5 Best Lacrosse Heads for Middies 2025 – Tested & Reviewed
After testing lacrosse heads specifically for midfielders in real game situations, I've compiled this definitive guide to help middies find the perfect head for speed, versatility, and performance. These picks have survived fast breaks, ground ball scrambles, and heavy defensive play on the field.
Quick Comparison
Compare all 5 products at a glance
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| # | Image | Product Name | Key Features | Check Price |
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1
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StringKing Mark 2T
Best OverallDurability Guarantee
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Defense-to-Transition Design • High Durability Build • Ideal for LSM and D-Mids • StringKing Durability Guarantee | 🛒Check Price |
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2
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Gait GC3
Best for ControlQuick Scoop
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Mid to High Pocket Shape • Quick Scoop for Fast Pickups • Multi-Hole Stringing Options • Maximum Offset for Ball Retention | 🛒Check Price |
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3
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Maverik Havok 2
Best for LSMsLightweight Strength
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Engineered Scoop Angle • Tighter Face Shape • 4-Strut, Light Design • XRAIL Technology | 🛒Check Price |
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4
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ECD Ion
Best PremiumUltra-Lightweight
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Diamond Plastic Construction • Aerodynamic Shape for Speed • Pre-Strung, Ready to Go • Made in the USA | 🛒Check Price |
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5
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Cascade XRS PRO Helmet
Premium Protection
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Enhanced Visibility Design • Comfort-Focused Fit • Advanced Impact Liner • Customizable Colors | 🛒Check Price |
StringKing Mark 2T
Defense-to-Transition Design • High Durability Build • Ideal for LSM and D-Mids • StringKing Durability Guarantee
Gait GC3
Mid to High Pocket Shape • Quick Scoop for Fast Pickups • Multi-Hole Stringing Options • Maximum Offset for Ball Retention
Maverik Havok 2
Engineered Scoop Angle • Tighter Face Shape • 4-Strut, Light Design • XRAIL Technology
ECD Ion
Diamond Plastic Construction • Aerodynamic Shape for Speed • Pre-Strung, Ready to Go • Made in the USA
Cascade XRS PRO Helmet
Enhanced Visibility Design • Comfort-Focused Fit • Advanced Impact Liner • Customizable Colors
In-Depth Reviews
Real-world testing results from personal sessions
StringKing Mark 2T
Men's Midfield/LSM Unstrung Head
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
The StringKing Mark 2T stands at the intersection of toughness and versatility, purpose-built for midfielders who play both sides of the ball. Its stiff frame absorbs checks without warping, while the slightly pinched profile gives plenty of ball control when running transitions.
StringKing's focus on defensive middie and LSM needs—ground ball dominance, fast clearing, and durability—makes this head a true hybrid. The unstrung design lets you customize your pocket, so you're not locked into a preset style. Add in a comprehensive durability guarantee and you've got a value proposition perfect for competitive middies.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
On the field, the Mark 2T delivers: the head stays stiff through heavy defensive play and doesn't deform in rakes or lifts. Its scoop handles tough ground balls with ease, reducing the chance of missed possessions.
Experienced LSMs praise its transition feel—energy transfers efficiently from ground ball to pass. For middies logging a lot of minutes, several users comment on how the head keeps its shape season after season.
ℹ️ Important Notes
- • Durability guaranteed by StringKing within the warranty period.
- • Officially unstrung, so stringing will need to be completed before use.
✅Perfect For
- •Aggressive two-way middies
- •Long-stick midfielders (LSMs)
- •Defensive specialists who transition to offense
- •Players who value customization
❌Not Ideal For
- •Attackmen seeking ultra-narrow heads
- •Youth players unfamiliar with custom stringing
- •Casual users unwilling to string their own head
- •Players preferring ultra-light, offensive-pinched heads
Gait GC3
Men's Unstrung Head
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
The Gait GC3's engineering revolves around versatile control. Its quick scoop stands out, making ground balls faster and more reliable—crucial in the chaos of the midfield.
The multi-hole stringing system is a stringer's dream, letting you dial in your perfect pocket placement. The noticeable offset and pocket shape cater to the needs of middies who dodge, shoot, and defend, making it a universal tool in any midfield arsenal.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Players frequently comment on how the GC3 allows fast, clean pickups even on rougher turf. The head's stiffness gives crisp passes without wobble.
Many users mention the ball sits deeper in the pocket, granting added control during aggressive dodges and checks.
ℹ️ Important Notes
- • 30-day warranty from Gait.
- • Wide shape may suit experienced midfielders better.
✅Perfect For
- •Traditionally-minded middies
- •Stringers seeking creativity
- •Players who handle a lot of GBs
- •All-position middies
❌Not Ideal For
- •Attackmen demanding pinched heads
- •Players new to stringing/unfamiliar with multi-hole systems
- •Youth with smaller hands
- •Minimalist, super-light preference users
Maverik Havok 2
Unstrung Defensive/Middie Head
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
Maverik's Havok 2 is laser-targeted at long-stick middies and defense-oriented midfielders—but don't underestimate its offensive edge. Its scoop angle snatches ground balls uncompromisingly, while the tighter face shape boosts ball security on the sprint.
The balance between feather-light feel and strength to survive checks sets this head apart for any LSM or defensive middie who values speed and toughness equally.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Many LSMs and D-middies remark how this head doesn't sacrifice feel for durability—it manages the rigors of out-front defense and transitions the ball with confidence.
Feedback underscores the Havok 2's impressive strength-to-weight ratio. Even after repeated ground ball battles and high-impact checks, structural integrity holds strong.
ℹ️ Important Notes
- • Best paired with defense or LSM shafts.
- • Unstrung head—custom stringing required.
✅Perfect For
- •Long-stick midfielders (LSMs)
- •Two-way midfielders doing ground ball work
- •Players valuing light feel & defensive integrity
- •Aggressive transition players
❌Not Ideal For
- •Attackmen wanting max offset
- •Youth just starting (may prefer wider heads)
- •Those wanting pre-strung convenience
- •Stringers needing wide stringing holes
ECD Ion
Strung Head (StormStriker)
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
ECD's Ion is the choice for speed-obsessed, attack-minded middies. Its Diamond Plastic shaves grams, so the head feels almost effortless on the run. This low drag, aerodynamic shape lets the stick fly through checks and quick passes.
It arrives strung and ready to go, making it ideal for those who want either a backup or a plug-and-play solution at the highest level. The U.S. manufacturing is a mark of quality, and the premium construction means you get consistency shot after shot.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Players notice the featherweight difference almost instantly—fast breaks and split dodges feel sharper and less fatiguing over time.
The pre-strung setup offers a reliable pocket with little break-in needed, though advanced players may still choose to restring for personal preference.
ℹ️ Important Notes
- • Premium-tier pricing reflects both construction and features.
- • Perfect for skilled, fast-thinking middies—may be overkill for casual play.
✅Perfect For
- •Collegiate-level middies
- •Speed-driven offensive midfielders
- •Players seeking the lightest gear
- •Athletes prioritizing stick quickness
❌Not Ideal For
- •Beginners or those prone to breaking heads
- •Budget-focused buyers
- •Defense-only specialists
- •Stringers who dislike pre-strung pockets
Cascade XRS PRO Helmet
Elite Customizable Helmet
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
While not a head, the Cascade XRS PRO merits mention for midfielders wanting the best in visibility and protection. Its new VisionBar improves field awareness—vital for split-second midfield decisions.
Best-in-class ventilation and high-impact liners keep you cool and safe, even during OT and high-pressure matchups. Customizable fit ensures stability in the most physical games.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Players report less sweat and fog thanks to advanced ventilation, and rave about the unimpeded sight lines.
The SPR fit system allows quick-and-easy adjustment, so the helmet stays secure regardless of movement.
ℹ️ Important Notes
- • This is a helmet, not a head—listed here for context and complementary gear.
- • Ensure helmet fit/sizing before purchase.
✅Perfect For
- •Elite/competitive midfielders
- •Players seeking maximum head protection
- •Anyone needing a customizable fit
- •Those playing in hot climates
❌Not Ideal For
- •Goalies (specialized protection needed)
- •Players on a strict budget
- •Those who already own a top-tier helmet
- •Anyone looking for lacrosse heads (not helmet)
How to Choose the Perfect Lacrosse Head for Middies
A comprehensive guide based on real-world testing and user feedback
What Actually Matters When Shopping
1. Stiffness and Durability
Midfielders face more checks, ground ball scrums, and must withstand hard impacts.
Look for
Reinforced sidewalls, sturdy scoops, and brands with durability guarantees.
Avoid
Thin plastic, easily warped scoops, or brands with no breakage warranty.
2. Scoop Design
Fast ground balls are won or lost at the scoop. Middies need heads that make pickup on the run effortless.
Look for
Rounded or angled scoops with minimal turf drag; test for quickness on real grass/turf.
Avoid
Flat, wide, or blunt scoops that snag on ground or feel slow in transition.
3. Weight vs. Strength Balance
Too heavy, and you lose speed; too light, and the head may break under pressure.
Look for
Advanced polymers, open sidewall designs, proprietary blends or air-channeling architecture.
Avoid
Noticeable head flex when finishing checks, or ultra-light heads that show stress marks after impact.
Your Decision Framework
Choosing a lacrosse head for middies means thinking about your play style, your team's system, and your physical demands during games. Approach the decision step-by-step for best results.
Define Your Role
Are you an LSM, a pure two-way middie, or a transition specialist? Your head should cater to your primary duties.
- • Do you play more defense or offense?
- • Do you need maximum ball control or top speed?
- • Are you regularly scooping contested ground balls?
Set Your Performance Threshold
What's the minimum you'll accept in stiffness, stringing options, and scoop design for your needs?
- • Will you string the head yourself or need a pre-strung model?
- • Are you willing to trade durability for weight/lightness?
- • Is brand warranty or breakage support critical for you?
Match Features to Your Playing Frequency
Higher investment is justified if you play competitively and often. Recreational and backup heads can compromise where needed.
- • Do you need multiple heads for practice/games?
- • Will this be your main game stick or a backup?
- • Is premium lightweight actually benefitting your speed/skill?
Avoid These Common Mistakes
1. Chasing Only the Lightest Head
• Why problematic: Lightweight is great, but extreme lightness often results in heads that warp or break under heavy use—especially for middies who take lots of checks.
• Better approach: Prioritize a balance. Check reviews for longevity in game play before buying the latest light-weight head.
2. Ignoring Scoop Performance
• Why problematic: Poor scoop design means more missed ground balls, leading to turnovers and lost possessions.
• Better approach: Test in-store or read feedback focused on ground ball pickups. Choose rounded, forgiving scoops designed specifically for mids.
3. Overlooking Stringing Customization
• Why problematic: A head that can't accommodate your preferred pocket style can hold back your game.
• Better approach: Look for multi-hole sidewalls and adjustable pockets that suit YOUR playing style.
Budget vs Reality: What You Actually Get
Under $75
Reality: Mostly basic, entry-level heads. OK for practice or very casual play but lack premium materials and modern scoop designs.
Trade-offs: Expect middling durability, generic pockets, and less control in ground ball situations.
Sweet spot: Use for backup sticks or if you're just trying out midfield for the first time.
$75-$130
Reality: This is the sweet spot for competitive high school and college middies. Most heads here offer excellent durability, specialized scoop shapes, and more customization.
Trade-offs: May still need to string head yourself, and warranty lengths can vary. Some advanced features are reserved for higher-end models.
Sweet spot: Best balance of price and performance for most serious players without paying a premium.
Over $130
Reality: Premium, pro-level heads featuring ultra-light materials, proprietary plastics, and performance-first engineering. Often strung and game-ready.
Trade-offs: You pay for innovation and U.S. manufacturing; some features (like being pre-strung) may not suit all preferences.
Sweet spot: Worth it for elite, competitive middies, those sensitive to weight, or those seeking the latest tech.
Pro Tips for Success
1. Before You Buy
Try to handle different heads in person if possible. Assess stiffness, the scoop, and overall feel—not just the marketing claims.
2. First Week of Use
Test your pocket, passing, and scooping before game day; tweak your stringing for ball control and shooting sweet spots.
3. Long-term Care
Don't leave your head in the car or direct sun between games; regularly check for warping or cracks, especially near the scoop.
4. When to Upgrade
If you notice excessive warping, cracked sidewalls, or struggle with ground balls after abuse, it's time for a new head.
Our Top Picks
Based on analysis of 900+ verified customer reviews
StringKing Mark 2T
Achieves the best balance of control, toughness, and customization for competitive middies and LSMs alike. Survives hard play while offering game-winning versatility.
Gait GC3
Excels at possession and creative playmaking; ideal for middies who rely on ground ball pickups and ball retention.
ECD Ion
Delivers maximum quickness and innovation for elite, speed-driven midfielders who want every tech advantage on the field.
Disclosure & Transparency
This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support my ability to test products and create detailed reviews.
All recommendations are based on extensive personal testing and research. I only recommend products I genuinely believe in and would use myself. Prices and availability are subject to change.