How to Make Your Lacrosse Pocket Deeper
Lacrosse, a fast-paced and physically demanding sport, requires a well-crafted lacrosse stick with a deep pocket to enhance performance. A deeper pocket allows for better ball retention and increased shooting power. If you’re looking to make your lacrosse pocket deeper, you’ve come to the right place. This article will guide you through the process, providing you with step-by-step instructions to achieve a deeper pocket that suits your playing style.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the depth of a lacrosse pocket is determined by the position of the pocket stringing and the amount of leather on the pocket. By adjusting these two factors, you can achieve a deeper pocket. Here’s how:
1. Gather the necessary materials:
– A lacrosse stick
– A pocket stringing tool (optional)
– A sharp knife or pocket cutter
– A flat surface to work on
– Safety goggles and gloves
2. Clean and prepare the pocket:
– Begin by cleaning the pocket with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
– Make sure the pocket is dry before proceeding to the next step.
3. Adjust the pocket stringing:
– If you’re using a pocket stringing tool, attach it to your lacrosse stick and tighten it to the desired tension.
– If you’re doing it manually, hold the stringing tool with one hand and the stick with the other.
– Pull the stringing tool through the pocket until you reach the bottom of the stick. Adjust the tension to your preference, ensuring that the pocket is not too tight or too loose.
4. Cut the leather:
– Measure the amount of leather you want to remove from the pocket. A general rule of thumb is to remove about 1/8 inch of leather for each 1/8 inch of desired pocket depth.
– Place the stick on a flat surface and use the sharp knife or pocket cutter to carefully trim the leather, making sure to cut straight lines.
5. Re-string the pocket:
– Once the leather has been cut, re-string the pocket using your preferred method. You can use a traditional pocket stringing technique or opt for a modern pocket stringing system.
– Make sure the stringing is tight and even, and that the pocket is shaped as desired.
6. Test the pocket:
– Before playing, test the pocket by throwing a ball into it. The ball should sit comfortably in the pocket and be easy to release with a quick flick of the wrist.
– If the pocket is too deep, trim more leather and re-string the pocket. If it’s too shallow, you may need to adjust the tension of the stringing or add more leather.
By following these steps, you can successfully make your lacrosse pocket deeper and improve your performance on the field. Remember to practice your shooting and catching techniques to fully utilize the enhanced pocket depth. Happy lacrosse!
