Spin torque layer in side gap for improved field and cross track field gradient

A magnetic recording head, comprising:

• a main pole;
• a shield hot seed layer positioned at a first side of the main pole;
• a first material having a first thickness positioned at both a second side and a third side of the main pole, the first material connected to the main pole;
• a second material having a second thickness positioned adjacent to the first material on the second side and the third side of the main pole, the second material comprised of a spin torque layer, wherein the first thickness of the first material is greater than the second thickness of the second material;
• a third material having a third thickness positioned adjacent to the second material on the second side and the third side of the main pole, wherein the third thickness of the third material is greater than the first thickness of the first material;
• a fourth material positioned adjacent to the third material on the second side and the third side of the main pole;
• and
• a side shield connected on an exterior side of the fourth material.

A magnetic recording head, comprising:

• a main pole;
• a shield hot seed layer positioned at a first side of the main pole;
• a first material having a first thickness positioned at both a second side and a third side of the main pole, the first material connected to the main pole;
• a second material having a second thickness positioned adjacent to the first material on the second side and the third side of the main pole, wherein the first thickness of the first material is greater than the second thickness of the second material;
• a third material having a third thickness positioned adjacent to the second material on the second side and the third side of the main pole, wherein the third thickness of the third material is greater than the first thickness of the first material;
• a fourth material position adjacent to the third material on the second side and the third side of the main pole;
• a spin torque layer positioned at the first side of the main pole between the main pole and the shield hot seed layer;
• and
• a side shield connected on an exterior side of the fourth material.