Carbon Vs. Alloy Shafts. What to choose?

[25RClyde]

Carbon and alloy shafts are very different in usability and performance. What causes these differences? It’s in the material.

Carbons shafts are made of carbon fiber, and are popular due to their weight. Carbon fiber is a light material making the shaft the lightest on the market. A well known producer of the lightweight shaft is East Coast Dyes (ECD).

Alloy or metal shafts are made out of C405 and Vandium. Alloy shafts are on the heavier side, but come with a major increase to durability. Well known producers of alloy shafts are STX, Maverick, and Nike.

Carbon and alloy shafts have their various pros and cons. Durability, power, and feel all play a role on what lacrosse shaft you should choose. Your position also can make a difference. For offensive players, you want the ability to get your shot off quick and hard. For a defensive player, you want to have enough durability and strength to turn over the ball.

Durability is very important when choosing what shaft you want. Carbon shafts often break more easily than alloy shafts. Carbon shafts are continuing to evolve making them stronger and lighter. There are many carbon shafts that are made with durability in mind, but come at the cost of power. Weather also plays a major factor in durability. Colder conditions can lead to shafts breaking more easily. Carbon shafts broke at a warmer temperature at 26 degrees Fahrenheit, while Alloy shafts bent at 19 degrees Fahrenheit. In the long run, broken sticks can be very expensive. The best option for durability would be the Alloy shaft.

Carbon and Alloy shafts both have their benefits with power. Carbon shafts can be made with more power at the cost of durability. Carbon shafts tend to feel more snappy and lightweight. Alloy shafts tend to feel more powerful in your shot. Power is very important on offense, but not as much on defense. For an offensive player, the carbon shaft would be the way to go. For a defensive player, the Alloy shaft is the smarter choice.

The way a stick feels is all about personal preference. Carbon shafts are lighter, and are smooth. Metal shafts are a little heavier, but make up for their sleek feel. This all comes down to what you like, and makes little difference while playing.

In the end, the lacrosse shaft that you choose comes down to position and also preference. Many great offensive players use Alloy shafts, and vice versa. From what I know, offensive players will benefit more from Carbon shafts, while defensive players will benefit more from Alloy shafts.

If there is anything I missed or something that could be added, put them in the replies.

[Surfs_Up]

my son broke multiple carbons in a season. Alloy

[richlax5]

As a coach Alloy all of the way. As was already stated carbon shafts have a tendency to break way too easily.