Critical Components to Protect Life and Limb Lacrosse Gear Safety EssentialsCritical Components to Protect Life and Limb Lacrosse Gear Safety Essentials
Selecting a Lacrosse Helmet to Reduce Concussions
When picking out a lacrosse helmet, concussion prevention should be a top priority. With lacrosse being a full contact sport with hard rubber balls flying at high speeds, head injuries are a constant risk. Choosing a helmet engineered to absorb high impact forces and equipped with protective padding can help mitigate concussions. Look for brands that utilize advanced tech like MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) to allow the inner layer to shift upon impact, redirecting force away from the head. Shells made from polycarbonate or ABS plastic composite offer rigidity to deflect blows. Inner liners using EPP or EVA foam compress to soak up energy from direct hits. Ensure the helmet has a face mask meeting NOCSAE standards to protect the jaw and teeth from slashing sticks, errant balls and body collisions. Selecting the right lacrosse helmet model certified by specific sport governing bodies like NOCSAE can make a big difference in preventing traumatic brain injuries that can have lasting effects. Providing head protection from 10 g’s of force or more gives a fighting chance of avoiding concussion while playing hard on the field. Don’t play Russian roulette with head safety – research thoroughly and invest in the highest quality lacrosse helmet technology within budget to help reduce risk and enjoy the game fully. Protecting our brains should always be a top priority!
Shoulder Pads Absorb Hits to the Upper Body
Lacrosse shoulder pads are a vital piece of protective gear, shielding the collarbone, ribs, chest and back from bruising body checks. With lacrosse sticks constantly slashing and jostling for the ball, plus cross-checks throwing players off balance, shoulder pad protection is a must. Brands like Maverik, STX and Warrior offer pads with high-density EVA or EPP foam covering the shoulders, sternum, kidneys, biceps and triceps. This padding absorbs impact from all directions to prevent painful contusions and fractures. Good lacrosse shoulder pads will also be anatomically contoured and articulated to allow free movement of arms and torso. They secure firmly to the body with adjustable straps and stretch lycra, avoiding dangerous pad slippage. For field players facing constant body blows, maximum legal padding is recommended like 2-inch thick EVA chest plates. Goalies also need extensive padding given the onslaught of close-range shots. Look for shoulder pads with ventilated moisture-wicking liners to combat overheating, along with removable bicep guards. Consider lightweight carbon fiber shoulder caps for additional impact resistance without weighing you down. Don’t take chances with inadequate padding and risk lasting orthopedic damage. Investing in the best lacrosse shoulder pads within your budget helps ensure you can dish out hits as well as take them.
Armguards Prevent Bruising From Checks
Taking a lacrosse ball or crushing cross-check directly on unprotected arms can lead to massive bruising and even fractures. That’s why wearing proper armguards is so important in lacrosse. Quality armguards will use multi-layered padding with materials like high-density foam and ventilated plastic inserts to absorb the sting of checks. Features like removable elbow caps help shield joints from hyperextension and impact. Compression sleeves with protective padded sleeves add comfort and mobility while defending arms from welts. Goalies need beefed up arm protection given the barrage of shots faced. Look for armguards with extended wrists pads, bicep plates and elbow caps to provide 360 degrees of padding. Field players can get by with minimal single sleeve armguards if needed for faster movement. But even slight arm protection is better than none when it comes to avoiding injuries. Brands like Cascade, Warrior and Brine all offer great lacrosse armguard options at various price points. Don’t risk playing with bare arms and leaving limbs exposed to preventable injuries. Quality lacrosse armguards allow you to play physically without fear of constant battered and bruised arms. Protecting muscles and joints from harm keeps players performing at their peak game after game.
Lacrosse Gloves Guard Against Hand Injuries
- Look for MIPS technology
- Choose helmets with polycarbonate or ABS plastic composite shells
- Ensure inner liners use EPP or EVA foam
- Verify that the face mask meets NOCSAE standards
When selecting a lacrosse helmet, prioritize models that are certified by sport governing bodies like NOCSAE. These helmets are designed to provide protection from forces of 10 g’s or more, significantly reducing the risk of traumatic brain injuries. Remember, investing in a high-quality lacrosse helmet is an investment in your long-term health and ability to enjoy the game safely.
Shoulder Pads: Your Shield Against Upper Body Impacts
Shoulder pads are an indispensable piece of lacrosse protective gear, safeguarding players from the bruising impacts of body checks, slashing sticks, and cross-checks. But what features should you look for in effective lacrosse shoulder pads?
Top brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior offer shoulder pads with high-density EVA or EPP foam covering critical areas such as the shoulders, sternum, kidneys, biceps, and triceps. This comprehensive padding absorbs impacts from all directions, helping to prevent painful contusions and potential fractures.
Optimal lacrosse shoulder pads should be anatomically contoured and articulated, allowing for free movement of the arms and torso. This design ensures that protection doesn’t come at the cost of mobility. Secure fit is another crucial factor – look for pads that fasten firmly to the body with adjustable straps and stretch lycra to prevent dangerous pad slippage during play.
- Choose pads with high-density EVA or EPP foam
- Ensure coverage of shoulders, sternum, kidneys, biceps, and triceps
- Look for anatomically contoured and articulated designs
- Prioritize secure fit with adjustable straps and stretch lycra
For field players who face constant body blows, maximum legal padding is recommended. This might include features like 2-inch thick EVA chest plates. Goalies, who face an onslaught of close-range shots, require even more extensive padding.
Additional features to consider include ventilated moisture-wicking liners to combat overheating, removable bicep guards for customizable protection, and lightweight carbon fiber shoulder caps for enhanced impact resistance without added weight.
Armguards: Essential Protection Against Bruising and Fractures
In lacrosse, unprotected arms are vulnerable to massive bruising and even fractures from direct hits by lacrosse balls or crushing cross-checks. How can armguards mitigate these risks?
Quality lacrosse armguards utilize multi-layered padding with materials like high-density foam and ventilated plastic inserts. This construction helps absorb the sting of checks effectively. Many designs incorporate removable elbow caps, which are crucial for shielding joints from hyperextension and impact.
Compression sleeves with protective padded overlays offer an excellent balance of comfort, mobility, and defense against welts. For goalies, who face a barrage of shots, more robust arm protection is necessary. Look for armguards with extended wrist pads, bicep plates, and elbow caps to provide 360-degree padding.
- Multi-layered padding with high-density foam and plastic inserts
- Removable elbow caps for joint protection
- Compression sleeves with padded overlays
- Extended protection for goalies (wrist pads, bicep plates, elbow caps)
Field players might opt for minimal single sleeve armguards if they prioritize faster movement. However, it’s important to note that even slight arm protection is preferable to none when it comes to preventing injuries.
Reputable brands like Cascade, Warrior, and Brine offer a range of lacrosse armguard options at various price points. By investing in quality armguards, players can engage in physical play without the constant fear of battered and bruised arms, helping to maintain peak performance throughout the season.
Lacrosse Gloves: Protecting Hands While Enhancing Control
Lacrosse gloves serve a dual purpose: they protect hands from injury while also enhancing ball control. With the constant slashing of lacrosse sticks, how do these gloves prevent hand injuries?
High-quality lacrosse gloves are constructed from materials such as leather, nylon, and abrasion-resistant fabrics. These materials provide a robust shield against stick checks and ball impacts. The back of the gloves features thick padding to absorb blows, effectively preventing fractures and sprains.
Palm padding is another crucial element, allowing players to cradle the ball and perform checks without experiencing pain. For goalies, who face point-blank shots, gloves with extra padding and extended cuffs are essential.
- Construction from leather, nylon, or abrasion-resistant fabrics
- Thick padding on the back of the gloves
- Palm padding for ball control and pain-free checking
- Extra padding and extended cuffs for goalie gloves
Field players may opt for half-finger gloves to enhance stick feel and control. However, this design sacrifices some protection for increased dexterity. When choosing lacrosse gloves, consider the balance between protection and mobility that best suits your playing style and position.
Remember, investing in high-quality lacrosse gloves is crucial for preventing broken fingers, bruises, and bloody knuckles. These injuries can significantly impact your ability to control the stick and perform at your best during games and practices.
The Role of Mouthguards in Lacrosse Safety
While often overlooked, mouthguards play a vital role in lacrosse safety. How do these small pieces of equipment contribute to player protection?
Mouthguards primarily protect the teeth, gums, and jaw from impacts. In a sport where high-speed balls and stick checks are common, this protection is crucial. A well-fitted mouthguard can prevent or reduce the severity of dental injuries, including chipped or knocked-out teeth.
Beyond dental protection, mouthguards can also help reduce the risk of concussions. By absorbing some of the shock from impacts to the jaw, they can minimize the transfer of force to the brain. This is particularly important in a high-contact sport like lacrosse.
- Protection for teeth, gums, and jaw
- Prevention of dental injuries
- Potential reduction in concussion risk
- Customizable fit for comfort and effectiveness
When choosing a mouthguard for lacrosse, consider options that offer a custom fit. Boil-and-bite mouthguards allow players to mold the guard to their specific teeth alignment, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. For maximum protection, some players opt for custom-made mouthguards from dental professionals.
Remember, a mouthguard is only effective if it’s worn consistently. Encourage proper use during both practices and games to maximize its protective benefits.
Protective Cups: An Often Overlooked but Crucial Piece of Gear
In the world of lacrosse safety gear, protective cups are sometimes overlooked. However, their importance cannot be overstated. Why are protective cups crucial for male lacrosse players?
Lacrosse involves fast-moving balls and swinging sticks, both of which pose significant risks to the groin area. A well-designed protective cup can prevent serious injuries, including testicular trauma, which can have long-lasting effects.
Modern protective cups are typically made from hard plastic or carbon fiber, materials that effectively distribute impact forces. They’re usually held in place by compression shorts or jockstraps, ensuring they stay in position during the dynamic movements of lacrosse.
- Protection against fast-moving balls and swinging sticks
- Prevention of serious groin injuries
- Made from impact-resistant materials like hard plastic or carbon fiber
- Secured by compression shorts or jockstraps
When selecting a protective cup for lacrosse, prioritize fit and comfort. A cup that’s too loose may shift during play, compromising protection, while one that’s too tight can cause discomfort and restrict movement. Many players find that cups designed specifically for lacrosse offer the best balance of protection and mobility.
Remember, while it may feel awkward at first, wearing a protective cup should become second nature. The potential consequences of playing without this crucial piece of equipment far outweigh any initial discomfort.
The Importance of Proper Fit in Lacrosse Safety Gear
While having the right types of protective gear is crucial, the fit of that gear is equally important. How does proper fit contribute to the effectiveness of lacrosse safety equipment?
Properly fitted gear ensures that protective elements are in the right place to absorb impacts effectively. For example, a helmet that’s too loose may shift upon impact, reducing its ability to protect the head. Similarly, shoulder pads that don’t fit snugly may leave vulnerable areas exposed.
Well-fitted gear also allows for optimal range of motion. Lacrosse requires quick, dynamic movements, and ill-fitting equipment can restrict these movements, potentially leading to reduced performance or even injury.
- Ensures protective elements are correctly positioned
- Prevents gear from shifting during impacts
- Allows for full range of motion
- Reduces the risk of gear-related injuries
When fitting lacrosse gear, pay attention to manufacturer sizing guides and, when possible, try on equipment before purchasing. Many pieces of gear, such as helmets and shoulder pads, have adjustable elements to fine-tune the fit.
Remember that as players grow or their body composition changes, gear may need to be replaced or adjusted. Regularly check the fit of all protective equipment to ensure it continues to provide optimal protection throughout the season.
By prioritizing proper fit alongside quality and appropriate design, lacrosse players can maximize the protective benefits of their safety gear, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing their ability to perform at their best on the field.
Selecting a Lacrosse Helmet to Reduce Concussions
When picking out a lacrosse helmet, concussion prevention should be a top priority. With lacrosse being a full contact sport with hard rubber balls flying at high speeds, head injuries are a constant risk. Choosing a helmet engineered to absorb high impact forces and equipped with protective padding can help mitigate concussions. Look for brands that utilize advanced tech like MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) to allow the inner layer to shift upon impact, redirecting force away from the head. Shells made from polycarbonate or ABS plastic composite offer rigidity to deflect blows. Inner liners using EPP or EVA foam compress to soak up energy from direct hits. Ensure the helmet has a face mask meeting NOCSAE standards to protect the jaw and teeth from slashing sticks, errant balls and body collisions. Selecting the right lacrosse helmet model certified by specific sport governing bodies like NOCSAE can make a big difference in preventing traumatic brain injuries that can have lasting effects. Providing head protection from 10 g’s of force or more gives a fighting chance of avoiding concussion while playing hard on the field. Don’t play Russian roulette with head safety – research thoroughly and invest in the highest quality lacrosse helmet technology within budget to help reduce risk and enjoy the game fully. Protecting our brains should always be a top priority!
Shoulder Pads Absorb Hits to the Upper Body
Lacrosse shoulder pads are a vital piece of protective gear, shielding the collarbone, ribs, chest and back from bruising body checks. With lacrosse sticks constantly slashing and jostling for the ball, plus cross-checks throwing players off balance, shoulder pad protection is a must. Brands like Maverik, STX and Warrior offer pads with high-density EVA or EPP foam covering the shoulders, sternum, kidneys, biceps and triceps. This padding absorbs impact from all directions to prevent painful contusions and fractures. Good lacrosse shoulder pads will also be anatomically contoured and articulated to allow free movement of arms and torso. They secure firmly to the body with adjustable straps and stretch lycra, avoiding dangerous pad slippage. For field players facing constant body blows, maximum legal padding is recommended like 2-inch thick EVA chest plates. Goalies also need extensive padding given the onslaught of close-range shots. Look for shoulder pads with ventilated moisture-wicking liners to combat overheating, along with removable bicep guards. Consider lightweight carbon fiber shoulder caps for additional impact resistance without weighing you down. Don’t take chances with inadequate padding and risk lasting orthopedic damage. Investing in the best lacrosse shoulder pads within your budget helps ensure you can dish out hits as well as take them.
Armguards Prevent Bruising From Checks
Taking a lacrosse ball or crushing cross-check directly on unprotected arms can lead to massive bruising and even fractures. That’s why wearing proper armguards is so important in lacrosse. Quality armguards will use multi-layered padding with materials like high-density foam and ventilated plastic inserts to absorb the sting of checks. Features like removable elbow caps help shield joints from hyperextension and impact. Compression sleeves with protective padded sleeves add comfort and mobility while defending arms from welts. Goalies need beefed up arm protection given the barrage of shots faced. Look for armguards with extended wrists pads, bicep plates and elbow caps to provide 360 degrees of padding. Field players can get by with minimal single sleeve armguards if needed for faster movement. But even slight arm protection is better than none when it comes to avoiding injuries. Brands like Cascade, Warrior and Brine all offer great lacrosse armguard options at various price points. Don’t risk playing with bare arms and leaving limbs exposed to preventable injuries. Quality lacrosse armguards allow you to play physically without fear of constant battered and bruised arms. Protecting muscles and joints from harm keeps players performing at their peak game after game.
Lacrosse Gloves Guard Against Hand Injuries
Lacrosse gloves serve the dual purpose of protecting hands from injury while enhancing ball control. With lacrosse sticks slashing hands constantly, quality gloves can prevent broken fingers, bruises and bloody knuckles. Leather, nylon and abrasion-resistant fabrics help shield hands from stick checks and ball impacts. Thick padding on the back of gloves absorbs blows to prevent fractures and sprains. Palm padding allows cradling and checking without pain. Goalie gloves offer extra padding and extended cuffs for blocking point blank shots. Field players can opt for half finger gloves for improved dexterity and stick feel. Features like ventilated Lycra backs, anatomical finger boxes and flexible closures ensure glove responsiveness. Brands like Warrior, Brine and STX offer a range of padding and protection levels to suit each player’s needs. Take time to find the right glove fit for your playing style and position. Hands endure a ton of abuse in such a stick heavy sport, so protecting them properly lets you play more aggressively. Don’t risk finger and hand injuries that can bench players. Investing in high-quality lacrosse gloves improves performance by allowing confident stick play without the fear of debilitating hand injuries.
Padded Shirts Shield the Ribcage from Checks
Taking a crushing lacrosse check directly to the ribs or chest can incapacitate players instantly. That’s why wearing proper padded lacrosse shirts is so critical for protection. Quality shirts are constructed with high-density EVA foam panels sewn into the lining to absorb the brunt of collisions. The sternum, ribs, kidneys, and abdominals are all shielded from blunt force trauma. Shirts secured with velcro straps and stretch lycra avoid dangerous pad slippage. Breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester mesh keep players cool under pressure. For field players taking routine body blows, maximum thickness foam chest pads up to 2 inches thick provide necessary security. Goalies also require extensive rib and chest protection given the onslaught of close-range shots. Lacrosse shirts with removable padded sleeves allow custom protection levels for each player’s needs. Major brands like Warrior, Maverik and STX offer great lacrosse shirt options at various budget levels. Don’t risk taking the field with inadequate rib and chest protection. Quality lacrosse padded shirts provide essential insurance against debilitating upper body injuries for confident physical play.
Cups and Supporters Guard Against Groin Injuries
Getting hit in the groin with a lacrosse ball traveling at high velocity can be an excruciating and even life-threatening injury. That’s why wearing a protective cup is a must for all lacrosse players, especially goalies facing repeated onslaughts of shots. Cups come in a variety of materials from soft foam to rigid carbon fiber plastic that absorb impact and diffuse force. Shock absorbing internal padding and ventilated compression shorts provide comfort and breathability. Jock straps or athletic supporters secure cups firmly in place and avoid dangerous shifting. Look for cups and supporters with EVA or silicone edge binding that conforms to body contours for customized fit. Brands like Shock Doctor and Nutty Buddy offer cups providing the essential protection at affordable prices. For goalies, consider options with extended side panels or larger plastic plates to protect a wider surface area. Take time to ensure the cup size is right for a secure and comfortable fit. Don’t let fear of groin injuries cause hesitancy on the field. Investing in a properly fitted cup and supporter set allows players to perform without worrying about agonizing and serious trauma to a sensitive area.
Knee Pads Shield Joints from Checks
The knee joint is highly vulnerable in a constant contact sport like lacrosse with players constantly cutting, pivoting and jostling for ground balls. That’s why proper knee pad protection is so vital. Quality knee pads utilize dense EVA foam, molded plastic plates and non-slip neoprene sleeves to stabilize joints and absorb contact. Brands like Maverik, STX and Brine offer pads with anatomical design contouring to the knee for flexibility. Features like ventilated moisture-wicking fabrics, compression sleeves, and adjustable straps prevent pad slippage. For goalies dropping down constantly, consider options with thicker padding or removable hinged caps for complete knee protection. Field players can opt for minimal 3/4 sleeve pads if less bulk is needed. But exposed knees risk serious joint and ligament damage. Take time to find the right knee pad fit and protection level you need. Don’t jeopardize your knees with inadequate padding. High performance lacrosse knee pads give the stability and confidence to play all out without worrying about lasting trauma to this critical joint.
Ankle Braces Prevent Dangerous Sprains
The ankles endure tremendous stress in lacrosse from constant cutting, pivoting, and rapid accelerations exposing them to rolls and sprains. High-quality ankle braces provide essential stability and injury prevention. Lacrosse-specific braces utilize integrated heel locks, lace-up support, and padded lining to restrict inversion/eversion while allowing flexion. This guards against dangerous ankle rolls and ligament tears. Breathable moisture-wicking fabric liners and vented tongue foam boosts comfort for prolonged wear. Opt for braces with removable stirrups and cross strapping for customized stabilization. Major brands like McDavid and Cramer offer excellent mid-price options. For maximum support some players elect taping ankles over wearing braces. But this restricts mobility and requires frequent re-taping. Lightweight lacrosse ankle braces allow aggressive cutting while safeguarding this fragile joint from harm. Don’t play with ankles exposed risking severe sprains. The right lacrosse ankle braces provide active support and protection so you can drive hard to the goal with confidence.
Mouthguards Protect Teeth and Jaws
Taking a lacrosse ball or stick to the face can cause serious dental trauma and jaw injuries. Wearing a protective mouthguard reduces this risk substantially. Quality mouthguards use soft thermoplastic construction that conforms to the bites and braces for a secure fit. This prevents the guard from dislodging upon impact. Look for options with thicker anterior walls and occlusal pads that absorb direct face shots. Ventilation ports reduce gag reflexes and enable clear speech. Major brands like Shock Doctor, SISU and Under Armour offer excellent choices. Custom mouthguards molded by dentists provide optimal protection and comfort. Less expensive boil-and-bite guards can also be effective if properly fitted. For field players, standard thickness guards suffice, but goalies need maximum protection given the assault of shots taken. Don’t risk cracked teeth, dental bills or a broken jaw by playing without a mouthguard. Protecting the mouth and face is vital for any contact sport. A properly fitted lacrosse mouthguard gives essential protection so you can play with confidence.
Helmet Accessories Enhance Protection
While a proper lacrosse helmet provides the essential head protection, adding helmet accessories can take safety to the next level. Helmet shields are a must to protect eyes and temples from shots and sticks. Brands like Cascade and STX make shields using strong polycarbonate with anti-fog and anti-glare coatings for clear vision. Chin straps with quick release buckles ensure helmets stay secured even after big hits. Helmet fans attach to side vents providing cooling airflow to combat overheating and fog buildup. Custom helmet decals in team colors allow self-expression while identifying teammates. For goalies, consider a throat guard attachment to guard against close-range shots to the neck. Don’t play with an incomplete helmet setup risking unnecessary injury. Taking time to outfit your lacrosse lid properly enhances comfort, visibility and safety. Protecting the head and face by fully equipping your helmet with the right added components allows you to play with confidence and peace of mind.
Cleats Provide Traction and Maneuverability
Having the right lacrosse cleats provides a huge advantage by allowing quick cuts, speed bursts, and sharp pivots needed in a fast paced game. Lacrosse cleats utilize short studs providing traction on natural grass or synthetic turf. Abrasion resistant uppers stand up to wear and tear. Look for cleats equipped with advanced tech like Flywire cables for lockdown support or Pebax plates for lightweight stability. Mid-cut silhouettes offer ankle support for cuts while low tops maximize mobility. Replaceable studs extend cleat life so you get your money’s worth. Major brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour all make excellent lacrosse cleats catering to various player needs. Take time to find the right fit for your foot shape and playing style. Don’t try saving money using bulky plastic cleats that can lead to rolled ankles. Investing in high performance lacrosse cleats designed for the game’s fast pace provides a real edge. With the right lacrosse footwear, you’ll have the speed and agility to leave defenders in the dust!
Backpacks Hold Gear and Support Spines
A lacrosse backpack serves the important dual purpose of hauling a load of heavy protective gear while providing back support during transit. Look for bags with wide padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum straps, and breathable back panels to prevent dug-in pressure points. Durable polyester or nylon fabric withstands heavy use and weathering. Separate vented compartments store helmets, pads, cleats, and sweaty uniforms apart. Some feature specialized pockets for sticks, gloves, balls and electronics. Brands like Maverik and STX make bags catering directly to lacrosse. Consider options with hydration bladder sleeves for easy water access. External lash points allow carrying extra gear as needed. Take time to find a properly fitted bag that balances your load without restricting mobility. Don’t risk back strain trying to get by with an old worn-out school backpack. Investing in a high quality lacrosse-specific bag protects long-term health by providing essential spine support when lugging heavy gear to and from the field.
Tape and Braces Support Vulnerable Joints
Joint injuries are common in lacrosse given the physical demands on the body. Taping ankles, wrists, fingers and thumbs provides extra support and stabilization for vulnerable joints. Brands like Mueller offer specialized lacrosse tape with just the right grip and flexibility. Pre-wrap under tape wicks moisture and cushions skin. Proper taping technique by trainers ensures optimal joint lockdown without restricting mobility or circulation. KT athletic tape also stabilizes joints using less material. For sprained wrists and ankles, lace-up braces offer adjustable compression. Neoprene or elastic sleeves deliver soothing compression therapy. Don’t ignore minor joint pain and attempt playing unprotected. Targeted joint taping, braces and sleeves can prevent a nagging injury from becoming worse. Protecting tender joints with supplemental supports allows players to perform at 100% without compromising their health and safety. On the lacrosse field, ankles, knees and wrists endure constant torque making taping and bracing necessities.
Lacrosse Sticks Engineer Optimal Performance
Having the right lacrosse stick improves handling, passing, catching and shooting giving a real performance edge. Stick technology has advanced tremendously in recent years for superior construction. Shafts now utilize ultra-lightweight metals like scandium-titanium alloys or high strength composites. This reduces fatigue from wielding a heavy stick all game. Advanced scoop designs and wider mesh netting improves ball control. Offset heads place the ball in the sweet spot for quicker passes and harder shots. Pockets can be customized by players for ideal hold and release. Brands like Maverik, STX and Warrior all make excellent sticks optimized for each position. Attackmen need quick release while defensemen want superior ball retention. Take time to test different stick models to find your ideal balance of control, accuracy and power. Don’t just use the same stick from youth leagues and limit your potential. Investing in a lacrosse stick engineered using the latest tech gives a real competitive advantage allowing your true skills to shine.
Goalie Gear Protects Against High Velocity Shots
Goalies endure a nonstop barrage of 90+ mph shots, making specialized protective gear absolutely vital. Lacrosse goalie helmets use full wraparound face masks and extended rear protection to shield from close range shots. Chest and rib pads need increased bulk to absorb the high force shots. Arm guards require extra padding on elbows, forearms and wrists that take the brunt of blocks. Goalie gloves feature thick foam and plastic plates across palms and fingers to prevent injury when knocking down blistering shots. Consider options with claw constructions to easily snag high passes. Extended shin guards and thick knee pads protects the joints most likely to be blasted with shots. For maximum coverage, look at boxes that integrate pants, knee pads and shorts into one protective shell. Brands like Warrior and Maverik offer goalie gear packages catering specifically to their extreme needs. Take time to test sizing and comfort as the right fit is crucial when gearing up as a human wall. Don’t take chances with subpar padding leaving you vulnerable in the crease. Investing in high-end goalie gear engineered for extreme protection allows focusing on making those game saving stops.
