Determine Your Lacrosse Position
As a lacrosse player, your position on the field – attack, midfield, or defense – will determine what type of elbow pad protection you need. Attack players make quick cuts and benefit from lighter pads for maximum mobility. Midfielders run the entire field and need pads that offer protection without restricting movement. Defenders take the most physical abuse and need maximum protective padding.
Measure Your Arm and Elbow Dimensions
Don’t pick lacrosse elbow pads based on size alone. Carefully measure the length of your arm from above the elbow to the wrist. Also wrap a soft tape measure around the thickest part of your elbow joint. Compare your measurements against sizing charts to find elbow pads that fit you best.
Evaluate Protective Cap Designs
Lacrosse elbow pads come with open or closed cap designs. Open caps are minimalist and lightweight. Closed caps offer more complete coverage and protection around the elbow joint. Consider how much padding you need based on your position and playing style.
Consider Forearm and Upper Arm Pads
Many lacrosse elbow pads just protect the elbow itself. For more complete protection, look for options that also include integrated forearm and upper arm padding. This gives better shielding against checks, slashes, and falls on the arms and elbows.
Compare Pad Materials
Lacrosse elbow pads use foam, plastic, and rubber for padding. Foam is the lightest while plastic offers maximum impact protection. Rubber absorbs shock best but lacks ventilation. Compare to find the right blend for your needs.
Research Top Lacrosse Brands
Trusted brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior make excellent lacrosse elbow pads. Evaluate each company’s pad technologies, fit, and protective features to choose the brand that matches your preferences and budget.
Find Properly Sized Youth Elbow Pads
Don’t just size down adult pads for youth players. Kids’ elbow pads are designed differently with more flexible materials. Ensure a good fit by measuring your child’s arm length and elbow width when shopping.
Choose Open or Closed Cap Designs
When selecting lacrosse elbow pads, one key decision is whether you want an open or closed cap design. Open cap pads are minimalist with a stretchy sleeve and small donut-shaped pad over the elbow. Closed caps fully encircle the elbow joint for maximum protection. Closed caps distribute impact better but can restrict mobility. Consider your position and personal preference when choosing open versus closed cap elbow pad designs.
Consider Forearm and Upper Arm Protection
Many lacrosse players focus solely on protecting the elbow joint itself when buying pads. However, it’s also important to consider guarding your entire arm. Many pads now include integrated forearm and upper arm padding in addition to the elbow cap. These extended pads provide better shielding against checks, slashes, and hard falls. Look for elbow pads that protect more than just the elbow if you want comprehensive arm protection.
Select Pad Materials – Foam, Plastic, Rubber
The padding material used in lacrosse elbow pads can significantly impact their performance. Foam pads are lightweight and flexible but less protective. Plastic shells offer the most sturdy impact protection. Rubber absorbs shock efficiently but lacks ventilation. Consider picking a hybrid pad with plastic or rubber caps but foam sleeve padding for an optimal blend of mobility, breathability and protection.
Compare Brand Name Options
When shopping for lacrosse elbow pads, you’ll find many options from leading athletic brands. Companies like STX, Maverik, and Warrior all make excellent pads loaded with proprietary technologies. Compare features like fit, padding materials, mobility, and protection offered by each brand’s pads. Also consider price points to find the perfect elbow pads from a top name brand matching your budget and preferences.
Shop Youth Sizes for Growing Athletes
When buying elbow pads for younger lacrosse players, don’t just size down adult pads. Kids’ elbow pads are specifically designed for growing bodies with more flexible materials and adjustable strapping. Carefully measure your child’s arm length and elbow width, and consult youth sizing charts. Ensuring proper fit and mobility is key for young athletes in their crucial development years.
Find Lightweight Pads for Mobility
One key factor in choosing lacrosse elbow pads is balancing protection and mobility. Bulkier, heavily-padded pads restrict movement which can negatively impact your play. Seek out lighter weight pads with strategic padding placements to maximize both flexibility and protection. High-end pads use advanced materials to shed excess weight without sacrificing safety.
Seek Moisture Wicking Fabrics
As an intense, high-exertion sport, lacrosse requires equipment that can handle sweat. Look for elbow pads made with moisture wicking fabrics that draw perspiration off your skin. Breathable materials with ventilation zones also aid cooling. Staying dry allows you to play comfortably and avoid chafing or rashes during games and practices.
Get the Proper Fit
An improper fit is one of the most common mistakes lacrosse players make when selecting elbow pads. The pads should be snug enough not to slide around, but not constricting. Measure your arm length and elbow width, and use sizing charts to find the right fit. Pads should be stable but allow full mobility – a proper fit is essential to performance.
Pick Bright Colors and Cool Graphics
Beyond just protection, lacrosse elbow pads are also a chance to express your personal style. Many pads now come in vibrant color options and cool graphic prints. Match your pads to your team colors or go for something unique that shows off your personality. Just don’t sacrifice fit and performance solely for fashion’s sake.
Read Online Reviews Before Buying
Don’t just rely on the manufacturer’s claims when choosing lacrosse elbow pads. Read unbiased reviews online to learn how the pads perform in real-world use. Fellow players can provide insight into sizing, comfort, protection, and durability over time. Check reviews and forums to make a truly informed decision.
Check for Sales and Deals
Quality lacrosse elbow pads can get pricey, so shop smart. Look for end-of-season sales, holiday promos, and coupon codes from retailers to get the best deals. Clearance sale sections can offer big savings on last year’s pads. Sign up for brand newsletters for exclusive discounts too.
Don’t Ignore Smaller Brands
The big athletic brands dominate the lacrosse gear market, but don’t overlook smaller specialty companies. Lesser known brands focus on lacrosse and can offer excellent pad options without the premium price tag. Boutique brands pride themselves on quality craftsmanship and cutting-edge designs.
Ask Coaches and Teammates for Recommendations
Your coaches and teammates can provide personalized insight when choosing new lacrosse elbow pads. Ask for specific product recommendations based on your position, playing style, and needs. Experienced players can advise on sizing, comfort and what works best on the field. Leverage the expertise of your lacrosse community.