Being a newbie or someone who recently came across lacrosse, you must have stared at different types of lacrosse heads and got overwhelmed by the different kinds of lacrosse pockets. I also felt that when I was getting into lacrosse.
A lacrosse pocket is like a second skin on the field. It cradles the ball, assists with your passes, and you get to shoot your shot. But with so many options—high pockets, low pockets, mid pockets, the list goes on. The question is, how do you differentiate between them?
Well, you don’t have to face the confusion anymore. I have mentioned everything you need to know about the different types of lacrosse pockets and the suitability of these pockets for different lacrosse positions.
What Is a Lacrosse Pocket?
The lacrosse pocket is the mesh or stringing on the head of the stick where the ball rests. It’s not just a net for holding the ball; it directly affects your ball handling, control, and how fast or slow it releases when shooting or passing.
Different types of lacrosse pockets suit different playing positions and styles.
Common Types of Lacrosse Pockets
There are several different types of lacrosse pockets; each with pros and cons.
Each pocket is designed for different positions and playing styles, but there’s no “right” or “wrong” choice. It’s all about experimenting with the various options and finding the one that suits your style the best.
| Pocket Type | Description | Best For |
| Low Pocket | Sits near the throat of the stick, offering more hold for cradling and dodging. | Players who need better control for quick maneuvers. |
| Mid Pocket | Balanced between control and release, sitting in the middle of the head. | Versatile players who switch between passing and shooting frequently. |
| High Pocket | Positioned near the top of the head, it allows for faster releases and powerful shots. | Midfielders and long-distance shooters. |
| Mid-Low Pocket | A combination of mid and low pockets provides better ball control without compromising quick release. | Players who need more precision in close quarters. |
| Mid-High Pocket | It sits slightly higher than a midpocket, giving more whip and control during shooting. | Attackers who favor powerful shots. |
Impact on Ball Control and Performance
When comparing types of lacrosse pockets, consider factors like ball control, release time, and shooting accuracy.
Ball Control
Pockets that sit lower on the stick (like low or mid-low) offer superior ball retention. This is great for cradling and dodging, especially when you need to keep the ball secure while weaving through defenders.
Release Time
If speed is your priority, you’ll want a high or mid-high pocket. The higher placement allows the ball to release quickly, making it ideal for smooth transitions and hard shots.
Shooting Accuracy
A mid-pocket provides a balanced approach, allowing players to maintain control without sacrificing too much on release speed. It is great for players who need an adaptable option that works in multiple situations.
Here’s a quick chart summarizing how each pocket type impacts ball control and shooting:
| Pocket Type | Ball Control | Release Time | Shooting Accuracy |
| Low Pocket | High | Slower | Moderate |
| Mid Pocket | Moderate | Balanced | High |
| High Pocket | Lower | Quick | Moderate |
| Mid-Low Pocket | High | On-Time | High |
| Mid-High Pocket | Moderate | Quick | High |
Types of Lacrosse Pockets for Different Positions
Each position in lacrosse benefits from specific pocket types. If you need to improve your performance on the field, then I will suggest you choose the right pocket that works best for your position. Let me make things easier for you.
Attack
If you are an attacker, you will benefit from low or mid-low pockets because they provide good control for dodging and cradling, making it easier to sprint past the defenders and get closer to the goal.
Read More: Best Attack Lacrosse Heads
Midfield
Midfielders need to switch between offense and defense, so mid pockets would be the best for them. This allows them to pass, shoot, and defend with equal proficiency.
Defense
Mid-high or high pockets will be good for you if you are a defender. It provides a quicker release for clearing the ball downfield after a turnover.
Read More: Best Defense Lacrosse Heads
Goalie
If you are a goalkeeper, you can be at ease, as goalkeepers have specially designed pockets that are often deeper to allow for better ball retention when blocking shots.
Read More: Best Lacrosse Heads for All Positions
Common Misconceptions About Lacrosse Pockets
During my research about different types of lacrosse pockets, I came across a few myths surrounding lacrosse pockets that I think are worth debunking:
Myth 1: Deeper Pockets Are Always Better.
While deeper pockets can provide more ball control, they can also slow down your release, which isn’t ideal for fast-paced play.
Myth 2: Pocket Placement Doesn’t Matter for Beginners.
Even for beginners, pocket placement is important. A midpocket can offer the right balance of control and release, making it easier to develop skills without frustration.
Myth 3: One Pocket Type Works for All Situations.
No single pocket type is perfect for every scenario. Your choice should depend on your position and style of play.
Read More: What Makes a Lacrosse Stick Illegal?
Tips for Choosing the Right Pocket
I have gathered some practical tips for you that will help you in choosing the right pocket for yourself.
- Understand what type of play is most common in your position and choose a pocket that complements that style.
- Don’t hesitate to try out various pocket styles before settling on one; personal preference plays a significant role in performance.
- Seek advice from your coach or other experienced players on different pocket types to get an idea about what might work best for you.
Also, learn about what can make your lacrosse stick illegal so you know what not to do. Knowing the rules of the game is always the safest option.
People Also Ask
What Are the 5 Different Types of Lacrosse Pockets?
The five types of lacrosse pockets are low pockets, mid pockets, high pockets, mid-low pockets, and mid-high pockets. Each has unique advantages for different playing styles and positions.
What Is the Best Lacrosse Pocket?
The best lacrosse pocket depends on your position and playing style. Mid pockets are versatile, offering a balanced approach for players who frequently switch between passing and shooting.
What Is a Mid Pocket in Lacrosse?
A mid pocket is positioned in the middle of the lacrosse stick head, providing a balance between ball control and release speed. It’s ideal for versatile players who need adaptability.
What Is a Low Pocket in Lacrosse?
A low pocket sits near the throat of the lacrosse stick, offering superior ball control, especially for cradling and dodging. It’s commonly used by attackers who rely on quick maneuvers.
What Is a High Pocket in Lacrosse?
A high pocket is positioned near the top of the stick head, allowing for quicker ball release and powerful shots. It’s best suited for midfielders and long-distance shooters who need faster transitions.
Now that you know about the different types of lacrosse pockets, not only you can easily identify them but also choose for yourself (if you plan to play lacrosse).
