Choose Arm Guards for Maximum Protection
When selecting lacrosse arm guards, protection should be the number one priority. Look for guards constructed from rigid yet flexible materials that will absorb the brunt of checks and slashes. Top brands like Epoch use advanced polymers and compression molded foams that provide lightweight protection without restricting mobility.
Key areas to protect include the wrists, forearms, elbows and biceps. Guards with integrated elbow caps and robust wrist cuffs offer complete coverage. For field players who take a beating, consider guards with 7-piece multi-layer foam stacks over vital areas. This provides incredible padding against the hardest hits.
Don’t forget high wear areas like the elbows and wrists. Guards with abrasion resistance in the cuffs and caps ensure longevity throughout the season. Features like vented neoprene cuffs wick moisture and prevent irritation from turf burns too.
When sizing up guards focus on achieving a snug contoured fit. Loose guards shift and expose vulnerabilities. Brands like Epoch use adjustable straps at the bicep and forearm for a truly customized fit. This prevents any gapping while allowing a full range of motion.
Ultimately the best lacrosse arm guards balance optimized protection and unrestricted mobility. Assessing your position, league rules and playing style will determine the right balance. Close defenders benefit most from maximum wrapping coverage, while offensive players need greater maneuverability for stick skills. With the right guards, you can play aggressive with confidence.
Find Pads with Moisture Wicking Fabric
When playing lacrosse, keeping pads dry and sweat-free is a key consideration. Look for arm guards constructed using advanced moisture wicking fabrics that actively draw perspiration away from the skin. Top Epoch pads utilize lightweight polyester blends to keep you cool and comfortable even during intense games or practices.
The best moisture wicking pads have strategic venting in heat zones like the bicep and forearm. This allows air to freely circulate, further amplifying evaporation. Vented neoprene wrist cuffs also aid breathability while providing a secure non-slip fit. For hot and humid conditions, guards with mesh ventilation panels keep air flowing.
Moisture build up not only leads to discomfort and chafing, but also poses safety risks. Guards that retain sweat become saturated in weight over time. This leads to slipping and loss of protection. It also promotes the growth of odor and bacteria over repeated use.
When sweat penetrates pad linings, it impacts the integrity of the internal foams as well. Moisture damages the compression and rebound characteristics that are vital for absorbing impacts. Soggy pads absorb less energy before bottoming out.
Features like Hydroflow moisture wicking channels found in Epoch Integra pads provide active drainage. These channels pull sweat sideways off the skin rather than allowing straight vertical dripping. This keeps you drier while preventing inner saturation.
Durability also plays a role in moisture control. Guards with abrasion resistant outer shells withstand fraying from Velcro and field contact. This maintains the structural moisture barrier keeping perspiration on the surface.
Ultimately lacrosse arm pads that proactively control moisture allow you to maintain peak playing performance. Keeping pads dry means keeping pads protective shift after shift.
Get Adjustable Straps for Secure Fit
A secure contoured fit is essential for lacrosse arm guards to deliver their protective properties. Pads that shift and slide expose vulnerable zones and reduce mobility. Adjustable straps provide the solution for achieving a truly customized fit.
Top arm guards from Epoch utilize adjustable bicep and forearm straps to dial in security. This prevents any squeezing or pinching while eliminating troublesome gaps. Adjustable hook and loop closures allow players of all arm sizes to find their ideal fit.
Straps positioned above and below the elbow work in tandem for stability. The upper bicep strap should be tightened just below the delt for optimal anchor positioning. Avoid cinching straps directly over the elbow joint for maximum flexibility.
Forearm straps below the elbow should wrap flush with the wrist cuff for full coverage. Straps are best cinched over the densest mid-forearm muscle mass. This maximizes security while avoiding compression of veins and tendons in the joint zones.
Properly tightened straps also enhance pad performance. Compressing guards against the arm allows the interior foams to more effectively absorb and disperse impacts. Just as a helmet fits snugly, pads must make solid contact with the body to transfer and attenuate shocks.
Take time to test different tightness settings and configurations during sizing. Move through your full range of motion including sprinting, cutting, shooting and checking. Guards should stay rooted throughout without limiting mobility.
Keep in mind that adjustable straps allow tweaking pad tightness between games too. As muscles fatigue or swell, straps can be loosened or tightened accordingly. This customization ensures comfort late into tournaments or playoff runs.
Ultimately adjustable straps make achieving your best fit easy. Dialing in the ideal snugness balance means guards stay put and offer max performance.
Look for Lightweight but Tough Materials
When selecting lacrosse arm guards, evaluating the materials is key. Guards must balance lightweight flexibility with rugged durability to excel. Advanced polymers and compression foams let today’s pads achieve this prime balance.
Top guards use outer shells of high grade polycarbonate plastic alloys. These materials are remarkably lightweight yet extremely rigid. They effectively distribute and attenuate shock impacts across broad surfaces areas. This prevents armor breakdown while stopping force transfer.
Inner impact foams utilize advanced polymers like Poron XRD. These foams compress and rebound at lightning speeds for instant energy dispersion. Multiple foam layers with varying densities fine tune impact absorption based on force. This allows optimizing protection without unnecessary bulk.
Elastic textiles like Lycra spandex feature prominently in strap designs. This adds stretch and rebound to lock pads in place. It also allows full natural range of motion without restraint. Materials like vented neoprene at key spots add stability and breathability too.
When considering materials focus on high wear zones. Multi-layer wrist cuffs and elbow caps ensure these vulnerable spots stand up to abusive checks and falls. High end guards also feature anti-abrasion outer materials in these areas.
Look for tightly woven polyester blends on moisture wicking inner linings as well. These will maintain pad shape and performance despite extensive sweat and humidity exposure. Breathable micro mesh vent inserts enhance this moisture control.
Premium guards back all materials with extensive play testing. Brands like Epoch run their gear through rigourous lab simulations to benchmark protection. On-field player testing also ensures durability, comfort and mobility in game conditions.
The bottom line is that modern lacrosse arm pads blend ultra tough yet flexible materials. This allows delivering lightweight manueverable guards that provide hard hitting protection all season long.
Pick Guards with Flexible Design
Mobility is crucial for lacrosse players to perform at their best. Arm guards that restrict motion negatively impact stick skills, checking and athleticism. That’s why flexible pad designs matter.
Premium guards from top brands use articulated patterns that mirror the body’s contours. This anatomical design prevents any unnatural binding or resistance. Pads should flex naturally as you move without impeding performance.
Key spots for articulation are the elbow, wrist and bicep. Guards with a pre-curved elbow cap move effortlessly through full extension and flexion. An elbow sling strap allows the upper and lower portions to operate independently without pinching.
Look for guards with a flexible wrist cuff that doesn’t limit pronation or grip strength. A dual-pivot design following the hand’s natural motion is ideal. Guards should never restrict your ability to cradle and pass.
The bicep region should allow a full shoulder range without bunching. A multi-panel design, contour shaping and stretch materials give complete mobility here. Raised foam ridges that trace muscle lines also enhance flexibility.
On-field testing is crucial when assessing flexibility. Put guards through the full gauntlet of real game movements. Check sprinting, dodging, shooting all planes of motion. Guards should be agile and dynamic – never restrictive.
Overall the best lacrosse arm pads balance optimized protection with unhindered mobility. Advanced construction techniques let modern guards achieve this prime balance. With maximum maneuverability, guards become like a second skin allowing you to play free.
Consider Youth Sizing Options
Finding properly fitted pads is especially important for young lacrosse players. Youth and teenage athletes have bodies that are quickly growing and changing. Arm guards must accommodate these rapid fluctuations.
Many top lacrosse brands like Epoch offer guards sized specifically for youth and junior players. These provide optimized protection for smaller frames. Youth guards utilize compression foams and plastic inserts with lower density. This prevents excessive bulk while allowing room to grow.
Adjustable straps are key for youth sizing as well. Being able to tweak tightness settings accommodates growth spurts and fluctuations. Straps should be snug but never constricting.
For particularly small players, look for guards offering extra wrist and arm length. A longer design provides more overlap for better wrap around coverage. Extended cuffs and flaps protect fragile joint areas.
When trying on guards, focus on achieving full coverage without limiting mobility. Young players need flexibility for developing their skills and athleticism. Make sure to test different arm positions during sizing.
Durability also matters since guards will undergo rapid wear and tear. Look for abrasion protection at key spots to maintain longevity. Replace any guards with damaged foams or cracked shells.
As young players grow, continue reassessing fit. Extra room initially will allow guards to remain usable for longer. But replace any pads that become too tight or short. Proper protection requires proper fit.
With the right sizing, guards become an asset rather than hindrance for youth players. Optimized protection provides confidence for engaging in play without fear. Arm guards help enable the next generation of lacrosse stars.
Compare Levels of Impact Resistance
When selecting lacrosse arm guards, evaluating impact protection levels is crucial. The amount of force attenuation provided determines how well pads protect against checks and slashes. Premium guards utilize advanced foams and inserts to optimize shock absorbing properties.
Look for guards featuring multi-layer foam stacks with mixed densities. High grade foams like Poron XRD provide excellent force dispersion and rebound characteristics. Thicker stacks over vulnerable zones better absorb intense impacts.
The use of rigid plastic inserts enhances protection as well. Polycarbonate shield plates on the forearm deflect slashes and diffuse checks. Injected plastic caps on the elbow and wrist bolster these high wear areas.
Focus protection comparisons on the forearm and elbow areas which take the most abuse. Check the densities and thicknesses of the foam padding in these zones. Look for guards with abrasion resistant outer shells to maintain durability.
Premium adult guards will offer maximum wrapping coverage and robust padding. Youth and junior guards balance lighter materials with more flexibility. Make sure protection levels match the player’s age and competition level appropriately.
It’s also beneficial to compare protection offered in different price ranges. Higher end guards generally utilize the most advanced impact foam blends. However good mid-range options are available too.
During sizing, test impact absorption yourself. Press into the pads and feel how the foams compress then instantly rebound. Superior shock dispersion means you barely feel blows that could cause injuries.
Ultimately the ideal lacrosse arm pads provide complete lightweight protection. Advances in compression foams and cushioning now make this prime balance achievable.
Check for Built-In Elbow Pads
High quality lacrosse arm guards come equipped with integrated elbow pads for full coverage. This ensures complete protection for the fragile joint against checks and falls. Well-designed elbow pads should provide flexibility without compromising security.
Look for guards using injected molded plastic elbow caps. Polycarbonate or thermoplastic alloy shells harden the joint. Interior foam cushioning absorbs impacts that penetrate the shell.
Caps with an anatomical contoured shape provide a natural fit. They should wrap the elbow snugly without hyperextending the joint. Guards with a hinged or articulated cap design maximize mobility.
The elbow pad lining requires moisture wicking fabric to stay dry. Integrated air vents or mesh panels enhance breathability as well. Make sure padding density balances cushioning and flexibility.
An adjustable elbow sling strap optimizes the pad’s stability. This anchors the cap in place and eliminates shifting. Proper strap tension also enhances the pad’s responsiveness.
For field players, choose elbow pads offering wrap around or 3/4 protection. This shields both sides of the joint against all contact exposures. Goalies need just lateral coverage for pipe shots.
Inspect padding thickness and rigidity that best matches your position and league intensity. Max out elbow protection for competitive high school and college leagues.
During sizing, flex your arm fully checking for any binding or pinch points. Proper elbow pads become seamless second skin. With arm and elbow guards combined, joints stay protected.
Find Guards for All Player Positions
Lacrosse arm guard needs vary based on player position. Close defenders, midfielders and attackmen have different protection priorities due to their roles. Top guard brands design models tailored for each position’s needs.
For defenders, maximize protective wrapping with robust padding. Defenders throw checks and take the most abuse from opponents’ dodges and shots. Extra forearm and elbow protection are crucial.
Midfielders balance mobility with moderate protection for two-way play. Padding over key zones still allows room for stick skills. Breathable flexibility aids transitioning between offense and defense.
Attackmen prioritize lightweight maneuverability for finesse play. Minimal low-profile designs enable maximum dexterity for passing and shooting. Some opt just for elbow pads and gloves.
Goalies also require specific arm protection like pipe-side elbow pads and abrasion resistant cuffs. Chest protectors with extended shoulder flaps help seal coverage gaps.
Within brands, compare position-specific models based on your needs. Epoch designs their Integra guards for defense, Integra Pro for midfield and Integra Attack for offense. Each optimizes fit, padding and ventilation accordingly.
Trying different guard styles during sizing provides insight on ideal balance. Test mobility in your key motions and feel padding differences. Don’t sacrifice protection you need or get restrictive bulk you don’t.
Ultimately guards must complement your role. The right pads become natural extensions empowering peak performance. Work with brands to find your optimal match.
See Reviews of Popular Epoch Lacrosse Models
Reading lacrosse equipment reviews provides helpful insights when choosing new arm guards. Getting feedback from other players on specific pad models helps identify ideal options. Epoch continually ranks among the top brands praised for their protection, quality and performance.
Epoch’s Integra line earns rave reviews as their premier protective series. Users highlight the adjustable customizable fit and ample mobility. The multiple forearm shields, elbow caps and high-density foams provide top-tier impact absorption.
The Integra Pro gets credit for balancing lightweight flexibility with solid padding. Midfielders applaud this crossover model offering the versatility to play both offense and defense. Ventilation and moisture-wicking fabrics enhance comfort and breathability.
For attackmen, Epoch’s Integra Attack gets attention for its ultra-minimalist design. Players note the slim padding over key zones still absorbs checks. Full maneuverability and dexterity make these ideal for handling and shooting.
Goalies mention the oversized arm wings on Epoch chest protectors as a difference maker. The extended padding seals gaps along the arms and shoulders that saves bruises.
Young players praise Epoch’s Integra Youth and Integra Junior for the customized fit. Adjustable straps and smartly designed pads allow room to grow while preventing any restrictive squeeze.
Overall Epoch emerges as a go-to brand for all positions at all levels. Their constant innovation and quality materials make these guards a sound investment in protection.
Shop Top Retailers for Best Selection
To find the best lacrosse arm guards, shop at leading online retailers for the top brands and latest models. Major stores offer vast selections along with discounted pricing, fast shipping and hassle-free returns.
Pure Lacrosse stands out as the premier destination carrying all major pad brands. They stock a deep range spanning price points from the Epoch Integra lineup to entry-level options. Frequent sales and promo deals provide excellent value.
Lacrosse Unlimited also shines for gear selection offering both new and used/clearance pads. Their website makes finding exactly what you need easy with refinements for style, brand, size, color and price. Expect quick delivery direct from their warehouse.
For goalie gear, check GoalieMonkey which stocks arm guards from Epoch and other top companies. Their “Buy & Try” program allows returns of used pads to eliminate sizing risks. Knowledgeable support staff provides personalized recommendations too.
Don’t overlook Amazon for one-stop arm guard shopping convenience. Along with trusted brands, browse user reviews and photos to make informed choices. Prime members benefit from free returns plus fast free delivery.
Shopping direct from manufacturers like Epoch also makes sense for the latest releases. Their website showcases full product lines with details on technologies and fits. Sign up for brand emails for access to specials and new launches.
Ultimately finding your ideal pads comes down to selection and service. The top retailers combine these to make upgrading your protection easy.
Compare Prices Between Online Stores
To get the best deals on new lacrosse arm guards, take time to compare prices from different online retailers. Rates can vary for the same gear, so shopping around saves money.
Search for the specific pads you want across shopping sites. Add any color, size or condition filters needed to create an equal comparison. Sort results from low to high price to identify the best values.
Online lacrosse specialists like Lax.com, Lacrosse Monkey, and East Coast Dyes often offer competitive pricing compared to big marketplaces. They run frequent promotions and sales events too. Sign up for brand or store emails to get notified of deals.
Check both new and used/clearance sections on sites for potential savings. Lightly used pads can provide substantial discounts off retail if still in good shape. Returns, open box items and past season gear gets heavily marked down as well.
Don’t forget to factor in shipping costs if buying from multiple sellers. Some smaller shops offer free shipping or promo codes that help offset delivery fees.
Creating accounts on retail sites provides access to loyalty programs with exclusive discounts. Earning reward points through purchases leads to additional sale savings over time too.
Price matching policies are another advantage at leading vendors. Stores like Pure Lacrosse will verify and honor lower rates found anywhere else.
With a little research, finding affordable prices for premium lacrosse pads is possible. Being a savvy shopper saves money to invest back into your game.
Look for Current Deals and Discounts
Scoring lacrosse arm guard deals allows investing in top protection while maximizing value. Savvy shoppers take advantage of seasonal sales events, closeout pricing and online promo codes for big savings.
Monitor retailer sites around major holidays and tentpole events for promotions. Labor Day, Memorial Day, July 4th sales offer up to 70% off or more. End-of-season clearances in winter provide deep discounts too.
Sign up for email and text alerts from brands and stores to get notified of upcoming sales. Social media announcements provide another channel for finding out about new promotions.
Check coupon and deal sites like Groupon and RetailMeNot for updated codes valid at lacrosse retailers. Combining promo codes with sale prices leads to huge cumulative discounts.
Buying last year’s pad models is another proven way to save. New season gear gets marked down sharply once succeeding lines launch. If the technology hasn’t changed much, prior year pads are a steal.
Consider used and open-box pads in mint condition for further value. Inventory with minor scuffs or player customization can slash 50% or more off retail. Just inspect carefully prior to purchase.
With flexible sizing, buying a size up leaves room to grow and extend pad lifespan. This helps younger players get more years of use to make the investment last.
A bit of smart shopping goes a long way when upgrading lacrosse protectives. Taking advantage of deals provides premium gear that doesn’t break the bank.
Decide Between New and Used Condition
When buying lacrosse arm guards, choosing between new or used condition impacts cost, performance and longevity. Weighing all factors helps determine the better overall value for your needs and budget.
New pads provide maximum protection for intense gameplay. Fresh anti-microbial linings and foam cushions optimally absorb impacts and wick moisture. New gear often qualifies for full warranty coverage too.
However, lightly used guards in excellent shape offer savings off retail. Minor cosmetic scuffs don’t affect protective abilities if foams and plastic plates are intact. Just verify with photos and descriptions.
Try before you buy if possible. Used guards should flex naturally without cracks or flattened cushioning. All straps must adjust easily without fraying. Avoid units with damaged or removed parts.
Consider how long you plan to use guards for. Brand new pads with room to grow allow getting multiple seasons of play for younger athletes. Used gear may require replacement sooner.
Check sizing carefully as well. Unless an identical prior model, pre-owned guards may not match your fit needs. Be prepared to return or resell if not right.
New pads also provide the newest technologies like impact foam advancements. But prior year upgrades may not justify added cost if differences are minimal.
Ultimately both new and used gear present viable options. Determine the better overall mix of cost, condition, longevity and innovations for your budget.
Determine Proper Arm Guard Size
Finding lacrosse arm guards with an ideal size match ensures maximum comfort, mobility and protection. Take time to carefully measure your arm lengths and bicep circumference to identify the right fit range.
Use a soft measuring tape to get exact arm dimensions. For length, measure from the center of your wrist bone up to the mid-point of the shoulder. Compare to size charts to find your proper range.
Measure bicep circumference at the peak while flexing. Again refer to sizing guides to translate this to recommended sizes. Account for the arm’s muscularity and growth prospects too.
During sizing, focus on achieving full arm coverage without restrictive pinching. Straps should secure pads firmly without compressing nerves or restricting blood flow. All joints must flex freely.
Test different brands as sizing varies. Epoch Integra pads run smaller than Warrior Regulators, for example. Trying on is ideal to gauge true in-person fit.
Consider adjustable extending strap lengths to accommodate fluctuations. This prevents having to buy new pads after modest growth spurts.
Proper sizing equals proper protection. Guards that are undersized leave gaps in coverage while oversized units hinder mobility. Take time to find your true lacrosse arm guard match.