Semi-Soft or Semi-Hard Lacrosse Mesh: Which Is Best for You?
Most StringKing mesh comes in two feels: semi-soft and semi-hard. The letter after the name tells you which. Type 5s is semi-soft and Type 5x is semi-hard. The feel changes how the pocket breaks in, holds the ball and throws. Here's how to choose.
Side by Side
| Semi-soft (s) | Semi-hard (x) | |
|---|---|---|
| Break-in | Quick. Plays well almost right away. | Takes longer to break in. |
| Hold | More. The pocket wraps the ball as you cradle. | Less, until it's broken in. |
| Release | Smooth, with more feel. | Crisp and consistent. |
| Over the season | Forms a pocket faster and keeps deepening as you play. | Holds its shape longer, so the pocket changes less. |
| Stringing | Easier to shape. | Takes more work to shape. |
| Best for | Newer players, and players who want more hold and feel | Players who want a crisp release and a pocket that stays the same |
Type 4 also comes in 4f, our only soft mesh, for players who want even more give than semi-soft.
Choose Semi-Soft If…
• You're new to the game or stringing your first pocket.
• You want the pocket to play well right away.
• You want more hold while you cradle and dodge.
Choose Semi-Hard If…
• You want a crisp release that stays the same game after game.
• You don't mind a longer break-in.
• You want a pocket that holds its shape through the season.
Every Mesh by Feel
| Mesh | Semi-soft | Semi-hard | Soft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 5 | 5s | 5x | |
| Type 4 | 4s | 4x | 4f |
| Type 3 | 3s | 3x | |
| Type 2 | 2s | 2x | |
| Grizzly 2 (goalie) | 2s | 2x | |
| Grizzly 1 (goalie) | 1s | 1x |
Our women's Type 5 and Type 4 mesh come in semi-soft only. See our women's mesh guide.
Breaking In Your Mesh
Any new mesh needs some play before it settles. Work the pocket with your hand or a ball, then throw and catch until it forms where you want it. Semi-hard mesh takes longer, so give it more time before a game.
As mesh breaks in, the pocket gets deeper. Check that it's still legal, and tighten the bottom string if it's too deep.
Questions
Which is better, semi-soft or semi-hard?
Neither is better for everyone. Semi-soft breaks in fast and holds the ball more. Semi-hard holds its shape longer and has a crisper release. If you're not sure, start with semi-soft.
Does semi-hard mesh last longer?
It holds its shape longer, so the pocket changes less over a season.
Which do I get in a strung head?
Strung heads come with the pocket our stringers recommend. Pick a custom pocket to choose the mesh and feel yourself.
Is there a warranty?
Yes. Every StringKing mesh comes with a 6-month warranty.
Find Your Mesh
Every StringKing mesh comes with a 6-month warranty.
Shop men's mesh · Men's mesh guide
Updated October 2026