Consider the Skill Level and Age of Players When Choosing Lacrosse Goals
When selecting the ideal lacrosse goal for your backyard or local park, one of the most important factors to consider is the skill level and age range of the players who will be using it. The right type of goal can make a huge difference in helping players of all ages develop their skills and get the most enjoyment out of the game.
For young beginners just learning the sport, a smaller 3×3 or 4×4 foot goal with a soft PVC frame can be a great option. The small size helps newer players with their shooting accuracy and builds confidence by making it easier to score goals during practice. Portable pop-up goals are also handy for introducing lacrosse to elementary age kids since they can be set up quickly and moved for drills or games anywhere.
Intermediate and advanced middle or high school players will benefit more from regulation-size 6×6 foot goals with aluminum framing. The larger net helps improve shooting at longer distances and develops proper passing techniques. Sturdy metal frames that don’t shake or move easily also aid more competitive play for club and youth league teams.
Adult leagues and players who want to practice seriously in their backyard should look for goals built to official NCAA and FIL dimensions and durability standards. For safety, it’s also important to choose goals with proper anchoring systems if used by high school ages and up to help avoid tipping during intense game play.
Considering the main age groups and abilities that will be using your lacrosse goal helps narrow down the right balance of size, durability, safety and portability needs. With the wide variety of goal types now available, you can find an excellent match that will keep players progressing for years to come.
Determine the Ideal Lacrosse Goal Size Based on Available Space
When shopping for the perfect lacrosse goal, taking measurements of your usable backyard or park space should be one of the first steps. The dimensions of the area where you plan to set up the goal will determine the maximum width and placement options to allow safe gameplay. Going through this quick planning process will help narrow down the goal sizing and type that can fit into your available surroundings.
For smaller residential yards or tight recreation spaces, portable 3×3 or 4×4 foot goals are often the best solution. Their compact size allows you to situate them in whatever corner or section works best, without needing a full regulation field. Portable PVC goals are easy to reposition to create drills or adapt to uneven grass or terrain. Just be sure to leave ample room for players to move around the goal perimeter when placed.
Larger yards with at least a 15×15 foot open space can likely accommodate regulation 6×6 foot lacrosse goals. But be sure to measure both width and depth of the area to ensure enough clearance exists from other structures, fences or obstructions. Proper safety buffer zones of at least 8-10 feet around the goal edges are recommended by most brands to prevent collisions. Allow extra room behind the goal if planning for backstop netting too.
For permanent goal installation, the ideal distance between goals is 60 yards, but distances can be adjusted based on your unique layout. Having enough space beyond the endpoints allows developing players to practice the full field approach to shooting. Just ensure the safety buffer zone doesn’t overlap walkways or other high traffic areas in tight surroundings.
Carefully thinking through the exact placement ahead of purchasing will ensure your new lacrosse goal complements the available area. And if portability is important due to limited space, look for wheel options to easily relocate goals as needed between practices, games or storage.
Compare the Pros and Cons of Portable vs Permanent Lacrosse Goals
When equipping your backyard or local field with new lacrosse goals, one of the key decisions is whether to choose portable or permanent goal frames. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages to weigh based on your space, use and budget.
Portable lacrosse goals provide the flexibility to set up and take down the nets quickly for practices or games. Their lightweight construction with PVC or aluminum piping allows one or two people to move them around a field or fold up for storage. Portable goals often come with built-in wheel assemblies for even easier mobility. The downside is that portable goals may not stand up to aggressive high-level play as well over time.
Permanent goals made from heavy-duty steel offer unmatched stability during competitive games thanks to being anchored directly into the ground. But this also means permanent goals can’t be relocated easily and will stay on the field year-round through all weather conditions. The professional construction comes at a higher price point as well.
For most recreational or youth league needs, portable PVC lacrosse goals provide sufficient durability at an affordable cost. The ability to collapse and store them after use frees up yard space. Wheeled portable goals are ideal for schools or parks since the nets can be transported between fields or practice areas quickly.
Backyard players or coaches who want a semi-permanent option can look for portable aluminum goals with ground anchors. These offer the solidness of steel frames but can still be disassembled between seasons if needed. However, frequent installing and removing anchored portable goals can become labor intensive.
Considering the primary use case and field flexibility needed will guide whether portable or permanent lacrosse goals make the most sense for your unique situation and budget.
Compare PVC vs Aluminum Frame Construction for Lacrosse Goals
When selecting a new lacrosse goal, one of the most important construction decisions is whether to choose PVC or aluminum for the main frame piping. The material used for the poles and crossbars will impact the goal’s durability, weight, cost and portability.
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a lightweight and weather-resistant plastic commonly used for DIY sporting goods like lacrosse goals. PVC pipe is inexpensive, easy to cut and assemble, and can stand up to outdoor conditions. PVC goals are very affordable and range from small backyard sizes up to regulation 6×6 foot frames. The main downside is that PVC can become brittle and crack over time with rough play.
Aluminum is a step up in strength and durability for lacrosse goal frames. The aircraft-grade aluminum used is thicker but still relatively lightweight compared to steel. Aluminum goals easily withstand aggressive shots and physical play while avoiding rust issues. But the improved life span comes at a higher initial cost over PVC versions.
For young children or occasional recreational use, PVC goals provide plenty of durability at a very wallet-friendly price point. Parents or schools can even build their own custom PVC goals fairly easily. Step up to aluminum for more competitive club and college-level training that requires frames that can be left outside year-round.
Some portable goals combine the best of both materials, using aluminum for the main frame poles and PVC for the corner joints. This balances strength with a bit of flexibility for packing the goal into a bag or case. When evaluating framing, consider which material best aligns with your budget and performance needs.
Pick Lacrosse Goal Netting Made from the Right Materials
The netting or caging attached to the lacrosse goal frame is arguably the most important component to evaluate for performance and durability. While cheaper string nets may be tempting, choosing netting made from higher quality fabrics will improve playability and safety in the long run.
For recreational use, nylon netting provides a good balance of affordability and weather resistance for outdoor use. Look for thicker 2mm twisted knotted nylon for extra longevity and reduced stretching over time. Avoid cheaper cotton nets that degrade quickly in sunlight and moisture. Polyethylene nets are also lightweight and very durable, though a bit more expensive. Knotless polyethylene nets have a smoother feel and allow better visibility for tracking shots.
In college or competitive leagues, netting made from Dyneema composite fibers offers the ultimate in strength and tear resistance. The ultra high molecular weight polyethylene fiber is 15 times stronger than steel on a per weight basis. While premium in cost, Dyneema nets maintain their tautness and opaque white color far longer under intense gameplay.
Mesh sizes for lacrosse nets can range from 0.75 to 2 inches depending on preference. Smaller mesh improves ball retention within the goal for evaluations during practice. Larger mesh sizes up to 2 inches provide less interference and visibility for rebounds and missed shots.
No matter what material you choose, be sure to look at the warranty length to ensure the netting will hold up. Replacing low quality nets annually can quickly add up, making investing in quality nets that last 3-5 years a smarter long term choice.
Focus on Durability and Weather Resistance in Your Lacrosse Goal
Since lacrosse goals are designed for outdoor use and subject to the elements year-round, durability and weather resistance should be two key factors to evaluate. The materials used throughout the goal construction will determine its longevity and performance through all seasons.
Aluminum and steel frames provide the most structural integrity to withstand aggressive shots and contact during games. Look for thick-walled aluminum or steel tubing at least 2mm in diameter for the main posts and crossbars. Steel is stronger but more prone to rusting, while aluminum offers corrosion resistance.
For budget PVC goals, look for UV-resistant formulations and impact modifiers that make the plastic more flexible and durable. Reinforced PVC corners prevent cracking over time. Check minimum temperatures for use, as more rigid PVC can become brittle in cold weather.
The netting material also impacts weathering and UV resistance. Nylon nets offer good durability at a moderate cost but still degrade faster than premium Dyneema composite. Knotless Dyneema nets retain shape and opacity much longer to extend lifespan.
Look for lacrosse goals promoted for all-weather use, with frames and netting that can stay outside year-round. Drainage holes prevent rainwater accumulation. Portable goals with carrying cases protect the netting and provide secure storage during off seasons.
Investing a little more upfront into a lacrosse goal built from weather-resistant materials will maximize lifespan and minimize degradation from constant outdoor use.
Evaluate Ease of Assembly When Choosing Lacrosse Goals
For many families and teams outfitting their backyard or local field with new lacrosse goals, a key consideration is the ease and speed of assembly. Portable lacrosse goals that can quickly be put together or taken apart by just one or two people allow more flexibility in use and storage.
Look for portable lacrosse goals promoted as pop-up or instant set-up models. These are engineered for quick and simple assembly right from the included carrying case. Preattached netting saves time and the folding aluminum or steel poles click into place within minutes.
PVC goals with basic push-button or pin connections are also simple for homeowners to construct without too many parts or tools. For a more permanent PVC goal, look for pre-cut kits with pre-drilled frames to simply join together with bolts and corner elbows.
Permanent goals sunk into the ground will require more time, materials and labor for full installation. But tubular steel styles often ship pre-welded and just need to be positioned before anchoring uprights into concrete footings.
If you’ll need to routinely set up and break down goals for practices or games, invest in a portable model engineered for fast and easy assembly. This allows more time for play and makes storage between uses a breeze.
Choose Lacrosse Goals with Wheels for Easy Mobility
For schools, teams, and families needing maximum portability, selecting a lacrosse goal with built-in wheels is a smart choice. Wheeled goals can be quickly moved between fields, storage, or relocated as needed for drills and practices with minimal effort.
Wheeled portable lacrosse goals feature heavy-duty rear or side-mounted wheels that allow one person to tilt back and roll the goal into a new position. Rear stabilizer bars help counterbalance the weight during transport.
The wheel size and tread impact overall mobility. Air-filled rubber wheels with a wide track surface can smoothly roll over turf and grass. Small narrow wheels may sink into soft ground when loaded with the goal weight. Pneumatic wheels provide more cushioning on bumps but can risk flats.
For the frame, aluminum and steel wheeled goals will be easiest to maneuver thanks to lightweight but rigid construction. Sturdy wraparound corner brackets keep the goal square during transit without flexing.
Make sure the wheel assemblies lock securely in place when lowered for play and raised for transport. Quick-release wheel pins allow fast transitions between modes.
For schools or teams needing to frequently reposition goals to adapt drills or fields, invest in a wheeled goal to empower hassle-free mobility right to where you need it.
Compare Backstop Netting Options for Your Lacrosse Goal
Adding a backstop net behind your lacrosse goal can be a big help for keeping missed or off-target shots contained. For home practices or schools with limited space, containing errant balls within a safe perimeter is crucial.
Full wraparound rear netting kits allow installing a complete backstop enclosure. These attach to the back goal posts and extend 10-20 feet out with side wings to corral skipped shots. Height should extend at least 20 feet up to contain high launches.
For more flexible containment, portable backstop nets can be moved as needed. Weighted triangular nets have a low profile to avoid errant rebounds. Larger box nets on wheeled frames create a deep catchment area but take up more room when not in use.
Bungee cord suspended nets allow players to practice shooting through an aperture for accuracy. Mesh openings from 9 to 36 inches square help refine shooting technique and power.
No matter the style, look for UV-treated polyethylene or nylon netting for weather resistance and rip strength. Thick braided edges and reinforced grommets prolong backstop lifespan and durability.
Properly containing missed shots keeps surrounding areas protected and saves chase time retrieving stray balls. Investing in sturdy backstop netting tailored to your space gives peace of mind.
Calculate the Proper Height for Safer Lacrosse Goal Play
To maximize safety and appropriate skill development, selecting a lacrosse goal with the correct height is crucial. Measurements should be aligned with the age and size of players to prevent injury from avoidable contact.
For beginners under age 10, goals around 4 feet tall help build confidence and accuracy on shots. Smaller 3×3 foot pop-up goals for backyard practice also follow this same reduced height ratio. Play starts closer and doesn’t require full clearing of the crossbar.
Youth and teenage players benefit from regulation-height goals set at 6 feet by 6 feet. This teaches proper shooting mechanics for full release and follow through to clear the crossbar. Shooting at a standard target also aids in developing skills translatable to game settings.
Adult goals remain at the conventional 6-foot height but expand to the full 7-foot width for women and 8-foot width for men. The wider goals require greater shooting accuracy and precision.
Most adjustable lacrosse goals can adapt from youth to adult heights in 6-inch increments by repositioning the crossbar. This extends use as players grow and progress.
Following age-appropriate goal height recommendations reduces injury risks while helping players achieve milestones matching their current skill level.
Ensure Proper Anchoring for Lacrosse Goal Stability
To avoid any risk of tip-over injuries, ensuring lacrosse goals are securely anchored is a critical safety step before use. Goals must remain upright and stable even when subjected to the impacts of aggressive play.
For permanent goals, uprights must be sunk deep into concrete footings below ground level. For anchored portable goals, four L-shaped ground stakes per goal prevent lifting or rotation when impacted. Stakes should be steel or heavy-duty plastic at least 18 inches long.
Some portable goals incorporate a weighted backbar or rear stabilizer bar spanned between the posts to counterbalance momentum. Weights can be integrated into the the backbar or use removable weighted bags.
Bungee cords or ground straps offer quick portable anchoring but are less secure than rigid stakes. Make sure the cords have high elasticity and resistance to retain tension after stretching.
Check your league regulations for the number and depth of anchor points required. Improper anchoring is one of the biggest risks for lacrosse goal accidents, so don’t overlook thoroughly stabilizing any new goal purchase.
Select Vibrant Colors for Lacrosse Goal Visibility
When equipping a backyard or field with new lacrosse goals, choosing a highly visible frame color improves safety and enhances gameplay. Vibrant lacrosse goals allow players to better track shots and react quicker to changing ball movement.
White goals provide the highest visibility and contrast against surroundings and the ball itself. The bright white netting also stands out clearly for tracking shots on goal during game action or practice drills.
Orange and yellow goal frames are also easy to spot at a distance on green grass. Their warm, energetic tones look great while helping players keep their eye on the ball during intense competitive play.
Classic team colors like red, blue or black are popular for matching team spirit, but don’t provide the same quick eye-catching contrast. Combining classic team colors on the net with white frame poles offers a good compromise.
Regulation goals must use white netting for official sanctioned games. But customizable frame and trim colors allow matching team branding or school spirit for recreational and practice goals.
Enhancing lacrosse goal visibility with bright, energetic colors makes following the rapid pace of play easier while underscoring safety.
Check Warranties and Customer Service When Buying Lacrosse Goals
With any major sports equipment purchase like lacrosse goals, an important factor to evaluate is the warranty coverage and customer service reputation. Goals that carry longer warranties offer more protection in the event of manufacturing flaws or damage during normal play.
Look for lacrosse goal frames backed by at least 1-year limited warranties. Multi-year warranties extending 3-5 years are ideal for premium aluminum and steel goal construction. This protects against defects like broken welds, bent frames or premature rusting.
Quality netting should be covered for 2-3 years minimum against tearing, stretch failure or UV damage. Most top lacrosse brands also warranty the goal wrap and trim against peeling, cracking or discoloration.
Beyond just warranty duration, research the brand’s reputation for honoring claims and providing replacement parts. Quick turnaround on processing warranty repairs or sending new netting preserves play time.
Knowing your lacrosse goal purchase is backed by the manufacturer’s guarantee provides peace of mind. Pair an extensive warranty with responsive customer service for the best support no matter how intense the play gets.
Review Your Budget When Purchasing Lacrosse Goals
With lacrosse goals available at price points from under $100 up to $1000 or more, setting a firm budget is recommended to narrow options. Goal frames, netting quality, portability and durability all impact pricing.
For most home or youth recreation needs, budget-friendly PVC goals between $100-$300 offer sufficient quality and lifespan. Step up to $300-$600 models for thicker aluminum frames and UV-resistant polyethylene nets.
Serious players looking for high-end construction can expect to spend $600-$1,000 for professional-grade aluminum or steel goals with competition-level netting. Permanent goal installation also requires factoring in labor and concrete costs.
Consider both upfront cost along with estimated lifespan when budgeting. Pro-level goals may carry a higher price tag but the solid construction can provide over a decade of play if well-maintained.
Portable popup goals collapse for off-season storage, while permanent goals remain standing year-round. This may impact needed field space and maintenance costs.
Setting a clear budget for your lacrosse goal purchase allows focusing on options with the right balance of quality, convenience and long-term value.