Comparing the Gait Apex 2 and Whip 2 women's lacrosse heads on pocket placement, control, and release — here's which one fits your game.
Both are current-generation offensive heads from Gait, and both show up constantly in "what head should I get" conversations among attackers and midfielders. They're built for the same kind of player but tuned differently, and the right pick comes down to how you like your pocket to feel and where you play. This guide breaks down the real differences between the Apex 2 and Whip 2 so you can choose with confidence, whether you're stringing your own pocket or buying pre-strung.
Gait Apex 2: Built for Control and Versatility
The Apex 2 is Gait's do-everything offensive head. It has a slightly wider face shape than the Whip 2, which gives it a more forgiving, mid-to-high pocket placement that's easy to keep consistent through checks and ground ball battles. That makes it a strong fit for midfielders who need to do a bit of everything: feed, dodge, shoot, and win 50/50 balls in transition.
At Sanderson, the Apex 2 head is available pre-strung with Flex Mesh by Laxpocket, which pairs a soft, quick-break-in mesh with the head's natural pocket shape — a combination built for a fast release without sacrificing hold. See our complete guide to lacrosse mesh types if you want to understand how mesh choice changes a head's feel.
Gait Whip 2: Built for Shooters and Feeders
The Whip 2, developed with input from elite attacker Charlotte North, has a narrower throat and a tighter channel than the Apex 2. That translates to a quicker, more accurate release — the head is designed to help the ball leave the pocket on a consistent line, which matters most for attackers who are shooting and feeding under pressure rather than grinding out possessions in the midfield.
The tighter channel does mean the Whip 2 rewards a slightly more deliberate stringing job and a pocket set a touch lower than the Apex 2's default. Players who like a very high, loose pocket may find the Whip 2 feels stiffer than they're used to at first.
Apex 2 vs Whip 2: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Gait Apex 2 | Gait Whip 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Midfield, all-around play | Attack, shooters & feeders |
| Face shape | Wider, more forgiving | Narrower, tighter channel |
| Pocket placement | Mid-to-high, easy to maintain | Mid, built for quick release |
| Release feel | Versatile, all-purpose | Fast and direct |
| Comes strung with | Flex Mesh by Laxpocket | Flex Mesh by Laxpocket |
Which One Should You Buy?
If you split time between midfield and attack, or you value a pocket that's easy to keep consistent through a long season, the Gait Apex 2 is the safer, more versatile pick. If you're a dedicated attacker or feeder who wants the fastest possible release on a tighter channel, the Gait Whip 2 is purpose-built for that job.
Not sure which position setup fits your game? Our women's lacrosse head buyer's guide and stick sizing guide cover how position and body size should factor into your decision too.
FAQ
Are the Apex 2 and Whip 2 legal for both box and field lacrosse?
Both heads are designed for field lacrosse. If you're looking for box-specific gear, check our Gait lacrosse collection for box-legal options.
Do I need different mesh for the Apex 2 vs the Whip 2?
Both come pre-strung with Flex Mesh by Laxpocket at Sanderson, which suits either head well. If you plan to restring later, our mesh guide explains how different mesh types change the feel of each head.
Can beginners use either of these heads?
Yes — both are approachable for intermediate players, though the Apex 2's wider, more forgiving pocket is generally the easier of the two to learn on.
Shop both heads in stock now at Sanderson Lacrosse, or visit us in person at 56 Broadway, Orangeville, to feel the difference for yourself.
