Stringing a lacrosse stick may not be easy at first, but it’s a skill that can benefit any lacrosse player. Although many people around the world play lacrosse, not many know how to string. It may seem daunting, but following these basic guidelines can make stringing an easy and rewarding process. 

If you are interested in stringing and want to learn more about lacrosse, make sure to visit the Lacrosse Center! 

Overview of Lacrosse Stringing

A lacrosse stick consists of a 3-foot metal shaft and a plastic head. The lacrosse head must have a piece of mesh strung to the plastic with nylon strings for the ball to sit in the lacrosse stick. Lacing the mesh to a lacrosse head with nylon strings is called “stringing”. Stringing the mesh to the plastic creates a “pocket” where the lacrosse ball sits. There are three main types of pockets that players use when stringing:

• Low Pocket
• Mid Pocket
• High Pocket

You can customize your lacrosse pocket based on your preference and position on the field. Visit our page on the different types of lacrosse pockets to learn which pocket is right for you. With some practice, you can master the art of stringing and become an avid stringer!

How to Get Started

Before you start stringing a lacrosse head, make sure all old strings and mesh are removed. It is also important to understand what type of pocket you want to put in your lacrosse stick. Once you have determined your pocket preference, it is time to get started.

To string a lacrosse stick, you will need a few different items. Each one of these items serves a different purpose in the stringing process, so make sure you have them nearby before getting started. 

• Lacrosse head
• Mesh
• Sidewall strings

• Shooting laces
• Scissors
• Lighter
• Pliers (optional)

The Stringing Process

To make stringing as easy as possible, we have broken down each step of the process with a video tutorial included. Follow these steps in order.

1. Top String

The first thing to learn is the top string (using a sidewall string). The top string is the foundation of your lacrosse pocket. There are many different ways to string a top string, but the “9-diamond top string” is the most common. This can be used in any lacrosse head with standard mesh and strings.

This video created by East Coast Dyes Lacrosse is a great resource for learning how to string a 9-diamond top string.

2. Sidewalls

After you have completed the top string, you can move on to the sidewalls. The sidewalls are strings used to keep your lacrosse mesh tied down to the plastic of the lacrosse head. Sidewalls can be customized to create a high, low, or mid pocket in your lacrosse stick. Use one sidewall string on each vertical side of the lacrosse head.

This tutorial by Chris from Mainely Mesh can help you perfect your sidewall.

3. Shooters

Once the sidewalls are complete, move on to the shooters. Shooters, also known as shooting laces, are types of strings used to control the release of the lacrosse ball from your stick. There are many combinations of shooters in a lacrosse stick, but it is ultimately up to your preference. It is also important to note that shooters must be no lower than 4 inches below the top of your lacrosse head.

This video by ECD Greg can help you learn how to easily string a lacrosse shooting string. 

4. Bottom String

The bottom string is the final part of the stringing process. The bottom string can either be a sidewall string or a piece of a shooting string. The bottom string is a crucial component of your stick because it controls how deep your pocket is. 

To determine if your pocket is the right depth, place a ball in the deepest part of your pocket and look at it horizontally. If you can see space between the ball and the plastic of your stick, it is likely illegal. Thankfully, tightening your bottom string is a simple fix.

This tutorial by ECD Greg can help you learn how to properly string a bottom string.

What To Do Next?

Once you have completed all the steps and you are satisfied with your pocket, it is time to move on to the final steps. The final steps include trimming and burning the excess stringing material.

When you get to the end of the pocket, you may notice that the strings are long and may get in the way while you are playing. To solve this issue, you will want to trim away the excess material to your preference. 

When trimming this material it is essential to burn the ends with a lighter. Because the strings are made from nylon (plastic), burning the ends will harden and prevent any fraying. Frayed strings can fluff up and unravel the strings, which can cause your pocket to come undone. 

Follow these steps explained by ECD Greg to cut and burn your excess strings safely. Make sure an adult is present when using scissors and a lighter.

Continue On Your Stringing Journey With The Lacrosse Center

At The Lacrosse Center, we offer a wide variety of resources and services to help you continue on your stringing journey. Our experienced staff is always available to provide expert advice and guidance on stringing techniques and equipment. We also offer workshops and classes for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced stringers.

So whether you are just starting or looking to take your game to the next level, The Lacrosse Center is here to support you on your lacrosse journey with top-quality information and exceptional customer service. Contact us today and experience the difference for yourself!