Buying Your First Lacrosse Stick? Read This First.

Every lacrosse player remembers their first stick. Maybe it was handed down from a sibling, maybe a coach pointed to one on a shelf, or maybe you just grabbed whatever looked cool. No judgment—we’ve all been there.

But if you’re new to the game (or shopping for your first stick), there’s more to it than you might think. The wrong setup can make learning much harder than it needs to be. So this week, we’re breaking it all down.

The Three Things That Actually Matter

A lacrosse stick has three parts: the shaft, the head, and the pocket. Here's what to know about each:

1. The Shaft
This is the handle. For beginners, material matters less than length and weight. Youth players (roughly 3rd–5th grade) need a shorter shaft—usually labeled “youth” or “junior.” Older players use a full-length shaft. Don’t overthink the material early on—aluminum or an entry-level composite is perfectly fine to start.

2. The Head
The head is the plastic piece at the top that holds the pocket. For beginners, look for a wider, more open head. It provides a larger catching surface and makes learning to catch much less frustrating. As players develop, they often switch to a narrower head for better control—but that’s a later conversation.

3. The Pocket
The pocket is the mesh strung inside the head that holds the ball. For new players, a mid-to-high pocket is generally more forgiving—making it easier to catch and cradle without the ball popping out. Most beginner sticks come pre-strung and ready to use, which is all you need to get started

Our honest advice:

Skip the premium gear for your first stick. A $60–80 complete stick (shaft and head already assembled) is the right choice for a beginner. It’ll perform well, hold up to wear and tear, and you can always upgrade once you know what you like.

For parents: if your child isn’t sure they’ll stick with lacrosse yet, a solid entry-level stick is the right investment. We’re happy to help you find one that will last a full season or two without any issues.

Come in and we'll help you find the right fit.

Picking a stick in person is always better than guessing online.

Bring your player in, and we’ll make sure they walk out with something that actually fits their age, position, and experience level.

9630 SW Tualatin-Sherwood Rd, Tualatin, OR 97062

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM

See you soon