is too wide, causing the ball to rattle or fall out during a hard sprint.
  
  
  • Actionable Fix: Retighten the sidewall strings using Interlock knots in the middle section to pull the mesh diamonds closer together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a new lax string job to break in?

A high-performance mesh pocket typically requires about one to three hours of intense wall ball or shooting practice to fully stretch and conform to its final pocket shape. You may need to readjust your bottom string and shooting cord tension slightly after the first heavy use as the synthetic fibers settle.

What is the legal pocket depth limit in lacrosse?

According to official NFHS and NCAA rules, the top of the ball must remain visible above the sidewall when the stick is resting on a flat surface. If any part of the ball is completely hidden below the lower edge of the sidewall plastic, the pocket is considered illegal and prone to game penalties.

Should I use hard mesh or soft mesh for my pocket?

Hard mesh offers superior weather resistance and holds its shape longer, making it the preferred choice for elite players who want consistency. Soft mesh provides an immediate, broken-in feel right out of the box but requires more frequent maintenance and retightening.

How often should I restring my lacrosse stick?

Competitive players should ideally restring their sticks at least once per season or whenever the mesh begins to fray, stretch unevenly, or lose its pocket consistency due to moisture and friction. Regular inspection of your top string and sidewall knots prevents unexpected mid-game breakage.

Take control of your performance on the field by stringing your next lacrosse head with precision, proper tension, and high-grade materials tailored to your exact positional needs.