How to Break In Lacrosse Mesh
Five ways to turn stiff new mesh into a pocket that holds the ball and throws clean, plus the mistakes to avoid along the way.
Stretch it by hand, soak it in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes and pound the pocket with a ball to shape it.
Finish the job on the wall and in games. Check your pocket depth as you go so it stays legal.
So you've got a brand-new stick, but something's off. The mesh is stiff, and your passes aren't as crisp as you'd like. That's because new mesh needs to be broken in before it plays its best. Here are five ways to break in your mesh the right way.
Breaking in your mesh is key to controlling the ball. I'll walk you through methods like pocket pounding and soaking that turn rigid mesh into a well-formed pocket.
In this article, I'll give you step-by-step instructions, useful tips and advice on avoiding the most common mistakes.
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What is lacrosse mesh?
Mesh is the net in your stick. It's usually made from nylon or other synthetic materials, and its job is to cradle, hold, shoot and pass the ball. New mesh is stiff and tight, which makes catching and throwing a struggle.
Breaking it in means softening and stretching the mesh fibers to form a "pocket" where the ball sits comfortably.
Why is breaking in lacrosse mesh necessary?
Stiff new mesh gives you less control. The ball bounces around unpredictably, so your catching and throwing are inconsistent.
Breaking in your mesh softens it and forms a pocket that holds the ball, so you get smooth catches, powerful throws and better accuracy. And a properly broken-in mesh lasts longer too.
Methods for breaking in lacrosse mesh
There are lots of ways to break in mesh. Here are a few easy, reliable methods that experienced players use.
1. Stretching and flexing
Stretching and flexing is the easiest method I've found. Grab the mesh at the top and bottom, hold it stretched for a few seconds, then let go. Repeat 10 to 15 times to speed things up.
2. Soaking and wringing
Another method I find effective is soaking the mesh in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes. After soaking, gently wring out the extra water and stretch the mesh. I also work a little hair conditioner into the mesh to soften it while I shape the pocket with a lacrosse ball.
The water and conditioner help soften the mesh threads. Let it dry with a ball sitting in the pocket so it holds its shape.
3. Using a mesh breaker
There are tools made just for this, called mesh breakers. They look like a lacrosse ball on a stick, and you use them to pound the pocket and break down the fibers.
4. Pocket pounding
For this method, you'll need your stick with the new mesh, a mesh breaker (or a baseball bat or the butt end of another stick) and a lacrosse ball. Take out any shooting strings that might get in the way first.
Decide where you want your pocket to sit before you start, since that's where you'll focus the pressure. Then use the mesh breaker or ball to apply firm pressure across the pocket area.
Don't be too gentle. Mesh is built to handle 100+ mph shots, so some force won't hurt it. Just don't go so hard that you tear the diamonds or bag out the pocket.
5. Playing with it
Nothing breaks in mesh like actually using it. Wall ball, practice and games in all kinds of weather, from wet spring days in upstate New York to humid summer ball in Virginia Beach, work the mesh into a pocket that fits your game.
The best mesh breaker is a wall and a few hundred reps.
Semi-soft meshECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh$24.99 at BattleLax
Semi-hard meshECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Hard Mesh$24.99 at BattleLax
Full string kitStringKing Type 5x String Kit$39.99 at BattleLax
Balls for poundingPearl X Greaseless Balls (3-pack)$19.99 at BattleLaxTips for breaking in lacrosse mesh
- Overstretching can weaken the mesh. Take it slow and steady and break it in over a few sessions.
- When you stretch your mesh, follow a sequence: stretch it vertically first, then horizontally, then diagonally.
- Pay attention to how the mesh feels. If it's getting soft too fast, you might be overdoing it.
- Check your pocket depth as you go. If the top of the ball sits below the bottom of the sidewall, your pocket is illegal and you'll lose possession on a stick check.
- Once your mesh is broken in, clean it now and then with warm water and mild soap to get rid of dirt and sweat.
Coach's note: Don't break in a new pocket the night before a game. Give it a week of wall ball first. Every kid I've coached who restrung on game day spent the first half fighting his stick.
Read more: Best lacrosse heads for all positions
Common break-in blunders (and how to avoid them)
When you're learning to break in mesh, it's easy to make mistakes that hurt how your stick plays. Here's what to watch out for.
Different types of lacrosse mesh
There are a few types of mesh out there, and how you break it in depends on which one you're using. Softer mesh breaks in faster, while harder mesh takes more work but holds its shape longer.
If you're shopping for new mesh, the ECD Hero 4.0 Semi-Soft Mesh ($24.99) breaks in fast, while the StringKing Type 5x Semi-Hard Mesh ($29.99) takes a little more work but holds its shape all season. I've also put together a list of the best lacrosse mesh. Want to make sure your pocket meets the rules? Check out USA Lacrosse.
Read more: Review of the best lacrosse sticks
People also ask
How do you break in lacrosse mesh fast?
Soak it in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes, stretch it by hand, and pound the pocket with a ball or mesh breaker. Then get it on the wall and play with it. Nothing breaks in mesh like reps.
How do you stretch out lacrosse mesh?
Pull it in opposite directions: vertically, then horizontally, then diagonally. Repeat 10 to 15 times with steady, even pressure, and check your pocket depth as you go.
How do you break in lacrosse gloves fast?
Wear them as much as you can, at practice and around the house, and keep flexing your hands and wrists. Skip high heat like hair dryers on high or ovens, which can dry out and crack the palm.
How long does lacrosse mesh last?
Anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the mesh, how much you play and how well you take care of it. Keeping it clean and dry helps it last longer.
What are the best methods for breaking in lacrosse mesh?
Stretching and flexing by hand, soaking it in warm water, pounding the pocket with a mesh breaker or ball, and getting plenty of reps on the wall and in games.
Breaking in your mesh might feel like an extra step, but it's an investment in your game. Know how to do it right, and you'll play with more confidence every time you step on the field. Grab your stick, follow these tips, avoid the common mistakes and take care of your mesh.