Best Defensive Lacrosse Heads Reviewed
13 heads for close D, LSMs and D-middies, rated on stiffness, scoop, face shape and pocket, plus budget picks and the rules you need to know.
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Close D and long stick middies (LSMs) can technically use any head, but some are built specifically for these hard-hitting positions, and they give you an edge.
This guide covers the best defensive lacrosse heads and what to look for when you're choosing one.
Defensemen need stiff, durable heads that can take 60 minutes of hard checks, shot deflections and ground ball scrums. Ask anyone who's played D in a Canadian box league or a Virginia Beach summer tournament in July: a head that goes soft on you in the third quarter is a liability. Many D players also like wider heads that give them more surface area to pick off passes and check sticks.
Heads up: BattleLax doesn't stock every head on this list. When one isn't available, I point you to the closest head they do carry.
Our top picks
- Best overall: Maverik Havok 2
- Most reliable: ECD DNA 2.0
- Best for picking off passes: ECD Delta
- Best for D-middies: StringKing Mark 3V
- Best wide head: Maverik Tank 2.0
Compare all 13 heads
"Buy" goes straight to the head at BattleLax. "Alt" goes to the closest head BattleLax has in stock.
13 best defensive lacrosse heads
To find the best defensive lacrosse heads, I started with 16 of the top options on the market. After researching their weight, face shape, stiffness and more, and reading customer reviews, I narrowed the list down to 13.
Below you'll find the best heads for defensemen and LSMs, including what each one does best:
- Maverik Havok 2 Lacrosse Head
- ECD DNA 2.0 Lacrosse Head
- STX Stallion 1K Lacrosse Head
- ECD Delta Lacrosse Head
- StringKing Mark 3V Lacrosse Head
- Gait D2 Ground Ball Lacrosse Head
- STX Hammer 1K
- StringKing Mark 2D
- Maverik Havok
- STX X20
- ECD Rebel Defense
- Warrior Evo QX2-D
- Maverik Tank 2.0
1. Maverik Havok 2 Lacrosse Head Top pick
The Havok 2.0 is built for throwing hard checks. Maverik made it with Duratough material that doesn't warp on impact, and even though it's lighter than the original at 5.2 oz, it's noticeably stiffer than its predecessor.
The pinched sidewall and 04 strut design make a tighter throat, which helped me win more ground balls without losing control. It also cut down the unwanted flex when I landed slap checks.
It has 20 sidewall holes, plenty for pocket customization. The top holes are wide enough for double loops, and the lower ones let you adjust pocket depth for a clean release.
I strung a mid-high pocket, which improved my catching, and outlets on the run felt smoother. The face isn't wide enough to scoop easily on the run, though, so I don't recommend it for beginners.
The pointed Ground Control scoop still makes ground balls easier. It funnels the ball right into the pocket. Want it in a fresh colorway? BattleLax also carries the Maverik Havok 2 Degree Series Head ($139.99).
- Extremely stiff yet lightweight
- Narrow throat improves ground ball control
- Durable Duratough material
- Not suitable for beginners
- Not ideal for wide scooping angles
2. ECD DNA 2.0 Lacrosse Head Most reliable
The ECD DNA 2.0 is the most reliable defensive head on my list. The Flexform material is durable and weather-resistant, and it weighs 5.5 oz, lighter than the original.
I liked how easily the rounded scoop picked up ground balls after I knocked one loose. I strung a mid pocket using the added sidewall holes, which gave me a tight channel and great hold for fast outlets.
The shorter throat adds stability while cradling and gives you a controlled feel. If you want a wider face for picking off passes, though, go with a more traditional defensive head like the ECD Delta.
The pinched sidewalls are stiff, balanced and built to take a beating without losing shape. I threw hard checks all game, and this head didn't warp even in the ugliest scrums.
- Flexform plastic holds its shape
- Rounded scoop for easy ground balls
- Curved scoop gives a quick release
- Limited face area for intercepting passes
- Heavier than some
Stock note: BattleLax was showing the DNA 2.0 out of stock when we checked. If it's still out, the ECD Delta Unstrung Head is the ECD defense head they have ready to ship.
3. STX Stallion 1K Lacrosse Head
I've used the Stallion series at different positions, and the 2023 Stallion 1K is worth the money for D-middies. At 4.84 oz, it's light, especially for how solid it feels. I was impressed with the durability and strength-to-weight ratio, even though it looks chunky.
It has a classic two-strut sidewall, and the C-channel along the back rail adds stiffness for big checks. There's still a little flex in the middle for easy cradling in traffic.
It also has a wider face shape, so I scooped ground balls easily, even from awkward angles. It's still structured enough to push out quick outlet passes after a turnover.
Its 16 sidewall holes are enough for a clean channel with decent hold and a smooth release, but you don't get a lot of pocket options. If you don't want a mid-high pocket, go with the Maverik Havok 2.
- Light and sturdy
- Wider face for smooth pickups
- Balanced flex for control in traffic
- Limited stringing options
- Not as stiff as elite defensive heads
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Stallion 1K. For a stiff, light head built for defense, they stock the StringKing Mark 3D Unstrung Head ($119.99).
4. ECD Delta Lacrosse Head Best for intercepting
I've used the ECD Delta for over a year, and it hasn't lost any stiffness. It weighs 5.6 oz but doesn't feel heavy, and the X-strut design resists warping when you're throwing hard checks.
The wide face and pinched side rails gave me great passing and shooting accuracy, and the bigger surface area let me pick off passes from all kinds of angles. The shorter, narrower throat helps you hang on to the ball against checks.
The slightly curved scoop with flat edges funnels the ball into the pocket, even on the run. I picked up ground balls cleanly without slowing down, even after checking the ball loose near the crease.
My mid-high pocket held the ball tight in traffic. At first the pocket felt stiff and popped the ball out a lot, but that went away after the break-in. If you want a more flexible head, go with the Stallion 1K.
- Stiff sidewalls for strong checks
- Pinched design for better control
- Rounded scoop for easier ground balls
- Long break-in period
- Extremely stiff
5. StringKing Mark 3V Lacrosse Head Best for D-middies
I threw hard checks with the Mark 3V for six months, and it didn't warp, even in the summer. The widely spaced sidewalls with multiple struts are extremely rigid, and the ultra-stiff plastic soaked up the impact when I threw hard poke checks or jammed my hands on a slide.
The pinched sidewalls and shorter throat give you great control on the clear. I cradled through pressure without the ball rattling out. It's not a pure defensive head, but it gives you the confidence to push upfield in transition after a clean takeaway.
The wider face makes ground balls easy on fast breaks. Even in traffic, I could scoop on the run without stabbing at it.
I loved the rounded scoop too. The ultra-stiff plastic makes defensive clamps tougher, but the curved scoop is perfect for winning the ball.
At about 4.5 oz, it's light, so it suits elite D-middies and aggressive LSMs. I wouldn't suggest it for beginners looking for a more forgiving head.
Read our full StringKing Mark 3V review.
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Ultra-strong new plastic
- Secure cradling
- Can be strung for any position
- Not suitable for beginner D-poles
- Slight rattle on impact
6. Gait D2 Ground Ball Lacrosse Head
The Gait D2 has a better shape than the Gait D. It doesn't have the sharp can-opener hooks that got the original Gait D banned, but it still knocks the ball loose easily.
It has several ridges along the inner sidewalls and a unique cutout under the scoop, so it felt stiffer when absorbing impact. The face is wide and angular, perfect for knocking down passes or scooping on the run.
The flares near the scoop open it up just enough for ground balls without feeling sloppy. The throat is longer and more squared-off than most heads I've used, though. It changed my hand placement, which cost me some shot speed and torque on checks.
I strung a mid-high pocket using its unevenly spaced sidewall holes, and it gave me consistent hold and easy outlets. The offset and aggressive return shape let the ball sit high and tight, even without a traditional D-head's deep channel.
- Air scoop funnels the ball into the pocket
- Stiff sidewalls don't warp
- Weather-resistant and durable
- Minimal flex at the scoop cutout
- Doesn't create a traditional D-head channel
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't list the D2 Ground Ball right now, but they stock its sibling, the Gait D2 Transition Unstrung Head ($119.99).
7. STX Hammer 1K
Best features: Stiffness & durability
The Hammer 1K is one of the best options on this list thanks to its stiffness and durability.
It improves on our previous top-ranked defense head, the Hammer 900, with more stiffness and better shape retention from improved EnduraForm plastic. It also doesn't seem to have the breakage issues that the older Hammer Omega had.
The Hammer 1K has a great face shape for both close D and LSMs. It's pretty pinched toward the throat but gradually widens toward the scoop, so you get good ball control and still have width for picking off passes and laying checks.
The offset sits pretty high on the head, which makes it great for a mid-high to high pocket, usually the preference for defensemen.
It also has STX's Speed Scoop, designed to perform better on long poles. That makes ground balls a breeze, and the InnerLock tech makes stringing easier and keeps your strings tighter.
The biggest downside is that there are only 15 sidewall holes on each side. I haven't run into any problems stringing it, but if you want more holes, look elsewhere. Overall, it should hold up for even the hardest checkers and perform well in transition.
- Very stiff
- Durable
- Great scoop
- Nice face shape
- Fewer sidewall holes than competitors
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Hammer 1K. For a stiff defense head that holds a mid-high pocket, they stock the StringKing Mark 3D Unstrung Head ($119.99).
8. StringKing Mark 2D
Best features: Scoop & weight
The StringKing Mark 2D is a great head for defense, and for good reason.
It's light at 5.2 oz, and unlike a lot of light heads, it has above-average stiffness and durability.
The scoop is great for ground balls. Its sharp angle, plus the dramatic forward cant of the head, lets you scoop balls even when your butt end is still up in the air.
The head shape and all the stringing holes make it easy to string a high pocket with good hold and a smooth release. Like most StringKing heads, the Mark 2D strings up beautifully, and the pocket options are endless.
It also has a locking bolt in the throat that secures your head better than a traditional screw, cutting down on head rattle and movement on checks. Overall, it's a great head for close D and LSMs.
- Very light
- Above-average stiffness
- Great scoop and head shape for ground balls
- Tons of stringing holes
- Hard to string a low pocket
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Mark 2D anymore. Its successor, the StringKing Mark 3D Unstrung Head ($119.99), is in stock.
9. Maverik Havok
Best features: Tight pinch & scoop
The original Maverik Havok was one of the most popular LSM heads on the market, and the Havok 2.0 that replaced it is even better.
The 2.0 has a tighter face shape than the original that still opens up toward the scoop. We found that a Havok strung with a mid to mid-high pocket and a tight channel gives great hold and a smooth release.
The 2.0 weighs around 5.25 oz, which makes it one of the lightest D/LSM heads out there, and an extra sidewall strut makes it stiffer than the first version. It also has more stringing holes than the original, which was a big complaint with the 1.0.
The Ground Control scoop has a sharp angle that makes it easy to snag ground balls without getting your butt end close to the ground, and the forward cant of the top half helps too.
If you're an LSM, D-middie or close D who likes to push transition, the Havok line is a great option for its face shape, weight and scoop. More traditional D players who want a wider, stiffer head should look at the STX X20 or Maverik Tank 2.0.
- Face shape gives more control in transition
- Great for ground balls
- Very light for a D/LSM head
- Takes getting used to for D players used to wide heads
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the original Havok anymore. The upgraded Maverik Havok 2.0 Unstrung Head ($109.99) is in stock.
10. STX X20
Best features: Wide face shape & light weight
The STX X20 is the latest head in one of the longest-running lines in the game, the Xcalibur series.
It has the classic wide face shape of the Xcalibur and X10. That's great for knocking down passes and gives you more surface area for checks, but it makes the head a bit harder to string and gives you less hold. If you go with the X20, string as tight a channel as you can to make up for the wide face.
One of its biggest strengths is that it's very stiff for 5.2 oz, which makes it one of the lighter defense heads available.
It also has STX's Speed Scoop, which makes ground balls a breeze, especially on a long pole. If you're a defenseman who doesn't carry the ball much and likes wide heads, the X20 is one of the best options out there.
- Very stiff
- Great scoop
- Good for high pockets
- Wide face gives less control and is harder to string
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX X20. If you want a wide, stiff defense head, they stock the Maverik Tank 2.0 Unstrung Head ($109.99).
11. ECD Rebel Defense
Best features: Tight pinch & stiffness
The defensive version of ECD's Rebel line comes in next.
Compared to other D heads, the Rebel Defense has a pretty narrow pinch, which makes it a strong option for LSMs and defensemen who carry the ball a lot in transition. It's also very stiff while sitting right in the normal weight range for D heads.
Like most ECD heads, the Rebel Defense has more stringing holes than most comparable heads, so it's easy to string whatever pocket you like. The high offset makes mid to mid-high pockets ideal.
We did find some customers reporting their Rebel Defense broke after a while. That seems pretty rare, and the head came with a 6-month warranty. Overall, if you're a D-pole or LSM who wants a narrower pinch, the Rebel Defense is a solid choice.
- Narrow pinch toward the throat
- Great scoop
- Lightweight
- Lots of stringing holes
- Some reports of breaking
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Rebel Defense. For a stiff ECD defense head, they stock the ECD Delta Unstrung Head ($109.99).
12. Warrior Evo QX2-D
Best features: Durability & stiffness
Warrior's Evo QX2 series includes both an offensive head (QX2-O) and a defensive head (QX2-D). Just like the QX2-O is one of our favorite heads for attackmen and middies, the QX2-D is a great option for defensemen and LSMs.
It has a tighter face shape than the original QX-D, which makes it a great option for advanced D-poles and LSMs.
It uses Therma-LOC+ resin, which keeps it very stiff and durable even in high temperatures, and the updated sidewall struts make it stiffer than the original, which was already very stiff. That means when you're out there playing summer ball, your head won't turn into a noodle on you.
The max offset sits very high, so it's great for D guys who love mid-high or high pockets. If you like Warrior heads and don't mind a narrow face, the Evo QX2-D is an awesome choice.
- Therma-LOC+ resin stays stiff in the heat
- Narrow face shape
- Removable throat lock
- Hard to find now that newer heads are out
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Evo QX2-D right now. For a stiff head that holds a mid-high pocket, they stock the Gait D2 Transition Unstrung Head ($119.99).
13. Maverik Tank 2.0 Best wide head
Best features: Wide face shape & stiffness
Maverik released the Tank 2.0 in late 2020, and it's still a top choice for elite college defensemen.
As the name says, this head is a tank. It's super stiff, so it delivers hard checks without being too heavy, and the wide face makes it easy to pick off passes and gives you more area for laying checks.
The improved scoop makes grabbing GBs a breeze after you check the ball out of someone's stick.
On the downside, the wide face makes it harder to string a narrow channel. That can make hold tougher, which makes carrying the ball in transition harder.
Like a lot of defense heads, the Tank 2.0 is built for a mid-high or high pocket. A dropped top string is a good way to get a tight channel in a high pocket. If you want a wide defense head that will hold up for multiple seasons, you won't be disappointed.
- Very stiff
- Wide face shape (if you like it)
- Good scoop
- Can be hard to string
- Not great for transition because of the wide face
Budget defense lacrosse heads
If the heads above are out of your price range, there are some good cheaper and clearance lacrosse heads to consider.
STX X10
This is the updated version of one of STX's most popular defensive heads ever, the Xcalibur. Its stiffness, durability and wide face make it a good option for traditional long poles.
Brine King II ST
Another great budget defense head is the Brine King II ST, the stiffer version of the popular King II. It has a narrow pinch compared to a lot of D heads, which makes it a good option for LSMs and D-middies.
Adidas Blockade
Last on our list of cheap defensive heads is the Adidas Blockade. Like the King II ST, it has a narrow face shape for better control while still being stiff enough to lay hard checks.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry these three older budget heads. The most affordable defense heads they stock right now are the Maverik Tank 2.0 Unstrung Head ($109.99), Maverik Havok 2.0 Unstrung Head ($109.99) and ECD Delta Unstrung Head (from $109.99).
Shop all men's heads at Battle Lax
Defense heads in stock at BattleLax
Want a head you can order today? These are the heads from this list, and the closest matches, that BattleLax carries right now.
| Head | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Maverik Havok 2.0 Unstrung Head | Pinched LSM/D head | $109.99 |
| Maverik Havok 2 Degree Series Head | Havok 2 in Degree Series colors | $139.99 |
| ECD Delta Unstrung Head | Wide, stiff D head | $109.99 |
| Maverik Tank 2.0 Unstrung Head | Wide traditional D head | $109.99 |
| StringKing Mark 3V Unstrung Head | D-middie / versatile | $119.99 |
| StringKing Mark 3D Unstrung Head | StringKing defense head | $119.99 |
| Gait D2 Transition Unstrung Head | Gait transition D head | $119.99 |
| ECD DNA 2.0 Unstrung Head | ECD D head (check stock) | $99.99 |
What to look for in a lacrosse head for defense or LSM
With so many defensive heads out there, it can be tough to pick one. Here are 7 things to think about.
1. Stiffness and durability
First and foremost, you need a strong head that will last through thousands of checks. As a defenseman, you need to trust that your head won't break, warp or flex too much when you're throwing poke and slap checks all game.
Think about how a head holds up over a full season or several seasons. Even a head that feels very stiff out of the wrapper can get flimsy after a lot of use or in hot weather. Read (or watch) customer reviews to get a sense of a head's long-term stiffness and durability.
2. Weight
Usually, the heavier a head is, the stiffer and more durable it is. More recently, though, brands have developed advanced plastics that are very light but just as strong as, if not stronger than, the bulky traditional D heads.
Assuming stiffness and durability are equal, most players prefer a lighter head because they can throw faster checks, react faster and get around the field faster.
Most new defensive heads weigh around 5.2 to 5.6 oz, and anything in that range should feel normal on your D-pole. Once you get over 6 oz, your stick may start to feel top heavy. Pair your head with one of the best defense lacrosse shafts to keep the whole stick balanced.
3. Face shape
Next, think about what kind of face shape you want. Defensemen used to almost always prefer very wide heads that gave them more area to pick off passes and lay checks.
Recently, there's been a wave of defensive heads built for advanced players, LSMs and D-middies. These usually have a narrower face, especially toward the throat, for better ball control.
As you'll see in the reviews above, there's no one "best" face shape for a D head. My advice: try a wide head and a more pinched one and see which you're more comfortable with.
4. Scoop
I think a good scoop matters more for defensemen than any other position. Why? Your head sits on a long pole, which makes it harder to get a low angle to the ground when you're scooping.
Attackmen and middies can bend down a few inches to get low enough, but D-poles usually come in at a higher angle because of the shaft length. A more angled scoop helps you gobble up ground balls without bending all the way over, which would slow you down a lot.
5. Pocket placement
The design of your head, especially where the offset is, is the main factor in where your pocket should go. The part of the head with the most offset (where the head is closest to the ground when you hold it horizontally) is where its ideal pocket sits.
Most defensive heads have their offset in the top half of the head, which leads to mid-high pockets. That's usually a plus for D since it gives you more hold and whip on a full-length pole. But if you're used to a low or mid-low pocket, look for a head with the offset closer to the throat.
6. Stringing holes
It's not as important as the other factors, but make sure your head has enough stringing holes to customize your pocket to your game. This is mostly a problem with older heads, since most new heads have plenty of holes to work with.
7. Strung vs. unstrung
Last, you'll have to decide whether to buy a head strung or unstrung. I always buy unstrung heads because I like to string them myself to my own preferences.
If you don't know how to string, or don't know someone who does, a strung head can be a good option, especially if the shop strings them in-house instead of shipping (notoriously bad) factory string jobs.
High school and college head rules
NFHS (high school) rules for head dimensions started matching NCAA (college) rules in 2018. Before that, high school heads could be narrower toward the throat but had to be wider toward the scoop, and the opposite for college heads.
Now that both use the same rules, any head that meets NCAA rules is legal for NFHS too. Here are the rules for heads:
- Minimum width of 6" at the widest part of the head
- Minimum width of 3.5" on the front and back of the head at 5" up from the throat
- Minimum width of 3" at 3" up from the throat
- Minimum width of 3" at 1.25" up from the throat
The Stringers Society has a diagram that makes these rules a little easier to picture. If you're buying a head released in the past couple of years, you shouldn't have to worry about it meeting these specs.
If you're buying a head from 2017 or earlier, check whether it meets NCAA specs. If it does, it should meet current NFHS rules too. If not, it's likely illegal for both high school and college, since the new NFHS rules took effect in 2018.
A note about the Gait D head
The original Gait D, the head with the "hooks," has been illegal since January 1, 2023. Gait worked with retailers on a trade-in program for the illegal heads, so check Gait's official site if you still have one in your bag.
Read more: Lacrosse head, pocket and shaft rules
How we rate defense lacrosse heads
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend gear we'd use ourselves. Whenever possible, we test the product ourselves, review the specs (weight, number of stringing holes and more), and read customer reviews and talk to players we know who use it.
When we test heads, we take them to the field and test passing, catching, shooting, scooping ground balls and checking, all with a standard pocket to cut down on variables. When we can't test a head extensively ourselves, we spend extra time talking to real customers who've used it for a while.
If you have feedback on any head on this page or one you think we should add, let us know.
People also ask
How do I get better at lacrosse defense?
Use a stiff, durable head, practice your checks and ground ball scrums, and consider a wider head for intercepting passes and checking sticks.
How do you pick a lacrosse head?
Choose a head based on its stiffness, durability, weight, face shape, scoop design, pocket placement and number of stringing holes to fit your style of play.
What is a lacrosse defender?
A lacrosse defender protects the goal by checking, picking off passes and winning ground balls. Defenders usually use a stiff, durable head, often with a wider face, on a long pole.
What should I look for in a defensive lacrosse head?
Look for stiffness, durability, weight, face shape, scoop design, pocket placement and enough stringing holes.
What are the rules for lacrosse heads in high school and college?
Heads have to meet minimum width requirements at several points to be legal, and high school (NFHS) and college (NCAA) rules have matched since 2018.
Other products to consider with your new defense head
If you go with an unstrung head, you'll need mesh and strings. Here are my top picks at BattleLax for a full string kit or just mesh. ECD and StringKing have updated their mesh lines since this guide first ran, so these are the current versions. You can also check out our best lacrosse mesh guide to learn more.
- Full string kit: StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh String Kit ($39.99)
- Just mesh:
- ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Hard Mesh ($24.99)
- ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh ($24.99)
- StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh ($29.99)
- StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh ($29.99)
Other gear guides
Check out some of our other gear guides to help take your game to the next level:
- Best defense lacrosse shafts
- Best lacrosse heads
- Best lacrosse balls
- Best lacrosse rebounders
- Best lacrosse helmets
- Best portable lacrosse goals
- Best lacrosse nets & replacement nets
- Best lacrosse backstops
Shop all lacrosse heads at Battle Lax
Cover photo source: Flickr
