Faceoff guys– This one’s for you.
Let’s face it, your head takes a beating game after game, rep after rep, and grind after grind without fail. While faceoff heads are built to flex, recover, and dominate, they don’t last forever. Here’s how to squeeze more reps out of your faceoff head without the risk of warping it into your next backup stick before the season’s halfway done.
Know Your Plastic: Not All FO Heads Are The Same
Different brands use different plastic blends. Some heads are designed for fast recovery and quick flex, like the ECD Weapon X, while other heads possess a stiffer clamp and longer shape memory, like the STX Stallion 1K.
Understanding the function of your head will help you adjust your break-in routine.
Flexible heads: Warp easily if abused
Stiff heads: Needs a gradual break-in to avoid cracking
Break It In– But Don’t Break It Down
We understand, you need that head ready for battle like yesterday, but rushing the break-in is one of the quickest ways to reduce its lifespan. To avoid this, start off with some light reps then gradually ramp up to game-speed faceoffs.
Rest Rotation
Using the same head for every rep, drill, and game will inevitably shorten its life by the week. Instead, rotate between two heads using one for practice and one for games. Yes, it’s an investment– but it’s worth every penny if you want longevity and consistency.
Know When It’s Time
Faceoff heads naturally warp overtime, even with proper care. The key is to catch the signs before it impacts your clamp or release.
Here are some common signs your FO head is nearing the end:
Your clamp feels delayed or too soft
It doesn’t spring back like it used to
Your scoop starts dragging on ground balls
Maintenance Tips
Even the smallest of habits leave the biggest impact.
- Rinse it after muddy games to avoid grime buildup
- Dry it thoroughly after it rains before putting it away. Moisture and pressure results in a warped head
- Don’t leave it in a hot car or freezing garage. High and low temperatures wreck the flex memory
- Always punch the pocket out before leaving your stick
Play Smart, Stay Sharp
We understand you, fogos. Faceoff is one of the most demanding positions in the sport, and your head without a doubt takes the brunt of it. You can extend your head’s lifespan by treating it right, keeping it in a rotation, and staying on top of maintenance.
Got your own FO head hack? Share them with us or stop into your local Lacrosse Unlimited and talk shop with our stringers.