Whether you are picking up a stick for the first time at university or looking to upgrade after your first season, choosing the right women's lacrosse stick makes a significant difference to your development and enjoyment of the game.
Complete Sticks vs. Separate Head & Shaft
Most new and intermediate players start with a complete stick — a head and shaft sold together, ready to play straight away. Complete sticks offer excellent value and remove the need to match components. More experienced players often prefer to buy a head and shaft separately to fine-tune performance for their position and playing style.
Stick Length by Position
Women's lacrosse sticks for field players must measure between 35.5 and 43.25 inches (including the head), as required by most governing bodies including England Lacrosse and World Lacrosse. Unlike the men's game, length differences between positions are minimal for women — most field players use the same size range.
- Attackers often prefer a slightly shorter stick for quicker handling and faster release.
- Defenders may use a stick at the longer end of the legal range for added reach on checks.
- Youth players should prioritise a stick that feels comfortable to hold and control rather than one at the maximum legal length.
Choosing the Right Head
The head is the single most important part of the stick for ball control, passing, and shooting.
|
Head Feature |
What to Look For |
|
Pocket depth |
Women's heads have a shallower, legal pocket — look for good ball control and a clean release point. |
|
Stiffness |
Stiffer heads are more durable; flexible heads give more feel — defenders lean stiff, attackers lean flexible. |
|
Head Shape |
Wider heads are better for catching & intercepting. Narrower heads are better for consistent accuracy, ball retention and carrying through traffic. |
Modern elite women's heads often use Lock Pocket 2.0 by STX or Valkyrie Mesh by ArmourMesh, which offer improved consistency and performance in all weather conditions.
Choosing the Right Shaft
The shaft material affects weight, durability, and feel in hand.
|
Material |
Best For |
Key Benefit |
|
Aluminium alloy |
Beginners & Youth. |
Durable, affordable, consistent performance. |
|
Scandium alloy |
Intermediate to Elite players. |
Extremely stiff with high durability. |
|
Carbon fibre / composite |
Intermediate to Elite players. |
Lightest option for fastest shot speed. |
Expert Tip: Aluminium or Scandium shafts can feel cold in winter — tape your shaft or wear gloves to maintain grip.
Skill Level Guide
Rule of Thumb: "It’s the wizard, not the wand: but the wand helps…" -- ANON.
Beginners / university starters
Start with a complete stick from a reputable brand — you don't need to spend a fortune, but avoid the very cheapest options, which are typically geared toward young children. A mid-range beginner stick will last much longer and help you develop your skills faster.
Intermediate players
Once you have played for a season or two, consider a complete stick with a higher-quality mesh pocket or upgrade to a separate head and shaft combination. This is also the right time to match your stick more closely to your position.
Advanced players
Advanced players typically build a custom setup — a performance head matched with a scandium or carbon fibre shaft. At this level, personal preference, pocket stringing, and position-specific features become the priority.
Top Brands
Brands stocked at Pulse Lacrosse include STX and The Good Stick Co. — all trusted names in the UK and European lacrosse community. STX's Aria, Crux, and Fortress lines are popular choices across all levels.
