Boost Your Backyard Lacrosse Games With A Sturdy New Backstop System

Boost Your Backyard Lacrosse Games With A Sturdy New Backstop System

Choose The Ideal Size For Your Space

When selecting a lacrosse backstop, consider the dimensions of your backyard to find the perfect fit. Most residential systems range from 10×10 feet up to 10×30 feet. Measure the open space in your yard and account for desired safety margins on all sides. A backstop that is too small can limit gameplay, while one that is oversized could clutter your outdoor area. Optimal pole placement depends on the backstop size, so review layout diagrams before purchasing.

Look For Heavy-Duty Netting That Won’t Tear

Lacrosse shots can travel at speeds over 100 mph, so flimsy netting will deteriorate quickly. Select a high-grade polyethylene or nylon net tested to withstand high-velocity impacts. Knotless netting up to 2.5 mm thick resists snagging and provides excellent durability. For optimal visibility, choose a net with smaller mesh openings. Look for UV-treated, weather-resistant materials that won’t fray or sag from exposure to the elements.

Select Poles That Won’t Bend Or Break

Backstop poles take a beating during aggressive lacrosse play. Steel poles a minimum of 2 3/8 inches in diameter provide superior stability compared to thinner options. Look for heavy 14 gauge steel or stronger for maximum durability. Avoid hollow pole designs prone to denting. Choose powder-coated or galvanized steel poles rated for exterior use and resistant to rust. For safety, verify pole caps are securely installed.

Anchor It Firmly In The Ground For Safety

Adequate anchoring is crucial to prevent backstop tip-overs that could injure players. Look for systems with 16-24″ buried pole depths and welded steel ground sleeves for each pole. Auger-style anchors screwed deep into the ground provide excellent holding power. Stake kits and guy wires offer additional reinforcement. Weighted pole end caps also enhance stability. Anchor according to manufacturer guidelines based on your soil type.

Make Sure It’s Visible For Players

Low visibility netting and poles can lead to painful collisions for lacrosse athletes who fail to see the backstop boundaries. Bright white netting maximizes visibility day or night. Reflective pole wrap, tape or paint enhances pole visibility. Position the backstop away from foliage or structures that could obscure it from view during play. Install highly visible safety padding on the pole edges players are most likely to contact.

Pick A Durable Frame That Will Last

The frame must handle environmental stresses and game impacts without compromise. Look for industrial-grade aluminum or steel frames with welded joints instead of plastic or PVC. Cross-bracing provides extra stability and wind resistance. Choose powder-coated or stainless steel hardware to prevent rusting. Avoid thin tubing prone to denting. Inspect welding quality and hardware longevity prior to purchasing.

Find One With Padded Poles To Prevent Injuries

Unprotected steel poles pose a major safety hazard to players. Prioritize backstops featuring thick foam padding wrapped around the poles at critical contact points. The padding should extend at least 6 feet up from ground level. Look for UV resistant padding that won’t deteriorate quickly outdoors. Replace faded or damaged padding promptly. Some systems offer pole covers as an added option.

Make Sure It’s Easy To Assemble And Take Down

Complicated assembly is frustrating and time consuming. Look for backstops with simplified installs using pre-assembled poles, snap buttons and color-coded hardware. Tool-free designs allow fast setup without wrenches or extra tools. Adjustable pole sleeves enable precise net height tuning. Wheeled bases or fasteners enable quick breakdowns for off-season storage. Avoid systems requiring complicated pole threading or extensive rope tying.

Consider Portability If You Need To Move It

Stationary lacrosse backstops limit your flexibility if you want to reconfigure your yard layout regularly. Look for portable goals on wheeled bases you can easily roll into place as desired. Telescoping poles allow quick height adjustments for storage. Lightweight aluminum frames make repositioning manageable for one person. Stake-in designs provide semi-permanent flexibility to anchor the backstop securely at different locations.

Add Features Like Ball Catchers Or Rebounders

Enhance your backstop with accessories to maximize its functionality. Ball collectors mounted along the top safely contain missed shots. Rebounder panels attach to the net to return balls to players for passing or catching practice. Flip-up targets promote accurate shooting skills. Gated pole entrances allow easy ball retrieval. Look for upgrade options to customize your backstop over time.

Get A Weatherproof System For Year-Round Play

Don’t let harsh weather sideline your lacrosse season. Look for backstops rated to withstand sun, wind, rain, snow and extreme temperatures. Marine-grade materials resist moisture damage. Sturdy steel frames and properly tensioned netting withstand heavy winds. For cold climates, choose frame and netting fabrics designed to remain flexible in sub-freezing conditions.

Look For Options To Customize Your Backstop

Basic backstop systems work for casual play, but serious lacrosse players may benefit from customized upgrades. Add pole padding in your team colors for an authentic look. Choose custom netting logos to display your team name or number. Look for accessories like ball return boxes, rebound panels, and durable shooters to enhance functionality.

Read Reviews To Pick A High-Quality Brand

Choose a backstop from a reputable manufacturer with proven durability. Look for brands used widely by schools, teams and camps. Check reviews for feedback on longevity, safety, ease of use and value. Beware of cheap backstops that may save money upfront but require frequent replacements. Invest in a top brand known for rigorous testing and quality materials.

Choose A Design That Complements Your Yard

An obtrusive backstop can detract from your yard’s aesthetics. Seek systems with simple, non-distracting frames that blend into the landscape. Neutral black or green colors draw less attention. Minimal netting sag creates a cleaner appearance. Position it far enough from seating areas to avoid an obscured view. With creative placement, your new backstop can enhance your backyard instead of overwhelming it.

Invest In A Backstop That Will Bring Years Of Enjoyment

Regularly replace torn netting, faded padding and loose hardware on cheaper backstops, but quality systems deliver lasting performance. Spend a bit more upfront for robust materials tested to uphold under intense game play. Your backstop is a long-term investment that allows endless lacrosse practice when you choose durability over price. Maintain it properly and a high-end backstop will serve your family for generations.

Look For Heavy-Duty Netting That Won’t Tear

When researching lacrosse backstops, inspect the netting carefully before buying. Polyethylene nets are a smart choice, as this high-density plastic can handle heavy impact. Opt for knotless netting that won’t snag stray jerseys or lacrosse sticks. Thicker nets around 2mm withstand high-speed shots better than flimsier 1mm versions. Nylon nets offer durability too, though poly nets resist UV damage better over time. For visibility, mesh sizes under 2″ x 2″ give players a clearer view of the boundaries. Weather-treated nets made specifically for outdoor use hold up best against sun, wind and rain. Check customer reviews and manufacturer specs to verify a net’s strength before purchasing, as weaker nets fray quickly from missed shots. With the right heavy-duty net properly installed, your backstop can stay looking fresh season after season.

Select Poles That Won’t Bend Or Break

The lacrosse backstop poles take a real beating, so durability is a must. A minimum diameter of 2 3/8 inches provides good stability, but opt for 2.5 or even 3 inch poles if possible. The thicker steel gauge like 12 or 14 gauge delivers superior strength over thinner 16 gauge options prone to denting. Hollow poles dent easiest, so solid steel poles are ideal. For weather-resistance, galvanized or powder-coated steel stands up well compared to unfinished steel. Double check that pole caps are secured tightly, as loose caps=injuries waiting to happen. Bent or broken poles ruin a backstop quickly, but with ultra sturdy poles rated for heavy impacts, your backstop can handle those aggressive shots for many seasons before needing any pole repairs.

Anchor It Firmly In The Ground For Safety

Adequate anchoring prevents a lacrosse backstop from tipping over and injuring players. Burying the poles 16-24 inches deep provides stability, but for best results use welded steel ground sleeves and auger-style anchors. Augers are screwed deep into the earth, giving the poles extra holding power even during aggressive play. Stake kits and guy wires offer supplemental support too. For permanent installations, anchoring in concrete is ideal. Weighted pole end caps also enhance stability. Follow the manufacturer’s advice on anchoring based on factors like your soil type, frost line depth, and climate. Take time to anchor thoroughly, as a loose backstop can wreak havoc quickly. Sturdy anchoring brings peace of mind that your backstop will withstand those intense lacrosse games safely.

Make Sure It’s Visible For Players

In the heat of an intense lacrosse game, players need to clearly see the backstop boundaries to avoid collisions. Start with bright white netting for maximum visibility day or night. If the budget allows, fluorescent net colors enhance visibility even more. Reflective tape on the poles catches the sun, while glow-in-the-dark paint illuminates at night. Position the backstop away from trees, buildings or other structures that could visually obscure it during play. Well-lit placement is ideal for night games. Padding the lower poles in a contrasting color helps players see and avoid them. Taking visibility into account ensures a safer experience for athletes focused on the game, not on spotting the backstop edges in their periphery.

Pick A Durable Frame That Will Last

The lacrosse backstop frame endures a lot of stress from weather and gameplay, so durability is key. Industrial-grade aluminum frames withstand years of use better than consumer-grade versions. Steel frames provide exceptional strength too. Look for powder-coated steel or aluminum, as coatings prevent rust and corrosion. Welded joints are stronger than connecting pieces with nuts and bolts. Avoid thinner tubing prone to dents and sagging over time. Cross-bracing adds critical extra stability in the frame design. Inspect hardware quality as well, choosing stainless steel over steel. With a burly frame built from quality materials, you’ll enjoy many seasons of play before considering any frame repairs or replacement.

Find One With Padded Poles To Prevent Injuries

Unprotected steel lacrosse backstop poles present a major safety issue for players. Thick foam padding wrapped around the poles cushions impact and prevents injuries. For optimal protection, look for 6 feet of padding measured up from ground level on each pole. The padding should be at least 1.5 inches thick. UV resistant padding holds up better in sunlight without fading or cracking prematurely. Some backstops let you customize team colors for an authentic look. Check that pole padding secures tightly, and replace worn-out sections as needed. Though padding adds cost, safeguarding your athletes is a wise investment. In a tough game like lacrosse, quality padding makes all the difference in keeping players free from harm.

Make Sure It’s Easy To Assemble And Take Down

Putting together a complex lacrosse backstop can be a real headache. Prioritize user-friendly designs with effortless assembly in mind. Look for color-coded parts, pre-assembled poles, snap buttons, and numbered hardware for intuitive installation. Tool-free assembly allows fast set up without wrenches or extra equipment. Adjustable pole sleeves let you fine-tune the net height as needed. For portability, wheels and quick-release fasteners enable simple breakdowns. Avoid systems requiring tricky threading or endless knot tying. With a backstop designed for hassle-free assembly, you can spend your time playing lacrosse rather than struggling with confusing instructions and tangled parts.

Consider Portability If You Need To Move It

Stationary lacrosse backstops limit layout flexibility if you want to frequently reconfigure your space. In that case, prioritize portable backstops with heavy-duty wheels for rolling the entire system smoothly into place anywhere needed. Telescoping or adjustable-height poles allow easy size reductions for storage. Lightweight aluminum frames simplify maneuverability compared to bulky steel versions. Stake-in anchor designs provide semi-permanent flexibility to securely anchor the poles at different spots. While stationary backstops maximize stability, wheels and adjustable poles equip portable backstops for versatility. Just double check load capacity and hardware durability if planning to wheel the backstop around regularly. With a portable design, you can change your backyard layout on a whim.

Add Features Like Ball Catchers Or Rebounders

To maximize your lacrosse backstop’s functionality, consider adding accessories like ball collectors, rebounder panels, targets, or gated entrances. Ball collectors mounted along the top perimeter safely trap balls, eliminating constant retrieval chasing. Rebounder panels attach to the net for passing/catching practice as shots bounce right back. Flip-up targets promote shooting accuracy. Gates with locks allow easy ball access while preventing unauthorized use. Storage bags keep gear tidy. While a basic backstop works for casual play, upgrades create a customizable system. Build your backstop over time by adding features that enhance your training. With the right accessories, your backstop can evolve into an all-in-one lacrosse training hub.

Get A Weatherproof System For Year-Round Play

Don’t let harsh weather sideline your lacrosse season. Look for backstops built from marine-grade, all-weather materials that won’t deteriorate from sun, wind, rain, or snow exposure. Aluminum and powder-coated steel frames withstand seasonal temperature swings without corrosion or rust. Netting specifically engineered for outdoor use resists UV damage better than indoor versions. Proper pole depth and anchoring provide stability in heavy winds. In climates with winter frost, some systems offer netting and frame materials flexible enough for sub-freezing conditions. With the right weatherproof backstop, you can play lacrosse regardless of rain, snow or heat. Don’t let tough weather stop the game when you choose equipment able to withstand the elements year-round.

Look For Options To Customize Your Backstop

Off-the-shelf lacrosse backstops work fine for recreational play, but serious players may benefit from customization. Many backstops offer team color options for padding and netting, letting you show team spirit. Custom net logos can display school names or mascots. Add pole padding in your program’s colors for an authentic game day look. Performance accessories like rebounder panels, ball collectors, targets, and ball return boxes provide specialized training capabilities. Storage bags keep gear organized. While basic backstops are plug-and-play, custom upgrades allow players to tailor it to their needs. A personalized backstop feels like home field advantage. With the right accessories, you can build your ideal system over time by adding features that maximize your training.

Read Reviews To Pick A High-Quality Brand

With lacrosse backstops, brand reputation matters. Stick with top manufacturers proven to produce durable, safe equipment. Check online reviews and community forums for feedback on longevity, ease of assembly, cost versus value, and customer service responsiveness. Schools and leagues choosing the same brand repeatedly signal a wise investment. Beware of ultra-cheap backstops that cut corners on materials and craftsmanship. It’s worth spending a little more upfront with an established company that thoroughly tests designs and stands behind its products. Choosing quality over bargain pricing reduces headaches down the road. Do your homework to determine the most reputable, recommended brands for your budget. Then enjoy years of trouble-free play from a backstop built to deliver.

Choose A Design That Complements Your Yard

An obtrusive backstop can overwhelm your backyard instead of complementing it. Seek low-profile systems with minimal netting sag and compact frames. Black, green, or gray color schemes blend in discreetly. Position the backstop far enough from patios and benches to avoid blocking views. For small yards, compact “mini” backstops occupy minimal space. Wheeled portable backstops allow flexible placement to find the least intrusive positioning. With creative installation, your new backstop can enhance your outdoor living space rather than dominating it. Your landscaping and hardscaping features dictate ideal backstop proportions. Measure carefully and visualize the layout before purchasing to achieve a tailored fit. A cohesive design creates a welcoming backyard environment, while an oversized backstop crammed in tightly creates only frustration.

Invest In A Backstop That Will Bring Years Of Enjoyment

It’s tempting to choose the cheapest lacrosse backstop, but bargain equipment requires frequent repairs and replacements that waste money long-term. Instead, invest in a high-end backstop built from quality materials engineered to deliver lasting performance. Superior metals, durable netting, weatherproof coatings and sturdy hardware withstand years of aggressive play. Though the upfront cost exceeds basic models, a premium backstop saves over time by avoiding continual maintenance and replacements. Take time to properly install, anchor, and maintain a top-tier backstop and it will serve your family for generations, creating endless backyard memories. Quality and safety should drive the purchase decision more than bargain pricing. A lifetime of lacrosse enjoyment awaits when you invest wisely in equipment that endures.