The choice of lacrosse shaft can significantly impact a player's performance. Different positions have specific needs. Here's a breakdown of shafts by position:
Attack and Midfield Shafts
- Lightweight: These shafts are typically made of carbon fiber, prioritizing speed and agility.
- Flexible: They offer flexibility for quicker stickhandling and shooting.
- Short Length: The shorter length enhances maneuverability in tight spaces.
Defense Shafts
- Heavyweight: Defense shafts are often made of metal or a combination of metal and carbon fiber, providing durability and strength for physical play.
- Stiff: A stiffer shaft offers better stability and power for checking and clearing the ball.
- Longer Length: The longer length provides additional reach and leverage for defensive maneuvers.
Face-Off Shafts
- Durable: Face-off shafts are built to withstand the physical demands of face-offs, often featuring reinforced construction.
- Customizable: Many face-off shafts allow for customization of the butt-end to fit a player's specific grip and style.
Goalie Shafts
- Extra-Long: Goalie shafts are significantly longer than those used by field players, providing additional reach to defend the net.
- Durable: They are built to withstand the impact of shots and saves.
- Specific Grip: Goalie shafts often have a unique grip design to facilitate catching and blocking shots.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Individual preferences and playing styles may vary.
Here are the most common materials used for lacrosse shafts:
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For: |
| Aluminum | Affordable, durable, and provides a traditional feel. | Heavier than other materials, can be less responsive | Youth players, budget-conscious players, and defensive players who prioritize durability. |
| Alloy | Combination of metals for a balance of strength and weight. | Can be heavier than carbon fiber shafts. | Defensive players and players who prefer a traditional feel. |
| Carbon Fiber | Lightweight, flexible, and provides excellent feel and control. | Can be more fragile than metal shafts. | Offensive players and midfielders who prioritize speed and agility. |
| Scandium Alloy | Extremely lightweight and strong, offering a great strength-to-weight ratio. | More expensive than other materials. | Elite players who demand the best performance and are willing to pay a premium. |
| Hybrid | Combines the best of both worlds, offering a balance of strength, weight, and flexibility. | Can be more expensive than traditional materials. | Players who want a versatile shaft that can handle various playing styles. |
When choosing a shaft, consider factors such as your playing position, skill level, and budget.
These days virtually every head on the market can fit on every shaft that’s available. The only difference may be the position of the screw hole (or the quantity of them). Some heads now come with two screw holes for a more stable fit. And if for some reason the hole in your head and in your shaft don’t line up, you can always drill your own or find a self-tapping screw, depending on what your shaft is made of.