Finding the Best Lacrosse Nets for Your Backyard
When looking to purchase lacrosse nets for your backyard, there are several key factors to consider in order to find ones that are high quality, durable, and provide good value for money. The size of the net is important – youth and beginner nets are often smaller with a tighter weave, while advanced player and competitive nets have a wider opening and looser weave to add challenge. Portability is also key if you need to transport the net to games or practices. Freestanding and pop-up nets offer easy setup without poles or stakes, while anchored or fixed nets provide maximum stability during aggressive shooting practice.
Affordability and budget will also impact your choice – cheaper nylon or polyester nets may need replacing annually, while high grade weather-resistant mesh nets can last 5+ years with proper care. Think about your skill level too – intermediate and advanced players will want a net that can withstand heavy use from crisp passes,速》powerful shots, and body checks without compromising durability. Goalie nets specifically designed for lacrosse tend to offer padded backstops and excellent rebound.
When researching lacrosse net options, look for trusted sporting goods brands known for quality manufacturing. Check net designs that allow for easy ball return to minimize retrieval time. Read online reviews and talk to other players about nets they recommend. Consider backyard space and portability requirements before purchasing. With the right research, you can find an affordable, durable, and high performing lacrosse net perfect for developing your skills right at home.
Top Rated Lacrosse Nets on Amazon
When looking for quality lacrosse nets, Amazon is a great place to find a wide selection of top rated options at affordable prices. With thousands of customer reviews and detailed product information, you can easily compare different net brands and models to find the right one to suit your needs.
Some of the highest rated lacrosse nets currently available on Amazon include brands like STX, Brine, Champion and Gladiator. The STX Pro Goal Lacrosse Net is one of the top choices, made from durable 3mm knotless polyethylene that can stand up to regular use. It has a regulation 6′ x 6′ opening and includes a carry bag for portability. Ratings average 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews.
For a more budget friendly option, the Champion Sports Deluxe Lacrosse Net is highly rated for recreational play. It features a weather resistant nylon construction with 2mm knotless mesh netting. Customers praise it for easy setup, stability and value. Other top rated options include the Brine Propel Goal Lacrosse Net, praised for excellent rebound and ball return, and the Gladiator Lacrosse Bounce Back Net, which includes a bungee return system for solo practice.
When researching, carefully read the product details and reviews to ensure the net is made of durable materials and sized appropriately. Look for feedback on stability, ball rebound, and ease of setup. Also consider portability features like carry bags and breakdown designs. With some research on Amazon’s selection, you can find the perfect top rated lacrosse net to elevate your practice sessions.
Lacrosse Rebounder Nets for Solo Practice
Lacrosse rebounder nets are an excellent way for players to practice their skills alone and improve their game through repetitive shooting and passing. These specialty nets are designed to return balls to the player with speed and accuracy, eliminating the need for a partner to retrieve balls or act as goalie.
Quality lacrosse rebounders feature durable synthetic mesh netting stretched tightly across a steel or aluminum frame. The netting has some give to absorb impact while maintaining ball speed as it rebounds. Nets may attach to a standalone base frame, or anchor to a wall or fence post. Some have additional features like angled side netting to return errant shots.
Using a rebounder net allows players to take hundreds of shots in a practice session, honing shooting technique, accuracy and power. The constant repitition ingrains proper mechanics into muscle memory faster than regular shooting practice. Players can work on different shot types like overhand, sidearm and underhand in rapid succession without pause. Along with shooting, rebounder nets are great for passing practice. Changing angles and distances challenges reaction time and handspeed to snag crisp catches.
While full lacrosse goals are ideal for game simulation, rebounder nets are an excellent solo training tool for lacrosse players of all ages and abilities. Models from brands like Gladiator, Brine and STX offer durability for extended use. Investing in a quality rebounder will elevate any player’s skills with more efficient and focused practice.
Comparing Lacrosse Goalie Nets
For lacrosse goalies, having a net designed specifically for their position is crucial for effective training and game performance. Lacrosse goalie nets have several features that differentiate them from standard player nets to allow goalies to hone their reactive save skills.
Goalie nets offer extra backing and padding along the bottom and side bars to cushion hard shots from close range. Quality polyethylene mesh netting reduces sting on saves and provides excellent visibilty compared to nylon nets. An angled top bar deflects high shots down into the net for clean catches. The net opening is regulated size for game-readiness, and the net bag is deeper to trap rising shots.
When researching goalie net options, look for reinforced anchoring systems and maximum stability to withstand repetitive saves. Freestanding and pop-up portable nets should have weighted or staked bases to prevent tipping. Favor brands known for goalie gear like Brine, Rage and Maverik whose nets are optimized for reaction training.
It’s also useful to compare features like carrying cases with shoulder straps for easy transport, weather resistant materials even on budget models, and customer reviews from fellow goalies on durability. While multifunction nets work for practice, dedicated goalie nets enhanced with protective padding, catching pockets and robust anchoring provide the right tool for goalies to develop lightning quick reflexes.
Lacrosse Net Carrying Cases for Transport
For lacrosse players who need to transport their nets to practices or games, a quality carrying case is essential. Carrying cases allow nets to be broken down and stored neatly for easy portability without damage during transit.
Hard frame lacrosse nets will require large duffel-style bags with ample padding to protect net hooks, frame poles, stakes and other hardware. Backpack cases work well for smaller popup nets. Padded shoulder straps make hauling weighty gear more comfortable. Durable polyester or vinyl materials resist rips, moisture and dirt during transport. With quality zippers, they fully enclose nets to prevent pieces coming loose.
The best lacrosse net carrying cases have customizable interior compartments to keep all net components secure and organized. Interior dividers, tie-downs and mesh pockets allow parts to be packed methodically. Exterior pockets provide extra storage for balls, stakes, coaching tools and more. Look for bags with vented compartments that allow gear to dry and prevent mold.
Carrying cases keep lacrosse nets protected during the rigors of travel so they are undamaged and game-ready upon arrival. Investing in a sturdy, well-designed case with padding and customizable packing options ensures nets arrive intact and are easy to set up. With organized transport, lacrosse players can focus on play rather than the logistics of getting their gear to the field.
DIY Tips for Building Your Own Lacrosse Net
Constructing your own lacrosse net can be a rewarding DIY project that allows you to save money while customizing a net perfect for your space and needs. With some basic construction skills and the right materials, building a quality homemade lacrosse net is achievable.
The frame can be constructed from 3/4″ PVC piping cut to regulation dimensions and assembled with corner joints. Use pipe cement to secure connections. For the net, 3mm polyethylene rope knotted at 1.5″ openings provides durability without excessive rebound. Attach the net to the PVC frame using zip ties threaded through pre-drilled holes. Add weights or stake the posts for stability.
Customizations like adding sturdy backdrops for passing practice or angled side netting to return wild shots can enhance utility. Portable bases with floor flanges allow the net to be broken down for storage or transport. Start with a simple design and add features over time as skills improve. Use online DIY lacrosse net tutorials for step-by-step instructions and design inspiration.
A homemade net allows you to control the quality of materials used, unlike cheaper ready-made options. Building your own also allows you to tweak the design for your space and needs. While an initial investment of time and materials is required, a homemade lacrosse net ultimately pays off with a high-functioning option tailored specifically for you.
Backyard Lacrosse Net Setup Ideas
Installing a lacrosse net in your backyard takes some planning to ensure proper placement for maximum usage. With some creativity, you can design a backyard lacrosse setup perfect for skills training or casual games with friends.
Look for a relatively flat space free of obstructions like trees or fences to allow open shooting lanes. Orient the net with the sun behind the shooter to prevent glare interference. Allow ample run-off space around the net – at least 10 yards behind is ideal for hard shots. Anchor portable nets securely or cement pole mounts for permanent goals.
Consider adding backdrops like old mattresses or wire fencing to catch wild shots and save chasing balls. Angle a rebounder net at the back of the goal to practice catching ricochets. Paint shooting angle lines on the ground to practice hitting corners. Install lighting for nighttime shooting sessions. Building a protective fence around the perimeter prevents stray balls from damaging property.
Think about training elements like cones for dribbling drills, wall mounts for targets, and turf mats for slip-proof footing. A shed or bench nearby offers storage and seating. Careful planning creates a backyard lacrosse oasis perfect for skill development at home.
Lacrosse Net FAQs for Beginners
For those new to lacrosse, purchasing and setting up your first net can bring up many questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help beginners select and use lacrosse nets properly.
What size net do I need? Youth nets are typically 3×3 feet while high school and college players use 6×6 foot regulation goals. Measure your space beforehand to ensure proper fit. How portable does it need to be? Freestanding popup nets are easiest to move, while anchored nets offer maximum stability. What’s the best net material? Knotless polyethylene lasts longest while nylon is more budget-friendly.
How tight should the net be? Tighter netting provides more rebound while looser nets absorb more impact. Find the right balance for your skill level.
Where is the best placement in my yard? Look for flat ground with ample run-off space behind the net and no obstructions on the sides. Don’t angle net openings toward houses or fragile objects.
How can I secure the net? Stake down movable bases or cement permanent poles. Add sandbags or weights for more stability if needed. Backing surfaces like mattresses or netting catch overthrown balls. Fencing or plant walls protect surroundings from errant shots.
Drills to Improve Your Lacrosse Skills
Lacrosse nets are essential tools for developing your skills and game sense through focused, repetitive drills. Here are some excellent training exercises to maximize your improvement using a lacrosse net.
For shooting, the Hundred Shot Drill improves accuracy by taking shots from the same location until 10 goals are scored in a row before moving to the next spot. The Dodge and Shoot Drill enhances shooting under pressure by dodging a cone and shooting on goal within 3 seconds.
To build handling ability, the Obstacle Dribble Drill involves weaving a ball through a series of cones or obstacles as quickly as possible. The Wall Ball Drill develops fast hands and control by throwing tennis balls against a rebounder net and catching cleanly.
To improve goalie skills, the Rapid Fire Drill has a line of shooters test reflexes with quick successive shots. For positioning and movement, the Angle Shot Drill uses shooters placed at different spots to make saves on net while reacting to the ball.
Using your lacrosse net creatively for passing, catching and footwork drills will also elevate skills. Come up with challenges to ingrain proper technique until moves are fluid and effortless. Combine drills for a complete practice plan accelerated by a lacrosse net.
Caring for Your Lacrosse Net
With proper care and maintenance, a quality lacrosse net can provide years of reliable performance. Here are some tips for keeping your net in top shape.
Inspect netting and frame components regularly for wear or damage, and make repairs immediately to prevent bigger issues. Tighten loose netting by re-knotting or adjusting tensioning systems. Lubricate and tighten any loose screws or joints on the frame.
Keep net and frame free of dirt buildup by wiping down with a damp cloth after use. Allow all components to fully air dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew. Be sure net is completely dry before collapsing or bagging for storage or transport.
Consider treating netting and frames periodically with UV protectants and conditioners specifically made for sports netting materials. This protects against sun damage and keeps netting supple. Store nets out of elements when not in use – garages, sheds and basements make ideal storage spaces.
With regular inspection, cleaning, preventative maintenance and proper storage, a lacrosse net can deliver years of high-quality performance. Taking good care of your equipment extends usefulness and protects your investment in a lacrosse net.
Safety Tips for Lacrosse Nets
Lacrosse nets and goals must be used properly to avoid injury. Here are some important safety guidelines for safe net setup and use.
Anchor movable nets securely to prevent tipping, and regularly check for loose footings that could compromise stability. Wear protective gear like helmets, gloves and eyewear when shooting on goal. Ensure adequate clearance around net – at least 10 yards behind and 5 yards on sides.
Never climb on nets or hang from crossbars which can break or collapse the goal. Set up nets away from other play areas to prevent collisions. Take extra precautions in windy conditions when nets become less stable. Always retrieve balls from behind the net, never the front.
Use age-appropriate sized nets – smaller for youth players. Maintain netting tension – too loose can allow balls to fly through dangerously. Check net fibers for wear regularly and replace deteriorated netting immediately. Make sure turf or concrete footings are free of holes and debris that could cause injury.
Following basic safety protocols keeps the focus on skill development, not injuries. Place nets thoughtfully, require protective gear, anchor securely, and make net maintenance a priority for safe, enjoyable lacrosse practice.
Lacrosse Net Rules and Regulations
Proper sizing, placement, and use of lacrosse nets must follow certain rules and regulations for sanctioned play. Understanding key guidelines will ensure your net is compliant.
Youth and women’s lacrosse goals are smaller at 3×3 feet, while standard men’s goals are 6×6 feet. Goal openings face each other and must be centered within a prescribed field boundary. Support poles must be made of metal or rigid plastic strong enough to prevent collapse.
Nets must be securely affixed to the frame and stakes with no excessive wear or holes. Mesh openings cannot exceed 1.5 inches and net depth should capture rising shots. Padding is required on side posts and crossbars for safety.
During game play, no speech or distraction meant to disconcert opponents is allowed near the nets. Players cannot use nets as leverage or cling to goal posts. Standard penalties apply for illegal use of nets such as dislodging net intentionally or climbing the frame.
Officials inspect nets before games to ensure compliance. Know the governing body rules for your league or competition level and periodically review net specs and regulations to avoid violations that could impact game eligibility or safety.
Lacrosse Goalie Gear for Protection
Due to their proximity to the net, lacrosse goalies require protective equipment to shield them from shots. Helmets, pads, and gloves specifically engineered for goalies are essential gear.
Goalie helmets feature expanded head and neck coverage with thick foam padding to absorb impact from point blank shots. Chin and throat protectors prevent injury from shots to the collar opening. Full shielded eye masks protect the face.
Chest and rib pads cushion the core while specialized arm pads shield elbows to fingertips from bruising hits. Thicker gloves with reinforced palms and fingers prevent stingers while maintaining dexterity for catching and throwing. Protective cups provide essential protection from low shots.
Goalie gear uses high-density foam and tough ballistic materials that flex to absorb shots rather than relying solely on hardness for protection. Breathability is also important to reduce heat fatigue during intense play around the net. Well-fitting gear enables free movement and quick reactions.
With advancing shot power at higher levels, lacrosse goalies must invest in purpose-built protective equipment engineered for their specialized position around the net.
Lacrosse Nets for All Skill Levels
Lacrosse players of all ages and abilities need a net appropriate for their skill level and experience. Fortunately, nets come in a range of sizes and features to suit anyone learning or playing the sport.
For young children first grasping the sport, small pop-up nets with soft balls allow them to learn shooting, passing and catching without injury risk. Intermediate players need a net responsive enough for developing shots but not overly punishing as skills improve. Freestanding nets with accurate rebound are ideal.
Advanced and competitive players require full-size nets with game-level regulation dimensions. These nets must be extremely durable to handle the intensity of accurate passing, blistering shots, and physical jostling in front of the goal.
Nets designed specifically for goalies help them master challenging saves against tricky shots. Rebounder nets allow players at any level to practice shooting and passing skills solo. Adjustable features like swivel frames or removable backdrops allow nets to adapt as abilities improve.
With the right net matched to current skill and experience, lacrosse players can progress confidently as they master the sport’s offensive and defensive intricacies.
Goalie Gear for Protection Around the Net
Due to their proximity to the net, lacrosse goalies require extensive protective equipment to shield them from high speed shots. Helmets, pads, gloves and other gear specifically engineered for goalies are essential.
Goalie helmets provide expanded head, face and neck coverage with thick foam padding to absorb ball impact from close range shots. Full shielded cages protect the eyes while chin and throat guards prevent injury to collarbone openings.
Padding on chest, ribs, shoulders and arms cushion the core and limbs from bruising hits. Specialized goalie gloves have reinforced palms and fingers to prevent hand stingers while maintaining catching dexterity. Protective cups provide crucial protection from low shots in the net area.
Quality goalie gear uses high-density foams and ballistic materials that flex on impact rather than solely relying on hardness for protection. Breathable fabrics reduce heat fatigue from exertion during intense play around the crease. Proper fitting gear enables free movement and rapid reactions.
With the strength of advancing shots at higher levels, lacrosse goalies must invest in purpose-built protective equipment engineered for their specialized position defending the net.