In one general embodiment, a magnetic head includes a stitch pole; and a main pole formed adjacent the stitch pole, wherein an end region of the stitch pole closest to an air bearing surface of the head tapers towards the main pole. In another general embodiment, a magnetic head includes a stitch pole being a laminate of at least two magnetic layers separated by a nonmagnetic layer; and a main pole formed adjacent the stitch pole. An end region of the stitch pole closest to an air bearing surface of the head tapers towards the main pole. An average angle of the taper of the end region of the stitch pole is between about 20 and about 45 degrees. Such head may be implemented in a data storage system.