Choosing the Right Size Lacrosse Goal for Your Needs
When selecting a lacrosse goal, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right size for your particular needs. Lacrosse goals come in a variety of dimensions, with regulation size being 6 feet by 6 feet. However, for youth leagues, practice sessions, recreational play, or tight spaces, smaller goals in sizes like 4×4, 5×5, or 6×4 can be ideal. The 6×6 dimension is best suited for high school, college, professional lacrosse games, and tournaments where regulation size is required.
Smaller goals are great for introducing younger kids to the sport, as the reduced size helps build confidence shooting on net. The smaller opening also improves shooting accuracy. For coaches running drills or practices where you want to work on specific skills, compact goals are highly portable and adjustable. Easy to move around the field and change angles as needed. Backyard lacrosse games often benefit from more compact sizing too.
When evaluating the options, consider the ages and skill levels of the players, the setting, and type of play. Youth and beginners may prefer scaled-down goals, while advanced high school and college athletes will be accustomed to full 6×6 dimensions. Think about portability needs as well. Wheeled goals provide maximum mobility for quickly changing field layouts.
Pro tip: Look for goals with adjustable height and width settings to accommodate multiple ages and abilities on the same goal. Being able to tweak the exact width and height enables coaches and players to progressively develop stick skills as they improve. So choose wisely based on your specific needs, and select a goal size that aligns with the players, space, and purpose. Adjustable options allow goals to grow along with young athletes too.
Portable Goals for Practice and Travel
Mobility and portability are key considerations for lacrosse goals used for practice sessions, training, and travel. Being able to easily move goals around the field allows coaches and players to set up more dynamic drills and continuously vary shooting angles during practice. Portable goals are also essential for teams on the road, enabling pre-game warm-ups regardless of venue. Plus lightweight folding goals take up minimal storage space in transit. Here are some top benefits of portable lacrosse goals:
Adjustable wheel systems – Many goals feature dual-wheel frames at the base, providing 360 degree mobility for quickly rolling into position. Sturdy rear wheels and front casters enable one person to smoothly maneuver a goal anywhere on the field. Locks on the wheels keep the goal firmly in place during play. Wheels also make it easy to remove goals from the field or stadium after games.
Quick and easy set-up – Look for goals with lightweight aluminum or steel construction that fold down for compact storage and transport. Crossbar designs that unfold and lock into place allow single-person assembly in minutes. Some goals offer tool-free assembly with snap-button locks or spring-loaded poles that simply click into position. Easy set-up means more time practicing and less time prepping.
Carry bags/wheel covers – Padded carry bags help protect folding goals during transit while providing an easy way to transport all the pieces. Integrated wheel covers on certain models also secure loose wheels and prevent dirt buildup when stored. Carry bags with shoulder straps frees up hands for grabbing other gear.
Reduced weight – Aluminum, steel, and polycarbonate plastic frame materials offer strength and stability at lighter weights compared to wood or fiberglass. Look for goals advertised at under 100 lbs for true portability. The carrying case further helps distribute weight across both shoulders.
Compact storage – Goals with folding crossbars and removable ground stakes condense down to a fraction of the in-use size. This allows for easy stacking on carts or placement into vehicles and trailers. Just ensure your bag or gear storage area can accommodate the dimensions.
Durability – Wheels, hinges, and locking mechanisms should withstand frequent transport and assembly. Carefully inspect joinery, looks for sturdy welds on metal goals and thick-wall aluminum tubing. Plastic components are susceptible to cracking over time so inspect molding quality.
Extra features like wheel kits, carrying bags, lightweight materials, quick assembly locks, and padded protection enable coaches and players to easily transport lacrosse goals anywhere the game takes them.
Weather-Resistant Materials For Longevity
When investing in lacrosse goals, it’s important to consider weather resistance and longevity. As a competitive sport played through spring and summer, outdoor goals must withstand high heat, intense sunshine, rain showers, and other elements. The material composition directly impacts durability.
For the framing, look for rust-resistant, anodized aluminum or powder-coated steel. Anodizing forms a protective aluminum oxide layer on the surface, while quality powder coats provide a tough barrier against corrosion and chipping. Avoid standard galvanized steel that can rust over time. Wood framing requires continued maintenance as it weathers.
Synthetic all-weather netting is another smart option vs. traditional nylon nets. Materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene form a woven barrier that won’t degrade due to UV exposure. The stiff construction also provides rebound characteristics preferred by players. Make sure any metal attachment clips are also made of rust-resistant alloys.
Check that frame joinery utilizes weather-resistant hardware. Zinc-plated, stainless steel, or coated bolts limit rust creep. Plastic components should also be UV and heat stabilized. Look for thick-walled plastic molding on items like wheel hubs, corner joints, and locking mechanisms. The hardware that connects the frame pieces sees the most weathering exposure.
Wheels with a non-pneumatic, solid composition prevent flat tires or slow air leaks. Solid wheels maintain their shock-absorbing quality and won’t go flat halfway through a game. Rear wheel treads should provide reliable traction on turf without easily picking up mud in wet conditions.
For maximum frame protection, seek models with baked-on powder coated finishes. This involves applying the powder coat electrostatically then curing at high heat for increased durability. Double-coated or zinc-rich primers add further defense against corrosion. Chip-resistant textures better withstand nicks and scratches.
Goals intended for indoor use only can utilize more basic materials not designed for outdoor longevity. But any goal meant for fields and high school, college, or tournament play must integrate all-weather construction.
Prioritizing weatherization pays dividends through years of play. The right materials strongly influence goal safety, performance, and lifespan. So make sure to evaluate potential weather resistance before purchasing any outdoor lacrosse goal.
Quick Set-Up and Foldable For Storage
Easy assembly and foldable portability are hugely beneficial features for lacrosse goals used in practice settings or by teams on the move. Complicated installation or lots of loose parts can eat into valuable time spent on the field. Here’s how quick set-up goals make life easier:
Tool-free assembly – Quality goals feature interlocking poles, snap-button locks, and spring-loaded components that securely click into place without tools. This enables fast one-person set-up in minutes. Tool-less systems also prevent loose hardware from getting lost in transit.
No anchoring required – Goals with weighted back bars or low-profile grounded stakes automatically stay anchored on most turf fields without permanent installation. This allows goals to be easily rolled on and off the field as needed.
Folding crossbar – Look for a crossbar design that folds down the center for easy transport and storage. Avoid detachable crossbars that can get lost. Center-folding models collapse to nearly half the in-use size but remain connected.
Wheeled mobility – Goals on a wheeled dolly offer 360 degree ball-bearing maneuverability when moving into position. Locking casters keep the goal firmly in place during games. Wheels also facilitate loading and unloading from vehicles.
Carrying case – Padded nylon cases with shoulder straps allow for easy handling of disassembled goal pieces. Cases protect components and conveniently carry all hardware.
Labeling – Matching engraved numbering on poles and joints simplifies which pieces connect during assembly. No guessing which parts align.
Compact storage – Net detached and crossbar folded, goals should condense down for minimal storage footprint. This allows athletic departments to stack multiple units with little wasted space.
Lightweight materials – Aluminum or steel frames minimize weight for easier portability. Just check total load capacity before lifting and transporting.
Simple yet sturdy locking joints – Assembly hardware should snap securely into place but still allow for quick breakdown when needed. No struggle or wasted effort.
Rapid no-fuss assembly means more practice time for players and less setup for coaches. The mobility also allows goals to be stowed out of the way when not in use. Seek well-designed lacrosse goals that prioritize both speedy use and space-saving storage.
Customizable Goal Height and Width
For optimal goal sizing flexibility, look for adjustable lacrosse goals that allow the height and width to be customized as needed. This enables coaches and players to tweak the exact dimensions for different ages, skill levels, drills and training exercises.
Height adjustability – Quality goals feature a telescoping upper frame that slides up and down to set the preferred crossbar height. Options typically range from the minimum NCAA/NFHS regulation of 6 feet up to 7.5 – 8 feet for advanced training.
Width adjustability – Similarly, the side posts can telescope in and out to widen or tighten the goal mouth opening from the minimum 3 feet up to 5-6 feet wide. Wider openings challenge accuracy.
Quick-release locks – Thumb-activated locking pins allow fast height and width adjustment via the telescoping upper and side frames. No tools required for on-the-fly dimension changes.
Scale markings – Flags or etched markings along the telescoping poles indicate the exact height/width setting. This enables coaches and players to clearly track the goal dimensions and keep both sides aligned.
Youth development – For young beginners transitioning up to full-size goals, the adjustable sizing bridges the skills gap at their own pace while building confidence.
Drill/workout versatility – Varying the exact height and space challenges players to expand their shooting range and sharpen accuracy. Goals can mimic game-like conditions or be tweaked for specific drills.
Multi-sport utility – In addition to lacrosse, adjustable soccer goals or targets suit multiple field sports. Change the height for hockey, football, soccer, rugby training.
Competition flexibility – Tournaments and leagues may require specific goal dimensions. Adjustability allows the same goal to align with different rules and age groups.
Consistency and progression – As players improve, goals can steadily be raised and widened to match their advancing abilities. Younger kids see tangible progress expanding goal size.
Getting the exact right goal dimensions can make a big difference in player development. Seek out height/width adjustable models to customize sizing for any practice session or gameplay scenario.
Ball Stop Netting To Prevent Stray Shots
Stray lacrosse shots can disrupt games and create unsafe conditions. But high-quality ball stop netting behind the goal helps contain wild throws and passes.
Full wraparound netting – Look for complete 360 degree netting encircling the back and sides of the goal. This prevents missed shots or loose balls from escaping too far out of play.
Oversize dimensions – Nets should extend well beyond the footprint of the 6×6 goal, typically 8-10 feet high by 10-12 feet wide. Enough extra surface area to catch ricochets and badly off-target attempts.
High-density material – Heavy-duty nylon or polyethylene nets maintain stiffness to stop speeding balls. Softer mesh would allow too much rebound and penetration.
Weather-resistant – Synthetic all-weather construction prevents UV damage, mildew, and deterioration through outdoor use and storage.
Rebound control – Taut netting helps gently deflate the speed and energy of errant shots, dropping balls straight down rather than spraying back violently into play.
Quick attachment – Nets connect easily to the goal frame via velcro, grommets, hooks or pole sleeves. Simple to detach for storage and transport.
Versatile use – Backstop nets can also be used for pass reception practice, shooting drills against an enclosed goal, and skill building.
Safety first – Nets form a safe barrier to protect spectators, surrounding athletes, buildings, and field equipment from uncontrolled balls.
Space saver – Containing shots eliminates the need to chase stray balls across the field or into adjacent sports zones.
Reuse and replacement – Check for spare net attachments to swap out damaged sections. Many nets can be repaired via stitching or patch kits.
Don’t underestimate the value of rear netting for controlling loose balls and promoting a safer practice/game environment. Proper ball stop nets are a wise investment for all goal setups.
Sturdy Construction Withstands Competitive Play
Lacrosse goals must stand up to aggressive competitive play at all levels. Durable materials and sturdy construction prevent damage, keep nets taut, and provide player safety:
Thick-wall aluminum – Look for goals made with high-grade 6000 series aluminum tubing with a minimum 3mm wall thickness. This provides superior bending strength while remaining lightweight.
Powder coated finish – A baked-on polyester powder coated finish protects the aluminum from scratches and dents during transport and gameplay contact. It also resists UV damage.
Steel frame options – Powder coated steel offers similar durability at a lower price point but with increased weight. Ensure steel is low carbon content to resist rust.
Reinforced net attachment – Integrated double ribbing or thick corner brackets prevent tearing of top/side net attachment points, maintaining tight net integrity.
Sturdy joinery – Frame connections must withstand aggressive downward pulling and leverage from hanging off the crossbar. Look for solid welded or machined joints.
Wide base – A wider rear base bar spaced behind the net provides counterbalance against player collisions. Base weight also negates any top-heaviness.
Premium netting – Heavy-duty 12-ply knotless polyethylene or nylon mesh netting resists UV damage while maintaining tautness under frequent impact.
Replaceable components – Modular parts like aluminum corners, net clips, wheels, locks, and springs allow individual repairs as needed to extend goal lifespan.
Careful inspection – When buying used goals, carefully check joints, net edges, and hardware for signs of wear, damage, or fatigue.
Well-built goals that hold up through seasons of competitive action ensure player safety and prevent in-game delays for repairs. Durability pays dividends in the long run.
Optional Wheel Kits For Mobility
Installing heavy-duty wheel kits is a great way to make permanently anchored lacrosse goals portable. Wheels provide 360 degree maneuverability on the field and easy transport for storage.
Universal mount – Wheel axle plates and clamps enable straightforward attachment to most goal frames without modification. Complete hardware included.
Front swivel casters – Low-profile casters allow the rear wheels to steer the goal in any direction. Casters easily roll over turf and terrain.
All-terrain rear wheels – Durable molded rubber or polyurethane wheels maintain excellent traction on grass and artificial turf. Lug tread pattern provides grip when moving goals.
Roller bearings – Sealed ball bearings surrounding the axle minimize friction for smooth rolling with less effort. Bearings must withstand frequent use and weather exposure.
Locking brakes – Flip-down wheel locks keep the goal firmly planted during games. Prevent unwanted mobility once positioned.
Pneumatic or solid – Air-filled pneumatic tires absorb more shock but can get flats. Solid no-flat wheels don’t need inflation maintenance.
Bolt-on simplicity – Basic tools like wrenches and screwdrivers allow convenient DIY installation. Step-by-step instructions walk through the process.
Added stability – Proper placement of the rear wheel axle plate prevents any imbalance or tipping from the weight shift. Goals maintain full stability.
All-weather construction – Waterproof wheels and corrosion-resistant bearings allow year-round outdoor use in any climate conditions.
Mobility wheel kits enable coaches and staff to reposition goals with minimal effort. Portable goals expand layout options and ease storage when not in use.
Budget-Friendly Options For Schools and Clubs
Cost considerations play a key role when schools, clubs, and youth leagues purchase lacrosse goals. Luckily there are budget-friendly options to fit most any price point and budget.
Steel frame construction – Powder coated steel frames offer significant cost savings over aluminum without sacrificing weather resistance. Steel adds weight, but the savings may warrant it.
Reconditioned used goals – Used goals from school surplus, repossession companies, or secondhand retailers can provide quality at fractions of original pricing.
Folding /knockdown style – Collapsible goals require assembly but ship more cost effectively. Use savings to buy two goals for less than the price of one pre-assembled.
Nylon vs. polyethylene netting – Though not as durable long-term, basic nylon nets cost notably less than premium polyethylene mesh.
Organization discounts – Ask manufacturers about volume discounts for multi-goal orders. Most offer discounted club/team pricing.
Standard size – Bypassing adjustable models for a fixed 6’ x 6’ goal can save a few hundred dollars. Still regulation for most ages and leagues.
Package deals – Sellers frequently offer goals packaged with backstop rebound netting or carry bags at a bundled discount over individual pricing.
Site coupons and sales – Check retailer websites for lacrosse goal promotional deals and keep an eye out for holiday sales events.
Buy barebones – Those just needing goals for occasional recreational use can find basic economy models lacking certain features but meeting essential needs.
There are creative ways to purchase quality lacrosse goals on a limited budget. With smart shopping, getting regulation gear for your athletes doesn’t have to break the bank.
Easy Assembly With Included Instructions
Quality lacrosse goals designed for portability include easy step-by-step assembly instructions to get up and running quickly. Here’s what to look for:
No tools required – Pre-attached snap buttons, spring-loaded poles, and thumb-screw clamps allow quick tool-free assembly in minutes.
Numbered parts – Poles, frames, and hardware are labeled with engraved numbering to eliminate guessing which parts connect together.
Step-by-step manuals – Printed booklets, instruction sheets, or digital PDF guides walk through the sequential assembly process in detail.
Visual diagrams – Exploded diagrams and close-up photos demonstrate proper component alignment, hardware usage, and technique.
Online videos – Many brands provide online video tutorials visually demonstrating the assembly process from start to finish.
Technical support – Reputable companies offer phone, email, and chat support to address any assembly questions that come up.
Helpful tips – Guides provide insider tips like having two people for easier assistance lifting and stabilizing frames.
Hardware markings – Matching engraved symbols indicate which bolts and fasteners pair with corresponding frame joints.
Equipment checklist – A packing list allows confirmation that no hardware pieces or components are missing prior to starting.
Simplified tools – Basic tools like screwdrivers, adjustable wrenches, and rubber mallets are all that’s required for most assembly.
Clear assembly guidance gives users confidence to DIY goal construction. Seek lacrosse nets with ample instructions to make setup hassle-free and frustration-free.
Space-Saving Storage When Not In Use
Proper storage is key for lacrosse goals not constantly left assembled on the field. Foldable and detachable construction allow the goals to condense down significantly.
Dismount nets – Nets can be detached via velcro, grommets, or clips and stored separately from the main frame pieces.
Folding crossbar – Look for a crossbar that folds down at the middle hinge for reduced height and easier handling.
Detachable ground stakes – Ground anchors that removable reduce overall length for more compact storage.
Telescoping side poles – Side poles that retract inward take up less space when storing multiple units near each other.
Carry bag – Padded carry bags with shoulder straps neatly contain all disassembled goal components after breakdown.
Hoist options – Integrated hoist rings allow use of wall-mounted pulleys to lift folded goals up and overhead for vertical storage.
Stackable – Square nesting end caps enable condensed stacking of goals in athletic storage rooms and sheds.
Wall mounting – Some aluminum goals are light enough to mount directly to a wall or rack when not in use.
Multi-unit carts – Specialized carts and racks accommodate transport and compact storage of multiple portable goals.
Proximity to use – Storing goals as close to the field or gym as possible saves staff time transporting equipment.
Well-designed portability pays dividends when goals need to be stored for off-season or not in active use. Seek folding and detachment features that minimize the overall storage footprint.
Promotes Skill Development and Training
Installing proper lacrosse goals with adjustment flexibility enables optimized training and skill progression across all ages and abilities. The right goals become a valuable training tool.
Accurate sizing – Goals sized correctly for each age group establish appropriate challenge levels to match skills. Builds confidence.
Variable dimensions – Adjustable height and width settings allow drill customization and progressive training as players improve.
All-weather nets -Quality weather-resistant netting provides true ball rebound characteristics for realistic practice anytime.
Portability – Easily movable goals allow players to practice shots and techniques from different angles and distances.
Ball containment – Side and rear ball stop netting keeps missed shots nearby to maximize practice efficiency.
Training markings – Visible target markings on net mesh promote accuracy drills and muscle memory for proper shot placement.
Versatile use – Portable goals are great for backyard practice. Wheels allow positional changes as needed.
Added features – Items like rebounders or ball chutes attach to goals to further enhance skill training.
Year-round access – Durable construction withstands weather allowing daily goal availability for practice.
Proper lacrosse goals optimized for training give players the tools and consistency to hone abilities. Goals become an extension of the practice field.
Ideal For All Ages and Skill Levels
Quality lacrosse goals accommodate players of all ages and abilities through adjustable sizing, durability, and versatile training capabilities.
Youth beginners – Scaled-down portable goals build confidence for those first learning fundamentals and stick skills.
Growing with athletes – Goals that enlarge as kids improve support progressive development year after year.
High school players – Full-size adjustable goals enable high school competitors to practice college level dimensions early on.
College and pro – Regulation 6′ x 6′ goals suit elite-level competition needs for accurate practice.
Adult leagues – Recreational adult players benefit from durable goals able to withstand frequent community use.
Goalkeepers – Features like target markings, rebounders, and ball return systems optimize keeper training.
Backyard practice – Compact wheeled goals allow easy setup for home training beyond team practices.
Beginner friendly – Entry-level goals safely introduce new kids and foster enjoyment through early success.
Elite performance – Advanced goal height/width settings and pro-grade nets challenge top-tier high school and college athletes.
Versatility enables the same goal system to progress with players year after year. Or customize goals exactly for any player’s current skill and age.
Versatile For Multiple Sports and Activities
With adjustable sizing and portability, quality lacrosse goals pull double duty for multiple sports and recreational activities beyond lacrosse:
Youth soccer – Scaled-down goals are perfect for introductory soccer practice for kids U8 and younger.
Field hockey – Sized down to 4’x4′, lacrosse goals adapt for hockey training and scrimmages.
Football/rugby – Increase width for extra points or field goals. Use as tackle targets in practice.
Basketball – Lower the crossbar for a regulation 10′ adjustable basketball hoop for shooting practice.
Backyard games – Compact 4’x4′ goals encourage backyard soccer, hockey, or family recreation.
Stick practice – Off-season, goals become rebound targets for stick work without pucks or balls.
Beginners – Multi-sport versatility caters to developing young athletes trying different sports.
Training variety – Varying sports and drills keeps players engaged and maximizes goal value.
Durability – Construction made for aggressive lacrosse translates to any sport using the goals.
Mobility – Built-in wheels or wheel kits enable easy transport between field locations.
Seeking lacrosse goals with well-rounded multi-sport capabilities provides additional value and functionality for schools and clubs.
Brands Known For Quality and Durability
When investing in lacrosse goals, seek out reputable brands known for premium construction and reliability through seasons of competitive play.
Rukket – Focused on hockey and lacrosse, Rukket uses high-grade aluminum for lightweight strength. Features like tri-clamp net attachment and twist-lock poles set them apart.
Bownet – Known for field hockey goals, Bownet lacrosse goals fold compactly but remains sturdy. Thick corner joints and weatherproof netting stand out.
Brine – A leading lacrosse brand for decades, Brine goals feature robust aluminum frames and tool-free assembly. Great for high school and college programs.
EZGoal – Offering steel goals with powder coated and zinc treatments, EZGoal focuses on recreational price points. Backed by a 5-year warranty.
A&R Sports – This athletic equipment company provides a breadth of goal options from basic to pro. Known for budget friendly pricing and solid construction.
GAA – Goals from GAA feature industrial-grade aluminum and steel alloys ideal for heavy team use. Popular with high schools and tournaments.
RageCage – Focusing on small format rebounders and backstops, RageCage offers accessory add-ons to enhance goal training capabilities.
Champion Sports – Providing a wide catalog of physical education equipment, Champion goals meet basic needs at affordable pricing.
Choosing an established brand brings confidence in construction quality, durability, and customer service. Look to the pros and cons of each brand to find the right lacrosse goal fit.
