Pocket Pros and Cons

[Lax Rat 2009]

What are the advantages and disadvantages to high pockets,middle pockets, and low pockets? And hard mesh, dura mesh, soft mesh? 10D to 6D? Traditional?

[zanderaruba]

Hard Mesh is by far and away the most popular mesh on the market. It is fairly easy to break in yet will hold its pocket in poor weather. It offers good hold as well as good shot speed with a quick release. It is an excellent choice for any player at any position because of its versatility. Although it may not have as much hold as some of the smaller diamond meshes its great versatility and nice release makes it an overall great mesh.

Soft mesh has the same diamond size as hard mesh but is not coated, making it soft. It does offer good hold but often has a very slow release and is not durable at all. It will bag on it weather making it impossible to shoot and throw. I do not suggest using soft mesh.

In terms of the other diamond meshes the smaller diamond you go to, the more hold you will get but less shot speed.

Pocket Placement:
High Pockets: High pockets usually offer great amounts of hold. As a result of this hold these types of pockets will often have a fair amount of whip on them. Their release will also not be as fast as a middle or low pocket. Although, this is all true, if strung correctly high pockets can have a nice release and tons of hold. A good choice for defenseman or middies who do not need an extremely quick release.

Middle Pockets: These pockets bridge the gap between the high and low pockets, with a solid amount of hold but also a nice smooth release. This has come to be the most popular pocket location because of the balance it offers. It is great for any position because it has good hold as well as a quick release.

Low Pockets: Low pockets have extremely quick releases and good shot speed but often suffer in hold. Although, if strung correctly low pockets can offer a smooth release while maintaining a good amount of hold. These pockets are great for attackmen who need quick releases on their shots.

Please search next time.... there are many threads on this.

[LightFox125]

you forgot to explain traditional zander.

[HovalLaxer]

Trad will give you better hold, better feel on the ball, and more whip (possibly).

[sabreace]

http://www.lacrosseforums.com/showthread.php?t=14679

This answers every single one of your questions.

[ndawg247]

um lower pockets have always gave me better hold...

[Lax4life528]

um lower pockets have always gave me better hold...

It depends, lower pockets get their hold from the pinch of the head, the channel, and simple gravity.

Higher pockets get it from greater centripetal force and the bottom shooting string.