Best Lacrosse Mesh Reviewed (2026) | LaxDrip
Independent lacrosse gear reviews/Men's · Women's · Goalie

Best Lacrosse Mesh Reviewed

13 lacrosse meshes for every player, from ECD Hero and StringKing Type 5 to hybrid, big-diamond, goalie, women's and faceoff mesh, plus a mesh breakdown and what's in stock at BattleLax.

Best lacrosse mesh
Lax Drip score5/5
Coach's pick: ECD Hero or StringKing Type 5. Both hold their shape, handle the weather and throw true. BattleLax has the Hero 4.0 and Type 5s and 5x in stock, plus full stringing kits.
Shop at BattleLax

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The way lacrosse gear has evolved has been amazing to watch. Shafts alone went from simple wood to advanced metals and carbon fiber.

Mesh may be easy to forget about, but it's gone through the same experimenting and upgrades as the rest of the game, and for good reason. As much as you think about the shape and strength of your head, it's the mesh that decides how your stick throws and how much hold you have.

This guide covers the best mesh out there so you can get your stick throwing perfectly. As with every LaxDrip guide, we scoured the market for the best of the best, looking at the design and tech, price and, most importantly, player feedback.

Coach's note: Every team I've coached, from upstate New York to Virginia Beach, had one kid who was the team's stick doctor, and the box guys up in Ontario take their pockets just as seriously as their sticks. Good mesh, strung right, is the cheapest upgrade in the game. A fresh pocket will do more for your passing than a $200 shaft.

Heads up: BattleLax carries ECD Hero 4.0, StringKing Type 5s and 5x, ECD Vortex, Jimalax, ECD goalie mesh and ECD women's mesh. For the rest, I point you to the closest mesh they stock, and you'll find the full list below.

Our top picks

Overview of the best lacrosse mesh

#MeshBest forScoreBattleLax
01ECD Hero 3.0 Mesh#1 best overall5/5Alt
02StringKing Type 5 Mesh#2 best overall5/5Buy
03StringKing Type 4 Mesh#3 best overall4.8/5Alt
04ECD Vortex MeshBest hybrid diamond4.6/5Buy
05Ninjalax Sensei MeshBest cheap mesh4.4/5Alt
06The Mesh Dynasty MeshBest for 9D, 8D, 7D, 6D4.6/5Alt
07StringKing Grizzly 2 Goalie MeshBest goalie mesh5/5Alt
08StringKing Type 4 Women's Lacrosse MeshBest women's mesh5/5Alt
09ECD Hero X Faceoff MeshFaceoff4.6/5Alt
10Jimalax Jima X 10 Diamond Lacrosse MeshHard mesh for shooters4.5/5Alt
11Throne Fiber 3 Lacrosse MeshSemi-hard for sharpshooters4.5/5Alt
12StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft MeshSemi-soft4.8/5Buy
13StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard MeshSemi-hard4.8/5Buy

"Buy" goes to the mesh on BattleLax. "Alt" goes to the closest mesh BattleLax has in stock.

Best lacrosse mesh reviews

1. ECD Hero 3.0 Mesh Best overall

ECD Hero 3.0 Mesh
  • Lax Drip score5/5
  • Best for#1 best overall
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-hard, semi-soft, faceoff (soft)
  • FeaturesInnegra core weave, Repel+ coating, textured LTH fibers

ECD has built itself into one of the strongest names in mesh and a brand you can trust. Who knows more about weather-resistant, sturdy mesh than one of the OG wax mesh companies?

The Hero 3.0 comes in semi-soft and semi-hard and improves on ECD's earlier mesh by adding an Innegra core weave that cuts weight while adding rigidity. Basically, your pocket keeps its shape longer. The Repel+ coating helps too, shedding water so your mesh stays light and holds its shape like it would in dry conditions.

Textured LTH fibers give you better feel on the ball, so the pocket is more responsive and you feel more in control.

I'd twist myself into a pretzel trying to find a downside. It's highly rated across the board. It does run on the pricier side, but that's in line with most top-of-the-line mesh.

The Hero 3.0 is a great pick for a year-round player who needs mesh that holds its shape longer and stays steady in the wettest weather.

Pros
  • Light
  • Weather resistant
  • Holds its shape
  • Responsive feel
Cons
  • Pricier option
  • No hard mesh option

BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries the newer Hero 4.0. Grab the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh ($24.99) or the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Hard Mesh ($24.99), or the ECD Hero 4.0 Complete Kit ($34.99) with strings included.

Shop the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh

2. StringKing Type 5 Mesh Best feel

StringKing Type 5 Mesh
  • Lax Drip score5/5
  • Best for#2 best overall
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-hard (5x), semi-soft (5s)
  • FeaturesTwistex for speed and consistency, light and durable

Another trusted name in the game, StringKing comes through with the Type 5, which improves on its industry-leading Type 4 mesh.

There are two versions of Type 5: "x," which is semi-hard, and "s," which is semi-soft.

Our favorite is the 5s, which has a bit more hold and feel since it's softer. That extra hold and feel brings a little more whip, so it's a good pick for outside shooters and shooting on the run.

The 5x doesn't have quite the same feel, but it still performs really well, with consistent passes and shots.

Compared to the Type 4, Type 5 has a tighter build thanks to Twistex technology, which means more consistency and more feel. It's also more durable than Type 4 (and almost any other mesh), so you can trust it in any weather.

Finally, all StringKing Type 5 mesh comes with a 6-month guarantee. If it rips, tears or otherwise becomes unusable, StringKing will replace it with store credit.

Pros
  • Best feel of any mesh
  • Durable and light
  • 6-month warranty
  • Semi-hard and semi-soft options
Cons
  • Pricier option

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh ($29.99) or the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh ($29.99) straight from BattleLax.

Buy the StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh

3. StringKing Type 4 Mesh Best for control

StringKing Type 4 Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.8/5
  • Best for#3 best overall
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-hard, semi-soft, faceoff (soft)
  • WeightAbout 20 grams
  • FeaturesProgressive width for control, Tri-Twist for less weight

Even with the Type 5 out, the Type 4 is still easily one of the best meshes out there.

It comes in the same two main versions as the Type 5, "X" (semi-hard) and "S" (semi-soft), plus "F" for faceoff guys.

The Type 4 is all about control, with a progressive build that uses mesh width to center the ball in your stick. Tri-Twist technology cuts weight and builds on the mesh's natural stretch, giving you ultimate control of the ball.

StringKing took its time getting to the Type 4, building on earlier mesh that saw action at the highest levels. This is mesh you can trust.

The main drawback, like the Hero 3.0, is price. It's in line with other top mesh but costs more than other options. StringKing also doesn't highlight any specific weather tech in the Type 4. That doesn't mean it can't handle weather, but there's nothing called out.

Players love StringKing mesh for its responsiveness and feel, and that's still true of the Type 4.

Pros
  • Focus on ball control and position
  • Ultra-light feel
  • Proven, trusted brand
Cons
  • Pricier option

BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries the newer Type 5. Grab the StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh ($29.99) or the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh ($29.99).

Shop the StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh

4. ECD Vortex Mesh Best for shooters

ECD Vortex Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.6/5
  • Best forBest hybrid diamond
  • Diamonds10, with a wider SweetSpot
  • HardnessSemi-soft, semi-hard
  • FeaturesSweetSpot pocket, weatherproof LTH fibers, square diamonds for whip

Leave it to ECD to push the limits. The Vortex was an answer to NCAA rule changes for mesh and pockets. It gives you some of the hold of a deeper pocket without breaking the rules.

The highlight is the progressive diamond shape, going from traditional diamonds to a wider square that forms the SweetSpot. That brings back a lot of the power and speed shooters lost with the rule change.

Don't let the odd look fool you. The Vortex strings up like regular 10-diamond mesh, so there's not much learning curve. Like the Hero 3.0, it uses weatherproof LTH fibers that hold your pocket shape longer in the wet.

The drawbacks? It's built mainly for attack-minded players and may not appeal to poles and defensive middies. It may lack the versatility you want if you're not always facing the cage.

It's also been around for a while, but it has real staying power, which makes it one of the more affordable options for attackmen and middies who want every bit of speed and power on their shot.

Pros
  • Holds like grip mesh but shoots clean
  • Harder, faster shots
  • Weather resistant
  • Strings like normal mesh
Cons
  • Unnatural feel for non-shooters
  • Older design

At BattleLax: In stock now, in semi-soft and semi-hard. Grab the ECD Vortex Mesh ($17.99) straight from BattleLax.

Buy the ECD Vortex Mesh

5. Ninjalax Sensei Mesh Best budget

Ninjalax Sensei Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.4/5
  • Best forBest cheap mesh
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-soft, semi-hard
  • FeaturesCheapest mesh on this list, built for all weather

If you want cheaper mesh, look no further than the Ninjalax Sensei.

It's really similar to ECD's Hero 3.0 and StringKing's Type 4 at a fraction of the price. I found it pretty easy to string, and it feels a lot like those meshes.

I haven't had it happen myself, but a fair number of reviews say it rips faster than other meshes, and some say it's inconsistent from piece to piece.

Overall, if you want to save on mesh or a stringing kit, or you're a younger player who isn't worried about it ripping, the Sensei is a solid pick.

Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Weather resistant
  • Easy to string
Cons
  • Inconsistent batches
  • Reports of ripping quickly

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Ninjalax Sensei Mesh. For cheap mesh they stock, go with the Jimalax Jima 10 Semi-Soft Mesh ($9.99).

Shop the Jimalax Jima 10 Semi-Soft Mesh

6. The Mesh Dynasty Mesh Best big-diamond mesh

The Mesh Dynasty Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.6/5
  • Best forBest for 9D, 8D, 7D, 6D
  • Diamonds4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
  • HardnessSemi-soft, semi-hard
  • FeaturesHexagon and rhombus shapes, a top choice of pro stringers

Follow any pro stringers on Instagram and you'll see them stringing up The Mesh Dynasty at some point.

They're a newer company making some of the most unique mesh around, in diamond sizes from 4D to 10D and two main shapes, hexagon and rhombus.

If you like smaller diamonds or different shapes than most brands make, The Mesh Dynasty is the best option.

The only problem is that with over 15 types of mesh, it can be tough to pick the right one.

That said, if you love stringing your own sticks and experimenting with different mesh, you need to check out The Mesh Dynasty.

Pros
  • Lots of diamond sizes
  • Lots of diamond shapes
  • Consistent and holds up in any weather
Cons
  • On the expensive side
  • So many options it's hard to find your fit

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the The Mesh Dynasty Mesh. For big-diamond mesh they stock, try the Jimalax Jima 6 Semi-Soft Mesh ($9.99) or the ECD Hero 4.0 7 Diamond Semi-Soft Mesh ($24.99).

Shop the Jimalax Jima 6 Semi-Soft Mesh

7. StringKing Grizzly 2 Goalie Mesh Best goalie mesh

StringKing Grizzly 2 Goalie Mesh
  • Lax Drip score5/5
  • Best forBest goalie mesh
  • Diamonds12
  • HardnessSemi-soft, semi-hard
  • FeaturesTri-Twist for control and stretch, light build, black or white

Don't think we forgot about you, goalies. StringKing jumps in again with the Grizzly 2 goalie mesh.

It brings over a lot of what makes the Type 4 great, including Tri-Twist technology that cuts weight.

More importantly, Tri-Twist adds give to the pocket, which soaks up the shot and cuts down on those dreaded rebounds you get from tighter, stiffer mesh.

It also has a responsive feel that makes the move from save to outlet smooth, so you can get your team out on the fast break.

There isn't much customer feedback on it yet, so keep an eye out for reviews on durability and performance. Like the Type 4, there's no weather tech called out.

Still, StringKing is a top brand putting out a high-end mesh for goalies at every level.

Pros
  • Give in the pocket cuts down on rebounds
  • Light
  • Responsive feel
Cons
  • No weather tech called out

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the StringKing Grizzly 2 Goalie Mesh. For goalie mesh they stock, go with the ECD Impact Semi-Soft Goalie Mesh ($39.99), or the ECD Impact Goalie Mesh Complete Kit ($52.99) with strings included.

Shop the ECD Impact Semi-Soft Goalie Mesh

8. StringKing Type 4 Women's Lacrosse Mesh Best women's mesh

StringKing Type 4 Women's Lacrosse Mesh
  • Lax Drip score5/5
  • Best forBest women's mesh
  • Diamonds10, hybrid sizes
  • HardnessSemi-soft
  • FeaturesMinimal break-in, weatherproof, bigger diamonds up top and smaller down low

With mesh legal in the women's game now, a lot of brands have released mesh built just for the girls' game.

Our top choice is StringKing's Women's Type 4 Mesh. It's built for women's heads, with bigger diamonds toward the scoop and smaller ones toward the throat to help form the perfect channel and pocket.

It's also weather resistant and has a minimal break-in, so once you string it and get used to it, it won't change on you.

If you're looking for girls' lacrosse mesh, the StringKing Type 4 Women's Mesh is an amazing option.

Pros
  • Minimal break-in
  • Weatherproof
  • Hybrid diamonds form a great pocket
Cons
  • A bit expensive

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the StringKing Type 4 Women's Lacrosse Mesh. For women's mesh they stock, go with the ECD Venom Women's Mesh Runner ($19.99), with a tapered diamond design that forms a natural SweetSpot.

Shop the ECD Venom Women's Mesh Runner

9. ECD Hero X Faceoff Mesh Best faceoff mesh

ECD Hero X Faceoff Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.6/5
  • Best forFaceoff
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-soft
  • FeaturesAbrasion-resistant coating, light and durable

I've been using the ECD Hero X faceoff mesh for the past month and saw a real bump in my faceoff win percentage. Compared to the Hero 2.0, the Hero X is much lighter and easier to handle.

ECD did a great job with the design. It's 10-diamond for quick passing, with a softer, thinner pocket that's great at the X. The outside columns are thicker and wider to prevent blowouts, and the sides barely showed any wear even after aggressive faceoffs.

My usual stringing patterns worked well, but I had to tighten the bottom string a little to keep the pocket from getting too deep. The mesh feels soft, and the ball moves in and out of the pocket easily.

The thinner weave in the middle lets the pocket go from faceoff to ground ball mode in a hurry, which makes it great for quick transitions, and it gives you clean releases out the back.

Pros
  • Variable weave thickness for flexibility
  • Durable and abrasion resistant
  • Soft, responsive pocket for quick ground ball releases
Cons
  • A little bagging on scoops
  • Needs tight stringing
  • Expensive

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the ECD Hero X Faceoff Mesh. For a soft ECD mesh for the X, go with the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh ($24.99).

Shop the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh

10. Jimalax Jima X 10 Diamond Lacrosse Mesh Best hard mesh

Jimalax Jima X 10 Diamond Lacrosse Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.5/5
  • Best forHard mesh for shooters
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessHard
  • FeaturesTextured rigid mesh, hydrophobic yarn, tight weave

The Jimalax Jima X 10 Diamond is one of the best meshes for attackmen and hard shooters. Its thick, textured weave forms a solid pocket for clearing passes without giving up control on checks.

I loved the tight weave and texture. It feels solid but not too thick, with a good balance of durability and flexibility. The texture adds grip that keeps the ball from popping out, so I could cradle easily in tight spaces and over wet grass.

The hydrophobic yarn makes it water resistant, so your pocket won't stretch out in a downpour, and the coating makes it really durable.

It does have an unusually long break-in, since it's a rigid mesh. If you like a softer, looser mesh, try a semi-soft like the Hero X. Still, the hard pocket isn't a dealbreaker for me because it holds its shape so well.

Pros
  • Holds its shape well
  • Weather resistant
  • Durable
Cons
  • Long break-in
  • Not good for beginners

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Jimalax Jima X 10 Diamond Lacrosse Mesh. For a firmer mesh that holds its shape, go with the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Hard Mesh ($24.99). Want Jimalax? BattleLax has the softer Jimalax Jima 10 Semi-Soft Mesh ($9.99).

Shop the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Hard Mesh

11. Throne Fiber 3 Lacrosse Mesh Most consistent

Throne Fiber 3 Lacrosse Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.5/5
  • Best forSemi-hard for sharpshooters
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-hard
  • WeightAbout 19 grams
  • FeaturesFiber 3 system, Hex Diamond III layered material, weather-protecting coat

I strung up the Fiber 3 a few months back, and it's one of the most consistent meshes I've worked with. There's minimal break-in right out of the package, so it's a good pick for beginners and intermediate players.

The dual-fiber build makes the pocket feel lighter and more responsive. At only 19 grams, it handles quickly, and you notice it moving the ball or pushing in transition.

The ball doesn't bounce or rattle in the pocket, so it's easy to snag passes in tight spots. The included sidewall strings aren't great, though. The ends don't burn evenly, which makes them tricky to thread through tight holes, and I had one string's core pop through and kink. I'd pair the mesh with ECD or StringKing strings.

The 17mm Hex Diamond III design is durable, and I haven't seen any bagging yet. It holds its shape after multiple games and performs the same in any weather.

Pros
  • Doesn't lose its shape
  • Semi-hard for sharpshooters
  • Consistent release
Cons
  • Pricier than other premium mesh
  • Included laces and shooters aren't great

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Throne Fiber 3 Lacrosse Mesh. For a consistent semi-hard mesh they stock, go with the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh ($29.99).

Shop the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh

12. StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh Best semi-soft

StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.8/5
  • Best forSemi-soft
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-soft
  • FeaturesTwistex yarn, resin coating, consistent performance

The StringKing Type 5s has just the right balance of softness and structure. It gives more than harder meshes but holds the ball strong, which is perfect for cradling and quick passes. It feels lighter than the 5x, which gives me better control dodging defenders.

Twistex technology is another standout. The twisted yarn gives excellent ground ball control, and I felt more connected to the ball on every catch and pass.

Even though it's soft, the resin coating keeps its shape over time. It held up to aggressive catching without tearing at the edges.

The 5s has better grip than the 5x, but it's too soft for players who like a firmer pocket for quicker releases. If that's you, try the 5x. StringKing also backs it with a 6-month guarantee.

Pros
  • Very durable
  • Semi-soft feel
  • Responsive pocket
Cons
  • Too soft for defenders
  • Pricey

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh ($29.99) straight from BattleLax.

Buy the StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft Mesh

13. StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh Best semi-hard

StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh
  • Lax Drip score4.8/5
  • Best forSemi-hard
  • Diamonds10
  • HardnessSemi-hard
  • FeaturesTwistex yarn, rigid coating, light

The Type 5x semi-hard mesh is really consistent and rigid. Every pass, shot and cradle felt the same, no matter the weather, even after six months. It gave me a quick, snappy release that's perfect in transition and shooting on the run.

The stiffness made cradling in traffic harder than with softer meshes like the 5s, though. If you're an attackman or you cradle one-handed a lot, try a semi-soft like the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft.

Like the 5s, it has Twistex yarn for better durability than Type 4, and plenty of my fellow attackmen praise how long it lasts. The pocket is responsive, doesn't pop the ball out on checks, and strings up easily and consistently.

The resin treatment keeps it from warping, but I noticed slight wear on the sidewalls after heavy use. The 6-month guarantee is a solid backup. It also has less grip, and I saw a little shot spread after the break-in. Otherwise, it's remarkably durable and doesn't lose its shape.

Pros
  • Quick release
  • Quick shots
  • 6-month guarantee
Cons
  • Needs break-in to soften
  • Not great for defenders

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh ($29.99) straight from BattleLax, or the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard String Kit ($39.99) with strings included.

Buy the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh

What else you need to string a lacrosse stick

As much as we'd love for mesh to just stick inside a head by itself with the perfect pocket, we don't live in Neverland. To get your new mesh game ready, you'll need:

  • Top and bottom strings
  • Sidewall strings
  • Shooting strings

Even though we list them separately, you can use the same string for a lot of it. Nylon sidewall string has become a catch-all for stringers. It works for the top and bottom, the sides and even as a nylon shooter.

I'd grab extra string even if you start with a kit. Sidewall strings are usually the first thing to break in a pocket, so having extra on hand is a great fail-safe. You can even use it to patch holes in your goal net. The same goes for shooters. Besides breaking, they wear out with use, so keep them fresh, especially if you play in bad weather a lot.

The ECD Hero Strings ($14.99) kit has sidewalls, shooters and a bottom string in one pack, so you're covered.

Types of lacrosse mesh

For a long time, mesh was seen as a pretty standard part of the game that didn't change. Brands like ECD and StringKing have challenged that, pushing mesh forward in durability, weight and, more recently, feel beyond just hardness.

Your pocket can be the Golden Gun you wield on the field or your Achilles' heel. It all comes down to personal preference, which you find through trial and error, so don't be afraid to experiment. That said, some positions do favor certain mesh. FOGOs should look at soft mesh since it handles the abuse at the X better. Here's how to break down your options. For a deeper dive, check out our hard mesh vs. soft mesh guide.

Hardness

This is usually listed first and the top thing to consider. Mesh used to be split into hard or soft, but brands like ECD and StringKing pushed semi-soft and semi-hard into the mainstream, giving you the best of both ends without leaning too hard into their weaknesses.

  • Hard: The big plus is consistent shape and hold. The ball should always sit centered, and your pocket keeps its shape no matter the weather. The catch is it's harder to string, gives you less feel and takes a lot longer to break in.
  • Soft: Right out of the gate, soft mesh should be game ready after an easy string job, since it doesn't have the rigid coating of hard mesh. You get better feel, but it loses its shape faster and needs constant upkeep.
  • Semi-hard: A lot like hard mesh but easier to break in, with a little better feel. A great pick for poles, especially LSMs, and defensive middies.
  • Semi-soft: Closer to soft mesh, but it holds its shape better and stands up to bad weather. A great pick for offensive middies.

Diamond count

Simply put, this is how many diamonds run across your pocket. Rule of thumb: fewer diamonds mean more hold, while more diamonds mean a cleaner shot and pass.

  • 10-diamond is the standard. Most pre-strung heads use it, and it's the easiest to find, mainly because of how accurate it is passing and shooting. Winning on the field comes down to quick ball movement, and 10-diamond is built for that.
  • 8-diamond is the closest to the Vortex (though the Vortex is a 10-diamond base with a wider SweetSpot). It's a hybrid of traditional 10-diamond and bigger 6-diamond mesh, so you get more hold with a fairly clean release.
  • 7-diamond, or "mid-monster," is the first mostly hold-focused mesh, familiar from older Brine mesh. It's a decent pick for transition middies who dodge box to box.
  • 6-diamond is the most popular big-diamond mesh. It's harder to break in, but the hold is great once you do. You get a lot more whip, and these pockets are less customizable, especially for shooters.
  • 5-diamond puts hold over release, which makes it an interesting option for an experimental LSM who carries the ball end to end a lot.
  • 4-diamond is much less common and mostly shows up as the core of a traditional pocket for the old-school guys channeling the originals with leather strings.

Coating and finish

Mesh has always had some kind of coating, usually wax, to cut friction in the pocket, help it hold its shape and keep moisture out of the weave. Brands like ECD and StringKing use advanced coatings that add feel and grip on top of all that.

Weave and thickness

This is the most basic level of mesh tech, but the weave matters a lot. ECD and StringKing both push their own weaves because that's where they've cut weight and added feel and responsiveness. Hand in hand with the weave is thickness. Thinner weaves can add stretch and give you more control of where the ball sits.

Stringing kits vs. single pieces of mesh

The last question on your mind may be, "Should I get a stringing kit or buy mesh and strings separately?" It comes down to how much you want to spend, how many sticks you string and how much upkeep you plan to do on your pocket.

A stringing kit is always a solid pick for a newer player or anyone who has never strung a stick. It's like paint by numbers, a good way to learn without breaking the bank or getting stuck with a spool of nylon if you hate it. It comes with everything you need, like a pre-made salad kit, so it's not a bad option if you only have one stick. Try the ECD Hero 4.0 Complete Kit ($34.99) or the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard String Kit ($39.99).

If you know how to string and see yourself doing it again and again, whether for upkeep or multiple heads, buy single pieces of mesh and stock up on string and shooters. Long term, it's a much better investment, and it can turn you into the team stick doctor. That might be a blessing and a curse.

Learning how to string lacrosse sticks

Stringing your own stick is a great skill. Being able to experiment with your string job and adjust your pocket mid-game is huge. Here are some of my favorite resources:

  • ECD's stringing tutorial playlist (YouTube)
  • How to String a Lacrosse Stick from Powell Lacrosse (YouTube)
  • Stringing a Goalie Stick from STX (YouTube)
  • Stringing a Women's Lacrosse Head with Mesh from STX (YouTube)

Stringers to follow on Instagram: @pockets_by_clem, @jm.strings, @stnystrings, @penny_strings, @lax_ties.

More on mesh: how to break in lacrosse mesh and the best lacrosse heads to string it in.

Mesh and strings in stock at BattleLax

Want mesh you can order today? This is the mesh and string BattleLax carries right now.

ProductTypePrice
ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft MeshSemi-soft, 10 diamond$24.99
ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Hard MeshSemi-hard, 10 diamond$24.99
ECD Hero 4.0 7 Diamond Semi-Soft MeshSemi-soft, 7 diamond$24.99
ECD Hero 4.0 Complete KitMesh and strings kit$34.99
StringKing Type 5s Semi-Soft MeshSemi-soft, 10 diamond$29.99
StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard MeshSemi-hard, 10 diamond$29.99
StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard String KitMesh and strings kit$39.99
ECD Vortex MeshHybrid diamond$17.99
Jimalax Jima 10 Semi-Soft MeshBudget, 10 diamond$9.99
Jimalax Jima 6 Semi-Soft MeshBudget, 6 diamond$9.99
ECD Impact Semi-Soft Goalie MeshGoalie mesh$39.99
ECD Impact Goalie Mesh Complete KitGoalie mesh kit$52.99
ECD Venom Women's Mesh RunnerWomen's mesh$19.99
ECD Hero StringsStrings kit$14.99

Prices and stock change, so check the product page before you order.

People also ask

What is the best lacrosse mesh?

Our top picks are ECD Hero mesh and StringKing Type 5. BattleLax carries the newer ECD Hero 4.0 in semi-soft and semi-hard, plus StringKing Type 5s and 5x.

Should I get hard or soft lacrosse mesh?

Harder mesh holds its shape and stays consistent but takes longer to break in. Softer mesh gives you more feel and is game-ready faster but loses its shape sooner. Semi-hard and semi-soft split the difference, which is why most players use them.

What diamond count is best for lacrosse mesh?

10-diamond is the standard and gives you the cleanest passes and shots. Fewer, bigger diamonds like 6 or 7 give you more hold and whip but are harder to break in.

What mesh is best for faceoffs?

FOGOs should use soft or semi-soft mesh, like the ECD Hero X faceoff mesh, because it handles the abuse at the X and moves quickly from faceoff to ground ball mode.

Should I buy a stringing kit or mesh and strings separately?

A stringing kit is great if you're new to stringing or only have one stick. If you string a lot or keep up multiple sticks, buy mesh and a spool of sidewall string and shooters separately.

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