What are the top Nike Vapor lacrosse glove models for 2023. How do the key features of Nike Vapor gloves enhance player performance. Which Nike Vapor glove is best for different playing positions. How does the construction of Nike Vapor gloves improve comfort and durability.

Nike Vapor Lacrosse Glove Models: A Comprehensive Overview

Nike offers a diverse range of Vapor lacrosse gloves, each designed to cater to specific player needs and positions. Let’s explore the most popular models:

• Vapor Jet: Engineered for speed and agility
• Vapor Carbon: Featuring advanced carbon fiber padding
• Vapor Power: Provides enhanced protection
• Vapor Select: An affordable entry-level option
• Vapor Pro: Premium elite model
• Vapor 14: Latest iteration with seamless one-piece upper design

These gloves come in sizes ranging from XS to XXL, ensuring a perfect fit for various hand shapes and sizes. Nike also offers specialized gloves for dominant and non-dominant hands, with the ambidextrous Vapor Jet being a popular choice for players seeking lightweight gloves with exceptional stick feel.

Innovative Features That Set Nike Vapor Gloves Apart

Nike Vapor gloves incorporate cutting-edge features that elevate player performance on the lacrosse field. Here are some standout characteristics:

• Flex grooves for optimal flexibility and stick control
• 4-way stretch mesh for maximum ventilation
• Carbon fiber shield for lightweight protection
• Tackified palm for excellent grip in all weather conditions
• Pre-curved fingers for reduced break-in time
• Dri-FIT liner for moisture management
• Reinforced thumb for enhanced durability
• Vented cuffs for improved airflow
• Lycratalon closure for a secure, custom fit

How do these features translate to on-field performance? The combination of flex grooves and pre-curved fingers allows for superior stick control and ball handling. The 4-way stretch mesh and vented cuffs work in tandem to keep hands cool and dry, even during intense gameplay. The carbon fiber shield provides crucial protection without adding unnecessary weight, while the tackified palm ensures a firm grip on the stick in any weather condition.

Upper Material and Construction: The Nike Vapor Advantage

The upper material and construction of Nike Vapor gloves are meticulously engineered to deliver optimal performance. Key elements include:

• 4-way stretch mesh for flexibility and ventilation
• Lycratalon for responsive grip
• Tackified palm for superior stick control
• Pre-contoured shape for reduced break-in time
• Seamless one-piece upper to minimize irritation
• Reinforced thumb for extended glove life
• Vented cuffs for improved breathability

Nike employs advanced production techniques such as pressure bonding and laser welding to assemble the Vapor glove uppers. These methods result in enhanced durability, seamless interfaces, and strong waterproof sealed seams. The one-piece 4-way stretch mesh upper is a standout feature, setting Vapor gloves apart from competitors by offering unparalleled flexibility and ventilation.

Choosing the Right Nike Vapor Glove for Your Position

Different lacrosse positions require varying levels of protection and mobility. Nike has designed Vapor gloves to cater to these specific needs:

Attackmen and Midfielders

The Vapor Jet and Vapor Carbon models are ideal for attackmen and midfielders. These gloves prioritize lightweight construction and maximum flexibility, allowing for quick stick movements and precise ball control. The carbon fiber padding in the Vapor Carbon provides added protection without compromising mobility.

Defensemen

Defensemen benefit from the added protection offered by the Vapor Power gloves. These gloves feature enhanced padding to withstand the rigors of defensive play while maintaining the flexibility needed for stick checks and ground ball pickups.

Goalies

Goalies require a balance of protection and stick feel. The Vapor Power or Vapor Pro models are suitable options, offering ample padding for shot blocking while maintaining the dexterity needed for clearing passes and outlet throws.

The Evolution of Nike Vapor Lacrosse Gloves

Nike’s commitment to innovation is evident in the continuous evolution of their Vapor lacrosse gloves. How have these gloves improved over the years?

• Enhanced ventilation systems for better temperature regulation
• Improved flexibility through strategic placement of flex zones
• Advanced materials for increased durability and reduced weight
• Refined fit options to accommodate a wider range of hand sizes and shapes
• Integration of player feedback for performance-driven updates

The latest Vapor 14 model showcases Nike’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of lacrosse glove design. Its seamless one-piece upper represents a significant advancement in comfort and durability, setting a new standard in the industry.

Maintaining Your Nike Vapor Lacrosse Gloves

Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your Nike Vapor lacrosse gloves and ensuring optimal performance. Here are some essential care tips:

1. Air dry gloves after each use to prevent odor and material breakdown
2. Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris from the palm and upper material
3. Avoid machine washing, as it can damage the gloves’ structure and materials
4. Apply a leather conditioner to the palm area periodically to maintain grip and prevent cracking
5. Store gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use

By following these maintenance practices, you can ensure that your Nike Vapor gloves continue to perform at their best throughout multiple seasons of play.

Comparing Nike Vapor Gloves to Other Brands

How do Nike Vapor gloves stack up against competing brands in the lacrosse market? While personal preference plays a significant role in glove selection, Nike Vapor gloves offer several advantages:

• Innovative materials like the 4-way stretch mesh for superior ventilation
• Advanced protection features such as the carbon fiber shield
• Ergonomic design for enhanced comfort and reduced break-in time
• Diverse range of models catering to different playing styles and positions
• Continuous innovation driven by feedback from elite players

When compared to other leading brands, Nike Vapor gloves consistently rank among the top choices for players at all levels, from youth to professional. Their combination of performance-enhancing features, durability, and comfort make them a standout option in the competitive lacrosse equipment market.

Investing in Nike Vapor Lacrosse Gloves: Cost vs. Value

Nike Vapor lacrosse gloves represent a significant investment in your equipment. How do you balance cost with value when considering these gloves?

Entry-Level Options

The Vapor Select model offers an affordable entry point into the Nike Vapor line. While it may lack some of the advanced features of higher-end models, it still provides solid performance and durability for recreational players or those new to the sport.

Mid-Range Choices

The Vapor Jet and Vapor Carbon models strike a balance between performance and affordability. These gloves incorporate many of Nike’s innovative features and are suitable for serious players looking to enhance their game without breaking the bank.

Premium Investments

The Vapor Pro and Vapor 14 models represent the pinnacle of Nike’s lacrosse glove technology. While they come with a higher price tag, these gloves offer unparalleled performance, comfort, and durability. For elite players or those competing at high levels, the investment in these top-tier gloves can translate to improved on-field performance and long-term value.

When evaluating the cost of Nike Vapor gloves, consider factors such as your level of play, frequency of use, and specific position requirements. While the initial investment may be higher compared to some other brands, the durability and performance benefits of Nike Vapor gloves often result in greater long-term value for serious players.

Vapor Glove Versions and Models

Nike offers the Vapor glove in multiple versions and models to cater to different player positions and preferences. Some of the most popular Vapor glove models include:

• Vapor Jet – Designed for speed and quickness, features a lightweight 4-way stretch mesh for maximum breathability.
• Vapor Carbon – Uses advanced carbon fiber padding for lightweight protection, ideal for attackmen and middies.
• Vapor Power – Provides a bit more padding for added protection, great for defensemen and goalies.
• Vapor Select – An entry-level and affordable Vapor option but still offers decent performance.
• Vapor Pro – Top-of-the-line elite model constructed with premium materials for optimal feel and durability.
• Vapor 14 – The latest Vapor iteration launched in 2020 with upgraded seamless one-piece upper design.

Within each Vapor glove model, Nike offers sizes ranging from XS to XXL to fit various hand shapes and sizes. They also have specialized gloves designed for the dominant and non-dominant hands. The ambidextrous Vapor Jet gloves are a popular choice for players who want a lightweight glove with exceptional feel for stick work and cradling.

Over the years, Nike has continued to innovate and enhance the Vapor lacrosse gloves with newer versions that push the boundaries of fit, feel, ventilation, protection and durability. They utilize insights from elite players to create gloves that give players the necessary tools to perform at the highest levels.

Key Features of Nike Vapor Gloves

Nike Vapor gloves stand out for their innovative features that enhance performance on the lacrosse field. Here are some of the key features that make Vapor gloves a top choice among elite players:

• Flex grooves – Strategically placed grooves on the fingers and palm provide optimal flexibility and stick feel for superior ball control.
• 4-way stretch mesh – Lightweight breathable mesh material offers maximum ventilation to keep hands cool and dry.
• Carbon fiber shield – Thin carbon fiber acts as extra lightweight protection on the back of the hand against checks.
• Tackified palm – The unique grippy palm material gives players excellent stick control in all weather conditions.
• Pre-curved fingers – Fingers are pre-shaped in a curved position to match the natural grip shape around the stick for less break-in time.
• Dri-FIT liner – Absorbs sweat and dries quickly to keep hands comfortable even in hot and humid conditions.
• Reinforced thumb – Extra durable material reinforces the thumb crotch area which endures a lot of wear and tear during play.
• Vented cuffs – Mesh venting zones on the wrists allow more air flow to keep hands cooler.
• Lycratalon closure – Provides a secure custom fit around the wrist and allows for easy glove removal between possessions.

Nike utilizes the latest technological innovations and high-performance materials to engineer Vapor gloves that give lacrosse players the competitive edge they need. The 4-way stretch mesh, for example, is a proprietary Nike material that took years to develop and refine before implementing it into the Vapor gloves. It underwent rigorous testing to ensure maximum breathability, flexibility and durability on the field.

By gathering constant feedback from professional lacrosse players at all levels, Nike is able to tweak and enhance the Vapor gloves to better meet the evolving needs of the sport. The Vapor gloves offer the ideal blend of fit, feel, ventilation, protection and durability that elite players demand from their equipment.

Upper Material and Construction of Nike Vapor Gloves

The unique upper material and construction of Nike Vapor gloves are engineered to provide the ideal blend of flexibility, ventilation, and durability that elite players require.

• 4-way stretch mesh – This ultra-breathable and flexible material makes up the back of the hand and fingers to allow maximum airflow and mobility.
• Lycratalon – Spandex-like material used on the palm and thumb for optimal feel and responsive grip.
• Tackified palm – Provides excellent stick control even in wet conditions thanks to the grippy palm coating.
• Pre-contoured shape – Follows the natural closed fist shape of the hand to reduce break-in time.
• Seamless one-piece upper – Eliminates abrasive seams on the inside of the hand for reduced irritation and hot spots.
• Reinforced thumb – Durable material reinforced in high wear areas for extended glove life.
• Vented cuffs – Allow breathability and moisture wicking at the wrists to keep hands cooler and drier.

Nike uses cutting-edge production techniques like pressure bonding and laser welding to assemble the Vapor glove uppers for enhanced durability. Pressure bonding fuses materials together for a seamless interface while laser welding provides strong waterproof sealed seams.

The one-piece 4-way stretch mesh upper truly sets the Vapor gloves apart from competitors. Nike utilizes specialized knitting machines to engineer the mesh material with optimal breathability, conforming stretch, and strength right into the structure rather than relying on excessive stitching and seams.

Nike partnered with an Italian fabric engineering company to develop the 4-way stretch mesh exclusive to the Vapor gloves. They spent years researching and testing various technical fabrics before landing on the final material used in the Vapor gloves today. The end result is a glove that feels like a second skin with minimal bulk for unmatched feel and dexterity when handling a lacrosse stick.

Palm Design and Padding of Nike Vapor Gloves

The unique palm design and strategic padding placements are key features that make the Nike Vapor gloves stand out from the competition.

• Tackified palm – Provides exceptional grip and stick control even in wet conditions thanks to the grippy palm coating.
• Pre-curved palm – Follows the natural closed fist shape to reduce break-in time.
• No inner seams – Seamless interior palm eliminates irritation and hot spots.
• Venting – Mesh venting zones allow breathability to keep hands drier.
• Carbon fiber shield – Thin lightweight carbon fiber padding on back of hand for protection.
• Finger padding – Multi-layer foam and shield padding system over fingertips.
• Cushioned wrist – Foam padded wrists prevent lace bite and boost comfort.

Nike optimized the palm design for maximum feel and control by eliminating inner seams and unnecessary padding bulk. The pre-curved shape mirrors the natural grip position of the hand for immediate comfort right out of the box.

Vapor gloves utilize strategically placed padding in high impact zones for protection without restricting mobility. The carbon fiber shield on the back of the hand offers lightweight deflection against checks while the multi-layer finger padding system absorbs impacts to the fingertips during play.

Through extensive research and testing, Nike identified the hand zones that needed the most padding for protection and areas where padding needed to be minimized for optimal feel. Years of design iterations and pro player feedback led to the optimized palm and padding configuration found in the Vapor gloves today.

By finding the sweet spot between maximizing dexterity and feel while still providing crucial padding in the right zones, Nike was able to engineer a glove palm that offers elite-level control and touch for handling the stick while also absorbing impacts during intense game play at all levels.

The end result is a lightweight and breathable glove that moves seamlessly with the player’s hands while providing tailored padding zones to protect against routine impact and abrasion on the lacrosse field.

Traction and Grip Performance of Nike Vapor Gloves

Delivering exceptional traction and grip was a key design focus for Nike when engineering the Vapor lacrosse gloves. The gloves utilize several innovative features to provide elite-level stick control and ball handling ability in all field conditions.

• Tackified palm – Proprietary grippy palm coating enables excellent stick control even in wet weather.
• Pre-curved palm – Anatomical shaping matches natural grip position of the hand.
• No inner seams – Eliminates abrasive palm seams that can hinder grip.
• Lycratalon palm – Provides a supple yet responsive grip interface.
• Flex grooves – Strategic grooves on fingers and palm boost flexibility for optimal feel.

The tackified palm coating gives the Vapor glove class-leading grip ability right out of the box. Nike spent years chemically formulating, testing and refining the tacky palm surface to create the optimal balance of stick traction and durability.

Pre-shaping the palm to match the natural closed-grip position of the hand further enhances the glove’s ergonomic traction performance. This anatomical design allows players to instantly grip the stick with maximum control without a long break-in period.

Nike also innovated the Lycratalon palm material exclusive to the Vapor glove line. The soft Lycratalon provides supple yet responsive traction that players can truly feel through the glove for pinpoint ball handling finesse.

By eliminating inner palm seams and implementing strategic flex grooves, Nike created a Vapor glove palm surface that can contour seamlessly around the stick handle without impairing grip efficiency for players. This optimizes contact across the entire palm for superior traction and control.

The end result is a lacrosse glove that delivers best-in-class grip performance right off the shelf while maintaining long term durability through extensive use, allowing players to improve ball handling skills, cradling, and shot accuracy during play.

Ventilation and Breathability of Nike Vapor Gloves

Keeping players’ hands cool and dry was a major design priority for Nike when developing the Vapor lacrosse gloves. They utilized several innovative features to optimize airflow and moisture wicking.

• 4-way stretch mesh – Ultra-breathable lightweight material across the back of hand.
• Laser perforations – Small perforated ventilation holes across palm and fingers.
• Mesh gussets – Increased airflow and flexibility between fingers.
• Vented cuffs – Allow air circulation around wrists to reduce heat buildup.
• Dri-FIT liner – Wicks moisture away from skin to keep hands drier.

The 4-way stretch mesh material used on the back of the gloves provides unmatched breathability compared to traditional glove materials. Nike spent years perfecting the lightweight mesh for maximized airflow without compromising durability.

Strategic laser perforations across the palms and fingers boost ventilation and evaporation. During intense play as hands sweat, this moisture can evaporate through the tiny perforations to keep hands feeling cooler and drier overtime.

Mesh gussets between the fingers allow more airflow circulation to reach the inner hand surfaces. This is a sweat prone area, so increased ventilation helps moderate hand temperature better.

Vented Lycra cuffs wick moisture from the wrists while allowing air exchange around the inner wrist joint for improved comfort. The ultra-breathable liner material also helps draw sweat off the skin surface.

By implementing these advanced ventilation features, Nike was able to engineer exceptional breathability into the Vapor glove design without restricting flexibility or compromising durability. The end result is a lacrosse glove that keeps elite players’ hands cooler, drier and more comfortable even during intense summer game play.

Weight and Protection Level of Nike Vapor Gloves

Nike engineered the Vapor gloves to deliver an optimized blend of lightweight performance and strategic protective padding.

• 4-way stretch mesh – Ultra-lightweight and breathable back of hand material.
• Lycratalon palm – Provides responsive grip at a light weight.Carbon fiber shield – Thin and light but adds protection across back of hand.
• Foam finger padding – Multi-layer padding system absorbs impacts while minimizing bulk.
• Low-profile design – Contoured shape hugs the hands with no excess materials.

By utilizing advanced lightweight materials like the 4-way stretch mesh, Lycratalon palm, and thin carbon shield, Nike was able to engineer a supremely lightweight lacrosse glove with pro-level durability.

The Vapor glove weighs in at just 110-120 grams on average depending on size. For comparison, many traditional lacrosse gloves weigh 140 grams or more. This reduced weight provides players a more natural feel and mobility during play.

Despite the lightweight design, Vapor gloves still provide ample protective padding coverage thanks to the strategically placed foam and shielding. The carbon fiber shield on the back of the hand boosts impact protection while adding negligible weight.

By tailoring the glove contours precisely to the hand and eliminating excess materials, Nike minimized weight while maintaining a pro-level protective solution. Less weight translates into quicker hand speeds and reaction times for players on the field.

After extensive player testing and feedback, Nike found the ideal balance between glove ventilation, dexterity, protection and mass. This enabled them to develop the lightest lacrosse glove in the game without compromising coverage for hard-hitting pro-level play.

Durability and Longevity of Nike Vapor Gloves

Delivering maximum durability was a key design goal for Nike with the Vapor lacrosse gloves. They are engineered to withstand intense gameplay while maintaining elite performance.

• 4-way stretch mesh – Durable synthetic material resists ripping or tearing over time.
• Reinforced palm – Added material layers in high wear zones extend glove life.
• Reinforced thumb – Extra material around thumb joint prevents premature wear and tear.
• Tackified palm – Grip coating maintains stick traction even after months of play.
• Welded seams – Sealed and bonded seams prevent ripping and enhance structural integrity.

The 4-way stretch mesh that Nike engineered for the glove back underwent extensive strength and endurance testing during development. The final material proved extremely resistant to tearing or abrasion damage from checks and routine gameplay.

Critical palm zones are reinforced with additional Lycratalon or synthetic leather layers to protect against premature wearing. The thumb crotch area in particular includes heavy-duty material to prevent ripping.

Nike’s advanced construction techniques like RF welding and seam sealing create a incredibly strong glove structure able to withstand hardcore game action. This enhances longevity compared to traditional stitched seams.

The tacky grip coating on the palms maintains its traction over hundreds of hours of use, rather than wearing smooth prematurely. This consistent grip performance further extends a glove’s useful life.

By testing prototype gloves under intense playing conditions with pro athletes, Nike refined the Vapor glove durability to meet the demands of competitive lacrosse. The end result is a remarkably durable glove built to deliver season after season.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Nike Vapor Gloves

Properly caring for your Nike Vapor gloves will help maximize their performance and extend their usable lifespan. Here are some key care and maintenance tips:

• Hand wash only – Use a small amount of mild detergent and cool water. Don’t machine wash.
• Air dry only – Lay flat or hang to dry. Don’t machine dry, which can damage materials.
• Pre-shape palms – Mold palms to grip shape while drying to maintain form.
• Spot clean – Use a soft damp brush or sponge with mild detergent to spot treat heavy stains.
• Storage – Keep gloves in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use.
• Inspect regularly – Check for excessive wear, tears or damage after each use.

Hand washing the gloves regularly using gentle detergent helps remove built up dirt, sweat and grime that can degrade materials over time. Make sure to fully rinse off all soap residue after washing.

Air drying is crucial to prevent heat damage from machine drying. Reshape palms while drying to maintain the pre-curved gripping form. Hang drying with palms curved around a stick handle can help hold the grip shape.

Spot treat any stubborn stains on the palms or mesh by gently scrubbing with a soft damp brush or sponge and mild detergent. Don’t use aggressive scrubbing.

Storing gloves properly when not in use will help maximize lifespan. Keep away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and moisture. Consider placing some cedar blocks in storage bags or boxes to help wick moisture and prevent mildew odors.

Inspecting for wear after each use and repairing small tears immediately can prevent bigger problems down the road. Replace extremely damaged gloves rather than risk hand injury.

Pros and Cons of Nike Vapor Gloves

Nike Vapor gloves have many excellent performance features but there are also some drawbacks to consider.

Pros:

• Ultra lightweight and breathable
• Excellent flexibility and dexterity
• Grippy tackified palm for superior control
• Strategic padding in impact zones
• Minimal break-in time
• Durable construction withstands hardcore gameplay
• High quality and performance at lower cost than some competitors

Cons:

• Sizing can run small
• Less padding than bulkier lacrosse glove options
• Mesh durability not as robust as solid materials
• Reduced wrist support compared to stiff cuff designs
• Not ideal for extremely cold or wet playing conditions

The super lightweight feel and maximum ventilation make Vapor gloves stand out from traditional heavier options. The tacky grip also provides elite-level control.

However, the lightweight design means less padding than some gloves. And the mesh, though durable, is more prone to tears than solid materials. Cold or rainy conditions can compromise ventilation and grip advantages.

For most players, the enhanced dexterity and minimal break-in time outweigh the durability tradeoff. But players wanting maximum protection may prefer bulkier glove options.

Ultimately Vapor gloves deliver an optimized blend of control, breathability and protection. Their combination of features and affordable price point make them a top performing and popular option among lacrosse players of all levels.

Buying Advice and Recommendations for Nike Vapor Gloves

Here are some key tips and advice for selecting the right Nike Vapor lacrosse gloves to match your needs and budget:

• Consider your position – Attackmen may prefer ultra-light Vapor Jet gloves while defenders need more protective padding like the Vapor Power.
• Determine fit – Try on different sizes in person if possible to get the ideal contoured fit for your hand size.
• Mind the weather – Vapor gloves excel in warm and dry conditions but not extreme cold or wetness.
• Compare models – Vapor Pro offers the highest performance and durability while Vapor Select is the budget-friendly option.
• Carefully inspect – Thoroughly check for any defects, damage or poor construction before purchasing.
• Consider custom colors – Many vendors offer custom color options for team spirit and matching uniforms.
• Learn return policies – Some retailers allow returns or exchanges if the gloves have defects or don’t fit right.
• See newer models – Try the latest Vapor iteration for the most updated innovations and materials.

Focus on finding the right balance of flexibility, ventilation and protection based on your preferences, budget and playing environment.

Don’t overlook entry-level Vapor models to save money. The performance and durability is still decent. Advanced players looking for elite-level gloves will appreciate the Vapor Pro line.

Take time to properly try on different sizes when possible, as the contour shape offers a very anatomical fit. Be wary of sizing quirks between glove models and brands.

With some research and trial, you can find high quality Vapor lacrosse gloves tailored to your needs. Investing in the right gloves pays dividends through enhanced performance and safety on the field.

Comparison of Nike Vapor Gloves to Other Lacrosse Glove Brands

Nike Vapor gloves stand out among the top lacrosse glove brands in several ways:

• Lightweight feel – Vapor gloves are lighter than brands like Warrior and Brine thanks to innovative materials.
• Ventilation – The 4-way stretch mesh provides unmatched breathability compared to solid glove backs.
• Grip and control – The tacky palm coating offers elite-level stick traction right out of the box.
• Flexibility – Strategic palm flex grooves and stretch materials allow great dexterity.
• Low profile fit – Contoured shape hugs hands with no bulky excess material or wrist cuffs.
• Padding system – Multi-layer foam and shields provide pro-level protection at a light weight.

While Warrior and Brine focus more on maximum protection through ample padding, Nike optimized the Vapor glove for top-notch ventilation, grip, flexibility and low profile ergonomics.

STX gloves offer robust durability thanks to solid glove backs rather than mesh. But this sacrifices ventilation compared to the Vapor gloves.

Under Armour lacrosse gloves prioritize lightweight mobility but lack some of the padding protection in high impact zones like the Vapor gloves have.

Maverik opts for a bulkier, stiff wrist cuff design which some players prefer. But the Vapor glove offers greater mobility freedom and flexibility overall.

By leveraging innovative materials and an athlete-tested design, Nike engineered Vapor gloves that outshine competitors in key performance areas like ventilation, fit, control and dexterity.

FAQs About Nike Vapor Lacrosse Gloves

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Nike Vapor gloves:

How long do Vapor gloves last?

With proper care, Vapor gloves can last 1-2 seasons of heavy use before needing replacement. Their durable construction withstands hardcore gameplay. More casual recreational use can extend glove lifespan to 3+ seasons.

What size should I get?

Sizing varies across Vapor models, so always try gloves on in person if possible. Measure your hand size and refer to Nike’s size charts to dial in the ideal contour fit for each glove version. Expect some break-in period to fully conform to your hands.

Are Vapor gloves good for defenders?

The lightweight Vapor Jet model may not offer enough padding for defensemen. But the Vapor Power gloves provide substantial protective padding while maintaining elite ventilation and dexterity needed at that position.

What weather conditions are Vapor gloves best suited for?

The mesh glove backs make Vapor gloves best for warm to hot weather play. For cold conditions, gloves with solid neoprene backs retain more warmth. The palm grip also falters a bit in very wet conditions.

Can I put custom graphics on Vapor gloves?

Yes, many lacrosse stores offer custom color and graphic options for an added fee. This allows coordinating gloves with team uniforms or adding personal flair.

Buying Advice and Recommendations for Nike Vapor Gloves

Here are some tips for getting the right pair of Nike Vapor lacrosse gloves to match your needs and budget:

• Consider your playing position – Attackmen can get away with ultra lightweight Vapor Jet gloves while defenders need more protective padding like the Vapor Power.
• Determine proper sizing – Try on different sizes in person if possible to dial in the ideal anatomical fit. Vapor gloves should contour tightly with no excess room.
• Compare models – Vapor Pro offers the highest performance while Vapor Select is the most affordable. Find the right balance for your budget.
• Mind the weather conditions – Vapor gloves excel in dry, warm conditions but mesh backs struggle in extreme cold and palm grip suffers in heavy rain.
• Inspect for defects before buying – Carefully check for any damage, poor construction or missing elements before purchasing.
• Learn return policies – Some retailers allow glove returns or exchanges if sizing is way off or they are defective out of the box.
• Consider custom colors – Many vendors offer custom color options for an added fee so gloves can match team uniforms.

Take the time to try on different sizes and models in person when possible. Prioritize fit, ventilation and dexterity based on your playing style and environment. While top of the line Vapor Pro gloves offer elite performance, even entry level Vapor Select gloves deliver decent quality at an affordable price point.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nike Vapor Gloves

Here are answers to some common questions about Nike Vapor lacrosse gloves:

How long do Vapor gloves typically last?

With proper care and maintenance, Vapor gloves can last 1-2 seasons of frequent use before needing replacement. More casual recreational play can extend the lifespan to 3+ seasons. Their durable construction withstands hardcore game play.

What size Vapor glove should I get?

Sizing varies across Vapor models, so always try on gloves in person if possible. Carefully measure your hand size and refer to Nike’s sizing charts for each version to find the ideal contoured fit. Expect some break-in period to fully conform to your hand shape.

Are Vapor gloves good for defenders?

The lightweight Vapor Jet lacks protection for defenders, but the Vapor Power model provides ample padding while maintaining top-notch ventilation and dexterity needed at that position.

What weather conditions are Vapor gloves best for?

The mesh glove backs make Vapor gloves ideal for warm, dry conditions. For extreme cold, gloves with solid neoprene backs retain more warmth. Palm grip also suffers a bit in heavy rain.

Can I customize Vapor gloves with team colors/graphics?

Yes, many lacrosse retailers offer custom color and graphic options for an added fee. This allows matching gloves to team uniforms or adding personal flair.