Choosing the Best Backyard Lacrosse Net to Take Your Game to the Next Level

Choosing the Best Backyard Lacrosse Net to Take Your Game to the Next Level

Compare Durability of Different Lacrosse Net Materials

When choosing a lacrosse net for your backyard, one of the most important factors to consider is durability. The netting material can really impact how long your goal will last before needing to be replaced. Lacrosse nets take a beating from high-speed shots, so you’ll want one that can stand up to regular use.

Nylon is one of the most popular materials for lacrosse nets. It’s abrasion-resistant and can handle frequent impact from rubber lacrosse balls. Look for high-denier nylon around 1000D to 1200D for optimal durability. It’ll have some give to absorb ball impact while maintaining shape. Polyethylene netting is another option gaining popularity for its durability and weather resistance. Poly nets like Dyneema have high tensile strength to avoid sagging over time.

For the frame, aluminum and steel are the most durable options. Steel resists bending and will last for years of regular play. Powder-coated steel offers a protective finish to prevent rust and corrosion. Aluminum is also rigid but more lightweight for portability. Compare thickness gauges – thicker tubing over 1.5mm is preferable. Fiberglass frames are lightweight but may not have the same longevity as metal.

It’s also key to look at connection points between the frame and netting. Poor quality clamps or fasteners that loosen over time will cut down the lifespan of your goal. Search for lacrosse nets with reinforced anchoring and net attachment systems. This ensures the netting itself doesn’t deteriorate prematurely.

While pricier nets made with premium materials often deliver greater longevity and performance, you can also extend the life of budget models. Take nets down when not in use, store indoors in off seasons, and perform regular maintenance. With care, even entry-level lacrosse goals can provide years of backyard practice. Evaluating materials upfront however ensures you get a durable net that excels from the start.

Consider Portability – Can the Net Fold Up or Be Easily Moved?

When setting up a lacrosse goal in your backyard, you’ll want to think about how easy it is to move and store. Portability is a key factor, especially if space is limited or you need to take the goal down regularly.

Foldable lacrosse nets offer the ultimate portability. They collapse down into a compact size for storage or transportation. Folding mechanisms vary – some nets fold into themselves while others come apart into several pieces. Look for quick release folding joints or telescoping poles that make set up and takedown fast and seamless. Carry bags are ideal for keeping all pieces contained.

Wheels are another handy portability feature. Nets with built-in wheel kits simply roll to wherever you need them. Wheeled goals often fold as well. Or you can look for detachable wheel options that strap onto the frame. Measure yard gates and entry points to ensure the goal dimensions can fit through when moving it around.

For permanent backyard installation, portability may be less of a concern. But having the ability to fold or wheel the net away off-season will help it last longer. Storage shelters and covers keep folded goals protected from weathering.

Even stationary goals can usually be made portable with some disassembly. Nets with separate pole pieces allow you to break the frame down into manageable sections for removal. Make sure connecting joints, fasteners, and net anchors are easy to detach and reattach.

When evaluating portability, also consider the Goal weight and whether it’s manageable for one person to maneuver. Heavier steel frames offer durability but reduce mobility. Aluminum is lighter yet sturdy. If you’ll need to frequently set up and move the net solo, keep total weight under 80 lbs.

Nets promoting easy portability eliminate excuses to not practice. Having the ability to quickly set up the goal right before a session and put it away afterwards keeps backyard spaces flexible for other uses. Just be sure transport and storage are done with care to avoid damage.

Look at Stability – Does the Net Stay Anchored and Upright?

A wobbly, unstable lacrosse net that shifts or tips over during play quickly loses its function. When assessing backyard lacrosse goals, stability is a vital factor for safety and preserving proper mechanics.

Nets must withstand the torque and force generated by high-speed shots. Solid anchoring prevents the goal from sliding or toppling when hit. Look for goals with weighted or staked anchor systems. Weights can be built into the base frame or attach externally. Some foldable goals come with sand/water fillable stability bags. Ground stakes should be long (10-12 inches) and sturdy steel or heavy duty plastic.

How the net attaches to the frame also impacts stability. Loose fastening allows the net to pull away or sag when struck, absorbing ball momentum unevenly. This strains the frame and risks collapse. Nets secured tightly all around the border with reinforced clamps or lacing maintain shape and distribute force. Durable wrap-around net attachment outperforms thin bungee cords.

The frame construction itself matters too. Thicker pole wall gauges and reinforced joint welding provide rigid stability. Spreading the frame wider at ground level creates a more stable triangle base. Quad-pod frames are inherently sturdier than dual-pole goal posts.

For permanent backyard goals, installing the posts in cement footings underground prevents any unwanted movement. Burying 24-36 inches deep keeps them firmly anchored. Auger-style anchors also screw into the ground for solid embedding.

No matter what anchoring methods you use, always check for stability before gameplay. Give the frame a shake test and make adjustments as needed until satisfied it won’t shift or sway. Having players shoot on the net first with light tosses can further confirm its sturdiness.

Properly stabilizing backyard lacrosse goals takes some trial and error. But given their size and weight, it’s a necessary step in preventing accidents or injuries from falling nets. Fortifying anchoring and frame connections ensures you can practice shots confidently without distractions or interruptions.

Check Sizing – Is the Net Regulation Size for Proper Practice?

When setting up your own lacrosse goal at home, it’s important to choose a net with regulation sizing for optimal practice. The dimensions of the frame and net opening impact shot mechanics and how the ball moves.

According to NCAA standards, regulation lacrosse goals measure 6 feet tall by 6 feet wide. Youth sizes scale down proportionately, usually starting around 3’x3′ for early ages. While mini net goals can develop skills, full-size goals are ideal for realism.

The correct goal opening helps establish proper shooting technique. Aiming for a smaller opening strengthens accuracy. Widening the opening too much allows developing bad habits of shooting loosely without focus. But undersized openings also limit power shot development.

Check that net width tapers smaller towards the top and bottom. This triangular shape mimics regulation goals to direct rebounding ball movement predictably.

Net floor depth should be around 2-3 feet to allow catching and containing shots. Deep ball pockets prevent constant ball chasing and keep practice moving efficiently.

For goalies, proper net proportions help hone positioning and cutdown angles. Measurements matching real game goals give keepers realistic references to build muscle memory.

While width and height get the most attention, don’t overlook pipe diameter either. Regulation pipe diameter is 2 inches for correct ball rebound physics. Smaller pipes undesirably deaden ball movement.

Fortunately, most complete lacrosse goal packages match standard dimensions. But if buying individual components, double check specs for compliance. For multi-season use, look for goals with height adjustability to accommodate growing kids.

By mirroring the same specs as real game goals, backyard lacrosse nets reinforce proper mechanics whether for shooters, goalies, or all-around practice. Don’t overlook sizing – the right dimensions make a big difference in skill development.

Find a Net with a Ball Return System to Simplify Shooting Drills

When equipping your backyard with a lacrosse goal, consider models with built-in ball return systems. These features greatly simplify shooting practice by automatically sending balls back to the shooter.

Look for goals promoted as rebounders or ball return nets. These have backstop netting that catches wide or missed shots. The balls then funnel down side channels back to the front shooting area. This creates a self-feeding mechanism for continuous shooting without constant ball retrieval.

Rebounder nets are great for solo practice. The ball return system provides repetitive shooting opportunities from the same spot without needing a passer. For team drills, players can take turns shooting individually while balls keep recycling back.

Corner mounted side netting reduces the need to chase errant shots around the yard. Enclosed ball collection minimizes downtime between shots to maximize repetition. Automated ball feeds enhance skill development through volume and rhythm.

Look for ball return nets with robust catch netting that fully contains missed shots from all angles. Return corner netting at 45 degree angles or more extends the catchment area. Durable polyester or nylon catch net materials withstand high velocity shots without premature wear.

The best ball return goals incorporate multiple ball chute exits around the front to vary ball return placement. This improves reaction time, agility, and diversifies shot mechanics. Side mounting the return chimneys keeps them out of the shooting lane.

While pricier than basic nets, the convenience and simplicity of automated ball returns can make the investment worthwhile for serious players. The rebounding feature essentially replaces needing a practice partner for passing. Just focus on firing away without pause.

Make Sure the Net Has a Long Lifespan and Won’t Need Frequent Replacing

When installing a permanent lacrosse goal in your backyard, you want it to last for many seasons before needing replacement. Look for high quality materials and construction that extend net longevity.

For the net itself, choose high-denier nylon or durable polyethylene materials. 1000D-1200D nylon offers abrasion resistance and weathering durability. Dyneema polyethylene nets have exceptional tensile strength to avoid sagging or blows outs from shots over time.

Aluminum and steel frames outlive cheaper materials like PVC or fiberglass. Powder coated or anodized metal finishes prevent rust and wear. Look for thick-walled aluminum and steel tubing over 1.5mm for rigidity.

The fastening system between the frame and net also affects longevity. Nets secured tightly around the entire border maintain integrity better than sparse bungee attachments. Plastic clamp or hook systems typically outlast basic fabric ties.

Compare warranties between lacrosse goal models for insight into expected lifespan. Multi-year warranties convey the manufacturer’s confidence in materials holding up. Also look for UV/fade resistance and weatherproof construction for outdoor goals.

For portable folding goals, make sure locking joints, latches, and hinges are sturdy and robust. Weak points that loosen or break with use will shorten the Frame lifespan. Telescoping poles should slide smoothly without jamming.

Proper maintenance and storage extend the life of any lacrosse net. Take down goals when not in use, disassemble folding goals instead of leaving tension on joints, and keep folded nets stored under shelter. Avoid exposing net materials to excessive moisture or sunlight when not needed.

While pricier lacrosse goals often justify their cost through durability, you can maximize lifespan on any budget. Prioritizing quality materials and care pays off in the long run with nets that withstand seasons of hard use.

Pick a Net Designed for All-Weather Backyard Use

When installing a permanent lacrosse goal in your backyard, be sure to choose a net suitable for year-round outdoor use. Materials and construction should withstand diverse weather conditions over multiple seasons.

For the net itself, polyethylene and nylon materials are ideal for outdoor durability. UV-treated polyethylene nets resist sun damage and fading. High denier nylon nets around 1000D-1200D withstand moisture and retain shape.

Powder coated or anodized aluminum frames prevent corrosion, chipping, and rusting from weather exposure. Look for minimal exposed steel parts. Stainless steel hardware offers outdoor longevity over standard steel.

PVC pipe frames are affordable but degrade quicker outdoors than aluminum or galvanized steel. For portable goals, fiberglass poles also have a shorter lifespan with seasonal weathering.

Waterproofing treatments on net materials shed rain and moisture without getting waterlogged. This prevents sagging and extra weight pulling down on the frame. Nets designed with adequate drainage also dry faster after storms.

For all-season backyard use, ensure the net and frame can handle snow loads without collapsing. Brush off heavy accumulations promptly to reduce strain.

In windy areas, lacrosse nets need reinforced anchoring to stay grounded. Look for substantial stake or sandbag weights rated to withstand strong gusts. Secure net attachment is also crucial.

Going beyond wind/rain resistance, some premium nets have vented designs to allow airflow and prevent hot weather sagging. Others offer insulation or heating features to maintain playability in cold conditions when used year-round.

Proper net takedown, storage, and maintenance will maximize lifespan against weathering. But choosing appropriate all-weather construction is key to getting multiple seasons of use from your investment.

Prioritize Safety Features – Padded Posts, Secure Anchoring

Lacrosse nets designed for backyard use should have proper safety features to avoid injuries. Padding, protective wraps, and secure installation prevent painful collisions for aggressive practice.

Look for rear and side pole padding to cushion inevitable player contact. Thick foam padding absorbs impact best. For metal frames, pole caps also eliminate abrasions and lacerations if accidentally struck.

Wraparound net attachment systems are safer than basic bungee cords. The tight fastening eliminates risk of detached nets whipping players. Sturdy clamps won’t release and cause collapse during intense play.

Frame and net stability directly affect safety. Unsecured movable goals put players at risk. Weighted or staked anchoring prevents tip overs or slides. Buried concrete footings offer the most permanence.

Portable and folding goals especially need diligent stability confirmation before use. Always set up on flat terrain and check for secure, wobble-free standing before gameplay.

The net itself should be made of soft nylon or polyethylene materials. This cushions errant shots to the head if a player ends up in the goal mouth. Avoid abrasive meshes prone to pinching skin or pulling hair.

For young players, height-adjustable goals allow lowering crossbars to safer levels. Or choose a children’s goal scaled down in proportion for less overwhelming size.

Protruding bolts, exposed hardware or sharp frame edges present hazards. Seek fully integrated construction with no rough accessories to snag skin or clothing.

Following included safety instructions is crucial. But choosing nets and accessories designed safely from the start eliminates risk points. Don’t disregard padding or stability aspects – safety remains paramount, even for casual backyard play.

Find a Net Offering Quick and Easy Setup/Takedown

For convenient backyard use, lacrosse nets with quick and straightforward setup are ideal. Complicated assembly or disassembly wastes time better spent practicing. Prioritize goals with fast, intuitive equipment preparation.

Foldable lacrosse nets offer the fastest setup. Collapsible poles and pre-attached netting unfold open into game-ready position in minutes. No extensive pole assembly or net attachment required. Check that release latches allow smooth, snag-free motion.

For two-piece goals, pole ends designed for tool-free connection eliminate hunting for loose hardware pieces. Push button or twist lock couplings quickly bring frames together without tools. Watch for pinch points.

Numbered poles, color coding, or match letters simplify proper arrangement and orientation during assembly. Illustrated diagrams in instructions also help avoid guessing or confusion. Joining identical loose poles arbitrarily risks improper shaping.

Pre-threaded net attachment loops save tedious lace up time. Bungee attachments and clamps with quick-release levers speed up net mounting once frame is together. Avoid knots prone to jamming.

Wheeled goal models roll right into position ready for use. Integrated wheel kits positioned at balancing points make maneuvering controlled and smooth.

For anchors, look for pre-loaded stake weights you simply drop into the ground without stacking. Or wide stake bases that insert easily without hammering. Streamlined sandbag/water filling is also quicker than brick/gravel stacking.

Take down follows the same principles in reverse – collapsing and separating components intuitively without hang ups. Keep necessary tools accessible but minimized.

Quick assembly means you’re shooting sooner and packing up faster. Seek out well-designed lacrosse goals focused on fast, frustration-free setup for more time honing your game.

Choose a Net Made with UV/Fade Resistant Materials

For a lacrosse goal expected to endure years outdoors, seek UV and fade resistant materials. Sun exposure can deteriorate cheaper net fabrics, reducing lifespan.

Look for polyethylene mesh promoted as UV-stabilized or UV-treated. Polyethylene’s long polymer chains naturally resist UV radiation degradation. Adding UV inhibitors also prevents brittleness and breakdown.

Premium nylon nets around 1000D-1200D with UV-coating likewise withstand sun damage without losing integrity. High denier numbers indicate thicker, longer-lasting fiber strands.

For metal frames, powdercoated and anodized finishes prevent UV damage. Bare aluminum oxidizes over time while steel can corrode without protective treatment. Colors won’t fade.

PVC pipe frames are more prone to sun-related issues like material drying and cracking. Fiberglass durability also declines faster than aluminum or steel.

Sun-blocking netting is another accessory providing valuable UV protection for goal mouths. Attaching protective canopy netting prevents interior fading.

Beyond UV resistance, also seek lacrosse net fabrics promoted as colorfast, meaning the hues won’t shift or bleed over time. Vibrant white nets maintain visibility.

No net material is 100% UV proof, so take-down goals when not in use to maximize lifespan. Storing folded nets out of sunlight, or covering goals, prevents unnecessary exposure.

Replacing faded and degraded lacrosse nets gets expensive over time. Investing a little more upfront in UV-resistant models extends usable life significantly. You want the net’s play performance compromised long before its durability.

Consider Backstop Nets to Prevent Missed Balls from Escaping

Backstop netting behind lacrosse goals keeps missed shots contained within a practice area. Without containment netting, constant ball chasing hampers productive shooting reps.

Look for lacrosse rebounder nets incorporating backstop catching netting to enclosure the goal cage on three sides – behind and around the corners. This creates a ball corral to keep errant shots within reach.

The best backstop nets extend a full 6 feet or more behind the goal crease to catch high sailed shots and wide perimeter attempts. Side netting at 45 degree angles or greater provides an expanded catchment zone.

Robust polyester or nylon backstop materials handle high velocity shots without puncturing. Softer net fabrics also cushion balls to reduce return speed for easier handling.

For empty backyard goals, you can purchase standalone backstop net kits designed to mount behind existing frames. Bungee top binding fits over the crossbar to install quickly.

Consider doubling up layers of backstop netting to create more drag and shorten return flight paths. Leave at least 1 foot between layers for ball clearance.

With enclosed backstop nets, you can practice shooting continuously without interruptions or wasting time retrieving missed shots. The ball return simplifies refeeding the shooter for progressive skill sharpening.

Containment nets also protect surrounding property like house windows, siding, or yard landscaping from errant ball strikes during uncontrolled practice. Keep all action safely focused on net.

Compare Warranties Between Brands and Models

When purchasing a lacrosse net for your backyard, compare warranty coverage between different brands and models. More extensive warranties convey manufacturer faith in product longevity.

Many premium lacrosse goal manufacturers offer warranties of 5 years or longer. This highlights their belief in material quality withstanding years of use. Register products promptly to activate coverage.

Standard coverage spans 1-2 years for basic models from less-established brands. Weaker warranties signal either uncertainty in lifespan or unwillingness to replace/repair failures.

See if warranties specify certain defects covered, like broken welds, tearing, etc. Some may exclude certain wear-related issues falling under improper use. Read terms closely.

For netting itself, warranties typically guarantee replacement coverage against premature breakdown like holes, tears or loosened threading. Frames are warranted against structural failures.

Warranties backing Lacrosse rebounder nets should cover both catch netting and ball return components. Moving parts often have shorter protection than framing.

Compare whether warranties require sending goals back to the manufacturer versus providing replacement parts directly for customer fixing. Weigh convenience.

If buying used lacrosse goals, leftover warranty coverage may still transfer. But register ownership promptly since unregistered products likely forfeit claims.

While avoiding the cheapest models, extended warranties also don’t automatically equate to best quality. Weigh coverage generously but appropriately for expected backyard use levels.

Look for Goalie Targets Printed on Net to Sharpen Accuracy

To make backyard shooting practice more game-realistic, look for lacrosse nets incorporating printed goalie targets on the net surface. Aiming at visual cues improves shooting accuracy.

Target areas simulate common goalie weak points like corners, under arm, and high/low zones shooters aim for in competition. Printed markings create visual perception of these accuracy zones.

Bulls-eye target circles in the net corners train shooters to lead passes intentionally just inside the pipes. Dotted shooter’s alley boxes focus awareness on precision above and below goalie stick reach.

Realistic body silhouettes on net surfaces help drill placement shots like faking top shelf then bouncing one just inside the goal line. Mimicking game deception scenarios transfers to live play.

For developing shooters, larger-than-life targets build initial confidence before downsizing for precision. Scale up outlines first, then graduate to small dots forcing razor focus.

Varying target patterns, positions and configurations keeps the challenge fresh. Printed graphics can detach and reattach in different zones to mix things up.

Aiming practice along painted shooting arcs on surrounding ground guides ball approach angles for accuracy. Combine with painted dot targets on driveway or turf.

While full-pressure goalie defense is irreplaceable, shooting at even basic painted targets engages focus. Prioritizing aim over power builds muscle memory paying dividends in game pressure situations.

Make Sure Net Height is Adjustable for Players of All Ages

When installing a permanent lacrosse goal in your backyard, consider height-adjustable nets to accommodate players of different ages. Kids require appropriately scaled targets.

Height adjustment allows the crossbar and net to lower closer to the ground for younger players first developing shooting mechanics. As they grow, the net easily resets to full men’s height.

Look for telescoping pole systems with quick-release pins for smooth raising and lowering. Numerically labeled or color coded height settings eliminate guesswork.

Consider the minimum crossbar height needed for your youngest family members. Scaled 3′ x 3′ goals designed for 8U and 10U players may be better starter sizes than oversized adjustable nets.

Measure your team or family’s age ranges to ensure the adjustment range suits now and in future years. Seek at least a height variance of 4-5 feet between lowest and full men’s height.

For safety, padding crossbars and horizontal back pipes avoids face collisions, even at lower heights. Look for thick foam or synthetic wrapping.

Check that net width and depth also scale proportionately when lowering total height. Nets should retain proper shaping for skill development.

Consider pairing adjustable full-size goals with fixed children’s goals for separate practice as skills progress. Or use height adjustment to fine tune challenge.

Height adaptability extends goal usefulness as kids mature physically. Dialing in appropriate net heights keeps drills engaging yet controlled as players grow.

Select a Net that Enhances Skills Rather Than Hindering Development

When choosing a backyard lacrosse goal, make sure the net design actually improves your game rather than instilling bad habits. Seek performance-enhancing features tailored to growth.

regulation sizing of 6×6 feet with proper 2-inch diameter pipes ensures balls rebound realistically. Undersized nets teach poor mechanics while oversized goals hide weaknesses.

Durability matters – flimsy pipes bend while saggy loose netting disrupts precision. Sturdy construction provides honest feedback.

The best goals challenge you to elevate your skills through purposeful features: printed targeting zones, angled side netting to sharpen aim, rebounder rims to keep you shooting without pause.

Portability is key – goals able to move where you need and store securely extends potential practice time and access.

Adjustable elements like height settings, padded wrap-arounds, backstop netting all dial in the right amount of difficulty as you develop new techniques.

Intuitive assembly/disassembly ensures you spend time wisely. Focus practice on proper mechanics, not troubleshooting equipment.

It comes back to build quality – frames, net materials, and smart features combining to level up performance. The right backyard goal becomes a trusty training partner.

While price factors in, avoid both flimsy bargains and over-engineered distractions. Seek the training-focused “sweet spot” where hard work and the goal’s assets intersect to skillfully push you to the next level.