Maybe this gear infatuation doesn’t go as far as we thought though…

Back on April 29th, we showcased some game photos from the Cornell vs. Princeton match-up, how many of you noticed Cornell’s goalie was sporting brand new STX gloves?

STX tweeted out some teasers about watching for some new gear. Would you have noticed the different Cornell gloves if they hadn’t? Do you care anymore?

I saw them, but only after STX tweeted about it…

Bryan Bendig was wearing some sick new Under Armour gloves in Prague, did you see those?

I’ve always been a proponent of the phrase, “Look good, feel good, play good”, and I love new gear just as much as the next guy, but is that what should be blasted all over the headlines? In the past, teams have given exclusive gear rights to certain media outlets, but is this really helping them now that everyone is showing off their gear? Should a lacrosse team be known for what they wear? Or what they do on the field?

Maryland was set to get new gloves this year from Under Armour, but got knocked out of the tournament before they even received them. Hopkins had a very similar thing happen to them in the past when they got some flashy new helmet wraps. Syracuse sported faded volt and orange gear and lost the quarterfinals to Maryland a few years back.

We get gear thrown in our faces each and every day, which makes some sense. But that we see it about as much as we get ads shown to us makes less sense. When it comes down to tournament time, how important is it really that your team is wearing the coolest gear on the market?

Would you rather be remembered as the Alabama team, who have won three out of the last four BCS Title games and have two uniform combinations? Or the Oregon team, who have zero Titles but thousands of uniform combinations? (Oregon uniform combos on Wired.com).

Now it’s your turn. You tell us, has lacrosse become oversaturated with the newest piece of equipment? Do people need to start worrying about HOW they are playing instead of WHAT they are wearing?

We know a simple poll won’t do your answers justice either, so after you vote, hit up the LAS forums and let us know what you really think. We’ve made a post in the forums exclusively for this article!

I learned that Lance strings his pockets around the pocket stretcher, and I think that’s a great move. It allows for perfect pocket placement, but creates a wider area than a ball and butter knife would. You should give that a shot too. I might the next time I string up a wand.

Check out the Traditional Thursday archives. Want to share your work with the world? Hit us up on the Tipline!

This certainly opens up the NLL for sponsorship in a big way. Who will be the sponsor in 2014? Will there be multiple sponsors? Unknown at this time.

What we do know is that Reebok is focusing on CrossFit, because training on its own, is evidently a sport. Or at least a very good business.

See a copy of the template letter Reebok sent out to its retail partners below, which explains the move a bit more.

For all the Canadians, Europeans, New Englanders, and Minnesotans out there, we have seen no mention of Reebok dropping hockey.

With that, this week’s LAS Giveaway will be for the Reebok Black Arm Guards.

To enter the giveaway, input your email address below and click “ENTER”. Upon entering, you will automagically be subscribed to The Weekly Draw, our email newsletter in which we’ll announce the winner on Tuesday, May 14th.

As fashion around the world, and even in your closet, continues to trend in many different ways, I can still remember when I played lacrosse in the early 2000′s. Even back then it was all about looking good on the field because you wanted to stand out, but when it came to the lacrosse community and it’s size compared to now, it wasn’t even close to as big as it is now.

Now we have lacrosse companies who are working everyday not only to promote their product, but to also promote the sport. Moreover, being trendy was an after thought for many when I played, but for the lucky individuals who get to play now, you are just too spoiled with so many accessories to choose from in regards to our community based companies.

Just check out the LAS theme based sleeveless shirt that Laxology did as an example! Now, that is a true work of art, but that isn’t what they truly do best. Aside from the endless days of talking to players about their product and answering questions, doing giveaways, and even running clinics, Laxology has found a unique way to keep a piece of the sport with us at all times. From the breakaway OTF bracelets, the Fast Break, to the clothing, Laxology is paving the way for a unique and one-of-a-kind niche.

While they have been introduced, they have been making big strides in order to make even more exciting products for the Laxologists that follow them.  Here are just some of the products they are working on, or have put out recently:

We have some custom shirts with some really unique designs, wait, don’t look away just yet…

They even have hoodies, you cold?  They also have matching bracelets just to ensure to keep that theme on point…

Afraid of the dark?  This crazy bracelet looks like it was colored from some fruity pebbles, and while it won’t taste as good, the skull in the picture right at the tie off glows in the dark. So whether it’s the Blair Witch you’re afraid of, or some simple Paranormal Activity, this bracelet is sure to make a bright impression on the night…

Thinking all white is all good?  How about trying some all black everything.  The new Laxology logo is even reflective, so people will be saying, “you see that bracelet on his wrist, it’s shining like WHOA.”

If you liked the LAS themed shirt, and all the graphics, the shout out here goes to Paul Shoeneck for Kicks Clothing.

As always, Jeremy and James from Laxology both enjoy talking to anyone and everyone, so feel free to add them on Facebook or send a shoutout via Twitter. And be sure to say Josh sent you! As for me, just @ me on Twitter and I will be sure to answer back if you ever need anything.

Do you have a traditional pocket that you love, but you worry that you will someday break the plastic head that it is in? And do you not use the traditional because of the 100% rational fear? If so, or if you have a broken stick with a great leather and lace pocket in it, have no fear! I’m here to show you how to move your traditional pocket from one head to another…

Plenty of tips in this week’s Traditional Thursday. Check it out, and then check out the Traditional Thursday Archive for so much more on the art of stringing up beautiful pockets. And don’t forget to check out Stringing Tutorial: Mesh For Everyone, if you’re a mesh guy!

The pocket below is channeled, but not TOO heavily, and will work for attackmen, midfielders, and defensemen alike. I put in a mid pocket, but I show you how you can string a high or low pocket as well, using a very similar technique.

This isn’t THE WAY to string a mesh pocket, but it’s certainly A WAY… and a pretty darn good way if I do say so myself.

I was more than happy to oblige when the guys over at StringKing asked if I would test out some of their new performance mesh. The StringKing team spent around two years perfecting their mesh, and when you put that much dedication into your product, it’s bound to show. Krieg definitely said it best in his initial gear showcase that this mesh just feels differently than other mesh pieces, and that is a good thing.

So on to the tests. I sent over an Easton Stealth Core to the StringKing team and I received the strung-up head during the last week of my season. Because I didn’t want to go away from my gamer in the final two games of the season, including our big rivalry match-up with USC, I wasn’t able to use the newly strung stick in a real game. However, I threw around with the stick plenty before and after practice, and have been hitting the wall and using the stick during coaching over the last few weeks. I even tried to do a weather test, but the rain in Southern California only lasted a few hours, so I had to improvise. But more on that later…

StringKing’s Performance Mesh Kit.

Stringing/Pockets… +1.5

StringKing strung one of their “L1” pockets for me since I like a low pocket. The first time I threw with it, it felt great, and the pocket broke in after one round of playing catch. StringKing also strings “M1” and “H1” pockets for mid and high pockets, respectively, as well as “Pro” pockets to replicate professional players. With all of these options, they should be able to string a stick for every player. I am, however, knocking them a half point here because they keep their specific pocket stringing styles a secret, and in order to get one you have to have it strung by one of their retailers.

Ball Control… +1.5

Due to the difference in material, the ball feels a little bit different with this mesh. The mesh feels very smooth, but that isn’t due to there being a lack of ball control. I haven’t had any huge problems with ball control, it just takes a little getting used to the different feel when the ball is in your pocket.

Durability… +1.5

I have been using this mesh for a couple of weeks and haven’t had any problems. One issue that may come up is with the use of shooting laces for bottom strings. While I haven’t seen any issues, a few of my teammates had been using similar bottom strings this season and both saw issues with their bottom string stretching once we get towards the end of the season, causing their pockets to deepen. This isn’t a huge issue, though, as with any pocket there is a little maintenance needed now and then, but just something to keep an eye on.

Consistency… +2

StringKing claims on their website that their mesh has “optimal all-weather performance” and that the mesh is “engineered for ultimate consistency.” Now as I mentioned I tried going for a wall ball session in the rain, but the SoCal weather wasn’t having it. So I decided to do a water test by soaking the mesh in water for a few minutes before heading to the wall. I was amazed by how the water seemed to almost run off the stick, and it was almost completely dry midway through my wall ball routine. Consistency was not an issue at all. Obviously I wasn’t playing in constant rain or any sort of snow, but if Yale uses this as their team mesh in New Haven then it must hold up well.

Fiddling around before practice with the StringKing stick.

Value… +1.5

I think StringKing has done a great job with the mesh kits the have developed. They are definitely a different feeling mesh, but a great product nonetheless. The mesh is a bit expensive, though, with mesh kits ringing in at $25 and individual mesh pieces at $20.

Overall: 8/10

StringKing is a company on the rise, with guys all around the country using their mesh, including reigning MLL Rookie of the Year Matt Gibson. Anyone who has a chance to take StringKing mesh for a spin, should.

What we found was that this coconut-based sports drink may LOOK like an energy drink, but it drinks like a smooth sports drink. CW is a believer already.

The Evolution head, no matter what number of surname has followed it, has remained popular amongst lacrosse players everywhere. We’ve seen countless iterations on the Evo, and now we get to check out the Evolution 4, which features some of the same, and a whole lot of new.

It’s the most cutback and lightweight Evo of all time, and the stringing options are quite impressive. Check out the video above for a FULL REVIEW, and some extra tidbits on stiffness, durability, and how much of a hack Connor is when he plays box lacrosse.

The Evolution 4 is an old classic, that’s been made anew… again!

This is a fun new product, developed to help keep the sweat from running into your eyes. NoSweat made these disposable sweat absorbers that stick on to the brow of your helmet and will keep your eyes and faces virtually sweat free.

You can find them at NoSweatCo.com.

Check out the full press release and a NoSweat promotional video below for more information.

Minnesota’s own NoSweat brings “LID Swagger” to the Tourney Prizes awarded for the coolest helmet design at 2013 Let’s Play Hockey Expo

ST. PAUL, Minn., March 7, 2013 — NoSweat, the makers of the latest must-have accessory found inside countless hockey, football, baseball, lacrosse and other sports equipment bags in 2013, will bring a sea of white to St. Paul. At the popular Let’s Play Hockey Expo, NoSweat will hand out 6,000 cardboard helmets and are holding the state’s first “LID Swagger Competition” to see who can design the coolest NoSweat helmet.

Helmets will be handed out, while supplies last, on Friday and Saturday, March 8 & 9 at the Expo, held at the RiverCentre in downtown St. Paul. The Expo is free and open to the public.

“The tournament weekend and the Let’s Play Hockey Expo are all about fun, and with our LID Swagger Competition, we’re bringing yet another fun element to the hockey games in St. Paul,” said Justin Johnson, president and co-founder of NoSweat. “We will offer kids free NoSweat stickers along with markers and pens to design their custom NoSweat helmet, take a picture of it, and post it to NoSweat’s Facebook page during the Expo.”

NoSweat will select boys and girls in a variety of different age groups to win NoSweat apparel and a supply of NoSweats to use on the ice or on the field.

Developed over the course of nearly five years of research and trials, NoSweat is the first peel-and-stick disposable sweat absorber designed to fit inside any LID – a hockey helmet, baseball cap, bike helmet, camo hunting cap, etc. NoSweat soaks up perspiration before it gets to your face, preventing blurred vision, burning eyes and even helps reduce fogged facemasks. Using a patented design and one-of-a-kind Dri-LID technology, NoSweat absorbs perspiration and keeps the line of vision clear.

NoSweat is for sale in popular three-packs at sporting goods retailers throughout the region, and Total Hockey stores are helping players gear up for hockey and lacrosse by offering a free trial pack of NoSweat with every new hockey helmet purchased. College and professional football and hockey teams have also sampled NoSweat, with athletes benefitting from clear vision provided by this lightweight, breathable sweat-stopper.

For more information, check out NoSweat’s introductory YouTube video, or visit their popular Facebook site. NoSweat can also be found on Twitter via @NoSweatCo.

With high school ball ramping up for playoffs in some parts of the country and midseason in others, we knew this would be a great time to review a NFHS only head, enter the Maverik Spider 17. Built for the offensive player, with a tightly pinched throat for ball control, plenty of lacing options, and aggressive ramp positions for quick and accurate release, this should be a great head for any high school player looking to take their game to the next level.

Let’s check it out!

Appearance… +1.5

I was pleasantly surprised when I first started checking out this head. It looks pretty futuristic and techy with all the different struts and accents, but not to the point where it becomes gaudy. It kind of reminds me of the guy who always dresses a little outlandishly, but after you take in his full outfit, you kind of nod your head in approval.

Stringing… +1

The stringing leaves a little to be desired, only because it is just your standard set-up and offering for number and placement of sidewall holes. It took me a couple of times to find the right set-up, but I got something pretty close to what I play with in my own gamer. I kind of feel like companies need to just buy in to the sidewall hole extravaganza and make it a regular thing.

If you aren’t offering up 15+ holes along the sidewall and six holes along the topwall, then why bother? It isn’t just stringing fanatics any more who love to play around with different combinations and set-ups. Like I keep telling one of my own players. Stop stringing a Mark Matthews pockets and start stringing a (insert player’s name here) pocket.

Stiffness… +1.5

Stiff, not but rigid. Especially for an attackmen-focused head, I see no problem with a head having some flex in it, especially if it is then able to offer up a lighter weight. I’d say this is a great score given what the head is desired for. As you can see with the extra rib joints along the throat of the stick, it is much stiffer down low and more flexible up top.

I would love to see how the college version compares with the wider throat.

Durability… +1.5

This head could definitely stand the test of time. The only area that even remotely concerns me is the brace running almost parallel with the sidewalls. Maybe with the extra rib joints above and below it, durability isn’t an issue, but for appearance’s sake, it worries me.

I really appreciate that Maverik took the time to reinforce the throat of the stick. All too often, I see too many heads break around the throat of the head. This should be the least of your worries in my opinion.

Value… +1.5

Ringing it at $94.99, it’s still essentially a $100 head, which for any high school player could be a little pricey. Taking into account what the Spider head brings to the table though – solid durability, great looks, average stringing options and enough flex to let you get the job done, I think 1.5 is a great score for the value of this head.

Overall: 7/10

4.8 ounces unstrung, nicely pinched for added ball retention and a decent price tag of $94.99, not bad at all. Overall, I think the Spider 17 offers a lot in comparison and should be on the watch list for every youth and high school player looking to get a new head.

**Editor’s Note: As Connor mentions in the video, the price WILL go down, and it has done just that. Available for $110 at UnderArmour.com, still pricey, but $20 less is a great start.

Under Armour’s Highlight Cleat has been popping up on lacrosse fields across the country this year, and some big time college programs (like Maryland and Loyola) have a number of players wearing these high top/low top hybrids.

The design is eye-catching and aggressive, and there is a method to the madness with the high top spat. Check out Connor’s thoughts on a great new piece of athletic footwear from Under Armour. It’s blue, it’s different, it’s the UA Highlight Cleat!

The day before we met up, I received a package from Throne of String, inside was a head to review and a set of Chris Tiernan’s water-proof and pre-stretched leathers. These leathers are unlike any other leathers out right now but we’ll get more on that later. For now, Steele has a set and he will get back to us when he gets it strung up by his dad.

As you can see in the video, Steele’s pita pocket is strung up to perform to his playing style. I know Greg Rose loops the bottom leathers similar to Steele’s traditional. What this does is that, it allows the ball to sit a little lower below the plastic (for all you attackmen out there). It doesn’t look pretty but like Steele said “you shouldn’t only play with traditional because you like the way it looks”.

That’s the beauty of traditional to me, the many ways that you can customize it to suit your playing style. From bottom strings, to floating sidewalls, even a replaceable top string, and so on.

What are you waiting for? There are no more excuses. Tutorials are up, water-proofed leathers exist and are even pre-stretched. Be different. Don’t limit yourself. Until next Thursday!

HOW TO ENTER: In the comments section below, tell us (1) the location of each pair in the photo, and (2) which style is featured. Each photo will only feature 1 unique style of Man Bros, but there may be more than one pair!

Alright, now it’s time to SPOT THE MAN BROS!

Photo Credit: Larry Palumbo

The deadline to enter is Tuesday, April 23rd at 12pm ET. After that, we’ll announce the winner at the bottom of this post.

Visit ManBroBroMan.com to check out all the different styles today.