Durable 6×6 Net Easy Folding Lacrosse Goal for Your Yard Game Play
Durable 6×6 Net Easy Folding Lacrosse Goal for Your Yard Game Play
Spacious 6×6 Foot Opening Accommodates Real Lacrosse Gameplay
One of the most important factors when selecting a lacrosse goal for home use is ensuring the net opening is regulation size. The typical dimensions for competitive men’s lacrosse goals are 6 feet tall by 6 feet wide. This ample 6×6 foot opening gives players enough room to maneuver, pass, catch, and shoot effectively. Smaller backyard lacrosse nets often scale down the width and height to 4×4 or 5×5 feet to save space, but this cramped sizing sacrifices realism.
With the full 6×6 dimensions, you can practice dodging, curling, rolling, and quick passing just like a real game situation. Defenders learn how to check properly at full speed without banging into the frame. Shooters can wind up and launch shots from further back for more power and accuracy. The wider angle allows goalies to fully extend and make dramatic saves they’d never reach in a narrow structure. Players gain muscle memory for the exact footwork, spacing, angles and quick reactions used on the field or box.
The regulation 6×6 opening gives coaches, parents and kids adequate room to hold compact scrimmages, scrimmage between attack and defense units, or full team run-throughs. Get a realistic sense of the pace of play. Work on offensive plays and defensive slides without hitting limitations. Run fast breaks at game speed. Scrimmages build chemistry between teammates and test skills under pressure. Friends can join backyard games with enough space to not bump into each other constantly.
While a 6×6 portable lacrosse goal requires more yard real estate compared to smaller options, the trade-off is preparing for the real thing. Once kids step onto an organized lacrosse field, the full-sized net and wider field markings won’t be foreign. Backyard practice engrains proper mechanics and realistic gameplay situations. Skills directly transfer to live competition. Confidence soars knowing they already mastered the angles and dimensions.
Adults also appreciate the authentic competitive target area for sharpening their game after years away. The muscle memory kicks in quickly thanks to the precise 6×6 proportions ingrained from high school or college. Organized beers leagues and pickup games feel comfortable right away without an adjustment period. With a regulation-size net in the backyard, anyone can quickly rebuild fundamentals during solo shooting sessions.
While portable lacrosse nets must balance portability and durability, never sacrifice the 6×6 sizing that the sport is built around. Stick skills, shooting, movement and team play all depend on the generous area that a 6-foot wide rectangular goal mouth provides. Choose the appropriate anchor weights, stabilizer systems and durable materials to make a regulation-sized structure portable for backyard enjoyment. Give developing players and lifelong enthusiasts the real thing!
Regulation Lacrosse Goal Size for Authentic Training
Having a full-size 6×6 foot lacrosse goal setup in your backyard is the best way to get authentic lacrosse training at home. The regulation dimensions match the same goals used for competitive high school, college, professional and international lacrosse play across field, box and women’s versions of the sport. Practicing shots, moves and tactics in a regulation-sized net ingrains the exact motor skills and visual angles needed for game situations.
A 6×6 foot frame with a centered goal measuring 6 feet across by 6 feet tall has been the standard for men’s field lacrosse since the 1930s. The wider goals were introduced to open up off-ball movement and passing options as stick skills advanced. Defensive players also needed room to maneuver. The size has stood the test of time as the optimal goal framing for the pace of field lacrosse. Youth leagues use the same structure, proportionately sized down for their age groups.
For box lacrosse, a 6-foot wide by 4-foot tall net became the standard. With the confined playing area, the smaller height keeps high shots from sailing out of play while the 6-foot width still allows side-to-side passing and movement. Women’s lacrosse goals match the box width but split the difference at 5 feet tall. Again, the consistent 6-foot width provides continuity across the sport. Consider these official sizing standards when buying any lacrosse goal.
Training in a full-size regulation goal at home provides continuity with team practices and game settings. Shooting, passing, cutting and dodging drills ingrain the exact angles and distances. Without having to adjust to different equipment, players build muscle memory and consistency repeating the same techniques. Goalies learn to track shots and react covering every inch of the 6×6 area. Defenders know exactly how far they can close out on shooters.
Another benefit is training your lacrosse vision. Reading the net openings for shot placement, focusing on ball movement and reacting to cutters all depend on the precise perspective a regulation goal provides. Wider goals force players to scan more peripherally. You’ll feel more comfortable reading the field during chaotic game action after repetitive backyard reps.
While mini and adjustable lacrosse goals have their benefits for convenience and costs, truly mastering lacrosse depends on spending time with regulation dimensions. Portable goals now allow easy set up and break down in backyards without permanency or heavy weights. Enjoy authentic training then wheel the goal aside when not in use.
Experienced players also appreciate reconnecting with that familiar goal framing for muscle memory. After years away from organized lacrosse, the ingrained visual and physical skills quickly return when facing a regulation 6×6 goal. It’s like riding a bike after years off.
For developing young players or lifelong enthusiasts, embrace the 6×6 foot regulation size as the ideal training goal. The same dimensions used by the pros will unlock skills, build confidence and prepare you for game action. Find a sturdy and stable portable goal that delivers the authentic experience.
Durable Mesh Netting Reduces Errant Balls During Backyard Play
High-quality mesh netting is an essential component of any home lacrosse goal setup. While the steel frame provides the sturdy structure, the net contains shots during practice and backyard games. Premium mesh netting reduces errant balls, provides rebound consistency and withstands years of use.
Look for heavy-gauge 2mm and 3mm polyethylene netting in lacrosse goal nets. Polyethylene offers superior durability and resistance compared to nylon or other fabrics. The thicker 2mm and 3mm gauge stands up to high-speed point-blank shots along with frequent installation and takedowns. UV-treatment also protects against sun damage and degradation over time.
The diamond mesh pattern provides just the right rebound effect. Shots sink into the net then bounce back predictably to practice rebounds and outlet passing. Solid rebound control also reduces loose balls. Tight 1.5-inch mesh openings contain balls within the goal area rather than spraying wide or bouncing out.
Proper net tension keeps the mesh taut across the entire 6×6 foot goal opening. Along with the non-slip polyethylene material, the result is excellent ball control and reduced stingers. Focused shooting practice improves accuracy. Goalies can smother shots confidently with prevents uncontrolled rebounds.
High-quality netting shows in the details like reinforced stitching along the edges and strapping points. Cotton or nylon thread melts too easily from friction. Double-stitched seams with reinforced threading prevent tears during install and use. The bottom rear of the net may also be double-layered or include extra web straps to absorb maximum impact from point-blank shots.
Nets connect to the lacrosse goal frame using heavy-duty bungee cords or Velcro straps. Bungees provide quick, tool-free mounting and adjustable tensioning. The elastic cords easily loop through the steel frame. Velcro brand fasteners are equally durable for easy, frequent mounting and dismounting. Premium goal packages include multiple bungees or Velcro straps for custom tensioning the net.
While economy lacrosse goals may only include a basic net, upgrading to a competition-grade mesh net is a smart investment. The 2mm and 3mm polyethylene stands up to years of use. Tight mesh contains shots and provides consistent rebound response. Proper tensioning eliminates sagging. Prioritize safety with netting designed for high-speed lacrosse ball impacts.
Mesh nets require periodic inspection for holes, sagging or broken straps. Fortunately the durable polyethylene material limits deterioration. Replace bungees over time as the elasticity decreases. Rotate the net orientation to spread out wear points. Carry spare bungees and net repair kits to restore tension or mend small holes at home.
Invest in the best reinforced, UV-treated polyethylene net specially designed for lacrosse. Combine with a sturdy steel goal frame for game-ready performance. Keep an extra net on hand for when the primary net wears out after seasons of high-speed action. Premium nets enhance skills, safety and enjoyment for years to come.
Secure Net Attachment With Heavy-Duty Bungee Cords
Finding the best way to attach lacrosse goal nets is key for safety, playability and durability. While economy nets may just use basic elastic cords or plastic clips, high-performance lacrosse goals utilize heavy-duty bungee cords for tool-free net installation and adjustable tensioning.
Bungee cords simplify mounting nets quickly without tools. Just attach the elastic bungee loops to the steel goal frame. Hooking the bungees through welded eyelets or frame holes provides a secure anchor point. Looping bungees directly around the steel pipes also works but may slip over time.
Premium bungee cords designed for lacrosse goals feature 30-inch to 40-inch lengths to accommodate various frame sizes. The long stretch length allows wrapping around rear crossbars for anchoring the back of the net. Shorter bungees spaced along the sides and top of the frame keep the entire net surface taut.
High-quality bungee cords contain an internal latex rubber core encased in a braided polyester sheath. This provides the right combination of stretch and durability for years of use. Latex rubber maintains consistent tension and rebound compared to lower-grade rubber blends. The woven polyester exterior resists UV damage, friction and weathering.
Bungees specially engineered for lacrosse have a smooth, high tensile strength core. This provides excellent shock absorption for securely containing high-speed ball impacts. Rugged construction means the bungees retain elasticity over thousands of shots. Heavier-gauge rubber and denser weave prevents excessive stretching and budging.
Having multiple bungee cords allows custom tensioning zones across the net surface. Keeping the bottom rear extra tautcontains wild bounce-backs. Lighter tension up top allows balls to sink into the mesh for improved rebound control. Players learn to place shots accurately based on net tension and rebound response.
Bungees simplify removing and replacing nets when needed. Unclip the cords in seconds without cutting zip ties or untying knots. Swapping nets between goals or rotating front/back takes just minutes. Carry spare bungees in your lacrosse bag for quick sideline repairs.
While economy lacrosse goals may only include a few basic elastic cords, upgrade to a full bungee set designed for the sport. Longer wrap-around cords provide rear anchoring points. Supplemental side cords keep the entire net surface uniformly taut. Durable latex rubber and polyester weave retain elasticity for years. Take time adjusting tensions zones for optimal safety and rebound control. Give players the best possible net response for practicing shots and developing skills. Invest in high-performance bungees to get the most from your lacrosse goal net.
Maneuverable Wheels for Easy Lacrosse Goal Portability
Portable lacrosse goals feature built-in wheels for easy maneuvering around your backyard practice and game space. Just tilt and roll the lightweight yet sturdy goals into position. Integrated wheels provide effortless portability compared to having to lift goals or drag on the ground.
Wheels specifically engineered for sports goals have rugged treads for stability on grass, dirt or turf. Wide tread patterns provide traction rather than digging divots like thin wheels. Durable rubber construction withstands constant use on uneven terrain. Sealed bearings prevent rust and keep wheels spinning freely.
Low profile wheels maintain sufficient ground clearance while still being large enough to roll smoothly. Small narrow wheels get caught in divots. But oversized wheels make goals top-heavy and prone to tipping. Optimal 8-inch to 10-inch diameter wheels strike the right balance.
For the best maneuverability, seek goals with at least two corner-mounted wheels. Dual wheels prevent dragging one end while moving. Rotating single caster wheels allows 360 degree turning and easy pivoting in tight spaces. Having integrated wheels (versus temporary dolly kits) ensures smooth transport each use.
Wheels positioned on the rear goal corners provide optimal weight balance while rolling. Front-mounted wheels can cause tipping when tilting goals backwards. Having help steadying the goal while rolling prevents accidental tipping. Engage the locking wheel brakes before use for safety.
Portable lacrosse goal frames are designed with a low center of gravity and rear weighting for stability. But having wheels elevated too high negatively impacts the center of gravity. Seek goals with wheels integrated near ground level to maximize stability during intense backyard play.
Once goals are positioned, secure the wheel brakes to prevent unwanted shifting. Brakes keep goals firmly in place for safety. Weighted rear stabilizer bars or sandbags also prevent unintended movement. Stability is key to preventing tip overs that damage goals or yard landscaping.
Integrated corner wheels make portable lacrosse goals practical for real-world use. Easily roll regulation-sized 6×6 foot goals exactly where needed in your backyard practice space. Durable tread and sealed bearings provide smooth transport across grass or turf. Lock wheels once positioned and supplement with stabilizers for safety during intense game action. Enjoy the simplicity integrated wheels provide for using regulation goals anywhere outdoors.
Positioning Lacrosse Goals Flush Against Fences or Walls
Planning where to position your portable lacrosse goal within your backyard space is an important consideration. Take advantage of available walls, fencing or backstops to place goals flush for added stability and space savings.
Most residential backyard fences are constructed using 4×4 inch vertical posts. This allows conveniently positioning a 6×6 foot portable lacrosse goal directly against a fence line. The 1.5-2 inch goal frame overhang on each side fits neatly against the posts with no interference.
Backing goals up to a fence or wall takes advantage of the rigid surface for additional stability support. Brace the goal frame rearward into the fencing to leverage the stationary structure and reduce rear tipping risk. Just be sure to use padding anywhere needed to prevent frame damage to fencing.
Situating goals into a fence corner adds lateral stability as well. The perpendicular fence lines help anchor both rear corners. Place padding on fence posts to prevent scuffing or denting during intense goal impacts. A weight bag hung on the rear goal crossbar also helps press it back into the fence.
By stabilizing one entire goal plane against a solid fence or wall, you need less rear ballast weight. This allows maximizing the usable yard space in front of the goal for players. Just be sure to secure goals laterally so they cannot shift left or right if impacted.
Flushing the goal frame back into a fence also provides a useful ball containment solution. Errant high shots often sail over portable goals, becoming a nuisance. But a solid fence roof behind goals contains most overshots and keeps balls within your property.
For extra safety and rebound control, fasten a backstop netting above goals. Use heavy duty net material secured to the top fence line. This further contain wild shots from spraying out. Just allow sufficient height so as not to interfere with higher angled shots targeting the goal mouth.
Before positioning goals, inspect the yard fence line. Look for protruding screws or bolts that could puncture netting or snag on goal frames. Also check for loose fence boards that could dislodge or break if impacted. Protect any risk points with padding.
Whether aiming for space savings or added stability, backyard fences make ideal anchors for portable lacrosse goals. The sturdy vertical posts allow a near flush fit. Brace the goal rearward into the fencing for natural stabilization. Contain overshot balls and reduce landscaping damage. Take advantage of backyard fences to safely maximize your practice space.
Simple Lacrosse Goal Assembly Using Included Tools
Quality portable lacrosse goals designed for home use feature simplified assembly using basic tools included with the package. Step-by-step instructions walk through connecting the steel frame pipes, fitting the net and attaching stabilizer bars in under an hour using the provided tools.
Look for goals with numbered pipes and connectors that index together in the proper sequence. Matching the numbered pipe ends removes the guesswork. Illustrated instructions provide visual guidance each step of the way. Kits often include extra hardware pieces in case of any issues.
Required tools are limited to standard Allen wrenches, screwdrivers and a rubber mallet or hammer. Allen bolts allow firmly securing pipe joints without overtightening. An adjustable wrench further tightens frame connections and eyebolts. The mallet helps seat frame joints flush.
Quality portable goal kits include all necessary tools to avoid having to pull from your own toolbox. Different frame and fastener types may require metric or standard Allen sizes. A multi-size folding Allen wrench set has all bases covered. Phillips and flat screwdrivers handle any net straps or ground stabilizer steps.
For goals with wheels, pay close attention to the axle and wheel hardware sequence. Step-by-step instructions walk through inserting axles, spacers, washers and fasteners in the proper configuration for smooth wheel rolling. Assemble wheels last after the main frame is complete.
Square frames naturally want to skew into a rhomboid shape when tightening bolts. Continually re-square the frame by measuring diagonals until equal. Gently tap joints flush while squaring the frame. Finally, tighten all bolts firmly with the included Allen wrench once aligned.
Leave net attachment as the last assembly stage. Attach bungee cords or straps after fully squaring and tightening the frame. Keep an eye out for any sharp frame corners or joints that could tear netting. File any sharp edges smooth to prevent poking holes.
With all parts on hand and tools provided, goal assembly proceeds smoothly. Numbered frame pieces, illustrated instructions and bundled hardware minimize confusion. Firmly tighten and square the frame before moving on to attaching netting and weights. Take time to assemble properly and double check each step.
Portable Lacrosse Goals Ideal for All Ages to Practice at Home
Having your own portable lacrosse goal is a great way for players of all ages to practice their skills at home. Kids, teens and adults alike appreciate the convenience of being able to shoot and play anytime.
Young lacrosse players gain a major advantage with a goal in their backyard. Anytime they have the urge to practice, the opportunity is there. Frequent shooting sessions become fun rather than a chore. Skills develop quicker with regular practice versus just relying on scheduled team sessions.
Kids also recruit neighborhood friends for impromptu practices or games. The enjoyment of play strengthens their passion for the sport. Backyard games keep kids active outdoors rather than solitary screen time. Parents may even join in to bond and have fun together.
Teens focused on making their high school team or earning a college roster spot also appreciate daily practice. An hour of focused shooting each afternoon hones skills quickly. Trying out new moves in a relaxed 1-on-1 environment builds confidence. Recruit a sibling, parent or friend to play defense and take reps.
Adults returning to lacrosse after years away find pick-up games and beer leagues more enjoyable with practice. Knock off the rust shooting on a regulation goal so league play isn’t totally foreign. Hone natural technique and reaction time. Gradually increase power and range. Mimic game situations.
For serious youth, college and pro players, frequent high-quality practice time is mandatory. Backyard goals provide that opportunity any day, any time. Travel teams often assign shooting practice goals for players while at home. Get creative mixing in passing, dodging and shooting drills.
Goals with a durable yet lightweight portable design are easy to move for creating drills. Practice dodging and shooting on the run. Work on curl moves around imaginary defenders. Constantly change angles and distances to challenge muscle memory.
Players of all ages maximize their skills and enjoyment of lacrosse with a backyard goal for practice. Kids develop quicker through daily repetition. Teens prepare for competitive play. Adults refresh rusty skills. Anytime access equals more practice which drives skill development.
Compare Lacrosse Goal Quality Before Buying Cheaper Portable Options
With portable lacrosse goals available across a wide price range, it pays to carefully compare quality and durability before choosing based on price alone. Inspect materials, construction and hardware to ensure a goal will provide safe, lasting performance.
Bargain lacrosse goals under $100 seem tempting for the budget-focused buyer. But the quality is often severely lacking. Thin aluminum or plastic tubing bends and dents easily, creating injury hazards. Plastic clip or strap net connections loosen over time.
Goals in the $150 to $300 range typically utilize thicker steel or alloy tubing. But connection points may still be suspect and require frequent tightening. Nets are often low-grade nylon without sufficient attachment points. Stability and ball containment are likely inadequate.
Stepping up to $300 to $500 provides better materials like powdercoated steel frames, strong welded joints, integrated wheels and high-grade polyethylene netting. But hardware durability may still be questionable. Only sparsely placed bungees provide minimal net tensioning.
Truly durable goals in the $500 to $800 range feature professional-grade construction. Sturdy steel frames with reinforced joints withstand years of play. Competition-grade netting and abundant bungees create ideal rebound response. Multiple integrated wheels, ample stabilizer bars and included weights provide unmatched stability.
When reviewing lacrosse goal options, scrutinize every component. Reject thin pipe tubing that dents easily. Seek full welds rather than clamps at joints. Confirm integrated wheels have rugged treads and sealed bearings. Compare netting material, mesh density, border reinforcement and attachment systems.
Give premium goals a hands-on test drive if possible. See how the frame holds up to cross-checks. Step back and fire point-blank shots to check net durability and bungee response. Tip the goal over and maneuver it around to feel stability and wheel function.
While ultimate durability commands a higher price, consider it an investment in safety and performance. A $300 goal that quickly shows wear also needs replacing sooner. A $700 goal lasting 5+ years saves money long-term while delivering consistent safety and playability.
Consider Yard Surface Firmness Before Positioning Lacrosse Goal
Assessing the firmness and condition of your backyard ground surface is an important factor before setting up a portable lacrosse goal. Choose flat, dense soil or turf to maximize stability.
Avoid positioning goals on loose topsoil that gives way underfoot. Digging out and compacting the soil provides a firmer base. Filling in holes or low spots with packed clay hardens the surface. Grass on top of firmly packed soil creates ideal playing conditions.
Standing water or muddy areas make poor goal locations even if flat. The saturated soft ground prevents stabilizer bars from digging in firmly. Avoid areas near drainage swales or downspouts where water collects.
Bark dust, wood chip or gravel surfaces seem solid but don’t hold stabilizer spikes well. The loose material shifts easily leading to tip overs. Lay down plywood sheets under goals to create a firm temporary platform if playing on loose chip ground cover.
Check for sprinkler heads in potential goal locations. The plastic risers crack easily if struck, creating trip hazards. Either remove temporarily or mark with flags when goals are positioned nearby.
If playing on turf, choose areas without tears, holes or loose seams. Damaged turf is trip dangers and prevents solid footing when lunging for shots. Avoid areas where grass is significantly worn thinner.
Inspect potential goal sites for roots, stumps or buried rocks that could twist ankles. While level, these objects still create hazards directly beneath goal mouths. Probe ground in advance with a spike to identify anything buried just under the surface.
Consider adding stall mats or plywood sheets as a foundation to smooth uneven terrain or soft spots. A level uniform substrate helps goals sit squarely and prevents rocking. Stabilizer bars also dig into the matting better than loose or uneven soil.
Take time surveying your backyard playing area and address any issues with the ground surface condition. Compact any loose soil and fill divots. Remove or mark sprinklers and hazards. Add matting if needed to create a flat, stable foundation before anchoring a portable lacrosse goal.
Add Protective Padding to Prevent Lacrosse Goal Injuries
Adding protective foam padding to portable lacrosse goal frames is a smart safety investment for backyard practice. Padding cushions unavoidable impacts from missed shots, checks and collisions.
Look for padding specifically designed for sports goals and nets. Durable woven polyester or vinyl covers contain interior foam meeting ASTM safety standards. UV-resistance prevents padding deterioration in outdoor conditions.
Full goal wraps provide 360-degree padded protection. Individual pads can also be strapped onto specific goal sections prone to impact. Prioritize padding the main frame pipes and joint corners which cause the most harm on contact.
For youth players, consider bumper pads to circle the entire goal frame. Kids learning the game often fire shots off target or chase errant passes into the goal. Thick foam wraps prevent injuries from sharp collisions with the steel pipes.
On regulation adult goals, pad goal corners from the ground up to about 5 feet high. Absorb shoulder and head impacts from dodging players. Elbow pads prevent bruised funny bones. Kneepads cushion inevitable falls and slides.
Use thick padding on vertical pipes at ground level behind the net. Shots ringing the pipe can ricochet into legs at full speed. Well-padded leading edges prevent muscle bruises and stinging pain.
Consider hanging padded backdrops on fencing behind goals to further cushion containment. Even regulation goal netting doesn’t stop all hard-hit shots. An added layer of padding absorbs fence rattle and contains balls.
Check padding monthly for tears, loose straps or compromised foam. Hand wash covers as needed to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Replace compromised padding immediately to maintain protection. Rotate pads to evenly distribute wear.
While portable goals with integrated padding cost more upfront, the injury prevention value is significant. Padding reduces the risks inherent with backyard lacrosse play. Well-constructed padding withstands years of UV exposure and impacts. Protect your investment in a high-performance goal and your player’s health.
Add Protective Padding to Prevent Lacrosse Goal Injuries
Adding protective foam padding to portable lacrosse goal frames is a smart safety investment for backyard practice. Padding cushions unavoidable impacts from missed shots, checks and collisions.
Look for padding specifically designed for sports goals and nets. Durable woven polyester or vinyl covers contain interior foam meeting ASTM safety standards. UV-resistance prevents padding deterioration in outdoor conditions.
Full goal wraps provide 360-degree padded protection. Individual pads can also be strapped onto specific goal sections prone to impact. Prioritize padding the main frame pipes and joint corners which cause the most harm on contact.
For youth players, consider bumper pads to circle the entire goal frame. Kids learning the game often fire shots off target or chase errant passes into the goal. Thick foam wraps prevent injuries from sharp collisions with the steel pipes.
On regulation adult goals, pad goal corners from the ground up to about 5 feet high. Absorb shoulder and head impacts from dodging players. Elbow pads prevent bruised funny bones. Kneepads cushion inevitable falls and slides.
Use thick padding on vertical pipes at ground level behind the net. Shots ringing the pipe can ricochet into legs at full speed. Well-padded leading edges prevent muscle bruises and stinging pain.
Consider hanging padded backdrops on fencing behind goals to further cushion containment. Even regulation goal netting doesn’t stop all hard-hit shots. An added layer of padding absorbs fence rattle and contains balls.
Check padding monthly for tears, loose straps or compromised foam. Hand wash covers as needed to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Replace compromised padding immediately to maintain protection. Rotate pads to evenly distribute wear.
While portable goals with integrated padding cost more upfront, the injury prevention value is significant. Padding reduces the risks inherent with backyard lacrosse play. Well-constructed padding withstands years of UV exposure and impacts. Protect your investment in a high-performance goal and your player’s health.
Padding Lacrosse Goals to Ensure Kid Safety
Backyard lacrosse practice brings inherent contact risks, especially for young players. Adding thick protective padding to portable goals is a must to prevent injuries when kids inevitably collide with the steel frames.
Look for foam padding specifically engineered to cushion sports goals and equipment. Durable exterior materials like vinyl and woven polyester resist weathering and retain padding thickness. Interior foam meeting ASTM safety standards absorbs impacts.
Full wraparound bumper pads are ideal for maximizing protection on goals used by kids and youth players. The 1-2 inch thick padding circles the entire frame to cushion incidental contact from all angles.
Bumper pad sections connect securely using velcro straps or grommets to prevent shifting during impacts. Choose pads with flaps overlapping pipe junctions to eliminate any padding gaps where hard corners are exposed.
For additional coverage, fasten pipe pads at ground level behind the goal mouth. Shots ringing the pipes can ricochet erratically at young players retrieving balls. Thick padding absorbs stingers and bruising.
Consider hanging a padded fence covering behind goals to further cushion containment. When shots miss high or wide, kids often chase errant balls. A soft fence barrier prevents injuries from sprinting into chain link edges.
Check padding integrity frequently for any compromised areas. Hand wash pad covers periodically to prevent mold buildup. Let air dry fully before reinstalling. Carry spare velcro straps and grommets for quick repairs.
Train kids to not hang, climb or tug on goal padding. The padded covers are not designed to support weight. Climbing raises the risk of tip overs or ripped pads.
For younger kids under age 10, only allow goal shooting and games with adult supervision. Actively monitor play and pause activity if it becomes too frenetic or aggressive.
Proper lacrosse goals padded for safety let kids develop skills efficiently while also preventing injuries from inevitable contact. Thick foam cushioning absorbs the hard knocks that occur during energetic backyard play. Protect your young players and your goal investment.
Position Portable Lacrosse Goals Safely Away from Homes
When setting up portable lacrosse goals in your backyard, be sure to position them at a safe distance from your house and windows. This prevents accidental damage from errant shots.
Consider the potential arc and power of missed shots and position goals accordingly. For youth goals with lower shot velocities, 10-20 feet of clearance provides a good buffer. For high school or college-aged players, allow 25-35 feet.
Angle goals if needed so that the net opening faces away from vulnerable windows and siding. Shots missing high and wide will fired away from the home versus towards. Just be sure adequate fencing or backstops contain shots in your yard.
Check behind goals for any lawn decor, pathways or structures before anchoring into place. Stray shots can topple unsecured lawn ornaments. Leave adequate space behind goals so family members can transit without walking into the firing zone.
If positioning goals near patios or decks for convenience, suspend a barrier netting above to catch high shots. Even robust polycarbonate patio roofing can be compromised by repeated hard lacrosse ball impacts.
For homes with stucco finishes, beware that direct goal impacts can chip the surface. Either pad vulnerable sections or increase the clearance distance. A simple plywood wall can also shield the house from goal collisions.
Avoid aiming shots directly towards bedrooms where family members may be napping or sleeping. Position goals so shooting angles fire away from noisy direct window impacts, especially in late day practice sessions.
When possible, situate goals on the opposite home side from where neighborhood foot traffic passes by. This reduces the risks of passersby being inadvertently struck by missed shots or passes.
For homes situated near property lines, make sure adequate buffer space exists before anchoring goals. Check local ordinances for setback minimums and being considerate of neighbors.
Portable goals provide great backyard convenience but do require some cautions. Take into account shot power, probable miss angles and surrounding structures when picking set up locations. Position goals safely away from homes to prevent accidental damage while still retaining playability.
