Best Lacrosse Backstops for AtHome Practice in 2023Best Lacrosse Backstops for AtHome Practice in 2023
Choosing Durable and UV-Resistant Backstop Netting
When selecting a lacrosse backstop for your home practice area, one of the most important factors to consider is the durability and UV-resistance of the netting material. Brands like PoweNet and Primed use heavy-duty polyethylene or polypropylene netting designed to withstand the impact of high-speed lacrosse shots over time. These robust backstop nets are typically made from 2mm to 3.5mm knotless netting with added UV inhibitors and stabilizers to prevent sun damage or discoloration after prolonged outdoor use.
Polyethylene and polypropylene are popular options because they retain strength and flexibility even after years of exposure to the elements. The material is abrasion-resistant, meaning it won’t fray or develop holes from regular lacrosse ball contact. Thicker netting around 2-3.5mm is ideal for withstanding high-velocity shots from all lacrosse stick types, including men’s field lacrosse sticks. In comparison, some cheaper backstop nets use a thinner 1mm netting prone to tearing.
When reading product descriptions, look for specifics on the denier rating, which indicates the fiber thickness of the netting. Higher denier netting above 350D will better handle aggressive shooting. Also, confirm that the material offers UV protection and won’t degrade or lose integrity from sun exposure over a season of play. Reputable brands test their netting to verify and guarantee UV resistance.
Investing in robust, heavy-duty netting increases the longevity of your lacrosse backstop and reduces the need for premature replacement. So be sure to examine the netting specs closely rather than opting for a generic net with questionable durability. High-quality backstop netting will pay dividends over years of regular practice and gameplay.
Selecting the Optimal Lacrosse Backstop Size
When installing a lacrosse backstop in your backyard or home practice space, choosing the right size is critical for containing shots and preventing stray balls. The standard recommended size for most home lacrosse goals is a 10×30 foot backstop net.
This 10×30 dimension provides ample coverage behind and around a typical 6×6 foot lacrosse goal. The 10-foot width allows for several feet of buffer space on each side of the goal to absorb wide shots. Meanwhile, the 30-foot length lets you take full-field length shots from up to 25 yards away without fear of missing the net.
For young players with less shooting power, a smaller 8×20 foot backstop could suffice. However, adult men’s lacrosse shots frequently exceed 80 mph, making the larger 10×30 foot size a safer bet for consistent ball containment. Elite players can even top 100 mph with overhand crank shots, meaning you need significant extra room for error.
Some backstops come in even larger 12×30 or 15×30 foot sizes to accommodate passing and shooting drills. However, for most home goals, a 10×30 foot net will fully cover the necessary space at a more affordable price point. Just make sure to position the backstop far enough away from the goal so shots have space to slow down before hitting the net.
You can also supplement a standard 10×30 foot backstop with side netting to prevent balls from escaping at sharp angles. Side nets keep the ball in play instead of constantly needing to retrieve shots in the yard or driveway. Side curtain netting typically connects to the main backstop for full 360-degree ball containment.
When purchasing any backstop, carefully examine the product images and stated dimensions to visualize the coverage area. An undersized net will undermine the purpose of a backstop and lead to backyard headaches. So do your homework to determine the optimal size before ordering.
Choosing Portable and Pop-Up Lacrosse Backstops
For maximum versatility in your home lacrosse setup, look for backstops with portable, pop-up designs that allow quick and easy installation anywhere. Portable backstops either fold up into a compact carrying case or feature lightweight foldable aluminum frames for fast transport and storage.
Pop-up designs employ collapsible spring or tension-rod frames that unfurl and lock into place within minutes. Simply extend the poles, attach the corner joints, then clip on the backstop netting to create a fully functional rebounder goal in minutes. No tools or complicated assembly required.
Portability provides flexibility to move the backstop to different yard locations as needed. You can also rotate directions to account for errant shots or sun glare during different times of day. If space is limited, portable backstops let you stow everything away in the offseason.
Look for backstops with heavy-duty carry bags with shoulder straps, so you can easily haul the bundled net and poles like a sports duffel bag. Then when you’re ready to practice again, the backstop pops up in seconds.
Mobility is especially convenient for athletes in apartments, condos or homes with minimal yard space. You can set up your portable backstop in a nearby park, schoolyard or open green space on days when you can’t practice at home.
Portable backstops are also great for team practices, camps and clinics. Coaches can transport them in vehicle cargo areas and quickly deploy them upon arrival. Tournaments and events may rent pop-up backstops for temporary goals due to their simplicity and minimal storage footprint when not in use.
Just be sure to anchor portable backstops properly once set up, as they can be prone to tipping without weights. Some feature integrated sandbags or allow you to fill the hollow base for stability. Stake kits also secure the frame when used outdoors.
Using Lacrosse Rebounders for Solo Practice
Why Polyethylene and Polypropylene Are Preferred Materials
- Retain strength and flexibility after years of use
- Highly abrasion-resistant, preventing fraying and hole formation
- Ideal thickness (2-3.5mm) for withstanding high-velocity shots
- Superior to cheaper alternatives using 1mm netting prone to tearing
When evaluating product descriptions, pay close attention to the denier rating, which indicates the fiber thickness of the netting. For optimal performance, seek out netting with a denier rating above 350D, as this will better handle aggressive shooting techniques.
Additionally, confirm that the material offers comprehensive UV protection to prevent degradation or loss of integrity due to sun exposure over an entire season of play. Reputable brands conduct rigorous testing to verify and guarantee UV resistance in their products.
The Long-Term Benefits of Investing in Quality Netting
Opting for robust, heavy-duty netting may come with a higher initial cost, but it significantly increases the longevity of your lacrosse backstop. This investment reduces the need for premature replacement, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.
By carefully examining the netting specifications rather than settling for a generic net with questionable durability, you’re ensuring that your backstop will serve you well through years of regular practice and gameplay.
Determining the Optimal Lacrosse Backstop Size for Your Practice Space
Selecting the appropriate size for your lacrosse backstop is crucial for effective shot containment and preventing stray balls from causing issues in your practice area. The industry standard recommendation for most home lacrosse goals is a 10×30 foot backstop net.
Understanding the Benefits of the 10×30 Foot Dimension
- Provides ample coverage behind and around a typical 6×6 foot lacrosse goal
- 10-foot width offers several feet of buffer space on each side of the goal
- 30-foot length allows for full-field length shots from up to 25 yards away
- Accommodates adult men’s lacrosse shots that frequently exceed 80 mph
For younger players with less shooting power, an 8×20 foot backstop might suffice. However, given the high velocities achieved by adult players (with some elite shots topping 100 mph), the larger 10×30 foot size is generally a safer and more versatile option for consistent ball containment.
Exploring Larger Backstop Options
Some manufacturers offer even larger backstops, such as 12×30 or 15×30 foot sizes, which can be beneficial for accommodating more complex passing and shooting drills. However, for most home setups, a 10×30 foot net strikes an ideal balance between coverage and affordability.
When installing your backstop, ensure it’s positioned far enough away from the goal to allow shots to decelerate before impact. This placement strategy helps maximize the lifespan of your netting.
Enhancing Coverage with Side Netting
To further improve ball containment, consider supplementing your standard 10×30 foot backstop with side netting. This addition prevents balls from escaping at sharp angles, keeping them in play and reducing the time spent retrieving errant shots from your yard or driveway.
Side curtain netting typically connects seamlessly to the main backstop, providing full 360-degree ball containment and enhancing the overall efficiency of your practice sessions.
The Advantages of Portable and Pop-Up Lacrosse Backstops
For lacrosse enthusiasts seeking maximum flexibility in their home practice setup, portable and pop-up backstops offer an excellent solution. These innovative designs prioritize ease of use and versatility, allowing for quick installation and relocation as needed.
Key Features of Portable Lacrosse Backstops
- Fold into compact carrying cases for easy transport
- Utilize lightweight, foldable aluminum frames for durability and portability
- Allow for quick setup and takedown without specialized tools
- Provide flexibility to adjust placement based on sun position or shot direction
Pop-up designs take convenience a step further by employing collapsible spring or tension-rod frames that unfurl and lock into place within minutes. This design allows you to extend the poles, attach the corner joints, and clip on the backstop netting to create a fully functional rebounder goal with minimal effort.
Benefits of Choosing a Portable Backstop
- Easily move the backstop to different yard locations as needed
- Rotate directions to account for errant shots or changing sun glare
- Efficiently store the backstop during off-seasons or when not in use
- Transport the backstop to other practice locations or fields
When shopping for a portable backstop, look for models that come with heavy-duty carry bags featuring shoulder straps. This design allows you to transport the bundled net and poles as easily as you would a sports duffel bag, enhancing overall convenience and usability.
Evaluating Backstop Frame Materials and Construction
The frame of your lacrosse backstop plays a crucial role in its overall durability, stability, and ease of use. When evaluating different options, it’s essential to consider the materials used and the construction techniques employed.
Common Frame Materials
- Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for portable designs
- Steel: Offers superior strength and stability, but can be heavier
- Fiberglass: Provides flexibility and durability, often used in pop-up designs
Aluminum frames are popular for their combination of strength and lightness, making them ideal for portable backstops. Steel frames offer unparalleled stability and are often used in permanent installations or larger backstop setups. Fiberglass is gaining popularity in pop-up designs due to its flexibility and resistance to weather elements.
Construction Features to Look For
- Reinforced corners to prevent bending or breakage
- Weather-resistant coatings to protect against rust and corrosion
- Easy-to-assemble designs with snap-lock or quick-connect components
- Sturdy ground stakes or weighted bases for enhanced stability
Pay close attention to the thickness and quality of the frame tubing. Thicker walls provide better durability and resistance to bending, especially important for backstops that will see frequent use or high-impact shots.
Incorporating Rebounder Features for Enhanced Practice
To maximize the versatility of your lacrosse backstop, consider models that incorporate rebounder features. These designs not only catch errant shots but also return the ball to you, allowing for more efficient solo practice sessions.
Types of Rebounder Features
- Angled backstop designs that naturally return the ball
- Integrated rebounder panels with adjustable angles
- Separate rebounder attachments that can be added to existing backstops
Rebounder features can significantly enhance your practice routine by allowing you to work on various skills such as catching, cradling, and quick-stick techniques without the need for a practice partner.
Benefits of Rebounder-Equipped Backstops
- Improve hand-eye coordination and reaction time
- Practice a wider variety of skills in a compact space
- Increase the number of repetitions during solo practice sessions
- Simulate game-like situations with unpredictable ball returns
When choosing a backstop with rebounder features, look for models that offer adjustable angles. This flexibility allows you to practice different types of catches and throws, simulating various game scenarios.
Considering Weather Resistance and Outdoor Durability
For lacrosse enthusiasts who plan to leave their backstop set up outdoors for extended periods, weather resistance becomes a critical factor to consider. A truly durable backstop should be able to withstand various weather conditions without significant degradation.
Key Weather Resistance Features
- UV-stabilized netting to prevent sun damage and color fading
- Rust-resistant frame materials or protective coatings
- Water-resistant or quick-drying netting to prevent mold and mildew
- Wind-resistant design with sturdy anchoring systems
Look for backstops that explicitly state their weather resistance capabilities. Many high-quality options are designed to withstand years of outdoor exposure without significant wear and tear.
Tips for Extending Outdoor Durability
- Use a protective cover when the backstop is not in use
- Regularly inspect and tighten any loose components
- Clean the netting periodically to remove dirt and debris
- Consider taking down the backstop during severe weather events
By prioritizing weather resistance and following proper maintenance procedures, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your outdoor lacrosse backstop, ensuring it remains a reliable practice tool for years to come.
Balancing Cost and Quality in Your Lacrosse Backstop Investment
When selecting a lacrosse backstop for home practice, it’s crucial to strike a balance between cost and quality. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, investing in a higher-quality backstop often proves more economical in the long run.
Factors Influencing Backstop Pricing
- Materials used in netting and frame construction
- Size and coverage area of the backstop
- Additional features like rebounders or portability
- Brand reputation and warranty offerings
Higher-priced backstops typically offer superior durability, better weather resistance, and more versatile features. However, this doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to get a quality product.
Strategies for Making a Cost-Effective Purchase
- Prioritize essential features based on your specific practice needs
- Consider long-term durability over initial cost savings
- Look for sales or bundle deals that include additional accessories
- Compare warranties and after-sale support across different brands
Remember that a well-made backstop can last for many years with proper care, making it a worthwhile investment in your lacrosse skills development. By carefully weighing the features against the price, you can find a backstop that offers the best value for your specific situation.
Choosing Durable and UV-Resistant Backstop Netting
When selecting a lacrosse backstop for your home practice area, one of the most important factors to consider is the durability and UV-resistance of the netting material. Brands like PoweNet and Primed use heavy-duty polyethylene or polypropylene netting designed to withstand the impact of high-speed lacrosse shots over time. These robust backstop nets are typically made from 2mm to 3.5mm knotless netting with added UV inhibitors and stabilizers to prevent sun damage or discoloration after prolonged outdoor use.
Polyethylene and polypropylene are popular options because they retain strength and flexibility even after years of exposure to the elements. The material is abrasion-resistant, meaning it won’t fray or develop holes from regular lacrosse ball contact. Thicker netting around 2-3.5mm is ideal for withstanding high-velocity shots from all lacrosse stick types, including men’s field lacrosse sticks. In comparison, some cheaper backstop nets use a thinner 1mm netting prone to tearing.
When reading product descriptions, look for specifics on the denier rating, which indicates the fiber thickness of the netting. Higher denier netting above 350D will better handle aggressive shooting. Also, confirm that the material offers UV protection and won’t degrade or lose integrity from sun exposure over a season of play. Reputable brands test their netting to verify and guarantee UV resistance.
Investing in robust, heavy-duty netting increases the longevity of your lacrosse backstop and reduces the need for premature replacement. So be sure to examine the netting specs closely rather than opting for a generic net with questionable durability. High-quality backstop netting will pay dividends over years of regular practice and gameplay.
Selecting the Optimal Lacrosse Backstop Size
When installing a lacrosse backstop in your backyard or home practice space, choosing the right size is critical for containing shots and preventing stray balls. The standard recommended size for most home lacrosse goals is a 10×30 foot backstop net.
This 10×30 dimension provides ample coverage behind and around a typical 6×6 foot lacrosse goal. The 10-foot width allows for several feet of buffer space on each side of the goal to absorb wide shots. Meanwhile, the 30-foot length lets you take full-field length shots from up to 25 yards away without fear of missing the net.
For young players with less shooting power, a smaller 8×20 foot backstop could suffice. However, adult men’s lacrosse shots frequently exceed 80 mph, making the larger 10×30 foot size a safer bet for consistent ball containment. Elite players can even top 100 mph with overhand crank shots, meaning you need significant extra room for error.
Some backstops come in even larger 12×30 or 15×30 foot sizes to accommodate passing and shooting drills. However, for most home goals, a 10×30 foot net will fully cover the necessary space at a more affordable price point. Just make sure to position the backstop far enough away from the goal so shots have space to slow down before hitting the net.
You can also supplement a standard 10×30 foot backstop with side netting to prevent balls from escaping at sharp angles. Side nets keep the ball in play instead of constantly needing to retrieve shots in the yard or driveway. Side curtain netting typically connects to the main backstop for full 360-degree ball containment.
When purchasing any backstop, carefully examine the product images and stated dimensions to visualize the coverage area. An undersized net will undermine the purpose of a backstop and lead to backyard headaches. So do your homework to determine the optimal size before ordering.
Choosing Portable and Pop-Up Lacrosse Backstops
For maximum versatility in your home lacrosse setup, look for backstops with portable, pop-up designs that allow quick and easy installation anywhere. Portable backstops either fold up into a compact carrying case or feature lightweight foldable aluminum frames for fast transport and storage.
Pop-up designs employ collapsible spring or tension-rod frames that unfurl and lock into place within minutes. Simply extend the poles, attach the corner joints, then clip on the backstop netting to create a fully functional rebounder goal in minutes. No tools or complicated assembly required.
Portability provides flexibility to move the backstop to different yard locations as needed. You can also rotate directions to account for errant shots or sun glare during different times of day. If space is limited, portable backstops let you stow everything away in the offseason.
Look for backstops with heavy-duty carry bags with shoulder straps, so you can easily haul the bundled net and poles like a sports duffel bag. Then when you’re ready to practice again, the backstop pops up in seconds.
Mobility is especially convenient for athletes in apartments, condos or homes with minimal yard space. You can set up your portable backstop in a nearby park, schoolyard or open green space on days when you can’t practice at home.
Portable backstops are also great for team practices, camps and clinics. Coaches can transport them in vehicle cargo areas and quickly deploy them upon arrival. Tournaments and events may rent pop-up backstops for temporary goals due to their simplicity and minimal storage footprint when not in use.
Just be sure to anchor portable backstops properly once set up, as they can be prone to tipping without weights. Some feature integrated sandbags or allow you to fill the hollow base for stability. Stake kits also secure the frame when used outdoors.
Using Lacrosse Rebounders for Solo Practice
One excellent way to maximize your home lacrosse practice time is investing in a rebounder attachment for your backstop. Rebounder nets have taut bungee cords or tensioned top edges to make balls pop back toward the shooter after impact.
This let’s you sharpen your shooting and reaction time without needing a partner for passing drills. The rebounding effect simulates real game play by firing balls back at unpredictable trajectories to hone your catching and cradling skills.
Many full lacrosse backstop packages come with rebounder attachment options right in the box. Manufacturers like EZ Goal, Brine and PowerNet sell standalone rebounders as well that clip onto your existing backstop framework to upgrade its functionality.
Rebounder nets typically attach via Velcro straps or carabiner clips for quick swapping when you want to switch modes. Some backstops have reversible net panels with a solid side and rebounder side. Look for the ability to adjust bungee tension based on your skill level and desired unpredictability.
When shopping for rebounders, pay close attention to the rebound area dimensions. Wider surfaces with more bungees give you larger sweet spots for snagging wicked ricochets across different vector angles. Box shaped rebounders offer more coverage than narrow triangular designs.
Serious players looking to elevate their game invest in fully enclosed rebounders like the EZ Goal Mega Mouth that surround you with rebounding surfaces on all sides. Step inside the Mega Mouth for the ultimate solo passing and shooting experience from all directions.
With lacrosse often considered a niche sport, rebounders maximize practice efficiency when you can’t easily find team scrimmages. Don’t overlook rebounding accessories when equipping your home lacrosse setup this season.
Adding Side Netting for Ball Containment
Even the largest backstop nets can’t contain every wild shot on their own. Adding side netting helps capture stray balls that miss the backstop at sharp angles. This keeps you from constantly fetching errant shots from the surrounding yard area.
Side nets typically attach to the main backstop frame via integrated attachment loops. This creates continuous ball containment on three sides for more efficient practice. Side curtains come in heights like 4 feet up to 10 feet tall based on your property layout and probability of sideline skips.
For full 360 degree ball control, you can add side netting on both sides of the goal mouth. Some portable goals or field screens have side netting pre-attached for simplicity. Modular designs also let you purchase customizable lengths of side netting to extend coverage.
Consider adding a second layer of side netting or overlap extended panels for extra insurance in containing wicked shots. Side bounces often carry significant velocity despite missing the backstop, so robust netting is key. High denier polyethylene side netting lasts longer than basic mesh types prone to snapping.
When possible, position your backstop goal away from fencing, garages, windows or other fragile objects that could be damaged by shots penetrating the side netting at extreme velocities. Leave reasonable buffer space around the playing area just in case.
Also be mindful of obstructions that could block your retrieval of side shots during practice. Place the goal in an open area before enclosing with side nets so you have easy access to fetch balls from either side after errant attempts.
With side nets installed, you can practice shooting from wider angles with confidence and concentrate on playing rather than chasing balls all over the yard. Just make sure to account for side net installation during initial backstop placement.
Examining Lacrosse Backstop Frame Strength
An essential factor when selecting a lacrosse backstop is evaluating the strength and stability of the goal frame that holds the netting. Sturdy steel or aluminum frames withstand high-velocity shot impacts without shaking or toppling over time.
Look for backstop poles and crossbars constructed from thick-walled aluminum or steel tubing at least 1.5 inches in diameter. Smaller hollow poles may dent or bend when subjected to repeated lacrosse ball strikes. Square framing around 1.5-2 inches wide also brings added stability.
Check that corner joints utilize reinforced clamp collars or triangular gussets to eliminate structural weak points. Individual posts should insert at least 6 inches into the ground or crossbar for maximum integrity. Insufficient frame penetration compromises the entire structure.
Bungee cord tensioning helps absorb ball impacts while keeping the netting uniformly taut. Effective shock absorption prevents frame fatigue and failure over years of use. Nets attached via rope ties lack this impact cushioning effect.
Portable and pop-up backstop frames typically use lightweight aluminum for easier transport. But aluminum tubing less than 20mm diameter may not offer the same durability as heavy-duty steel under constant ball bombardment.
No backstop will last forever, but you want the frame to outlive the netting. Look for superior welds, joint reinforcement and pole diameter that reviews confirm can endure aggressive play. Then replace only the netting itself when required rather than the entire goal structure.
A flimsy, unstable backstop placed in your yard may look adequate initially, but it will undermine your practice experience once frame deformation sets in. So choose quality backstop construction that holds up over years of repetitive shock against lacrosse balls and player collisions.
Using Weather-Resistant and UV-Treated Netting
For maximum longevity when installing an outdoor lacrosse backstop, look for netting made from UV-resistant materials like polyethylene or polypropylene. UV exposure and weathering are the primary causes of premature net degradation.
Quality backstop netting contains integrated UV stabilizers that maintain the integrity and performance of the material despite years in the sun. UV radiation makes standard netting brittle and prone to tearing over time.
With UV inhibitors, the polymer netting retains proper flexibility and shock absorption even after prolonged sunlight exposure. Manufacturers simulate accelerated UV testing to confirm a net’s UV rating for a certain number of hours or years.
Marine-grade UV netting may also incorporate UV blockers to proactively absorb radiation before it damages the polymer fibers. Treating the fibers directly prevents UV damage throughout the material’s entire thickness.
Along with UV protection, weather-resistant netting incorporates coatings or treatments to repel moisture from rain or dew. This prevents sagging, stretching, and mildew growth within the netting that undermine its ball rebound properties.
Nets untreated for weathering may experience up to 15% sagging when wet compared to their taut dry state. But weatherproof backstop netting retains consistent tension regardless of precipitation or humidity.
Before buying any netting, read the product details for confirmation of UV resistance certification and weatherproof construction. Don’t settle for generic netting prone to rapid environmental degradation.
Using Backstops with Integrated Ball Scoops
A major convenience factor to consider for home lacrosse backstops is whether the product includes an integrated ball return scoop for easy retrieval after shots.
Ball scoops along the bottom of the netting allow you to simply pull balls back toward you without needing to walk around and collect them. This allows more rapid fire shooting practice compared to constantly stopping to gather loose balls.
Look for full-width ball scoops running horizontally across the entire bottom of the backstop. Narrow scoops only spanning the goal mouth leave outside shots stranded. Prioritize larger scoops further from the goal face to retrieve wide angle skipped shots.
The scoop depth also matters when corralling balls. Shallow 1-2 foot scoops are prone to balls bouncing or rolling over the top edge. Optimal scoop depth is around 3 feet to securely stop balls without spillage.
For portable pop-up goals, make sure the integrated scoop offers comparable durability to the main backstop material itself. Avoid flimsy mesh scoops on high-end polyethylene backstops.
To reduce ball return fatigue, position your backstop’s lower edge at hip level or higher. Avoid placing scoops too low to the ground. This allows you to flick balls back into play using your stick rather than bending down repeatedly.
Proper ball scoop placement also keeps you safely behind the net when retrieving shots rather than reaching blindly around the goal mouth. Safely designed backstops put the scoop in clear view behind the shooting zone.
Anchoring Portable Backstops for Stability
Portable and pop-up lacrosse backstops offer great convenience for practice flexibility. However, their lightweight designs often require separate anchoring for stability, especially when used outdoors.
Look for backstops offering integrated anchor points to attach stake kits or sandbags. Stakes driven 18-24 inches into the ground provide excellent holding power against tipping in windy conditions.
Sandbag weights also supply robust anchoring without permanent ground penetration. Fillable bases that hold up to 60 lbs of sand per pole create inertia to resist toppling forces.
For ultimate anchoring, use both stakes and sandbags in conjunction for redundancy. Attaching each pole via diagonal stake lines and perpendicular sandbags creates a secure grid.
In severe wind, consider adding temporary guy-line ties from the backstop tops to stationary objects. This counters upward wind shear that can lift lightweight aluminum frames.
Before anchoring, make sure portable backstop bases lack cracks from previous stress. Cracked plastic bases won’t hold sandbags securely. Also examine joints for loosening that allows frame racking under pressure.
When disassembling and transporting an anchored backstop, carefully extract all stakes from the ground to avoid leaving safety hazards. Use caution when extracting from root-bound or hard soils.
Proper anchoring gives you full-force shooting practice without worrying about a backstop blowing over or sliding across the yard. So utilize all available stabilization accessories to maximize your portable backstop’s wind resistance in any conditions.
Using Backyard Goals with Integrated Backstops
For a convenient all-in-one lacrosse practice solution, consider full backyard goal packages with the backstop included rather than purchasing separately.
Integrated goal and backstop combos provide a ready-to-use home setup without needing to assemble and align multiple components. The frame, netting and anchoring are all configured for seamless performance.
Look for backyard goals with a main angled backstop post that also serves as the goal center mounting point. This unified post design provides inherent stability while keeping the backstop continuously aligned as shots push the goal.
Backstops on hinged joints behind the goal can also self-adjust to compensate for goal shifts after repeated impacts. Hinged mounts maintain proper net positioning without manual realignment.
For portable all-in-one designs, make sure the bundled carrying case or duffel accommodates the full package disassembled. Separate goal and backstop bags create more awkward transport.
Combo packages may also offer discounted bundled pricing compared to buying standalone items. Shop around for value deals on pre-matched goals with anchoring, netting, and rebounders included.
The convenience factor is hard to overstate. Integrated backstops let you start shooting minutes after setting up a goal. Just make sure unified frames are appropriately reinforced to avoid structural weak points.
Comparing Top Lacrosse Backstop Brands
When selecting a lacrosse backstop, stick with reputable sporting goods brands known for quality construction and materials. Top backstop manufacturers include Brine, Franklin, EZ Goal, PowerNet and more.
Brine backstops like the excellent 10×30 model employ heavy-duty steel frames and 3.5mm polyethylene netting for superior longevity. Brine focuses on weatherproof, high-tenacity netting across its backstop line.
Franklin backstops like the removable net Hang Back offer adjustable bungee suspension for customizable rebounding. Aluminum frames keep Franklin designs lightweight for portability along with excellent UV resistance.
EZ Goal backstops emphasize quick setup and takedown via tension rod frames that fold into duffel-style carry bags. Integrated tension straps keep netting taut while allowing slight give upon ball impact.
PowerNet uses premium netting like its unique PowerNet ballistic material tested to handle up to 350mph shots. Large scoop sizes, steel frames and excellent warranties make PowerNet a top choice.
Other brands like STX, Power Alley and Bleacher Creature also produce quality backstops for all needs and budgets. Compare specs like netting type, denier rating, frame build, portability features and warranties when selecting among top brands.
While cheaper generic backstops are available, opting for an established brand better ensures you’re getting a product engineered and vetted for the rigors of hardcore lacrosse use. Don’t compromise on quality for this vital practice investment.
Choosing Backyard-Friendly Backstop Colors
Along with durability and performance, don’t overlook the aesthetic factor when selecting a lacrosse backstop for your home. Choosing backyard-friendly colors blends the goal into its surroundings.
Popular backstop color options like green, black or gray blend in with grass, fencing and landscaping better than bright white nets or bold target patterns.
Green netting resembles turf or shrubs, while still providing adequate visibility for ball tracking. Classic black nets disappear against shade trees and fenced borders. Gray balances visibility and unobtrusiveness.
Multi-tone options like forest green and black offer camouflage properties to disguise the equipment perimeter when viewed at a distance. Dual-color schemes also help balls pop against the background.
For portable goals frequently used in parks or shared spaces, brighter colors help identify your gear when left unattended. But for permanent backyard installation, subtle earth tone netting reduces visible clutter.
Be sure to check any homeowners association rules regarding sports equipment aesthetics if applicable. Some associations prohibit unattractive rear-facing equipment. Using muted colors helps gear blend into approved surroundings.
With lacrosse backstops spanning up to 30 feet wide, choosing the right color prevents an eyesore. A bit of forethought allows your new backstop to complement the yard rather than clash with it.
Reading Lacrosse Backstop Reviews and Demos
To gain insights on real-world backstop performance, take time to read customer reviews and watch product demonstration videos before purchasing.
Detailed customer reviews on sites like Amazon provide feedback on pros and cons from actual buyers after extended use. Look for common praise or complaints about aspects like durability, portability and ease of assembly.
You can also check lacrosse forums and Reddit threads for user impressions from fellow players and coaches. These offer more context than brief online reviews.
For visual demonstrations, check YouTube for official marketing videos as well as customer unboxing and setup videos. This shows the backstop installation process and highlights build quality details.
Compare multiple demo and review sources to identify trends and get a consensus on a given product’s strengths and weaknesses. Don’t rely solely on marketing claims from the manufacturer.
Reading feedback also provides clues on real-world sizing considerations, accessory recommendations (e.g. added weighting or staking), and ideal net tensioning. You can learn from others’ experience.
Player videos show field testing from in-game shooting angles as well. This confirms if the netting withstands aggressive rips and retains balls effectively after months of use.
Taking time for due diligence before buying saves frustration down the line. Don’t just default to the cheapest or flashiest backstop display image and hope for the best.
Purchasing Extra Backstop Netting for Replacements
To keep backup netting on hand for quick swaps, consider buying replacement netting panels beyond your initial backstop purchase.
Having spare netting allows you to replace just the worn out sections as needed rather than the entire backstop kit. Swapping small panels takes minutes and provides all-new ball response.
Look for replacement netting sold by the brand matching your existing backstop. This ensures an exact fit and material match without any retrofitting.
For odd backstop sizes, buy a larger stock panel and trim to size as required. It’s simpler than ordering fully custom net dimensions.
Consider keeping separate rebounder and non-rebounder spare panels for versatility. Store spares with bungee attachments ready to go for quick changeouts.
Rotate net panels seasonally to even out wear and extend total lifespan. Move fresh netting to high-traffic goal mouth zones and shift used netting to outer perimeter areas.
Have enough spares to re-net high wear areas like shooter-side center and corners that see the most ball contact. One or two panels per zone allows rotation.
Check netting after heavy use events or seasonal storage for UV damage, mildew or stretch. Re-net proactively rather than waiting for catastrophic failure.
With proper net storage and rotation, a few extra panels provide an indefinite backstop refresh option. Don’t wait until shots start ripping right through to consider replacements.
Verifying Backstop Warranty Coverage
Given the high speeds and heavy contact involved with lacrosse shots, make sure to verify warranty terms when purchasing a new backstop.
Reputable backstop brands offer warranties against defects, premature wear, damage or performance issues. This protects your investment if problems arise through no fault of your own.
Typical guarantees span 1-5 years on materials, manufacturing defects or structural failures. Netting often carries a 2-3 year warranty, while frames range 5-10 years or even lifetime.
Check what aspects are covered besides just defects. Some warranties include normal wear or weather damage, bungee replacement, vandalism and pet damage. Others specifically exclude these common issues.
Find out the claim process, turnaround time and costs. You may need to provide dated purchase proof and photos. Some companies reimburse shipping charges for sending failed parts.
For portable backstops, make sure the warranty stays valid even with frequent disassembly and transport. Warranties tied to permanent installation won’t transfer.
Don’t just assume you’ll “be careful” and never need the warranty. Unexpected damage can easily occur. And even manufacturing defects may not appear until months of use.
Having a strong warranty provides peace of mind and fair compensation if issues arise with your significant backstop investment. So scrutinize policy terms before leaving the store.
