Best Lacrosse Goalie Shafts

How to Choose a Lacrosse Goalie Shaft

1) Length

The first thing to consider when choosing a goalie shaft is what length you want.

As you see above, most goalie shafts are 36 or 40 inches. You can, however, use a shaft as short as 30 inches. This is why you'll see some goalies using attack shafts.

Like many of the other things to consider when choosing a new shaft, there is no “best” length for goalie shafts. It comes down to your personal preference.

Some goalies may like a shorter, lighter shaft that they can move more quickly, while others may prefer the extra length to help with deflections or throwing outlet passes.

>> Read More: Lacrosse Shaft Lengths

2) Weight

You don't want a stick that is going to limit your ability to react to shots due to its weight. A few ounces can be the difference between getting your stick across the cage in time to make that doorstep save and turning around to pick the ball up out of the back of the net.

I recommend looking for a shaft under 7 ounces. You shouldn't have to worry about shafts this light slowing you down. If you really prefer light shafts, you can find some options closer to 5 ounces or look into attack shafts if you prefer a 30-inch shaft.

>> Read More: Lightest Lacrosse Shafts & Heads

3) Durability

While it's important to find a light shaft, you don't want one that will break the first time a shot deflects off it or an attackman checks your stick.

That's why you need to strike a balance between (light) weight and strength.

Though these two usually work against each other (heavier shafts = stronger), many top tier goalie shafts, such as those listed above, use advanced materials that are both strong and light.

The best way to gauge the strength of a shaft is to read/watch customer reviews and talk to other goalies to see how their experiences were with it.

4) Material

The main types of lacrosse shafts are metal and composite/carbon fiber. 

In my opinion, it doesn't really matter which you go with. As long as you are comfortable with the shaft and like the way it feels, it shouldn't make much of a difference.

Carbon fiber shafts tend to flex some whereas metal shafts are pretty stiff. This is more important for offensive players that shoot the ball, but it may be noticeable to some goalies when throwing hard outlet passes.

Metal shafts also form dings and dents more easily than composite shafts. Metal shafts are usually still usable in these cases, however, whereas carbon fiber shafts are unusable once they shatter.

5) Shape

Lacrosse goalie shafts come in a variety of shapes including traditional octagonal, concave, rigid, asymmetrical, and more.

Like the other things on this list, which is best for you depends on your personal preference. 

It is worth testing out different shapes—especially as a goalie since having a good grip on the shaft is so important.

You want to choose a shape that feels comfortable when you're wearing gloves and gives you enough leverage to quickly move your stick around the cage.

6) Grip/Finish

Another factor of how good your grip on your shaft is is the finish of it (what the outer layer feels like). You don't want a shaft that is going to slip in your gloves, especially as you are trying to make saves.

Metal shafts typically have some sort of sandblasted finish that makes them a bit rougher. Composite shafts typically have a smoother finish but may have some additional texture to give goalies a better grip.

You can, of course, always use tape to give yourself a better grip too. It's nice to have a shaft with a finish you like, though, so if your hands are out of their usual placement you still have control over your stick.

7) Cost

Last but not least, you always have to factor in your budget when deciding which shaft to buy.

While top tier shafts are definitely lighter and stronger than a lot of cheaper alternatives, more affordable handles aren't likely to hold you back that much.

There are a lot of decent options in the $50 to $90 range.

If you have to choose a cheaper head or shaft, I recommend going with a cheaper shaft.

The best goalie lacrosse heads are lighter, stronger, and have more stringing holes and better scoops than cheap goalie heads. 

With that being said, if you are trying to find a cheaper lacrosse shaft, I recommend looking at older models. Often these are discounted as new versions come out despite there being little difference from generation to generation.