Essential Box Lacrosse Equipment for All PositionsEssential Box Lacrosse Equipment for All Positions
Finding the Right Box Lacrosse Gloves for Protection and Control
When playing box lacrosse, having the right pair of gloves is crucial for both protection and performance. Box lacrosse gloves shield players’ hands from checks, slashes, and high-velocity shots, while also providing grip and control for cradling, passing, and shooting. Compared to field lacrosse gloves, box lacrosse gloves offer more padding and protection since physical contact occurs more frequently in the confined spaces of the box field.
The ideal box lacrosse gloves have thick foam or plastic padding across the back of the hand and fingers to absorb impacts. Extra padding on the thumb and wrist also helps prevent injuries from checks. At the same time, flexibility in the fingers and minimal palm padding enable players to handle their sticks. Goalies in particular need gloves with maximum protection yet dexterity for quick reactions.
When shopping for new box lacrosse gloves, trying on different sizes and brands is recommended. A proper fit ensures the gloves stay snug during intense play. Features like ventilation, moisture-wicking linings, and adjustable wrists add comfort over long games. Durability factors in as well, from the quality of materials to the stitching that holds up under regular use.
Players should consider their position and style of play too. Defensive players may opt for bulkier, heavily-padded gloves while offensive players need more finesse. Youth players have smaller hands that require well-fitting gloves to prevent slipping. Goalies can choose specialized gloves with extra thumb and finger protection. With the right pair of gloves offering both safety and performance, players can focus on excelling during box lacrosse games.
Pick Box Lacrosse Shoulder Pads for Protection and Mobility
Protecting players’ shoulders, collar bones, and ribs is a top priority when choosing box lacrosse shoulder pads. The frequent physical contact and checking in box lacrosse makes wearing shoulder pads essential for preventing injuries. Compared to field lacrosse shoulder pads, box lacrosse shoulder pads have more robust padding across the front chest and back to absorb hard collisions.
When shopping for box lacrosse shoulder pads, look for models with strong plastic caps over the shoulders to deflect checks. Padding across the sternum, ribs, and back should be thick yet flexible to allow movement. Most pads use dense foams like EVA or polyethylene for shock absorption. Adjustable straps ensure a secure fit so the pads don’t shift during play.
Goalies need extended shoulder and chest coverage from padded shirts or specialized goalie shoulder pads. For field players, the ideal box lacrosse shoulder pads balance protection and mobility. Offensive players may prefer lighter, low-profile pads for speed while defenders opt for maximum padding. Young players need properly fitted shoulder pads that stay in place without restricting motion.
Trying on different shoulder pad brands and styles is recommended to find the best fit. Ventilation, anti-odor technologies, and moisture-wicking linings make shoulder pads more comfortable to wear. Durability also matters since box lacrosse is tough on equipment. With proper shoulder pads providing crucial protection, players can play aggressive defense or dive for loose balls without fear of injury.
Don’t Forget a Box Lacrosse Helmet for Critical Protection
Wearing a helmet is absolutely vital for safety in box lacrosse. With its physical play in tight spaces, players must protect their head from checks, collisions, and errant sticks. Box lacrosse helmets are specially designed for the demands of indoor play, with more comprehensive coverage and impact absorption compared to field lacrosse helmets.
Look for a box lacrosse helmet with strong plastic shell covering the head, chin, and back of the neck. Padding inside absorbs energy, often using multi-layer foams like EPP or EVA. Jaw pads cushion impacts to the face and chin area. The facemask should have thick bars spaced close together to deflect sticks and balls.
Proper helmet fit is crucial for protection. Helmets come in different sizes and adjustable inner liners allow customization of fit. The chin strap must be snugged up securely so the helmet stays in place. Goalies may want a helmet with a fuller cage for extra coverage. Field players can choose between traditional full shields or more streamlined visor masks depending on position and preference.
Newer box lacrosse helmets offer features like tool-free facemask swapping for cleaning or adjustments. Ventilation, anti-fogging, and moisture-wicking lining maintain comfort. As players grow, they’ll need to periodically recheck helmet sizing. With the right fitting and protective box lacrosse helmet, players of all positions can play with confidence and focus on performing at their best.
Choosing Box Lacrosse Sticks by Position for Optimal Performance
Choosing the Right Fit
Finding the perfect fit is crucial for optimal performance. Gloves should be snug but not restrictive, allowing for full range of motion. When trying on gloves, consider the following:
- Proper sizing to prevent slipping during intense play
- Ventilation features for comfort during long games
- Moisture-wicking linings to keep hands dry
- Adjustable wrists for a secure fit
How long should box lacrosse gloves last? With proper care and maintenance, a quality pair of gloves can last several seasons. Look for gloves with durable materials and strong stitching to withstand regular use.
Shoulder Pads: Striking the Balance Between Protection and Mobility
In the fast-paced, physical environment of box lacrosse, shoulder pads play a vital role in protecting players from injuries. These pads must offer robust protection without hindering a player’s mobility and agility on the field.
Essential Features of Box Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
- Strong plastic caps over the shoulders to deflect checks
- Thick yet flexible padding across the sternum, ribs, and back
- Dense foam materials like EVA or polyethylene for shock absorption
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
Do different positions require different types of shoulder pads? Indeed, they do. Goalies often need extended coverage with padded shirts or specialized goalie shoulder pads. Field players must find the right balance between protection and mobility based on their playing style and position.
Considerations for Different Playing Styles
When selecting shoulder pads, players should consider their position and playing style:
- Offensive players may prefer lighter, low-profile pads for increased speed and agility
- Defensive players might opt for maximum padding to withstand frequent physical contact
- Young players need properly fitted pads that don’t restrict motion
How can players ensure their shoulder pads remain comfortable during long games? Look for pads with ventilation features, anti-odor technologies, and moisture-wicking linings. These features contribute to overall comfort and performance.
Helmets: The Cornerstone of Box Lacrosse Safety
In box lacrosse, the helmet is perhaps the most critical piece of protective equipment. With the sport’s physical nature and confined playing space, a high-quality helmet is essential for preventing head injuries.
Key Components of a Box Lacrosse Helmet
- Strong plastic shell covering the head, chin, and back of the neck
- Multi-layer foam padding for energy absorption
- Jaw pads to cushion impacts to the face and chin
- Facemask with thick, closely-spaced bars
Why is proper helmet fit so crucial in box lacrosse? A well-fitted helmet stays in place during play, providing consistent protection against impacts from all angles. It should be snug but comfortable, with no pressure points.
Helmet Selection for Different Positions
While all players need proper head protection, there are some position-specific considerations:
- Goalies may prefer helmets with fuller cages for extra facial coverage
- Field players can choose between traditional full shields or more streamlined visor masks
- Players should periodically recheck helmet sizing as they grow
What modern features are available in box lacrosse helmets? Many newer models offer tool-free facemask swapping for easy cleaning and adjustments. Advanced ventilation systems, anti-fogging treatments, and moisture-wicking linings enhance comfort during play.
Arm Guards: Protecting Players from Checks and Slashes
Arm guards are an often-overlooked but crucial component of box lacrosse equipment. They shield players’ arms from checks, slashes, and errant shots, allowing them to play with confidence.
Features to Look for in Box Lacrosse Arm Guards
- Hard plastic or carbon fiber shells for impact resistance
- Foam padding for comfort and additional protection
- Adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit
- Breathable materials to prevent overheating
How do arm guards differ between offensive and defensive players? Offensive players often prefer lighter, more flexible arm guards that allow for greater stick control. Defensive players might opt for more robust protection to withstand frequent checks.
Sizing and Fit Considerations
Proper sizing is crucial for arm guards to provide effective protection:
- Measure from the elbow to the wrist for accurate sizing
- Ensure the guard covers the entire forearm without restricting movement
- Check that straps are snug but not too tight to maintain circulation
Can arm guards impact a player’s performance? While primarily for protection, well-fitted arm guards can actually enhance performance by giving players the confidence to play more aggressively without fear of injury.
Protective Cups: An Essential but Often Overlooked Piece of Equipment
In the high-impact world of box lacrosse, protective cups are a non-negotiable piece of equipment for male players. They provide crucial protection against potentially serious injuries in a sensitive area.
Choosing the Right Protective Cup
- Look for cups made from strong, impact-resistant materials
- Ensure a proper fit for maximum protection and comfort
- Consider cups with moisture-wicking properties to enhance comfort
- Some players prefer cups integrated into compression shorts for added stability
Is there a difference between protective cups for youth and adult players? Yes, cups come in different sizes to accommodate players of all ages. It’s crucial to choose the appropriate size for optimal protection and comfort.
Maintenance and Replacement
Proper care of protective cups is essential for hygiene and longevity:
- Clean the cup regularly with mild soap and water
- Inspect for cracks or damage before each use
- Replace the cup if it shows signs of wear or after taking a significant impact
How often should a protective cup be replaced? While there’s no set timeline, it’s wise to replace cups annually or whenever they show signs of wear or damage. Remember, the cost of replacement is minimal compared to the protection they provide.
Footwear: The Foundation of Performance in Box Lacrosse
Proper footwear is crucial in box lacrosse, providing the traction, support, and agility players need to excel on the indoor playing surface. Unlike field lacrosse, which typically uses cleats, box lacrosse requires shoes designed for indoor courts.
Key Features of Box Lacrosse Shoes
- Non-marking soles for indoor court surfaces
- Excellent traction for quick starts, stops, and direction changes
- Ankle support to prevent injuries during lateral movements
- Cushioning for comfort during long games or practices
Should players consider cross-training shoes for box lacrosse? While some players use cross-trainers, shoes specifically designed for court sports like basketball or volleyball often provide better performance features for box lacrosse.
Selecting the Right Footwear
When choosing box lacrosse shoes, consider the following factors:
- Fit: Ensure there’s enough room in the toe box and a snug fit around the heel
- Playing style: Aggressive players might prefer shoes with extra ankle support
- Durability: Look for reinforced areas in high-wear zones
- Weight: Lighter shoes can enhance speed and agility
How important is breaking in new lacrosse shoes? Very important. New shoes should be worn during practice sessions before game use to prevent blisters and ensure optimal performance when it counts.
Mouthguards: Protecting Teeth and Reducing Concussion Risk
Mouthguards are a critical piece of protective equipment in box lacrosse, safeguarding players’ teeth and potentially reducing the risk of concussions. Given the sport’s physical nature, a properly fitted mouthguard is essential for all players.
Types of Mouthguards for Box Lacrosse
- Stock mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to use, but offer the least protection and comfort
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Can be molded at home for a semi-custom fit
- Custom-fitted mouthguards: Created by dental professionals for the best fit and protection
Are all mouthguards equally effective in preventing injuries? No, custom-fitted mouthguards generally provide the best protection and comfort. However, a well-fitted boil-and-bite mouthguard can also offer good protection for many players.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
Proper maintenance of your mouthguard is crucial for hygiene and longevity:
- Rinse the mouthguard with cool water or mouthwash after each use
- Clean it with mild soap and a soft-bristled brush regularly
- Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth
- Replace the mouthguard if it shows signs of wear or damage
How often should a mouthguard be replaced? It’s generally recommended to replace mouthguards every season or sooner if they show signs of wear. Growing players may need more frequent replacements to ensure a proper fit.
Finding the Right Box Lacrosse Gloves for Protection and Control
When playing box lacrosse, having the right pair of gloves is crucial for both protection and performance. Box lacrosse gloves shield players’ hands from checks, slashes, and high-velocity shots, while also providing grip and control for cradling, passing, and shooting. Compared to field lacrosse gloves, box lacrosse gloves offer more padding and protection since physical contact occurs more frequently in the confined spaces of the box field.
The ideal box lacrosse gloves have thick foam or plastic padding across the back of the hand and fingers to absorb impacts. Extra padding on the thumb and wrist also helps prevent injuries from checks. At the same time, flexibility in the fingers and minimal palm padding enable players to handle their sticks. Goalies in particular need gloves with maximum protection yet dexterity for quick reactions.
When shopping for new box lacrosse gloves, trying on different sizes and brands is recommended. A proper fit ensures the gloves stay snug during intense play. Features like ventilation, moisture-wicking linings, and adjustable wrists add comfort over long games. Durability factors in as well, from the quality of materials to the stitching that holds up under regular use.
Players should consider their position and style of play too. Defensive players may opt for bulkier, heavily-padded gloves while offensive players need more finesse. Youth players have smaller hands that require well-fitting gloves to prevent slipping. Goalies can choose specialized gloves with extra thumb and finger protection. With the right pair of gloves offering both safety and performance, players can focus on excelling during box lacrosse games.
Pick Box Lacrosse Shoulder Pads for Protection and Mobility
Protecting players’ shoulders, collar bones, and ribs is a top priority when choosing box lacrosse shoulder pads. The frequent physical contact and checking in box lacrosse makes wearing shoulder pads essential for preventing injuries. Compared to field lacrosse shoulder pads, box lacrosse shoulder pads have more robust padding across the front chest and back to absorb hard collisions.
When shopping for box lacrosse shoulder pads, look for models with strong plastic caps over the shoulders to deflect checks. Padding across the sternum, ribs, and back should be thick yet flexible to allow movement. Most pads use dense foams like EVA or polyethylene for shock absorption. Adjustable straps ensure a secure fit so the pads don’t shift during play.
Goalies need extended shoulder and chest coverage from padded shirts or specialized goalie shoulder pads. For field players, the ideal box lacrosse shoulder pads balance protection and mobility. Offensive players may prefer lighter, low-profile pads for speed while defenders opt for maximum padding. Young players need properly fitted shoulder pads that stay in place without restricting motion.
Trying on different shoulder pad brands and styles is recommended to find the best fit. Ventilation, anti-odor technologies, and moisture-wicking linings make shoulder pads more comfortable to wear. Durability also matters since box lacrosse is tough on equipment. With proper shoulder pads providing crucial protection, players can play aggressive defense or dive for loose balls without fear of injury.
Don’t Forget a Box Lacrosse Helmet for Critical Protection
Wearing a helmet is absolutely vital for safety in box lacrosse. With its physical play in tight spaces, players must protect their head from checks, collisions, and errant sticks. Box lacrosse helmets are specially designed for the demands of indoor play, with more comprehensive coverage and impact absorption compared to field lacrosse helmets.
Look for a box lacrosse helmet with strong plastic shell covering the head, chin, and back of the neck. Padding inside absorbs energy, often using multi-layer foams like EPP or EVA. Jaw pads cushion impacts to the face and chin area. The facemask should have thick bars spaced close together to deflect sticks and balls.
Proper helmet fit is crucial for protection. Helmets come in different sizes and adjustable inner liners allow customization of fit. The chin strap must be snugged up securely so the helmet stays in place. Goalies may want a helmet with a fuller cage for extra coverage. Field players can choose between traditional full shields or more streamlined visor masks depending on position and preference.
Newer box lacrosse helmets offer features like tool-free facemask swapping for cleaning or adjustments. Ventilation, anti-fogging, and moisture-wicking lining maintain comfort. As players grow, they’ll need to periodically recheck helmet sizing. With the right fitting and protective box lacrosse helmet, players of all positions can play with confidence and focus on performing at their best.
Choosing Box Lacrosse Sticks by Position for Optimal Performance
Having the right box lacrosse stick is crucial for players to control possession, move the ball quickly, and score goals in tight spaces. Box lacrosse sticks differ from field sticks with shorter shafts and more narrowly strung heads for optimal ball handling. Within box lacrosse sticks, there are differences between goalie sticks, defense sticks, midfield sticks, and attack sticks to suit each position.
For goalies, oversized box lacrosse heads give better coverage of the net on shots. Goalie sticks also have extra length for clearing passes down-floor. Defense sticks have mid-range head widths for checking control and scooping up loose balls. Midfielders use sticks with quick-release capabilities to deliver crisp passes in traffic. Attack players favor narrower heads for cradling in tight quarters and shooting accuracy.
In addition to head width and shape, players factor in pocket depth, shooting strings, and shaft material when choosing box lacrosse sticks. Trying out different sticks is recommended to find the best feel and handling. Proper stringing improves ball control and shot speed. With features like textured grips and lightweight shafts, box lacrosse sticks give players the tools to excel in tight spaces regardless of their position on the floor.
As players improve, they may opt for different box lacrosse sticks to match their evolving style. Maintaining sticks by restringing and checking for wear prolongs their useful life. Whether just starting box lacrosse or playing at an elite level, having a stick tuned for your position gives players an edge in ball possession and scoring.
Find Box Lacrosse Gear that Fits Your Budget and Needs
Protective box lacrosse gear like gloves, pads, and helmets represents a significant investment for new players. Determining how much to spend on equipment depends on several factors. First is your budget – entry-level gear fits most beginners while experienced players need advanced gear. Second is your position – goalies require the most protection, bumping up costs.
For new youth players, basic starter sets provide an affordable option with all the essential protective gear. Mid-range gear offers more features and durability for intermediate players looking to upgrade. At the high-end, elite players get premium materials and design for top performance.
Consider how often you play box lacrosse – frequent players may want to invest more in gear that will see heavy use. You can also find great deals on quality used gear through resale sites and stores. Don’t skimp on properly fitting helmets, gloves, and pads since injury prevention is key.
Shopping sales events like Black Friday can score major savings on box lacrosse gear. Take time to assess your needs and find the right balance of price vs. quality equipment. With smart budgeting, players can secure all the necessary protective box lacrosse gear to stay safe on the field and focus on fun.
Beginner Box Lacrosse Gear Sets Save Time and Money
Getting started in box lacrosse, figuring out all the equipment needed can be confusing and time-consuming for beginners. Instead of piecing gear together, new players can save both money and effort by purchasing a pre-assembled box lacrosse starter set.
These all-in-one packages include all the basic protective gear for starting box lacrosse – helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, and often a stick and balls. Sets are designed specifically with younger players in mind, combining essential protection with affordability and ease of use.
Box lacrosse starter sets ensure all the included gear works together, eliminating guesswork mixing and matching pieces. Sizing runs small to fit youth players during key developmental years. While not as durable as premium gear, set gear provides solid protection and value as players hone skills.
Sets allow new players to get in the game quickly rather than wait to gradually assemble items. Some retailers let customers upgrade starter set pieces like helmets as players grow. For parents outfitting multiple children, sets offer convenience and savings versus individual items. With the right beginner box lacrosse set, young players can safely develop on-field skills and passion for the sport.
Customize Box Lacrosse Jerseys and Apparel for Style
Along with protective gear, box lacrosse players need jerseys and apparel that express their personal style while standing up to the rigors of play. Custom box lacrosse uniforms allow teams and players to create one-of-a-kind looks for games.
Custom box lacrosse jerseys start with selecting fabric blends that offer ventilation, stretch, and moisture-wicking performance. Popular styles include tank top jerseys for maximum maneuverability. Bold sublimated prints and patterns make team jerseys pop visually. Players can add their names, numbers, and other text for personalization.
Matching custom shorts, sweatpants, jackets, and other apparel complete the uniform. Goalies need oversized jerseys and pants for wearing over bulky pads. For cold arena temperatures, insulated jackets, hoodies, and fleece warmup gear keep players comfortable. Durability is always an emphasis from sturdy stitching to reinforced seams.
Designing custom box lacrosse apparel is easy and affordable through online gear shops. Players simply submit their vision and artists create digital proofs to approve. Custom gear expresses players’ unique flair while giving teams a cohesive look on the floor. With quality custom apparel, players can be comfortable, protected, and stylish for every box lacrosse matchup.
Youth Box Lacrosse Equipment for All Ages and Skill Levels
Box lacrosse is an exciting game that kids of all ages can start playing with the right protective equipment. Specific youth box lacrosse gear keeps young players safe as they build skills. Beginner sets have entry-level gear for 5-8 year olds just starting. Intermediate gear suits more experienced players from 9-14 years old.
Starter youth equipment emphasizes a comfortable fit for small frames along with maximum protection. Lightweight pads, stretch jerseys, and adjustable helmets allow a full range of motion. As kids grow, intermediate gear offers improved performance and durability to match developing abilities.
For high school box lacrosse players, advanced youth gear has premium features like moisture-wicking, anti-microbial linings and ventilated padding. Goalies need oversized pads and gloves to cover their smaller bodies. Sturdy yet flexible sticks suit youth players’ hands and developing shooting and passing techniques.
Youth players should always wear properly fitted helmets, gloves and pads to prevent injury. Finding the right performance gear gives kids confidence to keep improving their box lacrosse skills. With safe and comfortable equipment, young athletes can embrace the fast-paced play and camaraderie of box lacrosse.
Women’s Box Lacrosse Gear Is Readily Available
Women’s participation in box lacrosse continues to grow each year. Fortunately, brands now offer specialized women’s box lacrosse equipment to meet their needs. Female-specific gear provides proper fit, protection and performance for women playing this fast-paced game.
Women’s box lacrosse gear takes into account differences like smaller statures and narrower shoulders. Pads and protective equipment are sized specifically for women rather than just scaled-down men’s gear. Gloves offer a contoured women’s fit in the fingers and palm for control.
For goalies, women’s pads fill coverage gaps compared to bulky men’s pads. Women’s box lacrosse heads are strung and shaped optimally for female players’ cradling and shooting style. Gear bags sized for women round out the essential equipment for practices and games.
By using gear engineered just for them, female box lacrosse players can enjoy the same caliber of protection and performance as the guys. Sports brands now recognize the rising participation of women in box lacrosse by providing dedicated equipment. With properly fitting women’s gear, female players can take their box lacrosse game to the next level.
Box Lacrosse Bags to Carry All Your Equipment
Along with all their protective gear, box lacrosse players need a bag to haul it all to and from practices and games. Durable box lacrosse bags are designed to carry the full range of equipment from helmets and pads to sticks and cleats.
Look for bags in materials like polyester or PVC-backed nylon that resist rips and moisture. Large main compartments hold bulky items, while side pockets and dividers organize smaller gear. Some bags have external helmet carriers for easy access.
Wheeled box lacrosse bags are great for heavy loads. Backpack straps that tuck away when not needed provide carrying options. Ventilated pockets let pads dry out between games. Double zippers, storm flaps and reinforced stitching enhance durability.
Consider overflow or extra bags for practice vs. game gear. Goalies require oversized bags to fit bulky pads. With all their essential gear securely packed, players can get to the arena ready to play their best game.
Maintain Box Lacrosse Gear with Proper Care
Making box lacrosse protective equipment and gear last means taking proper care of it. Regular maintenance and cleaning extends useful life so players get the most out of their investment. Following equipment care best practices also ensures gear stays in ideal shape for safety and performance.
Helmets require occasional reconditioning to maintain protective integrity. Sanitize interior pads and straps to prevent odor. Use mild detergent and water for cleaning pads and jerseys. Hang pads to air dry instead of machine drying to prevent damage.
Disinfect gloves by hand washing and air drying. Use leather conditioner on gloves as needed. Check hardware on pads for any loosening and retighten as necessary. Spot clean bags and use some water protection spray to prevent mildew.
Replace worn-out straps and hardware like buckles. Fix any ripped mesh or seams on goalie equipment. Store gear properly between seasons. With some time invested in care, box lacrosse equipment performs better and lasts longer.
Shop Online for Convenience Finding Box Lacrosse Items
Thanks to ecommerce, purchasing all your box lacrosse equipment and gear is now easier than ever. Online lacrosse shops offer the convenience of browsing and buying box lacrosse items from home.
Shopping online provides access to a huge selection of box lacrosse products. Search and filters make finding exactly what you need simple. Major brands plus specialty shops give choices for any budget. Read reviews from other players for an inside look at gear quality before buying.
Online stores provide helpful sizing guidance for lacrosse equipment. Live chat, email, and call support assists with questions. Doorstep delivery means no lugging purchases home. Secure payment, easy returns, and price matching give online buyers confidence.
Check out video reviews and high-resolution images to inspect gear virtually. Take advantage of online-only discounts and sales. For serious lacrosse players looking to save time, online shopping is a game-changer for outfitting themselves with the best box lacrosse gear.
