Choosing the right goalie stick can make a meaningful difference in a woman’s lacrosse game. Goalie sticks combine pocket control, stiffness, and the ability to scoop and stop shots from different angles. This guide highlights top picks that favor performance, durability, and ease of use for players at various levels, from recreational to competitive. You’ll see dedicated goalie sticks, heads, and complete sticks designed for women’s play, with clear notes on what each option does best and how to choose the right setup for your game.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Shield 100 Goalie Complete Stick | Goalie Stick | 12-diamond semi-hard mesh; 30″ STX 6000 handle |
| Eclipse 3 Complete Goalie Stick | Goalie Stick | Elite level; 30% stiffer; enhanced scoop |
| Eclipse 2 Goalie Head | Goalie Head | Updated sidewalls; new scoop; ergonomic throat |
| Fortress 300 Complete Stick | Complete Stick | Stiff design for defense; runway pocket; string lock |
| Stallion 50 Youth Complete Stick | Complete Stick | Forgiving head material; shorter/thinner handle |
The following sections present five products most relevant to women’s goalie play. Each entry includes a short, clickable link to Amazon for quick viewing, a product image, and a concise breakdown of the key features that impact performance in the crease.
Shield 100 Goalie Complete Stick
The Shield 100 is designed with recreational-level goalies in mind, offering a reliable, ready-to-use package. The stick comes strung with a 12-diamond semi-hard mesh, which provides a stable pocket that helps maintain consistent ball control during saves and rebounds. A 30-inch STX 6000 aluminum handle rounds out the package, delivering a balanced feel that’s easy to maneuver in tight crease situations. This combination aims to reduce setup time and let newer goalies concentrate on positioning and angle play rather than pocket tuning.
For players who value straightforward performance, the Shield 100 offers a practical entry point into goalie gear. The mesh pocket and standard shaft length support predictable catching and throwing mechanics, while the overall construction favors durability and ease of maintenance. It’s a sensible choice for practice sessions, weekend games, and players transitioning to goalie responsibilities from other field positions. The stick’s weight distribution and texture are designed to help goalies track shots with confidence and recover quickly for the next play.
Eclipse 3 Complete Goalie Stick
The Eclipse 3 is built for top lacrosse goalies at all levels, reflecting STX’s emphasis on elite performance. It’s marketed as 30% stiffer than its predecessor, Eclipse 2, which translates to increased stopping power on shots that reach the crease. The stick also features a revamped scoop designed to help goalies pick up balls at your feet, especially during quick clears and quick changes of direction along the crease line. This model is targeted at players seeking stronger impact resistance and dependable performance under pressure.
From a design perspective, the Eclipse 3’s stiff construction supports firm saves and reduces flex-related energy loss when punching out balls. The enhanced stiffness can contribute to more confident rebounds, as the stick is less likely to bend under heavy shots. While it remains a premium option, the added stiffness and improved scoop design provide tangible benefits for goaltenders who routinely face high-velocity shots and require consistent ball control in tight spaces. The overall package emphasizes reliability, grip comfort, and control in high-stakes game situations.
Eclipse 2 Goalie Head
The Eclipse 2 Goalie Head is designed as a strung goalie head with targeted improvements in stiffness and control. Updated sidewall geometry provides increased stiffness without adding weight, which helps maintain quick reactions without sacrificing stability. A new scoop design enhances ground-ball performance, a critical factor for goalies who must secure fast rebounds and start transitions efficiently. An ergonomic throat design further improves grip and control during plays that demand quick, precise movements.
For goalies who prefer customization, this head can be paired with a compatible shaft to tailor weight and balance to individual play styles. The head’s geometry supports a secure pocket and predictable behavior as shots come from different angles, making it a practical upgrade for goalies looking to fine-tune their crease play. While replacement heads can be used across different sticks, the Eclipse 2 Head focuses on a balance of stiffness, scoop functionality, and secure grip to help goalies maintain control through critical saves.
Fortress 300 Complete Stick
The Fortress 300 Complete Stick is described as a stiff design aimed at defensive players, with a runway pocket system that allows the two center runners to flex outward and hug the ball. This setup, combined with the new string lock technology, helps players set a pocket that resists bagging and maintains consistent ball feel. For women’s lacrosse, this stick can offer a robust and stable option for goalies who value a perpendicular pocket during clear attempts and for defenders who rotate into the crease on double teams. The complete package includes the head, handle, and stringing, delivering a ready-to-play option straight from the box.
When evaluating this option for goalie use, consider whether a stiffer construction and stable pocket align with your crease style. The Fortress 300’s meticulous stringing approach and pocket management can help goalies control rebounds and keep the ball in the stick more consistently after saves. While it’s marketed more toward defenders, the stick’s stiff, secure pocket can still benefit goalies who appreciate predictable response and reduced bagging under pressure. It’s a solid choice for players who want a dependable, all-around stick in recreational to mid-level play.
Stallion 50 Youth Complete Stick
The Stallion 50 Youth Complete Stick is an entry-level option designed to help younger players develop proper fundamentals. It is inspired by the elite Stallion 550 head and features a head molded with softer material to provide a forgiving response, making it easier for beginners to catch and throw. The package also includes a shorter and thinner handle to facilitate easier handling for growing players. Although not a college- or high-school-level stick, it serves as a practical stepping stone for younger girls who are learning crease responsibilities and ball control. This option supports skill-building and confidence during practice and introductory league play.
For coaches and parents shopping with youth goalies in mind, the Stallion 50 provides a cost-conscious starting point that emphasizes user-friendly handling and forgiving performance. It’s well-suited for early development stages, where the emphasis is on building fundamental hand-eye coordination, crease awareness, and shot tracking. While it may not meet the needs of advanced players, it offers a solid platform for beginners to experience goalie play and improve through consistent practice and gameplay drills.
Buying Guide
When selecting a women’s lacrosse goalie setup, consider how you’ll use the stick across practice, scrimmages, and competitive games. The following factors help clarify which option is right for you and how to optimize performance on the field.
- Position and level: Beginners and recreational players may prefer complete sticks with straightforward pockets and standard shaft lengths, while experienced goalies often seek elite sticks or heads with stiffer construction and improved scooping capabilities.
- Full stick vs. head: A complete stick saves time and ensures proper pocket tension, but a dedicated goalie head allows customization with a preferred shaft and pocket style. Evaluate whether customization or plug-and-play convenience matters more for your routine.
- Pocket type and mesh: Mesh pockets offer consistent performance and reduced maintenance for many goalies, while traditional string pockets can deliver a more adjustable feel. In colder conditions, mesh pockets tend to retain shape better, which is useful in winter practice.
- Stiffness and weight: A stiffer stick or head generally provides stronger shot-stopping power and ball control, but may feel heavier. Balance stiffness with maneuverability, especially in tighter crease scenarios typical of women’s lacrosse.
- Scoop design and ground balls: A well-designed scoop improves ball pickup at various angles. Look for models with enhanced scoops if you frequently retrieve balls near your feet or along the crease edge.
- Grip and throat geometry: Ergonomic throats and comfortable grips support quick control changes and secure holds during aggressive plays. A secure grip reduces the risk of fumbles after saves and rebounds.
- Durability and maintenance: Higher-quality heads and pockets resist bagging and maintain pocket tension longer. Consider models that offer clear guidance on stringing and long-term pocket care, especially for youth or beginner players.
- Budget and value: Complete sticks provide convenience, while goalie heads and higher-end models offer performance gains. Align your choice with your training frequency, level of play, and budget.
In practice, the best choice for a woman goalie often balances immediate usability with room to grow. For new players, a complete stick with a dependable pocket, like the Shield 100, can build confidence quickly. For goalies seeking peak performance, options like the Eclipse 3 deliver enhanced stiffness and improved scooping performance. For players customizing their setup, pairing an Eclipse 2 Head with a preferred shaft can optimize pocket feel and control. Finally, youth players benefit from forgiving materials and shorter handles found in models like the Stallion 50, which supports fundamental development. Across all levels, prioritize consistent pocket behavior, reliable grip, and a comfortable weight so crease duty remains predictable and effective.