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Best Lacrosse Gloves for Beginners Sizing Brands and Tips

Choosing the Right Fit and Size for Lacrosse Gloves

When selecting your first pair of lacrosse gloves, getting the right fit is crucial for maximizing protection and enhancing your performance on the field. Unlike baseball or golf gloves, lacrosse gloves are designed with thick padding and rigid plastic shields to protect the hands and wrists from checks, slashes, and high-velocity shots.

Consider the size of your hands and playing style when choosing lacrosse gloves. Attack players who handle the ball often may opt for a more snug fit for excellent stick feel and control. Defensemen favor a looser fit with bulkier padding to withstand hard checks. Goalies need maximum hand mobility, so glove sizing must balance protection and flexibility.

For youth players, lacrosse gloves are sized numerically by age range like 10U, 12U, 14U. U means “and under” so 10U gloves fit ages 9-10. Measure your hand size against a sizing chart and try on different brands, as some run small or large. The gloves should be cozy but not restrict finger bending. Wider gloves allow wearing elbow pads underneath.

When trying on lacrosse gloves, make a fist and check that no fingers press against the end. Ensure full wrist mobility too. The cuff and adjustable wrist straps should stabilize the gloves without limiting range of motion. Break in the gloves properly over 2-3 practices to maximize comfort. With the ideal lacrosse gloves, young athletes can develop their skills with protection and confidence.

Top Brands for Beginners – Maverik, STX, Warrior

When purchasing your first pair of lacrosse gloves, sticking with gloves from the leading brands is a good bet for getting durable, protective gear. The top brands for lacrosse equipment include Maverik, STX, and Warrior, who make gloves for every position and level of play.

Maverik is one of the game’s most well-known and trusted manufacturers. Maverik gloves fuse bold style with innovative features like their acclaimed Hypnock and SuperFabric padding. Their Rome and Command gloves offer premium protection, while the Maverik Charger is a lightweight and flexible budget option. Maverik’s sizing runs smaller, so size up for a good fit.

STX specializes in excellent lacrosse gloves for beginners. The STX Exult 600 gloves are reasonably priced with rugged silicone gripping and adjustable wrist straps for security. STX Cell 5 gloves have flexible, breathable mesh for ventilation and mobility. For goalies, STX Shield gloves have extra padding and friction strips to knock down shots.

Warrior lacrosse is synonymous with rugged and protective gear. Their Burn and Burn Pro gloves are perfect for developing players with molded foam padding and a secure fit. At the elite level, Warrior Regulator and Nemesis gloves are decked out with advanced padding for hardcore competition. Warrior’s standard and pro gloves keep hands safe through seasons of play.

Trying on gloves from Maverik, STX, and Warrior will help determine the best match. Look for secure wrist closure, molded padding covering the fingers, palms, and back of hands, and overall comfort. With sturdy, supportive gloves from the top brands, young athletes will build skills and confidence on the lacrosse field.

Youth Sizing Guide – Ages 10-14

Finding the right size lacrosse gloves is especially important for young athletes ages 10-14 who are developing their skills. Youth lacrosse gloves are sized numerically based on age guidelines, but hand size, brand fit, and playing position must also be considered when selecting gloves.

For children around 10 years old, size 10U or 12U gloves are ideal. At age 11 or 12, move up to 12U or 14U glove sizes. By ages 13-14, teen athletes should be sized for 14U gloves. However, these are just general recommendations and the ideal fit depends on several factors.

Measure hand size against a sizing chart and compare to brand fit, as some gloves run small or large. Trying on different brands is helpful. For attack players, a snugger fit optimizes stick handling, while bulkier padding suits defenders. Goalies need gloves that won’t restrict hand movement.

Consider the youth player’s position and needs. Attack may want lightweight gloves for quick passing and shooting. Middies who play both offense and defense benefit from balanced protection and mobility. Defensemen should look for maximum padding on the fingers, knuckles and back of hand while retaining flexibility.

It’s smart to purchase lacrosse gloves a little large to allow room for hand growth. Guards can be added to tighten loose gloves. Breaking in gloves properly over 2-3 practices helps maximize comfort and function. With safety and performance in mind, selecting the right youth size lacrosse gloves will give young players confidence in their growing skills.

Women’s Lacrosse Gloves Guide

For female athletes looking to maximize safety and performance, women’s lacrosse gloves are specially designed with the female player’s needs in mind. While the game’s rules and objectives are similar, men’s and women’s lacrosse equipment differs significantly to align with gender-specific requirements.

Women’s lacrosse gloves offer a more precise fit catered to the average female hand size. Narrower gloves enhance ball control and stick handling for quicker passing and shooting. The cuffs and adjustable wrist straps are proportioned to stabilize smaller wrists without restricting mobility.

Padding in women’s gloves focuses protection on the most vulnerable areas. Added foam and plastic on the fingers, knuckles, palms and back of hand defends against checks, slashes and errant shots. Ventilated lightweight mesh promotes cool comfort during intense play.

Top brands designing women’s lacrosse gloves include Maverik, STX, Brine and Nike. Maverik Rome and Memory gloves offer elite female players advanced padding technology in a contoured women’s fit. STX Exult 300 gloves combine rugged protection with breathable flexibility at an affordable price point. goalies

When purchasing women’s lacrosse gloves, consult a sizing chart and ensure a snug fit in the fingers and stability around the wrist. Proper sizing, wrist security and strategic padding give female players the confidence to develop skills and mount competitive play against opponents.

Lacrosse Gloves for Attack, Middie, Defense

In the fast-paced sport of lacrosse, different positions require equipment tailored to their specialized role. Lacrosse gloves are designed specifically with the needs of attack, middie, and defense players in mind to enhance performance at each position.

For attack players, lacrosse gloves emphasize maximum dexterity for swift handling and passing. Lightweight padding and breathable mesh provide protection without sacrificing touch and feel. A snugger fit maximizes control, and sticks can be easily switched between hands.

Middie gloves strike a balance as players transition between offense and defense. Moderate padding on the fingers, back of hand, and around the wrists fends off checks and slashes. Ventilation keeps hands cool during intense activity at both ends of the field.

Defensemen opt for the most rugged lacrosse gloves to withstand opposing attacks. Bulkier foam and plastic shields heavily reinforce the fingers, knuckles, palms and back of the hands for hard hits. Wrists are stabilized to prevent hyperextension when poking away shots.

For goalies, specialized gloves offer reinforced shields on the palms, fingers, and wrists. High-friction grip improves stick handling, and ventilation keeps hands dry. Finger saves are easier without excess bulkiness restricting dexterity and mobility.

Trying on position-specific gloves helps determine the ideal balance of mobility and protection. A proper fit should stabilize wrists without limiting range of motion. With gloves tailored to their role, players gain the right blend of touch and toughness to excel at attack, midfield or defense.

Features to Look For – Protection and Flexibility

When selecting lacrosse gloves, key features to evaluate include the padding materials for protection and the materials that promote flexibility. Finding the right blend of sturdy shielding and dexterous mobility enhances performance and safety.

For padding materials, molded foam, plastic shields, and reinforced rubber provide impact absorption from checks, slashes, and high-velocity shots. Foam padding on the back of fingers, knuckles, palms and back of hand cushions blows. Plastic shields reinforce vulnerable areas.

Breathable mesh promotes ventilation to keep hands cool and dry during intense play. Flexible Lycra gussets between the fingers stretch to allow full range of motion for catching, cradling and accurate passing. Neoprene wrist cuffs stabilize without restricting mobility.

Top lacrosse gloves brands utilize advanced padding technology like Maverik’s D3O and SuperFabric materials. STX uses rugged injected and molded foam for protection. Warrior reinforces gloves with high-density EVA and PE foams.

By trying on gloves and flexing fingers, rotating wrists, and handling a stick, players can evaluate the dexterity. Proper sizing for a snug fit optimizes control and response. Padding should guard against impact while allowing free natural movement.

With the right blend of sturdy protection from checks and slashes plus flexible mobility to handle the ball, lacrosse gloves become an extension of the athlete’s hands for confident play. Focusing on key features keeps athletes protected and competitive.

Most Protective Glove Options

In the rough and tumble sport of lacrosse, protective gloves are essential for shielding hands and wrists from harm. Several leading lacrosse glove models provide maximum impact protection for athletes seeking the most rugged and durable options.

The Maverik Rome gloves offer one of the most protective lacrosse gloves. Features like D3O and SuperFabric padding absorb heavy blows from all angles. Abrasion-resistant materials withstand wear and tear over seasons of aggressive play. The adjustable cuffs stabilize wrists.

Warrior Regulator gloves provide hardcore protection with injected high-density foam padding reinforced with plastic shields to defend against vicious slashes. These elite gloves allow Division I college and pro players to be aggressive defenders. Goalies rely on them too.

STX Shield lacrosse gloves equip goalies to block blistering 100+ mph shots. Advanced foam blocks absorb impact along with molded plastic shields. High friction grip improves ball control, and breathable mesh keeps hands cool and flexible for quick reflex saves.

For female players, STX Exult 600 gloves have extra padding in the fingers and back of hand specifically designed for women. Slimmer cuffs with injected rubber wrap securely around smaller wrists. Youth athletes gain confidence with STX Cell 5 protective gloves.

Trying on different gloves and flexing hands provides a feel for mobility versus protection. While no gloves prevent all injury, advancements in materials and design allow players to contend aggressively with less risk. Maximum shielding gives athletes the confidence to play tough.

Best Budget-Friendly Lacrosse Gloves

In an equipment-intensive sport like lacrosse, keeping down costs for items like gloves is key, especially for younger players. Luckily several brands offer budget-friendly gloves with good protection and quality construction without the premium price tag.

Maverik Charger gloves provide an excellent value for developing players. They forego some of the high-end padding technology for more affordable rugged foam protection. Breathable mesh promotes ventilation during hot contests, and the fit is designed for easy sizing.

STX Exult 200 gloves are reasonably priced for beginners but don’t skimp on quality materials. Injected rubber wraps securely around the wrist while molded foam protects the fingers and back of hand. Youth players can get the Exult 300 model for added protection.

For goalies, Maverik Rome and STX Shield gloves both offer budget models. The Maverik Rome Goalie glove uses high-density foam with plastic shield reinforcements, an essential combination for knocking down shots. STX Youth Shield gloves resize the elite adult design for aspiring young goalies.

Shopping end-of-season sales is a great way to score lacrosse glove deals. Trying on different budget gloves to compare fit, comfort, and dexterity is recommended. While less costly, well-made gloves still allow developing athletes to hone skills without sacrificing safety.

With some savvy shopping, players can find affordable lacrosse gloves with adequate padding, quality construction, and customizable fit. Budget-friendly gloves ensure cost doesn’t prohibit young players from progressing on the field.

Customizing Lacrosse Gloves – Colors and Patterns

Beyond fit and function, one of the exciting parts of purchasing new lacrosse gloves is customizing the colors and patterns to reflect your personal style. Most brands offer a wide range of options to creatively design your gloves.

Popular customization choices include team colors and mascot designs. Show your spirit lacing up gloves in your high school or college colors, along with logos like paw prints, wildcats, rams or knights. Display your hometown pride with city skylines or area codes.

Many players go for a two-tone look pairing the main glove color with a different color palm. Combinations like navy with red palms, black with neon green palms, or white with grey palms make your gloves pop. Accent colors on the cuffs or knuckles add more flair.

Some companies allow full custom glove design by uploading photos and graphics like a family crest or meaningful symbols. Others offer unique all-over patterned gloves sporting camo, stars, stripes, or swirls. Pink gear for breast cancer awareness is popular.

Be creative and express your personality through one-of-a-kind glove aesthetics. However, also make sure to try on customized gloves, as the ideal fit outweighs flashy style. With the performance of quality gloves and customized details, your equipment will be as unique as your game.

Where to Buy Lacrosse Gloves In Stores and Online

Lacrosse gloves can be purchased both in brick-and-mortar retail stores as well as online through specialty lacrosse sites and major sporting goods websites. Trying on gloves in person is ideal, but online shopping provides convenience and selection.

Major sporting goods chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sports Authority, and Modell’s carry a decent lacrosse glove selection in stores from brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior. Staff may be able to advise on fit, and trying on gloves allows testing for mobility and comfort.

Specialty lacrosse retailers like Lax World and Lacrosse Monkey offer the largest glove selection online and often have physical store locations. Their online sizing guides and reviews assist buyers. Lax.com is another trusted online lacrosse destination with every glove imaginable.

The websites of glove manufacturers like Warrior, STX, and Maverik feature their full catalog of gloves. These sites provide helpful sizing charts and product details. Amazon stocks many lacrosse gloves with purchasing protection through trusted third-party sellers.

Comparing options both in stores and online allows players to locate their dream gloves with the perfect fit, features and style. Budget-conscious shoppers can filter selections by price-point. With some diligent research, you’re sure to track down your ideal pair.

Taking Care of Your Lacrosse Gloves

Investing in quality lacrosse gloves represents a significant equipment expenditure. Properly maintaining gloves extends their life so athletes get the most out of their investment. Some simple habits promote longevity.

Storing gloves properly is key. Keep them in a ventilated area out of direct sunlight to prevent the palm latex and padding materials from drying out and cracking. Avoid leaving gloves crammed in a hot, damp gym bag. Finger stalls help gloves hold their shape.

Check gloves regularly for wear and tear. Reapply sticky substances like tacky spray if gloves lose grip. Superglue small rips in the palm or mesh, and duct tape bigger holes as a temporary fix. Repair or replace gloves with damaged or loosened padding.

Machine wash gloves periodically using cold water and mild detergent. Remove solid dirt first by hand cleaning. Air dry gloves fully stretched over a ball or glove form to prevent shrinkage. Condition leather palms with glove oil to prevent stiffening.

Before games, keep gloves safe on the sidelines rather than on the scorching turf. Rotate between two pairs of gloves over the season, allowing each to fully dry between uses. With some diligent care, high-performance lacrosse gloves deliver seasons of rugged play.

By storing, inspecting, washing, and maintaining lacrosse gloves properly, athletes benefit from extended use. Investing in top-notch gloves means less replacing, so care goes a long way toward saving money and enjoying durable performance.

Breaking in New Lacrosse Gloves

Brand new lacrosse gloves often feel stiff and restrictive until properly broken in. Taking the time to correctly break in gloves helps maximize comfort, flexibility, and responsiveness on the field.

Start by thoroughly hand flexing gloves before hitting the field, bending each finger and rotating the wrists to loosen up materials. Apply conditioner to the leather palms to soften them up.

During the first few practices, reapply conditioner and continually work the gloves by squeezing the ball, scooping ground balls, and passing. The padding needs compressing and shaping to the athlete’s hands.

To quicken break-in, apply shaving cream inside gloves before practices and rub around hands to condition palm leather and padding. The ammonia helps soften materials. Rinse thoroughly after.

For especially stiff gloves, wearing them around the house under chore gloves accelerates forming to your hands. The outer glove insulation heats up the inner glove.

While impatience makes breaking in gloves challenging, resist the temptation to over-bend fingers or soak palms excessively. Damaging the gloves permanently ruins support and protection.

Allow about 2-3 full practices of continual wear for full glove break-in. Properly shaped to players’ hands, lacrosse gloves become like a second skin, ready to handle the roughest play.

Important Accessories – Arm Pads and Elbow Pads

Quality lacrosse gloves provide hand and wrist protection, but arm pads and elbow pads are also essential gear for shielding players from harm. Combining gloves with arm and elbow guards creates comprehensive protection.

Arm pads use lightweight, breathable material to cover the forearm area below the elbow and above the gloves. Foam or plastic guards on the outside shield from checks and slashes. Interior grip keeps pads from sliding.

Elbow pads focus dense foam or molded plastic on the point of the elbow for impact absorption. An adjustable strap and compression sleeve secure the pad. Some gloves integrate elbow padding for streamlining.

For field players, arm and elbow pads work together to allow aggressive checks and contact without injury. Goalies need flexibility for rapid reaction saves, so slim arm guards work best. Female athletes may opt for softball elbow guards for slimmer protection.

Trying on lacrosse gloves with arm and elbow guards ensures everything fits and moves properly in unity. Shoot and pass to test mobility. Look for ventilation and moisture-wicking materials to avoid overheating.

With gloves, arms, and elbows all shielded from checks, passes, and wild shots, young athletes can develop skills with confidence. Purchasing quality accessories along with gloves provides comprehensive coverage.

Tips for Maximizing Glove Performance

Getting the most out of your lacrosse gloves involves selecting the right pair and optimizing fit and function. Keep these performance tips in mind to boost glove response and longevity.

Choose gloves specialized for your position like extra protection for defenders or maximum dexterity for attackers. Get professionally fitted at a store and size up if between sizes for growing room.

Break gloves in properly over 2-3 practices using conditioner and continual wear. Don’t over-bend fingers trying to rush the process. Use accessories like sticky spray for optimal grip.

Check padding regularly for cracks or compression and repad worn spots. Repair small holes immediately before they expand. Machine wash gloves periodically using cold gentle cycles.

Rotate between two pairs of gloves each season, allowing them to fully air dry between uses to prevent mildew. Store gloves properly away from direct heat or sunlight when not playing.

Re-adjust Velcro wrist closures during games to maintain a secure fit as gloves loosen with activity. Keep gloves safe on the sidelines and away from extreme heat.

With attentive care and maintenance, high-end lacrosse gloves provide seasons of reliable performance. Taking steps to optimize fit, function and durability gives players an equipment edge.