The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Custom Lacrosse Shaft - Attack & Midfield
Find the Best Shape, Weight, Flex, and Finish for Your Playing Style
Every lacrosse player knows that having the right stick is crucial, but it’s not just about the head or mesh. Your shaft plays a huge role in your overall performance—impacting control, shot speed, durability, and comfort.
As an attackman or midfielder, you need a shaft that matches your playing style—whether you rely on speed, finesse, power, or durability in high-contact situations.
At Primo, we specialize in fully customized lacrosse shafts for teams and programs. If you're reading this, your team has likely already partnered with us, or you're part of a program exploring custom lacrosse shafts and looking for more information.
This guide will help you break down shape, weight, flex, and finish options—so you can select the perfect custom shaft for your attack or midfield position.
1. Shape – "E" Ergo Grip vs. "C" Classic Concave
Lacrosse shafts come in different shapes, affecting grip and control. We offer two unique options for 30" attack/midfield shafts:
"E" Ergo Grip – Aggressive Concave
✅ Best for: Attackmen and offensive players who do a lot of one-handed cradling.
✅ Shape: Aggressive concave grip, similar to the STX X profile.
✅ Feel: Provides more natural hand placement and better control when protecting your stick.
❌ Potential downside: Might feel different if you’re used to a traditional shaft.
"C" Classic Concave – Traditional Octagonal
✅ Best for: Players who prefer a more traditional feel, including all-around midfielders.
✅ Shape: Standard octagonal grip found on most lacrosse shafts.
✅ Feel: Balanced, reliable, and works well for both two-handed and one-handed cradling.
❌ Potential downside: Less aggressive concave shape means slightly less grip assistance for one-handed cradling.
🏆 Recommendation:
- Love dodging and one-handed cradling? → Go with the E Grip.
- Want a classic, versatile feel? → The C Grip is your best bet.
2. Weight & Durability – Finding the Right Balance
The weight of your shaft impacts durability, speed, and feel. A lighter shaft makes stick handling faster, while a heavier shaft withstands more abuse from checks and slashes.
Weight Options & Who They’re Best For:
| Weight (grams) | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 135g | Quick, finesse attackmen | Ultra-lightweight, fast handling | More likely to break under heavy contact |
| 155g | Balanced offensive players | Light but stronger than 135g | May not last long in high-contact play |
| 175g | All-around midfielders | Great balance of weight & durability | Heavier than elite speed shafts |
| 200g | Physical attackmen & D-Middies | Stronger against slashes & cross-checks | Slightly heavier, but still agile |
| 225g | Defensive midfielders | Maximum durability, best for aggressive players | Heaviest option, slower stick speed |
🏆 Recommendation:
- Speed & quick handling? → 135-155g
- Balanced play? → 175g
- Durability & power? → 200-225g
💡 Pro Tip: Some brands recommend lighter shafts for younger players, but weight preference depends on your playing style and personal preferences.
For example, some of our college-level customers love using our 135g shafts for their lightweight speed, and they have held up extremely well at high level play. However, others find that they break more frequently in high-contact situations.
🔹 If you're someone who tends to go through shafts quickly, we recommend bumping up to at least the 175g option for added durability.
3. Flex – Mid Flex vs. Stiff
Lacrosse shafts have varying degrees of flex, affecting passing, shooting, and durability. We offer two flex options in our custom shafts: Stiff or Mid-Flex.
Stiff Flex
✅ Best for: Players who want a consistent release.
✅ Pros: Less bending when shooting or passing → more accuracy.
✅ Ideal for: Sharpshooters and precision passers.
❌ Potential downside: Slightly less shot power than mid flex.
Mid Flex
✅ Best for: Players who want extra shot power.
✅ Pros: More flex allows for added power on passes & shots.
✅ Bonus: Provides vibration dampening, absorbing some impact from checks.
❌ Potential downside: More flex can slightly alter release timing.
💡 Important Note on Weight & Flex:
The heavier your shaft, the less flex it will have—even in the mid flex version.
🏆 Recommendation:
- Prioritize accuracy? → Stiff Flex
- Want extra shot power? → Mid Flex
4. Finish – What’s the Best Grip for You?
The finish of your shaft affects your grip, control, and overall feel. Whether you like a smooth, tape-ready shaft or built-in tacky grip, we’ve got options for you.
Available Finishes & Who They’re Best For:
| Finish Type | Grip Level | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth (Matte/Smooth Finish) | ❌ No grip | Players who prefer a slick feel & use tape | Classic, customizable with tape | Can be slippery in wet conditions |
| Fine Texture (Slight Sandpaper Grip) | 🔹 Light grip | Players who like traditional gritty shafts | Standard feel, solid grip | Wears gloves faster |
| Soft Tack (Slightly Rubberized Finish) | 🔸 Medium grip | Players who want moderate grip without tape | Balanced grip, reduces tape use | Less grip than 3D or Extra Tack |
| 3D Raised Texture with Soft Tack | 🔺 High grip | Players who want extra control, especially in wet conditions | Best for one-handed cradling | Takes time to adjust |
| Extra Tack (Ultra Tacky Glossy Finish) | 🔥 Extreme grip | Players who want maximum grip & no tape | No-slip feel, excellent control | Might feel too sticky for some |
🏆 Recommendation:
- Prefer a slicker finish or Use a lot of tape? → Go with Smooth or Fine Texture.
- Want built-in grip? → Soft Tack or 3D Raised Texture.
- Prefer max grip without tape? → Extra Tack is the way to go.
Final Thoughts – Choosing Your Ideal Shaft
The right lacrosse shaft is a personal decision—it all comes down to your playing style, preferences, and feel on the field.
We’ve broken down the different shape, weight, flex, and finish options so you can make an informed decision that best suits your game.
If you're still unsure about which shaft is right for you, or if you have additional questions about your options, we’re happy to help!
📩 Contact us at dave@primosportsco.com for expert guidance and recommendations.