ReLax has been collecting and circulating heads from elites to underprivileged players for so long. Now, they have launched a decent pocket-friendly lacrosse head and stick set. Considering the debate over quality and price, I bought it to give it the test.
After playing with it for a week, I have created an exclusive RC1 lacrosse head review to answer everyone’s questions about its performance.
Key Features and Specifications
Let’s have a quick look at the key specs and then move on to the detailed review.
| Position | Transition Midfielders | Offensive Midfielders |
| Weight (oz) | 4.9 |
| Pocket Location | Mid |
| Stiffness | Average |
| String Holes | Top Holes: 6Side Holes: 23 on each side |
| Face Shape | Wide |
| Ground pick-up | Good |
| Ball Release | Quick |
| Ease of Use | Beginner |
| Spread on Shot | Minimal |
| Level of Play | Beginners and Advanced Beginners |
| Legality | Conforming with NCAA and NFHS Rules |
| Colors | White |
| Release Year | 2024 |
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Suitable for all-rounder position
- Good balance between flexibility and stiffness
- Numerous side holes for customized stringing
Cons:
- Mesh quality is not so good
- Average cradling hold
RC1 Lacrosse Head Ranking
I rate the RC1 lacrosse head a 7.4/10 on the Drip Meter.
| Accuracy of Shot and Pass | 7 | Passing accuracy is impressive for short ranges. For long ranges, it can be somewhat low speed. |
| Checking | 7.5 | Performs well for snatching up loose balls and checks. Its stiffer build plastic profile makes it durable. |
| Ball Security | 6.5 | The rigid and sharp angles along all sidewalls help deflect checks on the head andallow for optimal ball security. Cradling could be better. |
| Catching | 7.5 | It is good for catching high-speed passes. |
| Ground Pickup Performance | 7.5 | The RC1 performs well at picking up ground balls. |
| Faceoff Performance | 4 | The head’s face profile is not ideal for faceoffs. |
| Stringing | 8 | This head has an above-average amount of stringing holes allowing for multiple versatile pocket setups and adjustable bottom string for depth control. |
| Durability (Material andThickness) | 7.5 | Durable design with the right amount of stiffness and thickness. |
| Drippiness/Aesthetics/BrandIntegrity | 8.5 | ReLax has kept the RC1 head simple with a QR option on the throat. |
| Cost | 10 | Great value for the quality. |
| Total | 7.4/10 |
Who’s This Head Made For?
RC1 is the first ReLax collection launch and is by far the cheapest lacrosse head of 2024 in the market.
At first glance, the sidewall struts reminded me of the Sceptre Tribe 7 head. The plastic looks so stiff with a similar composition to any premium head, giving it a familiar feel. Even with high durability, it weighs only 4.9 ounces.
Besides, it has a wider face shape, perfect for high school and elite college players playing as offensive or transition midfielders.
I also noticed that the ball stop is slightly crooked. Interestingly, it’s a removable piece, much like the charms kids place in the holes of their Crocs. Although it comes with a QR code gibbet for ReLax, you can swap it out for any other gibbet you like.
Now, let’s move on to the RC1 lacrosse head review to know whether the cheaper head provides longevity and performance.
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Accuracy of Shot and Pass
My first thought about this head was that it’s just a budget option for kids. However, after a week of testing it on the field, I was impressed by the shooting accuracy of this head. Although it has a wider face, there was no spread on the shot.
The pinched sidewalls and narrow throat design deliver quick passes during give-and-go and fast breaks.
I bought the RC1 lacrosse head pre-strung, but I didn’t like the mesh’s quality. It was softer than my preference, so I changed it with strung it with armour mesh. The strong side walls with 23 side side holes created a mid pocket.
Since I prefer the mid-pocket, it gave me a sweet spot for better ball release. However, you can adjust your pocket to mid-high level for even better control.
The shooting speed is way better than Stalion’s first launch and the OG Mark. And If I compare it to a pricier head like Maverick Optik 2.0, it’s still better for just $24.99.
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Catching and Cradling
RC1 lacrosse head has a wider face shape, making it easier to catch passes, especially in fast-paced situations. The larger surface area gave me a bigger target to snag the ball, reducing the chances of missed catches.
So, it’s perfect for beginners who are struggling with catching. Yet, it will be difficult for them to cradle the ball in tight situations as a slight mistake will pop the ball out.
Otherwise, the narrow throat and pinched sidewalls smoothly channel the ball into the pocket. It provides a more secure hold during cradling and protects it from checks. That’s why there were mixed RC1 lacrosse head reviews by D1 players about cradling.
Besides, the side walls are stiffer than OG-Blade and EVO QX-O. So, it provides excellent ball security while cradling. Still, if you struggle with ball control, either string a mid-low pocket or try StringKing Mark 2V.
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Checking
Durability is the biggest question whenever we find something cheaper in the market. However, RC1 stands out with its stiff plastic construction.
It’s less rigid than the DNA yet absorbs impact exceptionally well and withstands strong checking. The head flexes enough to absorb the force without losing shape or effectiveness.
Besides, I didn’t experience any impact on my hands, which made a big difference. The connection between the head and shaft felt solid and secure, thanks to the shaft sight technology.
It helped me deliver powerful checks that popped the ball out of my opponent’s head. The angular rigged scoop also helped me catch the ball instantly. Hence, it provides a good balance between flexibility and stiffness for those who transition between offense and defense.
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Ground Pick-up And Face-off
ReLax has not marketed the RC1 for a specific position. However, I performed well during face-off battles due to warp resistance. There were no front head bends while facing off, giving me confidence and consistency.
The RC1’s scoop isn’t overly aggressive but leads the ground balls directly into the pocket. The slightly curved scoop surface with ridges was perfect for quick ground ball pick-up on the run. The ball stop is also pretty amazing. I even plan to fit a customized gibbet here.
Besides, the plastic is responsive and flexible for ground ball battles. However, I wouldn’t mark it as a traditional face-off head due to the wider face and mid-pocket design.
So, if you are a face-off warrior, go for Nike CEO 2 face-off head or STX Duel 3. Otherwise, it’s perfect for novice all-rounders.
People Also Ask
When Was the RC1 Lacrosse Head Released?
The RC1 Lacrosse Head was released in 2024 by ReLax Collections as their first-ever lacrosse head, offering a budget-friendly option for players.
Who Is the RC1 Lacrosse Head For?
The RC1 Lacrosse Head is designed for beginners and advanced beginners, especially offensive and transition midfielders seeking an affordable yet reliable option.
Why Is the RC1 Lacrosse Head So Cheap?
The RC1 Lacrosse Head is priced at $24.99, making it one of the most affordable options due to its simple design. ReLax is a non-profit organization that focuses on providing value for money.
What Are the Key Features of the RC1 Lacrosse Head?
The RC1 Lacrosse Head features a wide face shape, mid-pocket location, 4.9 oz weight, and numerous stringing holes, making it ideal for beginner players.
How Does the RC1 Lacrosse Head Perform in Ground Ball Pickup?
The RC1 Lacrosse Head excels in ground ball pickup with its slightly curved scoop surface and ridges, providing quick and efficient performance on the field.
Relax RC1 lacrosse head is one of the most budget-friendly heads for high-school all-rounders. The thoughtful design with a narrow throat design pinched side walls, and wider face makes it suitable for offensive and transition mid-fielders.
I can’t comment on the long-term durability, but considering its performance in the past week. I can authoritatively say that it would last longer than other heads. Besides, it only costs $24.99 unstrung. So, it’s value for money.
