Curious About Lacrosse Gear. Discover 15 Lacrosse Glove Buying Tips That Will Take Your Game to The Next LevelCurious About Lacrosse Gear. Discover 15 Lacrosse Glove Buying Tips That Will Take Your Game to The Next Level
Choose the Right Fit – Make sure your gloves aren’t too tight or too loose
Curious About Lacrosse Gear? Discover 15 Lacrosse Glove Buying Tips That Will Take Your Game to The Next Level
Buying new lacrosse gloves can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially if you’re new to the sport. With so many brands, styles, and sizes available, it’s tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide with 15 tips to help you find the perfect pair of lacrosse gloves.
1. Determine Your Position
The type of glove you need depends heavily on the position you play. For example, goalies require a thicker, more protective glove to shield against hard shots, while field players need a more flexible glove for scooping, cradling, and passing. Attackmen may prefer a snugger fit glove for superior control, while defenders opt for a bulkier glove with more padding. Consider your position first when shopping for gloves.
2. Get Properly Sized

It’s crucial that your gloves fit properly, so you can grip your stick without restriction. Most brands size gloves numerically, but some use small/medium/large sizing. Try gloves on in-store if possible and make sure you can comfortably flex your fingers and form a fist. The gloves shouldn’t be painfully tight but also shouldn’t have excess material bunching. For the right fit, measure the circumference of your palm.
3. Select the Right Materials
Lacrosse gloves come in a variety of materials, including flexible synthetics, durable leathers, and moisture-wicking fabrics. Synthetic gloves tend to offer more dexterity and range of motion. Leather gloves provide weather resistance and a classic look. Moisture-wicking gloves keep your hands dry and comfortable. Think about your climate and needs.
4. Consider Protection Level
Some lacrosse gloves have extra foam or plastic padding across the fingers, knuckles and back of the hand. This padding protects against checks and slashes. Goalie gloves, defender gloves and some midfielder gloves offer more robust padding. Determine the protection level you need based on your position and style of play.
5. Check for Ventilation

Ventilation holes and breathable mesh panels allow for airflow into your gloves, keeping your hands cool and dry. This is especially important for hot weather play. Look for gloves marketed as “cooling” or “ventilated” if sweaty hands are a concern for you.
6. Pick Your Preferred Palm
The palm material affects grip and durability. Synthetic palms offer the stickiest grip in wet conditions. Leather palms provide a classic feel and withstanding rugged play. Clarino synthetic palms are a lightweight and breathable option. Consider playing conditions and your palm preferences.
7. Consider Adjustable Wrist Straps
Adjustable wrist straps allow you to customize the tightness of your gloves for a secure fit. This prevents the gloves from slipping off. Most gloves have basic elastic cuff closures, but some feature adjustable straps with Velcro or plastic clips.
8. Choose Your Closure Style
Lacrosse gloves secure over the wrist with different closure styles. Elastic cuffs are the most common and provide a snug fit. Velcro wrist straps offer more adjustability. Zippered closures are less common but allow you to put gloves on quicker. Evaluate closure types when selecting gloves.
9. Look for Comfort Features
Position-Specific Glove Features
- Goalie gloves: Extra padding, reinforced palms
- Attacker gloves: Snug fit, enhanced dexterity
- Defender gloves: Increased padding, robust construction
- Midfielder gloves: Balanced protection and flexibility
Can the wrong gloves impact your performance? Absolutely. Using gloves not suited for your position can hinder your ability to perform specific tasks effectively, potentially affecting your overall game performance.
Mastering the Art of Proper Glove Sizing and Fit
Achieving the perfect fit is essential when selecting lacrosse gloves. Properly sized gloves allow you to grip your stick without restriction while providing the necessary protection. Most brands use numerical sizing, while others employ small/medium/large designations.
To determine your ideal size, measure the circumference of your palm. When trying on gloves, ensure you can comfortably flex your fingers and form a fist. The gloves should not feel painfully tight, nor should there be excess material bunching.
Steps to Find Your Perfect Fit
- Measure your palm circumference
- Try on gloves in-store if possible
- Check for finger flexibility
- Ensure a snug but not tight fit
- Test grip and stick control
How can you tell if your gloves are too loose or too tight? If you experience restricted movement or discomfort, the gloves are likely too tight. Conversely, if there’s excess space or the gloves shift during play, they’re probably too loose.
Exploring Materials: Finding the Perfect Balance of Comfort and Durability
Lacrosse gloves come in various materials, each offering unique benefits. Flexible synthetics provide excellent dexterity and range of motion, while durable leathers offer weather resistance and a classic aesthetic. Moisture-wicking fabrics keep hands dry and comfortable during intense play.
Consider your playing environment and personal preferences when selecting glove materials. For instance, synthetic gloves may be ideal for players in hot, humid climates due to their breathability, while leather gloves might be better suited for cooler regions or players prioritizing durability.
Common Glove Materials and Their Benefits
- Synthetic: Flexibility, lightweight, often more affordable
- Leather: Durability, weather resistance, classic look
- Moisture-wicking fabrics: Comfort, odor control, temperature regulation
- Mesh: Ventilation, breathability
Do different materials affect glove lifespan? Indeed, material choice can significantly impact glove durability. Leather gloves often last longer but may require more maintenance, while synthetic options might need replacement more frequently but offer enhanced performance features.
Optimizing Protection: Balancing Safety and Mobility
Protection is a crucial factor when selecting lacrosse gloves. Some models feature extra foam or plastic padding across the fingers, knuckles, and back of the hand to guard against checks and slashes. Goalie gloves, defender gloves, and certain midfielder gloves typically offer more robust padding.
When evaluating protection levels, consider your position and playing style. Attackers might prioritize mobility over heavy padding, while defenders and goalies require maximum protection against impacts.
Key Protection Areas in Lacrosse Gloves
- Fingers: Segmented padding for flexibility and protection
- Knuckles: Reinforced padding to absorb impacts
- Back of hand: Extended coverage for slash protection
- Thumb: Additional padding to prevent hyperextension
Is it possible to have too much padding in lacrosse gloves? While protection is important, excessive padding can limit mobility and affect stick control. The key is finding the right balance for your position and playing style.
Ventilation: Keeping Cool Under Pressure
Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining comfort during intense lacrosse matches. Ventilation holes and breathable mesh panels allow airflow into your gloves, keeping your hands cool and dry. This feature is particularly important for players in hot climates or those prone to sweaty hands.
Look for gloves marketed as “cooling” or “ventilated” if temperature regulation is a priority for you. Some advanced models incorporate moisture-wicking technologies to enhance breathability and comfort.
Benefits of Well-Ventilated Lacrosse Gloves
- Reduced hand fatigue
- Improved grip and stick control
- Enhanced comfort during extended play
- Minimized odor buildup
How does ventilation affect glove performance? Proper airflow helps maintain a comfortable hand temperature, reducing sweat buildup and improving overall grip and control throughout the game.
Palm Materials: Enhancing Grip and Control
The palm material of your lacrosse gloves significantly affects grip and durability. Synthetic palms often provide the stickiest grip in wet conditions, while leather palms offer a classic feel and withstand rugged play. Clarino synthetic palms are a lightweight and breathable option gaining popularity among players.
Consider your playing conditions and personal preferences when selecting palm materials. Some players prefer the tacky feel of synthetic palms, while others appreciate the natural grip of leather.
Popular Palm Materials and Their Characteristics
- Synthetic: Excellent grip in wet conditions, quick-drying
- Leather: Classic feel, durable, improves with use
- Clarino: Lightweight, breathable, balances grip and durability
- Mesh: Enhanced ventilation, quick-drying
Does palm material affect stick control? Absolutely. The right palm material can enhance your ability to manipulate the stick, improving your overall performance in various game situations.
Customization and Comfort: Fine-Tuning Your Gloves
Many lacrosse gloves offer customization options to enhance fit and comfort. Adjustable wrist straps allow you to tailor the tightness of your gloves for a secure fit, preventing slippage during play. While most gloves feature basic elastic cuff closures, some models incorporate adjustable straps with Velcro or plastic clips for added versatility.
Comfort features like pre-curved fingers, tapered seams, and flexible knuckle zones contribute to a more natural feel and improved dexterity. Some gloves even include terrycloth thumb panels to wipe away sweat during intense matches.
Key Comfort Features to Consider
- Adjustable wrist straps
- Pre-curved fingers
- Flexible knuckle zones
- Tapered seams
- Moisture-wicking linings
How do these comfort features impact performance? Enhanced comfort leads to reduced fatigue and distraction, allowing you to focus on your game and perform at your best for longer periods.
When selecting lacrosse gloves, consider factors such as closure style, color options, and brand reputation. Popular manufacturers like Maverik, STX, Warrior, and Brine offer excellent gloves, while Nike and Under Armour provide high-quality alternatives. Set a budget, read reviews from other players, and if possible, try on gloves before purchasing to ensure the best fit and feel for your game.
Remember, the right pair of lacrosse gloves can significantly impact your performance on the field. By considering your position, prioritizing proper fit, and evaluating key features like protection, ventilation, and grip, you’ll be well-equipped to choose gloves that elevate your game to the next level.
Choose the Right Fit – Make sure your gloves aren’t too tight or too loose
Curious About Lacrosse Gear? Discover 15 Lacrosse Glove Buying Tips That Will Take Your Game to The Next Level
Buying new lacrosse gloves can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially if you’re new to the sport. With so many brands, styles, and sizes available, it’s tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide with 15 tips to help you find the perfect pair of lacrosse gloves.
1. Determine Your Position
The type of glove you need depends heavily on the position you play. For example, goalies require a thicker, more protective glove to shield against hard shots, while field players need a more flexible glove for scooping, cradling, and passing. Attackmen may prefer a snugger fit glove for superior control, while defenders opt for a bulkier glove with more padding. Consider your position first when shopping for gloves.
2. Get Properly Sized
It’s crucial that your gloves fit properly, so you can grip your stick without restriction. Most brands size gloves numerically, but some use small/medium/large sizing. Try gloves on in-store if possible and make sure you can comfortably flex your fingers and form a fist. The gloves shouldn’t be painfully tight but also shouldn’t have excess material bunching. For the right fit, measure the circumference of your palm.
3. Select the Right Materials
Lacrosse gloves come in a variety of materials, including flexible synthetics, durable leathers, and moisture-wicking fabrics. Synthetic gloves tend to offer more dexterity and range of motion. Leather gloves provide weather resistance and a classic look. Moisture-wicking gloves keep your hands dry and comfortable. Think about your climate and needs.
4. Consider Protection Level
Some lacrosse gloves have extra foam or plastic padding across the fingers, knuckles and back of the hand. This padding protects against checks and slashes. Goalie gloves, defender gloves and some midfielder gloves offer more robust padding. Determine the protection level you need based on your position and style of play.
5. Check for Ventilation
Ventilation holes and breathable mesh panels allow for airflow into your gloves, keeping your hands cool and dry. This is especially important for hot weather play. Look for gloves marketed as “cooling” or “ventilated” if sweaty hands are a concern for you.
6. Pick Your Preferred Palm
The palm material affects grip and durability. Synthetic palms offer the stickiest grip in wet conditions. Leather palms provide a classic feel and withstanding rugged play. Clarino synthetic palms are a lightweight and breathable option. Consider playing conditions and your palm preferences.
7. Consider Adjustable Wrist Straps
Adjustable wrist straps allow you to customize the tightness of your gloves for a secure fit. This prevents the gloves from slipping off. Most gloves have basic elastic cuff closures, but some feature adjustable straps with Velcro or plastic clips.
8. Choose Your Closure Style
Lacrosse gloves secure over the wrist with different closure styles. Elastic cuffs are the most common and provide a snug fit. Velcro wrist straps offer more adjustability. Zippered closures are less common but allow you to put gloves on quicker. Evaluate closure types when selecting gloves.
9. Look for Comfort Features
Little details like pre-curved fingers, tapered seams and flexible knuckles zones enhance the comfort and natural feel of lacrosse gloves. Terrycloth thumb panels wipe away sweat from your face too. Prioritize these small touches for all-day comfort.
10. Decide On Color
Lacrosse gloves come in a wide range of colors, from basic black to bright, flashy hues. While color doesn’t affect performance, it allows you to show off your style and personality. Popular glove colors include red, orange, yellow, green and tie-dye patterns.
11. Choose Your Brand
When it comes to lacrosse gear, brands matter. Top manufacturers like Maverik, STX, Warrior and Brine make excellent gloves. Nike and Under Armour also offer great options. Check out the brand’s reputation and sponsored players when deciding.
12. Set Your Budget
Lacrosse glove prices span from about $40 up to $150+ for elite and custom pro gloves. Set a spending limit and stick to gloves in your price range. Sales can help you score deals on last year’s gear too.
13. Read Reviews
Reading lacrosse glove reviews from other players is tremendously helpful when choosing a pair. See what fellow users say about sizing, comfort, durability and other factors. Watch online video reviews to see the gloves in action too.
14. Try Before You Buy
If possible, try on lacrosse gloves in person before purchasing, so you can assess the fit and feel. Many sports stores allow you to take a few practice cradles and passes to test gloves out. Buying online is convenient but lacks that critical hands-on testing.
15. Focus on Fit & Function
Above all, your lacrosse gloves should fit comfortably and perform how you need them to. All the extra features and design elements are less important than finding the right size gloves with the ideal grip, dexterity, and protection for your position and playing style. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to shop for new gloves and elevate your game.
Whether you play attack, midfield, defense or goalie, lacrosse gloves are a vital piece of equipment. Follow this advice to find the perfect pair tailored to your needs. Investing in high-quality, well-fitting gloves will help take your lacrosse skills to the next level. Happy glove shopping and enjoy your next game!
Prioritize Protection – Focus on gloves with maximum palm and thumb padding
If you’re new to the fast-paced, high-impact sport of lacrosse, you may feel overwhelmed by all the protective gear required. But while a helmet, shoulder pads, arm pads and cleats are all essential, no piece of equipment is more vital than your lacrosse gloves.
A good pair of lacrosse gloves will shield your hands and wrists from checks, slashes and errant balls whistling in at over 100 mph. With so much on the line, you’ll want to prioritize maximum padding and protection when glove shopping.
Pay special attention to palm and thumb padding. These high-wear areas bear the brunt of ground balls, face-offs and any balls you intercept. At minimum, look for dual-density foam in the palm and molded plastic thumb guards. Multi-layer foam palms with added shielding on the fingertips and knuckles also boost protection.
Consider gloves with full wraparound cuffs too. Extending padding down the wrist and forearm better prepares you for checks. You’ll also appreciate the extra coverage when scooping up ground balls.
Opt For the Proper Fit
After protection, finding the right lacrosse glove fit is crucial. Ill-fitting gloves hamper your performance and leave you vulnerable to injury.
Ideally, gloves should be snug but not restrictive. Palm and finger sections must move with your hands while allowing full range of motion. The gloves shouldn’t slide around on your hands either.
Measure your dominant hand against sizing charts to identify your proper glove size. Try gloves on and make fists, flex your wrists and grasp your stick to test mobility. If gloves are too tight or loose, size up or down accordingly.
Proper wrist closure is also key for safety. Wide Velcro wrist straps let you fine tune the fit. Gloves should overlap any arm pads without leaving gaps where the wrists are exposed.
Match Glove Properties to Your Position
Lacrosse gloves aren’t one-size-fits-all. Design factors like weight, padding placement and materials vary to accommodate needs across positions.
For example, flexible, lightweight gloves assist stick handling for midfielders and attackmen. Extra padding on the thumb, index and middle fingers aids cradling and passing. Ventilation panels reduce sweat buildup.
Alternatively, bulky gloves with maximum palm padding suit defensive players that take on more contact. Goalies also prefer sturdy gloves with full wristwrap protection when blocking blistering shots.
Consider your primary position and responsibilities when choosing lacrosse gloves. Let your anticipated gameplay exposure guide you toward ideal protective properties.
Don’t Overlook Aesthetics
Lacrosse gloves come in a diverse range of colors, prints and graphics. While protective performance is paramount, style counts too.
Look for gloves that express your personality. Bold designs in your team colors fired up your team pride. Unique prints help you stand out on the field. With so many options, you can play in a stylish manner.
Just confirm vibrant dyes don’t diminish glove durability or fade quickly in the sun. Avoid white palms that dirty easily. Make sure prints aren’t positioned where balls repeatedly strike for maximum longevity.
Compare Lacrosse Glove Brands
When buying lacrosse gloves, you can choose from equipment giants like Under Armour, STX and Maverik or smaller specialty brands.
Under Armour lacrosse gloves feature the brand’s HeatGear moisture-wicking fabric and high abrasion panels. Many models also incorporate flexible UA tech mesh for optimized air flow.
STX emphasizes gloves optimized for different playing positions. With unique foam patterns and padding zones, their gloves target handling, passing and protection.
Maverik stresses a customizable fit experience via their adjustable back-of-hand design. This lets you tweak the gloves’ contouring as needed.
Research which brand best addresses your ideal fit, protection, ventilation and aesthetics. Weigh reviews and feedback as well.
Set a Realistic Budget
What you’ll spend on lacrosse gloves can vary widely. High-end models from elite brands run $100+, while budget options are under $50.
New players can find quality gloves under $75 though. This strikes a balance between protection and value as you learn proper form and technique.
With some pro models topping $150, also consider whether you truly need all those features. Extra padding and pro-level materials add cost. Match your gloves’ performance to your skill level.
Consider Youth Sizing Options
For junior and youth players with smaller hands, leading brands size many gloves models down. These smaller options ensure proper fit and safety.
Under Armour, Maverik and STX all offer youth gloves in various colors. Sizes start around 6″ for the youngest age groups and scale up as kids grow.
Review youth sizing charts and have your child try gloves on in person whenever possible. Replace them each season as their hands grow to maintain the right fit.
Focus on Quality Leather Construction
Supple, durable leather offers an ideal lacrosse glove build. Leather moves naturally with your hands while providing strength and ventilation.
Full-grain leather is best, but split-grain or synthetic leather are more affordable alternatives. Pay close attention to stitching quality so the gloves hold up over time.
Broken-in gloves feel great, but inspect aging leather closely. Cracked or overly dry materials indicate gloves reaching retirement. Don’t risk hand safety with failing gloves.
Look For Moisture Wicking Features
Since lacrosse is such a fast, high-exertion sport, your gloves will sweat heavily. Moisture management technology helps lighten and ventilate gloves.
Mesh fabric panels on the palms, fingers or backs of hands enhance breathability. Some gloves also integrate sweat-wicking liner materials to draw moisture away from skin.
Ventilation and wicking capacity keep gloves performing their best. Don’t overlook these helpful attributes when comparing options.
Check Out Off-Season Sales
Shopping for lacrosse gear in fall or winter instead of spring lets you score clearance deals. Retailers and brands discount gloves to make room for new merchandise.
Browse online for glove sales around Black Friday, Cyber Monday and after Christmas. Stock up on quality gloves at a fraction of list pricing to get a jump on next season.
Just double check your sizing instead of guessing. Try last year’s worn pair on for reference to find the best replacement value gloves.
Break Gloves In Properly
Brand new lacrosse gloves feel stiff right out of the packaging. Use a careful break-in process so they contour to your hands properly.
Wear the gloves around the house to soften the materials. Gently flex your wrists and squeeze a ball. Treat new gloves with conditioner to soften and waterproof the leather.
Rushing the break-in risks overextending the materials. Prepare your gloves over a few weeks’ span to ensure optimal comfort and performance.
Prioritize Palm Protection
When evaluating lacrosse glove options, pay the closest attention to palm padding quality. This area faces the most abrasion during play.
Multi-layer open cell foams best cushion palms from repeated impact. Full wristwrap designs add critical padding down to the forearm as well.
Don’t neglect fingertips either. High-grade molded plastic guards shield your hands from the sting of missed catches.
Replace Worn Gloves Annually
To maintain your safety on the field, swap out old, beat up gloves every year. Declining padding and compromised materials leave your hands vulnerable.
Inspect palm padding and leather closely before each season. If you notice cracking, flat spots or deterioration, it’s time for replacements.
You spend hours perfecting your game. Don’t undermine that effort with failing lacrosse gloves. Invest in new pairs yearly to support your progress.
With these handy glove buying tips, you’re ready to shop for lacrosse gear that takes your game up a notch. Find the perfect pair this season that balances protection, performance and style for you!
Consider Materials – Leather and mesh offer durability; nylon is lightweight
When suiting up for lacrosse, your protective gloves are a critical piece of gear. With the gloves taking a beating from constant catches, checks and scooping up ground balls, you’ll want gloves constructed from durable materials.
Leather remains the gold standard for lacrosse gloves. The supple material conforms nicely to your hands while providing strength and ventilation. Full grain leather offers top notch quality and performance.
For more affordable options, many brands use synthetic leathers or split grain leather. While not as premium, these materials can still deliver decent durability at lower prices.
Mesh fabric panels also bring welcome breathability to lacrosse gloves. Strategic mesh areas on the palms, fingers and backs of the hands help air flow and cut down on sweaty hands.
If cutting every possible ounce is your priority, ultra-lightweight nylon lacrosse gloves exist too. But the featherweight construction compromises long term durability.
Reinforce High Wear Areas
When you examine lacrosse glove construction, check for reinforced padding and materials in the highest wear zones.
The palm area encounters endless abrasion during play, so brands fortify this section. Durable synthetic leather panels withstand ground balls while extra padding cushions hits.
Fingertips also commonly feature reinforced padding and guards. Since fingers take the brunt of catches, this added shielding protects from stingers.
And thumb sleeves often get a durability boost too. Given the thumb’s integral cradle position gripping your stick, it’s constantly in harm’s way.
Ensure Proper Stitching
No matter how strong the base materials, gloves need quality stitching to hold everything together. Watch for tightly-sewn seams in high-motion areas.
Clean stitch lines demonstrate attention to construction detail. Loose threads or uneven seams indicate potential early tearing.
Also examine how padding segments are stitched to glove backs. These anchors endure tremendous strain when flexing your hands.
Consider Comfort Features
Lacrosse requires non-stop motion, so gloves that move fluidly with your hands translate to better performance.
Flexible fabrics like lightweight nylon promote natural feel and dexterity for cradling, passing and scooping. Strategically placed mesh panels boost ventilation and comfort too.
Gloves shaped to match your grip – like tapered finger designs – help as well. This contoured approach enhances the gloves’ second-skin-like fit.
Choose the Right Palm Construction
For superior protection, lacrosse gloves feature layered foam padding across the palm area. But brands take different approaches for optimizing impact absorption.
Some gloves use dual-density foams – soft interior layers + firm outer pads. Others design intricate foam patterns or incorporate extra padding segments for customized coverage.
Consider how palm construction factors like segmented padding and pad densities aid protection and cushioning across the most vulnerable glove zone.
Keep an Eye on Weight
Ounces matter when choosing lacrosse gloves. Bulkier padding provides more protection, but hefty gloves slow you down.
Mid-range glove weights – around 5-7 ounces – offer a nice balance of lightness and protection for most players. You can size down for greater agility or size up for maximum padding.
Just ensure excellent overall fit and mobility so heavier gloves don’t impede your performance. Prioritize responsiveness in the fingers and palm above all.
Factor Glove Life Into the Cost
Higher priced lacrosse gloves generally equate to longer lasting gear. The combination of premium materials and construction boosts durability.
But also consider how you’ll use the gloves. Top-end pro models may exceed casual players’ needs in terms of life span. Look for your performance-to-price sweet spot.
With proper care, mid-range gloves around $50-75 can still last 1-2 seasons for recreational play. Get the most mileage per dollar spent.
Prepare New Gloves Properly
Brand new lacrosse gloves start out quite stiff before properly breaking in. Use a deliberate approach to soften up materials and padding.
Wear gloves around the house to acclimate them to your hands. Gently work them in by squeezing a ball or dangling sticks. Apply leather conditioner to soften and waterproof.
Gradual break-in allows gloves to conform ideally to your hands. Don’t rush things by over-flexing new gloves and shortening their lifespan.
Clean Gloves Regularly
Perspiration and soil grind away at lacrosse glove materials with repeated use. Get in the habit of periodic glove cleaning to preserve them.
Use mild soap and water to gently hand wash gloves. Let them fully air dry afterwards. Apply leather conditioner to replenish oils and suppleness.
Spot clean scuffs after games too. A quick wipe down prevents long term build up from degrading glove exteriors prematurely.
Compare Brand Design Differences
When researching lacrosse gloves, you’ll notice brands taking varying design approaches. Compare how models differ.
Maverik optimizes fit through adjustable back-of-hand sections. Warrior focuses on lightweight nylon glove builds. Brine emphasizes maximum padding coverage.
Study each brand’s unique glove engineering. Pick the design philosophy best aligned with your needs and playing style.
Ensure Proper Sizing
To gain full glove performance and protection, confirming your proper sizing is mandatory.
Use brand fit charts and measure your hand size carefully. Try on gloves in person if possible, flexing and moving your hands.
Gloves shouldn’t constrict movement but still fit snugly. Double check wrist closure and arm pad overlap as well for full coverage.
Dialing in your personal glove sizing sets the stage for lacrosse hand protection done right.
By focusing on material quality, construction and fit, you’ll find durable, high-performing lacrosse gloves ready for an intense season. Gear up and dominate!
Focus on Flexibility – Pick gloves that allow full range of motion
When gearing up for lacrosse, protective gloves rightfully grab your attention. But don’t overlook the importance of flexibility in your gloves. Choosing gloves that move freely and naturally with your hands delivers major performance benefits across skills.
In cradling, passing, scooping and stick handling, you need total dexterity. Rigid, bulky gloves hinder your motions and ball control. Seek out features that balance protection and responsiveness.
Lightweight nylons foster natural feel, while breathable mesh panels add cool comfort. Strategic padding segmentation also promotes hand mobility. Prioritize flexible gloves that become one with your hands.
Ensure Full Finger Motion
A glove’s finger sections directly impact cradle control, catching and passing. Ensure excellent articulation and flow here.
Snug but not tight finger fits allow your hands to move and flex naturally. Padding should bend smoothly with your fingers as well.
Test gloves on and make fists, point and spread your fingers. Seamless motion means gloves won’t impede performance when it counts.
Consider Pre-Curved Fingers
For superior fit and dexterity, opt for gloves with pre-shaped, curved finger sections. This ergonomic approach mirrors your natural closed hand posture.
Pre-curved fingers eliminate resistance and hesitation when catching. Less break-in time needed too. You’ll nail passes and snags straight out of the box.
Focus on Palm Mobility
A glove’s palm area endures endless abrasion on ground balls and checks. But excess padding here can make palms rigid and slow.
Look for gloves promoting palm flexibility through segmenting or perforations. Multi-pad designs with grip overlays maintain protection without sacrificing responsiveness.
Test palm padding flexibility when trying on gloves. Make sure hands move freely to enhance scooping and ball handling.
Ensure Snug, Contoured Wrist Fits
For lightning-quick sticks skills, wrists must flex and rotate freely. Tailored wrist sections allow this while avoiding exposed gaps.
Focus on gloves with adjustable closures and anatomical wrist shapes. Cinch down straps for a tight seal that moves naturally with your wrist bones and tendons.
Ventilate Backs-of-Hands
Sweaty, overheated hands quickly fatigue, limiting your effectiveness. Help your hands stay cool and dry through glove ventilation.
Mesh paneling across backs of hands enhances air flow. Moisture-wicking linings also draw sweat off skin to keep hands drier.
Ventilation means less slips and better endurance. Don’t underestimate its impact on your lacrosse game.
Check Padding Segmentation
Monolithic padding blocks hand motion. Smart segmentation maintains protection while optimizing flexibility.
Look for gloves with multi-pad palm designs, divided finger padding and articulated joints. This construction mirrors and moves with hand anatomy.
Segmented pads give just enough while still going with the flow. Your performance will reap the benefits.
Weigh the Protection-to-Mobility Ratio
More padding means less responsiveness in lacrosse gloves. Find your ideal balance between the two.
Ultra-light options sacrifice some protection for ultimate speed. Highly-padded gloves prioritize safety.
Analyze your needs. Lightweight gloves work for finesse players; bulkier padding suits contact-heavy positions. Seek your fit.
Match Glove Flex to Your Skill Level
Newer players still honing form and technique favor maximum dexterity to develop skills. Performance-focused flexible gloves help.
More experienced athletes needing additional protection lean toward protective yet mobile gloves with modest flexibility.
Let your ability dictate whether responsiveness or protection takes priority. Buy lacrosse gloves that support your development.
Consider Youth Sizing for Smaller Hands
To achieve ideal mobility, make sure kids’ smaller hands get properly fitted gloves. Bulky adult sizes undermine stick skills.
All major brands now size down popular glove models for youth. Take advantage of the optimized, contoured fits for their hands and playing style.
Account for Play Style Variations
Midfielders and attackmen prize agility for stick handling, while defensemen value durability and protection first when engaging contact.
Factor in your primary responsibilities as you eye potential gloves. Let your anticipated gameplay exposure guide your flexibility vs. protection needs.
Break In Gloves Gradually
Brand new gloves won’t move and feel broken-in right away. Use a patient approach to ease them in.
Wear gloves leisurely around the house to gently loosen things up. Applying conditioner also softens materials. Just don’t over-flex new gloves too quickly.
Proper break-in allows gloves to loosen up on your terms for an ideal flex fit.
The right lacrosse gloves become natural extensions of your hands. Seek out superior flexibility and responsiveness to take your game to the next level!
Get Proper Wrist Support – Wrist cuffs should keep gloves secure during play
When suiting up for lacrosse, gloves with solid wrist protection help safeguard against checks, slashes and stray balls. Sturdy wrist cuffs work with your other pads to fully shield this vulnerable area.
Look for gloves with wide, adjustable wrist straps that contour snugly to your arm. The velcro closures should distribute tension evenly and securely around your wrist bones.
Wrist cuffs extending further down the forearm also provide welcome added coverage. But make sure overlaps don’t restrict motion when paired with your arm pads.
Proper wrist closure keeps gloves firmly in place for confident play. Don’t settle for subpar support down low.
Consider Full Wristwrap Designs
For maximum wrist protection, gloves featuring wraparound cuffs safeguard against impact from all angles.
Full wristwrap constructions utilize stretchy Lycra cuffs extending down the forearm 3-4 inches. The extra coverage leaves no gaps.
Just be wary of potential arm pad gaps at the elbow. Test out total fit integration before taking the field.
Watch Out for Glove Slippage
Ill-fitting lacrosse gloves that are too loose slide around on your hands. This sloppy feel undermines ball control and leaves wrists exposed.
Snug up loose gloves immediately. If wrist straps are maxed out, consider sizing down for a better performance fit.
Keep those wrists wrapped up tight. No room for slip-ups.
Mind Arm Pad Gaps
For full protective coverage, your gloves must work harmoniously with arm pads. Watch for any fit gaps.
Test gloves on with your arm pads. When you rotate your wrists and bend elbows, your pads and gloves should maintain contact.
If you notice separations that expose skin, adjust straps or consider extended wrist cuffs for better overlap.
Cinch Straps Evenly
When tightening wrist straps, distribute tension uniformly across the full cuff. Uneven cinching twists gloves awkwardly.
Pull straps just snug enough for a secure hold without pinching. The glove perimeter should follow your wrist shape smoothly.
Consider Youth Sizing
For younger players with smaller wrists, be sure to size down gloves. Oversized gloves are prone to slippage.
Leading brands size popular adult gloves down for proper youth fitting. Opt for the wrist security that’s just right.
Weigh Wrist Protection vs. Mobility
Added wrist padding aids protection but can inhibit critical flexibility in cradling, scooping and passing.
Find your sweet spot between ample wrist security and unrestricted mobility. Let playing style and position help guide priorities.
Air Out Gloves After Games
Trapped perspiration degrades glove materials prematurely. Always let gloves fully air dry after intense games.
Use glove trees to help wrists and fingers hold shape. Conditioning leather also revives suppleness.
Proactive glove care means extended life and performance. Don’t cut it short with poor maintenance.
Consider Moisture-Wicking Lining
Sweaty hands slip around in gloves, undermining ball control. Linings that wick internal moisture help.
Hydrophobic polyester or nylon glove liners draw sweat off the skin for added grip and comfort.
Mesh glove backs aid ventilation too. Keep those hands and wrists locked in all game long.
Choose Adjustable Youth Sizing
Growing kids may need new lacrosse gloves each season. Adjustable wrist straps help tune the fit from year to year.
Additional hook-and-loop closure positions on some youth gloves extend usable life as hands grow.
customizable wrist support saves money while optimizing security. A wise investment.
Focus on Strap Durability
Flimsy wrist straps that quickly wear out undermine consistent glove fitting over time.
Thicker, high-density cuff straps stand up better to routine velcro detachments for longer life.
Added backing layers where straps anchor to gloves boosts connection stability as well.
Game after game, those wrists need to stay wrapped. Seek gloves that make it happen.
With ample wrist protection, you take the field fully equipped to command every ground ball and outlet pass. Keep those hands locked and loaded!
Compare Brands – Research top brands like Under Armour, Maverik, STX, and Brine
With so many glove brands in the lacrosse equipment world, it pays to compare top names side-by-side. Doing your homework on leading manufacturers helps ensure you pick ideal gloves for your game.
Perennial powerhouses like Under Armour, Maverik, STX and Brine dominate in terms of technology, innovation and performance. But smaller specialty companies merit attention too.
Weigh factors like brand reputation, sponsored pros, glove materials, padding, ventilation, fit and price points. The right brand choice enhances your game.
Under Armour Lacrosse Gloves
Under Armour leverages performance fabrics like HeatGear moisture-wicking material in their gloves. Many also feature flexible UA tech mesh for optimized air flow.
Under Armour gloves emphasize maximum mobility for handling, cradling and passing. Popular models include the Rival and Highlight lines.
Maverik Lacrosse Gloves
Maverik lacrosse gloves stress customized fit through their adjustable back-of-hand design. This lets players tweak the contouring.
The Rome, Superlight and Command gloves rank among Maverik’s most advanced options. Protection and dexterity take top priority.
STX Lacrosse Gloves
STX engineers gloves optimized for specific playing positions. Different padding layouts and foam densities cater to attack, midfield, defense or goalie.
STX stalwarts like the Cell 5, Kinetic and Stallion gloves offer proven performance across levels. Expect a precise fit.
Brine Lacrosse Gloves
Brine focuses on total coverage protection through bulkier padding extending across more glove zones. Ventilation takes a backseat to padding.
The King IV and Clutch Shift highlight Brine’s protective approach. Their gloves shield hands without excess motion constraints.
Warrior Lacrosse Gloves
Warrior pushes the limits of lightweight glove design, utilizing hyper-ventilated nylon constructions. Extra padding isn’t their priority.
The Regulator and Franchise gloves exemplify Warrior’s featherweight performance ideals. Speed and responsiveness rule the day.
Choose Established Brands
Stick with glove brands boasting years of proven reputations versus unproven newcomers. Perennial leaders earn your trust.
Seasoned companies thoroughly vet designs. Expect polished execution across fit, padding, materials, reliability and aesthetics.
Consider Company Innovation
Forward-thinking brands constantly pioneer new technologies improving glove ventilation, protection, mobility and construction.
Maverik’s adjustable cuffs and STX’s position-specific pads reveal how brands push gloves forward. Stay on the cutting edge.
Compare Pricing
While higher priced gloves typically deliver greater performance and longevity, assess your budget and needs.
Major brands offer excellent mid-range models between $50-$100. Even entry-level gloves utilize quality materials and design elements.
Don’t overspend just for pro cachet. Seek the best quality within your budget.
Browse Warranty Coverage
Most major lacrosse brands back their gloves with at least a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Common coverage periods run six months to a year. Ensure quick replacements if new gloves fail unexpectedly.
Research Available Youth Sizing
Leading brands properly size down many adult gloves to accommodate younger players’ smaller hands.
Under Armour, Maverik and STX all offer youth lacrosse glove models for optimized protection and playability.
Focus on Known Commodities
Before trying unproven upstart glove companies, stick with established brand names trusted across all levels.
Reputable outfits like Warrior, STX and Under Armour earned that trust through years of engineering gloves players love.
Never settle for less from your lacrosse gloves. Pick a pedigreed brand you can count on season after season.
Shop Youth Sizes – Kid gloves should properly fit smaller hands
Finding the right lacrosse gloves for your growing kid presents challenges. Their smaller hands demand specifically sized gloves for ideal protection, mobility and performance.
Luckily all the major brands now offer youth lacrosse glove models. Take advantage of these thoughtfully contoured options designed for the next generation.
Proper fit enhances cradling skills, allows catch freedom and boosts protection coverage. Give those little hands the fighting chance they deserve.
Consult Youth Size Charts
To ballpark your child’s correct glove size, carefully consult the sizing chart for that model.
Leading youth gloves come in a range of sizes like 8”, 9”, 10”. Measure your child’s hand size and match it to recommendations.
Trying gloves on in person still gives the best feel for fit. Use charts as starting points in your search.
Mind Proportions
Kid hands differ from adult ones beyond sheer size. The proportions vary too.
Shorter fingers, smaller palms and thinner wrists mean gloves must scale down accordingly. General smallness isn’t enough.
See how youth gloves tweak dimensions for natural-feeling fits. The shaping should feel innate.
Prioritize Responsiveness
Bulky adult gloves hinder young players’ development. Dexterous, contoured fittings keep things moving.
Flexible palms, pre-curved fingers and lightweight backs enhance skills refinement. Protection takes a backseat to mobility.
Performance-focused youth gloves empower progress versus compromise it through rigidity.
Focus on Wrist Straps
Oversized gloves slip down smaller wrists and forearms, exposing them to slashes and checks.
Snugly adjustable youth wrist straps prevent excess glove movement. Anatomical shaping provides added support.
No room for slippage here. Dial in the just-right tension levels.
Check Finger Lengths
Adult gloves with fingers that extend past kids’ fingertips impede catching.
Youth gloves better match finger proportions for seamless balls skills. No fumbling due to overhang.
Extend fingers fully when trying on gloves. Ensure responsive coverage from tip to base.
Consider Growing Hands
Kids outgrow gloves quickly. Seek some expandability.
Models with adjustable wrist straps accommodate slightly bigger hands between seasons. Value-adding flexibility.
Plan to re-size annually, but stretch straps eke out a bit more lifespan per pair.
Inspect Padding
Bulky pads in adult gloves limit kids’ mobility. Youth padding balances protection and playability.
Palm pads shouldn’t overwhelm tiny hands. Finger padding allows dexterity. Minimalist padding works best.
Focus on padding execution over sheer bulk. It’s quality over quantity here.
Match Glove to Playing Age
Gloves for a 6-year-old scorer need greater flexibility than a high school middie engaging contact.
Let your child’s age and skill level guide appropriate padding and mobility levels.
Don’t over- or under-protect those growing hands. Seek just the right blend.
Get the Right Palm Size
Excess palm room undermines ball control. Snug palms enhance grip and command.
Test different palm widths when trying on gloves. Find the sweet spot of secure coverage without constriction.
Palm fit makes the difference. Take the time to get it dialed.
Dress those developing lacrosse hands right via properly fitted gloves. Give the next generation every advantage out there!
Add Customization – Personalize with custom colors, designs, or initials
Beyond factors like fit, padding and materials, customizing your lacrosse gloves injects self-expression into your game. Personalized gloves help you stand out on the field.
Many manufacturers now offer full custom glove color schemes. This lets you dictate unique color combinations beyond standard team designs.
Adding custom prints, patterns or your name and number further differentiates your gloves. When you look good, you play good.
Coordinate Custom Colors
For a signature look, choose complementary glove colors that pop. Contrasting palm and backhand colors work well.
Match bold neons with deeper secondary hues. Or explore glossy metallics on fingers against a matte backdrop.
Just ensure vibrant dyes don’t compromise glove durability or fade fast. Get creative but smart.
Use Team Colors
Rep your squad by incorporating team colors into your custom gloves.
Use your primary color on the palms or wrists for high visibility when cradling. Accent with secondary colors elsewhere.
Show your spirit through unique gloves while still promoting unity. The best of both worlds.
Add Visual Interest
Beyond solid colors, take customization further with distinctive visuals.
Integrate patterns like camo, stars, zigzags or checkerboards. Bold graphic prints make gloves true eye-catchers.
Just ensure complex visuals don’t undermine ball handling. Keep palms clean for grip.
Include Your Number
Make your gloves instantly identifiable by adding your jersey number to the cuffs.
Position numbers on the inner wrists or back of your palms. This lets you rep your number prominently when cradling.
Visibility of your digits syncs up your image. Take pride in your personal brand.
Add Your Name
Further personalize gloves with your name prominently displayed.
Place last names on lower palms or inner wrists. Spot first names on backhands or finger fronts.
Let everyone know exactly who is commanding the field. Recognition propels performance.
Highlight Milestones
Commemorate career milestones like years played or points scored through custom gloves.
Debut 1000 point gloves on your record-setting night. Celebrate 4 years strong with commemorative gloves.
Make moments last through keepsake gloves. Cherish your achievements.
Consider Hand-Painted Art
For true one-of-a-kind gloves, look into hand-painted designs. These pro-quality graphics elevate aesthetics.
Work with artists on concepts like photorealistic portraits, superhero graphics or artistic landscapes. The possibilities are endless.
Just prepare for premium pricing. Hand-painted gloves are highly time-intensive and intricate.
Spotlight Your Hometown
Give love to your roots by spotlighting your hometown through graphics on your gloves.
Incorporate area codes, state outlines, city skylines or local landmarks. Big up where you came from.
Unique gloves strengthening your sense of identity fuel your best play. Never forget where you’re from.
Focus on Quality Construction
Before pursuing gloves fully loaded with custom flair, ensure you start with a solid foundational pair known for quality and performance.
Major brands like Maverik, STX and Brine offer full custom ordering for many of their top glove models. Expect precision execution.
Unique gloves are meaningless if underlying construction disappoints. Substance over style.
Express your lacrosse identity through personalized gloves built just for you. Stand out and own it!
Budget Accordingly – Set a spending limit before shopping
With so many lacrosse glove options spanning a wide price range, it’s wise to determine your budget beforehand. Setting a firm spending limit helps narrow your search.
Realistically assess how much you can allocate towards new gloves. Remember other gear needs factoring in too. Find your price sweet spot.
Top-shelf gloves from elite brands run $100+, but quality gloves exist for under $75. Used gloves can lower costs as well.
Consider New vs. Used
Gently used lacrosse gloves offer major savings over new pairs. Many retain ample life.
Browse online classifieds, consignment shops and team swaps for discounted gloves. Inspect carefully for defects beforehand.
Just avoid worn out gloves with compromised padding and failing materials. No bargains on safety.
Compare Brand Price Points
When researching specific glove models, note pricing differences between brands.
High-end options from Under Armour, Maverik and Brine push $125+. STX, Warrior and Evolve gloves hit under $100.
Weigh material quality, features and construction against cost. Seek peak value gloves.
Buy Last Season’s Model
Scoring previous year gloves on clearance saves dollars. Technology changes minimally season to season.
Browse spring/summer discounts for incoming new gear. Old stock gets heavily marked down.
Just confirm sizing and condition firsthand before purchase. Don’t compromise on fit or safety.
Wait for End of Season Sales
Retailers and brands discount lacrosse gear at season’s end to move old inventory.
Look for glove sales ramping up in winter. Deep discounts abound on quality gloves.
Off-season sales enable stocking up on gloves for the following year at a fraction of MSRP.
Take Advantage of Team Discounts
Some brands extend team purchase discounts on bulk glove orders.
Talk to coaches about pricing breaks available through authorized team dealers. Every dollar saved helps.
Team discounts on 10+ pairs add up fast. Buy in with teammates to maximize savings.
Set Maximum Budget Beforehand
Overspending happens easily piece-by-piece. Establish a total glove spending cap upfront before trying pairs on.
Sticking to defined budget parameters helps filter choices. Resist exceeding limits for unnecessary features.
Determine needs, not wants. Plan purchases accordingly.
Compare Online Prices
Online lacrosse retailers often beat brick-and-mortar store pricing for gloves.
Shop sites like LacrosseMonkey.com and UniversalLacrosse.com for discounted pricing.
Just be sure you can return gloves if sizing is off. Try before fully committing.
Avoid Overspending on Kids’ Gear
Kids outgrow gloves quickly. Spending too much doesn’t make sense.
Affordable synthetic and entry-level leather gloves withstand youth play. Save big gloves for later years.
Focus durability dollars once their sizing steadies. Buy budget youth gloves in the interim.
With smart spending, you can equip your lacrosse hands with high-performance protection. Shop savvy this glove season!
Read Online Reviews – Learn from other buyers’ experiences
Before deciding on new lacrosse gloves, leverage others’ firsthand experiences by reading online reviews. Feedback from real buyers provides helpful insight.
Look beyond marketing claims on manufacturers’ websites. Independent reviews on retail sites and forums offer transparent glove assessments.
Note feedback on sizing, durability, protection and overall quality. Learn what to expect before you buy.
Browse Fit Notes
With no standard sizing between brands, individual fit notes help decode best match gloves.
If multiple buyers call gloves undersized or loose fitting, adjust accordingly. Hands-on testimonials enhance remote research.
See if reviewers recommend sizing up or down. Apply feedback to find your ideal glove size.
Consider Play Style
While assessing reviews, note players’ positions and experience levels.
Are feedback insights coming from a youth goalie or senior midfielder? Consider perspectives against your needs.
Let reviewer backgrounds lend context to impressions on padding, mobility, durability and protection.
Watch for Consistent Praise or Complaints
Isolate trends across reviews on a glove’s highs and lows.
If multiple users cite ripped stitching or flattened padding, seriously weigh those weaknesses.
Likewise consistent praise of dexterity or comfort validate strengths to consider.
Read Between the Stars
Don’t fixate solely on star ratings when reading glove reviews.
Actually reading detailed review narratives reveals more nuanced insights than general scores.
Stars lack context. Read the stories behind ratings for deeper understanding.
Factor in Review Volume
Gloves with 10+ impartial reviews generally give a broader impression than a single subjective take.
Look for models with enough feedback volume to identify consensus opinions.
More glove reviewers means more aggregated experiences to learn from.
Consider Video Reviews
Video reviews add visual demonstration to feedback, showing gloves in action.
Note how video reviewers grip their sticks, flex their wrists and catch balls in motion. Assess mobility and dexterity visually.
Moves and articulation sometimes say more than written or spoken review words can.
Compare Reviews Between Sites
For complete perspective, read glove reviews on the manufacturer website and third-party retailers.
Brand sites host some negative feedback. But third-party sites like Amazon or lacrosse forums feature unfiltered opinions.
Weigh both angles to make an informed decision based on balanced insights.
Focus on Recent Feedback
If gloves have been available for several years, prioritize recent reviews over old ones.
Evolving technologies and construction warrant focusing on the latest experiences.
Current reviews provide the best snapshot of what to expect with new pairs you’re eyeing.
Let fellow players blaze the review trail to ideal lacrosse gloves for you. Learn from shared experiences to make smart choices!
Try Before Buying – Make sure gloves are comfortable before purchasing
The best way to ensure lacrosse gloves deliver an ideal fit is trying them on in person before buying. Don’t order blindly online.
Visit a lacrosse specialty shop and sample a range of gloves models in your size. See how they feel wielding your stick and cradling balls.
Test mobility by flexing your wrists and catching passes. Mimic game use to understand true performance.
Assess Overall Feel
When first slipping on potential new gloves, notice general feel.
Do they fit comfortably snug or pinch anywhere? Can your hands move freely without constriction?
Gloves shouldn’t need a break-in period to feel good. Comfort equals confidence.
Check Finger Dexterity
Dextrous fingers ensure quick, assured catches. Assess each finger’s mobility.
Make fists, point and flex fingers. Ensure full natural range of motion is present across joints.
Fingers unable to move inhibit your lacrosse skills. Nail this crucial test.
Focus on the Fit Around Palms
Palm fit impacts protection and ball control. Determine ideal palm snugness.
Gloves shouldn’t be loose around palms but also can’t be too constricting. Find the sweet spot.
Test different palm widths when trying multiple glove models. Get that dialed-in feel.
Evaluate Wrist Flexibility
Rotating wrists quickly is pivotal for lacrosse. Make sure gloves promote mobility.
Check wrist bands for tailored anatomical shaping. Cinch down straps to assure no lag when turning wrists.
Unimpeded wrists translate into faster reaction times. Prioritize this dynamic dexterity.
Mimic Gameplay Motions
Moving beyond static testing, simulate game motions to truly vet gloves.
Cradle an imaginary ball. Reach down for ground scoops. Flex hands as if snagging passes.
Put gloves through typical paces to reveal any performance limitations.
Actually Catch Balls
Ideally, test gloves by catching real passes to best assess feel.
Have a partner whip short tosses for you to intercept one-handed. How do the gloves handle impact?
Focus on absorption, stickiness and overall handling when catching at speed. Game-test for assurance.
Watch for Any Discomfort
Pay close attention to any hand irritation trying demo gloves.
Pressure points, binding or chafing mean gloves likely won’t break in properly. Don’t force a bad fit.
Leather also shouldn’t feel excessively stiff initially. Seek out-the-box comfort.
Consider Youth Sizing Needs
Kids must try on properly sized youth gloves for ideal mobility and protection.
Oversized adult gloves undermine their performance. Ensure proper proportions for smaller hands.
Specialty lacrosse stores stock youth sizes to test. Do your kid’s hands justice.
Experience how lacrosse gloves should truly fit and feel before buying. Set yourself up for success this season!
Think Long-Term – Invest in quality gloves built to last multiple seasons
When shopping for new lacrosse gloves, consider longevity as well as performance. Premium gloves withstand seasons of intense use when cared for properly.
Prioritize full grain leather constructions. Avoid cheaper synthetic leathers prone to quicker breakdown. This foundational material matters.
Reputable brands also frequently update glove technologies, materials and construction. New models deliver the latest innovations.
Spending more upfront extends usable life and saves frequent replacement costs down the road. Adopt a long-term glove vision.
Inspect Materials Closely
When trying on potential gloves, scrutinize material quality in high wear areas.
Thumb sleeves, palms and fingertips endure the most abrasion. Ensure durability through supple leathers and rugged synthetics.
These foundational zones make or break glove lifespan. Examine them inside, out and thoroughly.
Weigh Construction Quality
Study workmanship elements impacting glove longevity like stitching, seams and padding integration.
Clean, tight stitching prevents premature tearing. Finely edged seams increase comfort and reduce friction wear.
Meticulous construction and assembly boosts usable life. Don’t gloss over the details.
Consider Brand Reputations
Established lacrosse brands like Maverik and STX thrive by engineering gloves with longevity in mind.
Commitment to quality materials, precision assembly and constant innovation ensure their gloves go and go.
Trust reputations earned over years. Choose gloves built to help you thrive season after season.
Research Available Warranties
Many lacrosse glove brands back products with limited warranties against defects and early breakdown.
Common coverage periods span 6 months to a year. Added peace of mind backing quality.
Warranties prove the brand stands behind promised durability. Don’t overlook this important policy.
Learn Proper Glove Care
To achieve multi-season glove life, proper maintenance is mandatory. Master fundamentals.
Frequently condition leather. Allow full air drying. Use glove trees for shape retention. Repair issues early.
With care, you’ll keep those gloves playing primed season after season. It’s in your hands.
Focus on Fit Consistency
Gloves fitting perfectly from day one extend usable lifetime through sustained performance.
Dialed-in fits with no break-in period required maintain comfort over the long haul.
Supple leathers conforming naturally to your hands also resist over-stretching and degradation.
Buy Quality Youth Gloves
Since kids can require new gloves annually, buy quality versions with room to grow.
Better materials, adjustable closures and integrated expansion panels add mileage as kids’ hands grow.
Budget youth gloves equate to money wasted. Invest for multi-year use per pair.
Compare Palm Padding Structures
Single-piece foam palms compress permanently over time. Multi-pad segmented palms retain cushioning better long-term.
Dual-density foams and added shielding across high-wear zones also enhance durable padding.
Evaluate padding durability in this high-abrasion glove zone. Preserve those hands.
Thanks to smart choices and proper care, your gloves keep pace with your developing game season after season. Think long glove life!
Factor In Position – Goalies, defenders, midfielders need different features
Lacrosse gloves aren’t one-size-fits-all by any means. Design factors like weight, padding and materials vary to suit needs across positions.
For example, flexible, lightweight gloves assist stick handling for midfielders and attackmen. Extra padding shields defenders absorbing contact.
Consider your primary responsibilities on the field. Let your anticipated gameplay exposure guide your glove priorities.
Attackmen and Midfielders
Agile lacrosse gloves promote fast handling and passing for scorers and middies. Control is crucial.
Breathable backs of hands keep things cool during sprints. Pre-curved fingers make catching seamless. Minimalist padding maintains mobility.
Responsive gloves like Maverik Rome or STX Cell V maximize their finesse games.
Defensive Players
Bulky gloves with maximum padding suit defensive players that take on more physical contact.
Full wrist wraps shield against checks. Thicker foam across palms and fingers absorbs slashes. Added shielding protects despite compromising some dexterity.
Gloves like Warrior Regulator or Brine Clutch Lo offer the rugged builds defenders demand.
Goalies
As the last line of defense, goalie gloves focus on blocking blistering shots. Protection is paramount.
Rigid thumbs and thick foam shield hands from point blank stingers. Extended wrists wraps help knock down high shots.
STX Eclipse and Maverik Rome gloves provide the covering and durability goalies require in the crease.
Youth Players
For young players, gloves promoting maximum mobility assist skills development. Let those hands move freely.
Flexible lightweight gloves improve cradling, catching and ball handling. Protection takes a backseat to dexterity.
Nike Vapor or Under Armour Frenzy youth gloves optimize their growing games.
Consider Palm Construction
Attacking players favor minimalist thin palms for responsive stick feel. Defenders need maximum foam protection absorbing checks.
Evaluate palm padding thickness, layering, segmentation and shielding based on your position’s needs. Build protection through the palms.
Focus on Ventilation Needs
Lots of breathability keeps attacking players’ hands cool during runs and cuts. Added airflow means less slippage.
Defenders prioritize padding coverage over ventilation. Some backhand airflow still helps fatigue resistance.
Mesh panel placement and quantity varies by anticipated position demands. Know your air flow needs.
Weigh Wrist Protection Levels
Extra wrist wrap padding aids defenders fending off checks but may inhibit midfielders rotating during cradling.
Find your ideal wrist support and flexibility balance based on responsibilities and exposure.
Match Glove Durability to Play Time
Starters log way more field time than backups. Their gloves should deliver maximum longevity.
Premium leathers and battled-tested constructions serve players regular heavy use. Lighter gloves work for backups.
Think durability in relation to typical minutes played. Invest accordingly.
When you choose lacrosse gloves aligned with your position’s needs, you gain an advantage across skills. Play stronger through smart engineering!
Consider Breathability – Well-ventilated gloves prevent overheating
The high exertion, nonstop motion of lacrosse leads to sweaty hands and gloves. Don’t overlook ventilation factors when choosing lacrosse gloves this season.
Strategic mesh panel placements enhance air circulation across typical heat zones like the palms and back of hands. Moisture-wicking liners draw sweat off skin too.
Cool, dry gloves mean fewer slips when cradling, catching and scooping. Stay locked in no matter the temperature when you play it cool.
Focus on Back of Hand Breathability
Mesh panels across the backs of gloves allow body heat escape for cooler hands.
Well-placed vents across the knuckles, fingers and upper hand promote total airflow. Don’t settle for stifling gloves.
Supple leathers still deliver great feel, with strategic mesh patches dialing in ventilation across heat zones.
Keep Palms Sweat-Free
clammy palms slip on your stick handle, undermining cradling and passing. Added palm ventilation helps.
Perforations and mesh segments across key palm areas circulate air. Sweat-wicking liners draw moisture off the skin too.
Top gloves combine palm padding protection with breathability. Have both handled.
Weigh Protection vs. Ventilation
More padding means less potential ventilation. Find your ideal balance.
All-out breathability sacrifices padding coverage. Super protective gloves still need some airflow though.
Analyze padding schemes to identify integrated airflow zones. Get the best of both worlds.
Focus Ventilation on High Sweat Areas
Mesh placements right where hands tend to overheat most make sense.
Look for vents across knuckles, upper palm and the wrist/forearm area to circulate air through those zones.
Targeted mesh panel positioning is more effective than overall breathability. Zone it in.
Consider Moisture Wicking
Mesh panels aid external airflow, while moisture-wicking liners draw internal sweat off the skin.
Hydrophobic liner materials like nylon or polyester keep hands drier than standard linings. Added comfort and grip.
Cool hands inside and out. Don’t gloss over this performance liner benefit.
Let Play Style Dictate Ventilation Needs
Midfielders in constant motion need maximum airflow. Defenders prioritize protection first, then breathability.
Analyze your responsibilities and exertion levels. Buy a glove design that ventilates in line with your needs.
Inspect Inner Lining Materials
Nylon, polyester and Lycra linings resist sweat absorption better than cotton liners. Go synthetic.
Moisture-wicking technology descriptors like Dri-Lex point to gloves actively combating sweat buildup.
Linings do matter. Don’t neglect this inner glove component.
Weigh Integrated Tech Fabrics
Some gloves utilize trademarked performance fabrics like Under Armour’s HeatGear that bolster ventilation and cooling power.
Consider supplemental technologies enhancing breathability. Every bit helps when competition heats up.
Ventilated lacrosse gloves help promote stamina and skills. Breathe easy this season and let the game flow!
Focus on Function – Make sure gloves have all necessary lacrosse-specific features
Beyond fit and feel, vet potential new lacrosse gloves for the design elements that aid performance. Key factors like padding schemes, ventilation and adjustable closures optimize your game.
Palms with dual-density foams absorb checks while promoting responsiveness. Mesh backhand panels keep hands cool when cradling. Anatomical wrist contours prevent lag when rotating during play.
Study how targeted engineering elements advance glove functionality across skills. Seek out total lacrosse-readiness.
Review Padding Structures
Lacrosse glove padding absorbs endless hits. Make sure it’s strategically placed.
Multi-pad segmented palms and fingers shield high-impact zones while enabling flexibility. Molded plastic guards across fingertips protect catches.
Analyze padding components and placements enabling protection for your position’s needs and playing style.
Ensure Moisture Management
Sweaty hands compromise control and comfort. Confirm gloves actively combat perspiration.
Mesh paneling across key ventilation zones aids breathability. Hydrophobic moisture-wicking liners draw sweat off skin.
Venting and sweat resistance means fewer slips and reduced fatigue. Don’t skimp here.
Focus on Wrist Support Elements
Reinforced adjustable wrist straps keep gloves secure during play. Anatomical shaping boosts mobility.
Extended wrist cuffs add protective coverage. Foam wrap padding shields wrists from checks.
Durable closures and ergonomic contours prevent lag while enabling flexibility.
Consider Pre-Curved Fingers
Pre-shaped glove fingers mirror your hand’s natural closed posture for superior catching.
Curved fingers increase responsiveness across catches, slashes and pokes. Enhanced dexterity from the get-go.
Weigh Integrated Tech Fabrics
Some gloves feature branded technical fabrics offering performance benefits.
Under Armour HeatGear fabric improves ventilation. Other gloves use Spyder textile for flexibility.
Specialized materials boosting mobility, breathability and protection point to thoughtful engineering.
Account for Adjustability Elements
Customizable elements like adjustable wrist straps, velcro closures and modified palm prints let you tweak gloves to your needs.
Modifiable features extend useful life and enable you to re-optimize the fit over time. Added value.
Mind the Little Details
Subtle touches like embroidered branding, internal tag pockets and anti-odor foam treatments contribute too.
No detail is too minor. High-performing gloves get the basics right while layering in supplemental design elements.
Focus on High-Wear Zones
Palms, fingertips, cuffs and knuckles take the most abuse. Ensure added fortification in these zones.
Reinforced material panels, extra padding layers and segmented protection target the most vulnerable areas.
Durability emanates from gloves fortified in the right regions. Build them to last.
Engineered lacrosse gloves optimized across protective, flexible and breathable attributes outperform basic options. Seek out technical excellence!