Choose the Perfect Lacrosse Gloves for Your Position and Playing Style

Choose the Perfect Lacrosse Gloves for Your Position and Playing Style

Find the Ideal Fit and Protection Level Based on Your Position

As any seasoned lacrosse player knows, not all gloves are created equal. The optimal features and construction can vary greatly depending on the position you play. So before clicking “buy now”, it’s crucial to consider your on-field role and specific needs.

For attackmen, focusing on maximizing dexterity and ball feel should be the priority. After all, dodging, cradling, and scoring goals is the name of the game. Yet you’ll still want reasonable slash protection across the fingers and back of the hand. Otherwise you may end up sidelined with broken bones. Finding the sweet spot between flexibility and protection is key for attackers.

Midfielders are the do-it-all players, needing a balance of comfort, durability, and performance. Since you’ll be all over the field, gloves that fit like a second skin are ideal. Breathable materials that wick moisture will keep hands cool and dry during intense shifts. D30 foam padding in the palm is essential for protecting against those vicious checks. You’ll also want stiffness in the fingers to prevent hyperextension when snagging passes. Don’t forget adjustable wrist straps for a secure fit.

For close defenders, maximum protection is the top concern when picking gloves. After all, you’ll be constantly battling attackmen, throwing checks, and picking up ground balls. Leather palms with integrated shields and padding across the back of the hand are ideal for absorbing slashes. Abrasion-resistant fabrics withstand those scrappy crease battles. Thicker cuffs lock in the wrist for stability. While you’ll sacrifice some dexterity, survival is the name of the game playing tough D.

So remember – as you shop for new lacrosse gloves, keeping your position and needs up front is crucial. Let the attackman worry about ball feel, the middie focus on comfort, and the defender seek out maximum protection. With the right features for YOUR game, you’ll be ready to dominate between the lines!

Shop Top Brands Like Maverik and Warrior for Optimal Features

When it comes to lacrosse gloves, players have plenty of options to choose from in terms of brands. However, two companies stand out from the pack – Maverik and Warrior. These giants of the lacrosse gear world dominate for good reason. Their gloves offer the ideal blend of fit, feel, protection, and durability that players need to excel.

Maverik is renowned for its M4 line of gloves. They utilize flexible meshes on the back of the hand coupled with their SuperFabric padding system. This provides slash protection while maintaining top-notch mobility. Maverik gloves also employ their Thermolite foam padding in the cuff and wrist area for extra comfort and stability. For attackers and middies, the M4s provide an unbeatable balance of ball control and slash resistance.

Warrior hit a home run with their Burn franchise of gloves. Found on the hands of some of the game’s top players, the Burn utilizes Warrior’s acclaimed AXYSTM thumb protection system. This overlay provides thumb hyperextension resistance while allowing full range of motion. Warriors also incorporate D30 foam pads on the palms and fingers for impact absorption. For aggressive defenders, the Burn gloves offer hardcore hand protection to match your hard-nosed style of play.

Beyond Maverik and Warrior, Brine and STX also make excellent gloves packed with great features. Ultimately though, for many players, Maverik and Warrior represent the gold standard. Their continued innovation, comfortable and flexible fits, and next-level protection make them leaders in the lacrosse glove game. So when getting ready for your next season, turn to these top brands to give you the edge you need to control the field.

Prioritize Fit and Feel for Midfielders

For midfielders, finding lacrosse gloves that fit like a second skin should be the top priority. After all, as a middie you’ll be sprinting all over the field, dodging defenders, scooping ground balls, and hopefully sinking shots on cage. You need gloves that move and feel like an extension of your hands out there.

When trying on gloves, focus first on getting a comfortable fit in the fingers and across the back of the hand. The gloves shouldn’t be painfully tight or restrict your mobility. But you also don’t want excess material bulking up the fingers and creating a sloppy feel. High-end gloves from Warrior and Maverik mold to your hands nicely right out of the box.

Also examine the wrist closure system carefully. You want a secure fit that keeps the gloves locked on your hands. But adjustable Velcro straps or slash cuffs shouldn’t dig into your wrist or cut off circulation. Test the flex of the cuff by bending your wrist back and forth.

While you’re at it, choose gloves with moisture-wicking and anti-odor fabrics inside. As a tireless midfielder, you’ll be sweating up a storm out there. Breathable materials will keep your paws cool and dry when you’re gassed late in games. And your gloves and teammates will smell better after battles for ground balls.

Finally, focus on the overall feel and control when cradling and handling the stick. Smooth, supple leather palms tend to offer the best “grip” on the shaft. And minimal padding in the fingers and palms maximizes your tactile sensation. Get that dialed-in fit and feel to take your midfield game to the next level.

Attackmen Need Dexterity plus Slash and Impact Protection

For attackmen, lacrosse gloves must strike the perfect balance between flexibility and protection. As an attacker, your stick skills and scoring ability win games. So you need the dexterity to dodge, cradle, and rip shots on goal. But you also have to absorb slashes from poles and help out occasionally on defense.

When shopping for gloves, start by examining the padding and protection on the back of the hand and fingers. Foam or plastic shields should guard against checks from defensemen. But make sure the padding isn’t so bulky that it restricts your motion and feel. Supple leathers work better than stiff synthetic materials.

Also inspect the palm construction. Smooth leather palms offer the best overall grip and control. Integrated shield padding protects against faceoff slashes and checks. Just ensure any palm padding doesn’t rob you of touch. Consider removable pads if you want the option to maximize feel.

Don’t forget to try on different glove sizes and ensure a comfortable fit. The gloves shouldn’t be painfully restrictive but also can’t be loose and sloppy. Focus especially on getting the right length fingers so you don’t lose dexterity.

Finding your sweet spot on protection versus flexibility will let you play fearlessly on attack. You’ll have the confidence to dodge defenders and battle for ground balls, knowing your hands are protected. But you’ll still be able to demonstrate your flashy stick skills all over the field.

Goalies Require Maximum Padding for Hand Protection

For goalies, lacrosse gloves need to provide maximum padding and impact absorption. After all, your job is to step in front of 90 MPH shots and come up with saves. Without sufficient protection, you’ll be sidelined quickly with broken fingers and other injuries.

When shopping for goalie gloves, examination of padding should be priority number one. Look for substantial foam or plastic shields across the entire back of the hand. Dense foam or gel padding in the fingers can really limit hyperextension and fractures. D3O and Poron XRD materials work well for impact absorption.

Also inspect the palm padding closely. Integrated shield designs help prevent rolls from skipping into your hand. Look for ample coverage from the base of the fingers down through the heel of the palm. Removable pads allow you to customize protection and feel.

Don’t forget the cuff and wrist area too. Stiff cuffs with ample padding limit how far your hand folds back when blocking shots. Extended wrist wraps add another layer of protection on high saves. Adjustable straps ensure a secure closure.

While dexterity and ball feel take a backseat, finding goalie gloves with solid grip can help secure saves. Textured latex or synthetic palms provide that sticky grip when the ball hits your stick. Durability is also key as you’ll be constantly going to ground for shots.

Getting goalie gloves with maximum padding is crucial for survival at this high-risk position. With your hands well-protected, you’ll have the confidence to step into blistering shots and make those game-saving stops.

Match Glove Size to Your Age and Hand Size

Finding the right lacrosse glove size is crucial for safety and optimal performance. The gloves shouldn’t be painfully tight but also can’t be loose and sloppy. Make sure to match your glove size to your age and hand measurements.

For youth players, glove sizes typically range from 10″ to 13″. Ten-inch gloves are best for elementary school players with smaller hands. As you get to middle school, look for 12″ and 13″ gloves as your hands grow. Measure from the tip of your middle finger to your wrist crease to dial in fit.

High school girl’s lacrosse players should target glove sizes from 12″ to 13″. Measure your dominant hand and opt for the higher size if in between. The glove should fit snugly but not restrict motion. If the fingers are too long, it can negatively impact catching and throwing.

Men’s lacrosse gloves generally range from 13″ up to 15″. Measure your hand size and add about 1/2 to 1 inch to determine the right glove length. A little extra room allows you to tuck the cuff of your protective arm sleeve inside the glove for a streamlined fit.

Make sure to try on different glove sizes from your preferred brand. Sizing can vary between manufacturers. Trying them on is the best way to assess the ideal fit and length. And don’t forget to account for shrinkage after repeated washing and use.

Taking the time to find gloves in the optimal size for your age and hand size pays off. You’ll have the protection you need without sacrificing critical dexterity, feel, and flexibility on the field.

Opt for Moisture-Wicking and Anti-Odor Features for Comfort

To keep your hands comfortable during intense lacrosse games, gloves with moisture-wicking liners and anti-odor technologies are key. The last things you need are soaked, stinky gloves weighing you down out there.

Look for gloves made with lightweight, breathable polyester or nylon fabrics next to skin. These effectively pull sweat away from your hands to keep them cool and dry. Mesh paneling or laser cut holes also enhance air circulation inside the gloves.

Antimicrobial treatments like Polygiene prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria inside gloves. Silver ions disrupt bacteria cells to stop them from multiplying and causing stench. Activated carbon panels also help absorb sweat smell.

Don’t forget the importance of adjustable wrist straps and cuffs as well. The Velcro straps ensure you can tailor the tightness for a secure fit. This prevents the gloves from sliding around on your hands during play. But also make sure the closure isn’t so tight it cuts off circulation.

Taking your gloves off periodically during games or practices helps air them out too. Rotate between multiple pairs to let them fully dry between uses. And be sure to wash gloves regularly in cold water to kill bacteria.

With sweat-wicking fabrics, antimicrobial treatments, and adjustable closures, your gloves will stay light and airy when games heat up. Your hands will thank you after crushing ground balls and faceoff scrums.

Compare Leather vs. Synthetic Palms for Feel and Durability

When shopping for new lacrosse gloves, one key decision is whether to go with a leather or synthetic palm. Each offers pros and cons in terms of feel, grip, and durability.

Leather palms provide an unbeatable natural feel and grip on the stick shaft. The supple leather contours to your hand and allows maximum tactile sensation for cradling and shooting. The downside is leather wears down over time, especially on artificial turf. It also gets slick when wet.

Synthetic palms found in gloves like the Warrior Burn and STX Cell V last longer than leather. The fused materials stand up to abuse from artificial playing surfaces game after game. Rubberized textures also enhance grip in all weather conditions. The trade-off is synthetics don’t mold to your hand like soft leather.

Many high-end gloves combine leather and synthetic elements for the best of both worlds. Smooth leather in the palm and fingers maximizes feel. Then abrasion-resistant synthetics reinforce high wear areas for durability.

For players who prioritize soft feel and top-notch ball control, leather palms get the nod. But for ruthless midfielders and defenders who punish their gloves, fused synthetics hold up better over time. Think about your position and priorities before deciding between leather or synthetic palms.

Don’t forget palm padding construction either. Integrated shields fuse protection right into the palm material and can’t tear out. But removable pads allow you to customize padding based on preferences. Weigh your options to optimize feel, grip, and longevity.

Determine Ideal Palm Texture for Optimal Stick Skills

Along with material choice, lacrosse glove palms also vary in their texture. The surface finish impacts the friction and grip on the stick for crucial stick skills. Dialing in the right texture for YOUR game is key.

Smooth leather glove palms offer the most natural feel and control when cradling and shooting. The supple leather provides a tacky grip without robbing stick sensation. The trade-off is less abrasion resistance for durability.

Textured synthetic palms provide more abrasion resistance and weather resistance than smooth leather. Rubberized dots or tread patterns enhance grip in all conditions. However, some players feel the textured finish impacts overall ball control.

Many gloves offer a hybrid palm texture for the best of both worlds. Smoother leather maintains feel in the fingers and palm. Then rugged synthetics with grip patterns reinforce high wear zones. This balances control with durability.

Think about your position and needs when weighing palm texture. For example, smooth palms tend to excel for handling-focused attackmen. But textured grips make sense for tough midfielders and defenders.

Don’t forget to think about replacing palm pads down the road. Integrated pads last longer but removable pads allow fresh palms someday. Weigh upfront cost vs long-term needs.

Testing out different palm finishes when buying gloves ensures you get the friction you need for YOUR game. Take shots and handle the ball to gauge overall grip and feel. Dial in the sweet spot of control and durability.

Evaluate Cuff, Strap, and Cap Styles for Fit and Flex

An often overlooked component of lacrosse gloves is the cuff and closure system. The cuff, wrist straps, and cap style significantly impact the fit, flexibility, and comfort of gloves.

Lacrosse glove cuffs vary from flexible elastic spans to rigid slash guards. Stretch fabrics allow free wrist motion while stiff cuffs with padding provide slash protection. Determine how much flex you require versus potential safety benefits.

Wrist closure straps also affect overall fit. Fixed leather straps lock in your wrist but offer less adjustability. Velcro straps provide adjustable tension for customized tightness. Find your ideal balance of security versus breathability.

The glove cap where your fingers emerge warrants inspection too. Open caps maximize ventilation but less protection. Closed caps keep out dirt but can trap heat. Contoured, pre-curved caps match your hand shape for comfort.

Don’t forget to examine wrist cuffs for potential padding gaps when your arm pads sit inside. Misalignments leave you vulnerable to stingers. Test your gear combo fully geared up.

Thinking through cuff, strap, and cap construction ensures your gloves fit and feel like a natural extension of your hands. Dialing in these crucial but subtle elements takes your game to the next level.

Weigh Integrated vs. Removable Palm Pads for Protection

One key decision when buying lacrosse gloves is whether to choose integrated or removable palm padding. Each approach has pros and cons for protection, feel, and replaceability.

Integrated palm pads fuse shielding directly into the palm material itself. Padding can’t tear out or shift around for reliable coverage. Integrated pads also break in naturally with the glove. But the pads can’t be replaced down the road.

Removable pads offer more customization and future-proofing. Swapping pads allows you to modify protection as needed or restore grip when palms wear down. But pads can loosen over time and replacement isn’t cheap. Integrated pads often last longer before needing a glove swap.

Many high-end gloves combine integrated padding in key areas with removable pads elsewhere. Fixed shields defend the base of the palm while modular pads allow tweaks at the fingers. This blended approach provides versatile protection.

For players wanting maximize feel and ball control, removable pads make sense for customization. But for set-it-and-forget-it protection, integrated shields have their benefits. Weigh your priorities to choose the right padding setup.

Don’t forget to inspect pad thickness and materials too. Dense foams, gels, and thermoplastics excel at deflecting impacts. Ensure ample padding for YOUR game.

Consider Custom Gloves for Optimal Fit and Padding

While off-the-shelf lacrosse gloves work for many players, custom gloves allow you to optimize fit, appearance, and padding to your needs. If you want next-level performance and protection, custom is the way to go.

Custom gloves start with a precise sizing of your hands for a glove molded to match YOUR anatomy. No more looong or tight fingers that throw off catching and throwing. Everything aligns naturally right out of the box.

Beyond sizing, custom lets you select ideal colors, graphics, materials and patterns for your gloves. Show off your personality and team spirit. Add your name or number for signature style.

Most importantly, custom allows padding modifications to suit your preferences. Reinforce high-wear zones or sensitive areas. Remove or reduce padding to maximize feel and dexterity if desired.

Leading brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior offer custom shops to build your dream gloves. The process is surprisingly easy too. Input options online or at tournaments for made-to-order perfection.

Yes, custom lacrosse gloves cost more than off-the-shelf options. But for players wanting peak performance and a pro-level look, custom is definitely the way to go. The confidence of customized gloves can be a game-changer.

Shop Clearance Sections and Older Models to Save

With lacrosse gloves ranging in price from $40 up to $250, cost can be a factor when picking your next pair. Shopping clearance sections and prior-year models is a great way to score major savings.

Check the clearance sections on lacrosse sites and major retailers for deals on last season’s gloves. Closeout sales often knock 40% to 60% off MSRP prices. Just make sure the fit and features still meet your needs despite being “last year’s” model.

Older unused new-old-stock (NOS) gloves can offer exceptional savings too. Retailers deeply discount leftover inventory from previous seasons to clear space. The gloves are totally new but lack the latest cosmetics.

Scour eBay and SidelineSwap for solid used gloves as well. Gently worn, cleaned gloves offer great value. Just closely inspect product photos for excessive wear and tear beforehand.

Consider stepping down a product tier too. For example, grab entry-level Maverik Rome gloves over the pricier M4s. Or opt for Warrior Regulator gloves versus the flagship Burn line. You sacrifice some features but still get a quality glove.

With smart shopping, you can grab awesome lacrosse gloves without breaking the bank. Clearance deals, NOS finds, used bargains, and mid-range tiers all help you save cash for other gear.

Read Reviews and Forums for User Feedback

With so many lacrosse glove options out there, it can be hard to determine which ones best suit your needs and playing style. Reading online reviews and forum feedback from fellow players provides valuable real-world insights.

Check out in-depth reviews from lacrosse gear sites like LaxAllStars, UniversalLax, and InsideLacrosse. Experienced players break down fit, protection, durability and other key factors across price tiers.

Don’t ignore Amazon either. Sort products by average review scores. Drill into detailed reviews for first-hand accounts of how gloves perform and hold up over time.

Lacrosse forums like LacrosseForums and LaxPower host active glove discussion threads. You’ll find direct comparisons between models and brands from players with personal experience.

Focus on feedback relevant to your position, skill level, and needs. An aggressive defender prioritizes different attributes than a flashy attackman. Consider your priorities and playing style.

While trying gloves yourself is ideal, vetting real-world reviews helps narrow down your options. You can zero in on contenders with the ideal features, fit, and overall performance YOU need to take your game to the next level.