Soft mesh forms a pocket quickly and feels good out of the box but can bag out and hold water. Hard mesh takes longer to break in but keeps its shape and handles rain better. Waxed and semi-soft mesh sit in between. Six-diamond mesh suits most heads; 10-diamond mesh fits narrow-channel and some women's designs. Traditional leather pockets give a unique feel but need more upkeep.
The pocket decides how a stick throws and catches. Here is what each mesh type does.
Mesh by stiffness
| Mesh | Break-in | Weather | Feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft | Fast | Can hold water and sag | Quick pocket, more hold |
| Semi-soft | Moderate | Fairly stable | Balanced |
| Hard | Slow | Most stable | Consistent once broken in |
| Waxed | Moderate | Repels water well | Consistent, slightly stiff |
Diamond count
Six-diamond mesh is the most common and fits standard men’s heads. Ten-diamond mesh has smaller diamonds, which suits narrow-channel pockets and some women’s heads. Use the mesh size the head maker recommends.
Traditional pockets
Traditional pockets use leather or synthetic thongs and nylon cross-lacing. Some players love the feel and ball release, but they react to weather and need more adjustment than mesh.
Keep it legal
Pockets loosen with use. Check the depth before games: in men’s play the top of the ball must be visible above the bottom of the sidewall, and women’s pockets must stay shallower. See men’s vs women’s lacrosse sticks.
Related
Common questions
What lacrosse mesh is best for beginners?
A semi-soft or pre-broken mesh, or a complete stick strung by the manufacturer, so the pocket works from the first practice.
How do you break in hard mesh?
Use it. Wall ball and playing catch shape the pocket over time. Some players also push a ball into the pocket and band the head overnight.
Does mesh need to be restrung?
Mesh stretches and strings loosen, so check the pocket depth often and adjust the sidewall and shooting strings to keep it legal and consistent.