Expert Guide to Choosing the Best Youth Lacrosse Shin Guards

Expert Guide to Choosing the Best Youth Lacrosse Shin Guards

Finding the Right Size and Fit for Youth Lacrosse Shin Guards

When shopping for youth lacrosse shin guards, getting the proper size and fit is crucial for providing maximum protection. Ill-fitting shin guards can slide, shift and leave gaps in coverage during play, exposing youth players to painful bruises or dangerous injuries.

The right size shin guards should fit snugly so they don’t wiggle or rotate. Shin guards are typically sized by age or height ranges. Measure your child’s lower leg length from the knee to the top of the foot to help find guards that will extend just below the knee when standing. It’s also wise to try guards on with lacrosse socks to test the fit.

Aim for a contoured anatomical fit that wraps securely around the calf and shin with curved padding over the sides and front of the lower leg. Straps across the calf should fasten firmly but not too tightly. Make sure there is no gapping around the edges and that the knee cap sits centered under the knee padding.

For youth goalies, extension guards that protect the thighs and knees are recommended. Goalie shin guard sizing is based on leg measurements. An adjustable thigh/knee attachment often allows a more customized fit. Proper sizing helps goalies move freely while keeping padding stable during drops and dives.

With the right fit, youth lacrosse players can run confidently knowing their shins are well-guarded. Investing in properly fitted shin protection helps instill good defensive habits and keeps young athletes injury-free. Don’t settle for hand-me-downs or borrowed guards – visit a specialty lacrosse retailer and take time to find the perfect fit.

Different Types of Lacrosse Shin Guards

When selecting shin guards for youth lacrosse players, it’s important to understand the different types available. Lacrosse shin guard designs can vary significantly based on the player’s position and style of play. There are key differences between shin guards made for attack players, midfielders, defenders and goalies.

For attack players, lightweight shin guards offer maximum mobility and speed. Low-profile designs are contoured to the shin and calf for aCompression sleeves with built-in padding provide some protection with the least amount of bulk.

Midfielders and defenders need more protective shin guards to withstand checks and collisions during play. Hard plastic or multi-layer foam guards with reinforced shielding safeguard the shin and calf from bruising hits. Anatomically curved padding and secure strapping prevent slipping.

Goalies require the most heavy-duty protection given the high-impact shots they face. Hockey-style goalie shin guards have thick foam or molded plastic blocks that wrap around the calf, knee and thigh. An adjustable knee cap and extended length thigh rise help seal gaps during drops and slides.

For box lacrosse, extra protective equipment is recommended due to the increased physical contact within the confined space. Hard shell shin guards with high-density foam offer maximum impact absorption for field and box lacrosse goalies.

When deciding what type of shin protection your youth athlete needs, consider their position, level of play and athletic build. Ask about their pain points from previous games and where they feel vulnerable. Shop with your player to find the right balance of comfort, range of motion and protective padding for their style of play. With the right type of shin guards for their game, you can help give your young lacrosse player the confidence to play hard from goal line to goal line.

Key Features to Look for in Lacrosse Shin Guards

When shopping for youth lacrosse shin guards, there are several key features to evaluate beyond just protection and fit. The best guards offer a blend of protective materials, moisture management, ventilation and anatomical design tailored for the fast-paced game of lacrosse.

Look for shin guards constructed with hard ABS or high-density plastic shells to disperse impacts. Multi-layer foam padding in varying densities absorbs shock and provides comfort. For goalies, knee and thigh guards with thick wrapped padding are ideal.

Ventilation zones, mesh lining and perforated padding promote air flow to keep players cool. Sweat-wicking liner fabrics draw moisture away from the skin for quick evaporation. Well-ventilated guards prevent overheating and discomfort.

An anatomical, contoured shape and flexible construction allow a full range of motion. Curved or wrapped padding hugs the shin and calf to stay in place. Stretchy neoprene or lycra sleeve bindings retain a secure fit through cuts and sprints.

Adjustable and removable straps with Velcro closures make it easy to find the right compression fit. Some shin guards feature removable calf or knee extensions for modified protection.

For youth goalies, look for shin guards with an adjustable knee cap to center and protect the kneecap through diving saves. Thigh rise extensions shield the lower quads when dropping into butterfly position.

Durability is also key – guards should withstand checking, blocks and high-velocity shots. Abrasion-resistant exterior shells prevent rips, cracks and structural damage after repeated use.

Finding shin guards with the right blend of protection, breathability, anatomical design and adjustability provides the best performance and safety for young lacrosse athletes across positions.

Finding the Right Size and Fit for Youth Lacrosse Shin Guards

Getting the proper size and fit is critical when selecting youth lacrosse shin guards. Ill-fitting equipment can rotate, slip and leave vulnerable gaps in protection. Taking the time to find guards with an anatomical shape and secure fit ensures optimal coverage and safety.

Shin guards are typically sized by age ranges or measurements. Start by measuring your child’s lower leg from the center of the knee cap to the top of the foot. Compare this length to sizing charts to identify the correct height range. Try the guards on with lacrosse socks to test comfort and coverage.

Aim for a contoured shape that wraps the calf and shin with protective padding. Guards that extend just below the knee when standing are ideal. Straps should fasten snugly around the calf without constricting circulation.

Check for any gaps between the guard and leg. Proper guards will not dig into the calf or shin when secured. All exposed areas should be cushioned when straps are tightened.

For goalies, shin guards with thigh rise extension and adjustable knee caps allow custom coverage. Measure thighs and knees separately to size goalie guards. Prioritize stability through butterfly movements over mobility.

Allow youth players to test different sizes and brands for fit. Bring guards to try on with team socks and pants to identify potential pressure points. Guards that fit properly should not pinch or rub when running and pivoting.

Taking time to find the right sized shin protection ensures gears stays put and won’t shift out of place during games. Properly fitted guards maximize protection and provide peace of mind to keep youth athletes focused on the game, not their equipment.

Best Shin Guards for Youth Attack Players

When selecting lacrosse shin guards for youth attack players, lightweight and low-profile designs are key for maximizing speed and mobility. Attack players rely on their quickness, cuts and dodges to drive towards the goal, making optimal freedom of movement a priority.

Compression shin guards with built-in padding offer the lightest protection. These provide a second-skin fit with ventilated sleeves and slim foam or plastic inserts over the shin. While less protective, they enable attack players to move with agility.

For more coverage, contoured plastic shell guards with perforated foam lining are a good choice. Lightweight construction curves around the shin and calf for a anatomical fit. Ventilation prevents overheating while still cushioning checks.

Mobility and breathability are essential for attack players constantly sprinting up and down the field. Guards with mesh lining, sleeve bindings and flexible padding enable a full attacking arsenal of quick cuts, rolls and shot fakes.

When sizing guards for attack players, prioritize a compression fit over more bulky protective equipment. Measure the calf circumference to find a tight yet comfortable sleeve width. The guard should sit close to the leg without pinching or restricting blood flow.

Finding the balance between protection and mobility is key for attack players. Consult with youth players on their comfort level and any vulnerabilities they want to protect against checks. With the right lightweight guards, young athletes can drive to the goal with confidence.

Best Shin Guards for Youth Midfielders and Defenders

When choosing lacrosse shin guards for youth midfielders and defenders, prioritizing protective padding and secure fit is key to withstand the physical demands of these positions. Midfielders and defenders need enhanced protection as they face checks, collisions and ground ball battles across the field.

Look for shin guards with thick wrapped foam padding or durable plastic shell construction to disperse impact. Multi-layer foam and ventilated plastic offer a blend of cushioning and sturdiness against bruising hits.

Anatomical shaping complements the calf and shinfFor midfielders covering ground across the field, ventilation zones prevent overheating during sprints up and down the pitch. Moisture-wicking liners also keep legs dry.

Adjustable elastic calf straps with Velcro closures ensure a tight fit to keep guards from rotating. Defenders especially benefit from enhanced strapping to retain position when jostling for ground balls or contesting shots.

Prioritize protection first when sizing midfielder and defender shin guards for youth players. Consider sizing up for more coverage and using adjustable straps to dial in the right snug fit.

Durability is also key – guards must withstand routine impacts and hold up over time. Select shin guards from reputable lacrosse brands using high-grade materials resistant to cracks and dents.

With the right protective and secure-fitting shin guards, youth midfielders and defenders can play tough defense and battle confidently for every contested ground ball.

Top-Rated Shin Guards for Youth Goalies

When selecting shin guards for youth lacrosse goalies, maximizing protective coverage is the top priority. Goalies need heavy-duty padding to withstand the bruising impact of close-range shots from powerful shooters.

Look for hockey-style goalie shin guards with thick foam or molded plastic block padding wrapping around the calf, shin and knee. Extended thigh rises and adjustable knee caps seal gaps during drops and slides.

Multi-layer foam constructions absorb impact while molded plastic shells resist cracks and dents. Ventilation cutouts prevent overheating when worn for long periods.

Wrapped padding that contours the leg enables free movement while keeping the padding centered on impact zones. Adjustable straps compress padding against the leg for stability.

Sizing for goalie shin guards is based on leg measurements. An anatomical shape and secure fit ensures optimum protection. Prioritize coverage over mobility when sizing.

For box lacrosse goalies, consider shin guards with reinforced padding to handle increased physical contact. Hard shell coverings shield from close-range kicks.

With the right heavy-duty shin protection, youth goalies can drop into the butterfly with confidence, keeping their focus on making saves instead of bracing for impact.

Getting the Right Level of Protection from Lacrosse Shin Guards

Determining how much protection to prioritize with youth lacrosse shin guards depends on several factors – position, level of play, age and personal preference should all weigh into the decision. Finding the right balance between protection and performance is key.

Less protective options like compression sleeves allow maximum speed and freedom of movement. These are ideal for youth leagues focused on developing stick skills with limited contact.

For more competitive play at elite travel or high school levels, extra protective padding helps withstand routine physicality. Hard shell guards with reinforced padding provide robust coverage when facings checks and collisions.

Consider your athlete’s pain tolerance and comfort level. Do they frequently get shin bruises or complain about impacts? Enhanced padding can provide peace of mind against routine contact. Let your young athlete test different protection levels to find what allows them to play with confidence.

Also factor in position-specific needs. Middies covering ground may prioritize lightweight breathability, while defenders need added padding for scrums. Goalies require maximum coverage for the hardest shots.

Be wary of over-padding youth players at early ages, as it can restrict movement. But at competitive levels, the right amount of protection allows athletes to play physically without fear.

With the right blend of coverage for your young lacrosse player’s age, skill and comfort, shin guards become tools for competitive, confident play rather than impediments to performance.

Most Durable and Protective Materials for Lacrosse Shin Guards

Lacrosse shin guards utilize a variety of protective padding materials to shield players from bruising impacts. The best guards combine materials to optimize protection, durability and comfort.

Hard plastic shells made from ABS or other polymers offer a sturdy outer layer to resist cracks and structural damage. Ventilated shells allow air flow while dispersing energy on impact.

Foam padding comes in varying densities to cushion blows based on expected impact levels. Softer foams absorb shock while denser foams withstand harder collisions. Multi-layer foam constructions combine these properties.

Molded polyurethane foam backings contour to the leg for comfort. Heat and sweat can degrade unprotected urethane foam, so durable shells prolong padding integrity.

Moisture-wicking synthetic liner fabrics keep legs dry and comfortable during games. Mesh paneling and sleeve fabrics enhance ventilation and flexibility.

Strong adjustable straps made of woven fabrics or elasticized synthetics allow a customized compression fit. Plastic or metal buckles and Velcro closures secure straps.

For goalies, thick medium-density foam blocks protect knees and thighs against close-range shots. Anatomical shapers retain padding position when diving.

Selecting shin guards with the right protective materials for your athlete’s position and skill level ensures game-long comfort and safety on the field.

Lacrosse vs. Hockey Goalie Shin Guards

While lacrosse and hockey goalie shin guards provide similar padded protection, there are some key differences to consider. Lacrosse guards are optimized for mobility while hockey guards offer maximum stability.

Hockey goalie shin pads have rigid plastic fronts backed by dense foam for blocking direct shots. The boot breaks sit lower for optimal butterfly coverage. Thigh protection has rounded padding for puck blocks.

Lacrosse goalie shin guards have more flex in the ankle for quick lateral movements across the crease. More streamlined padding improves mobility for tracking behind-the-back shots. Thigh rises shield from low bounce shots.

Hockey goalie shin guards extend higher on the thigh with wings spanning the outer thighs. Lacrosse thigh rises focus protection more centrally to allow wider butterfly drops.

Strapping and binding also varies. Hockey pads use j-clips and outer leg straps to keep pads rigidly in place. Lacrosse pads optimize adjustable calf straps for locked-in security with some flex.

Multi-density foams in lacrosse pads absorb shots from close range. Hockey pads utilize dense foams and plastic to completely stop hard drives.

While lacrosse pads don’t completely immobilize the leg like hockey guards, the right pads still offer ample butterfly protection. Focus on a snug fit and anatomical shape when selecting lacrosse-specific goalie guards.

Box Lacrosse vs. Field Lacrosse Shin Guards

The confined spaces and physical play of box lacrosse requires specialized shin guards to protect players. Box lacrosse guards offer more robust protective padding compared to field lacrosse equipment.

Box lacrosse shin guards have thicker foam padding or plastic caps to shield against close-range kicks and cross-checks. Hard shell guards prevent cracks from repeated impacts against boards.

Additional calf, knee and thigh padding provides more coverage for box players constantly engaged in physical battles for loose balls. Low-profile field guards leave box players more vulnerable.

Box goalies in particular need heavyweight leg padding to withstand point-blank shots and collisions inside the crease. Field goalie pads don’t provide enough coverage.

Box guards also feature more adjustable and secure strapping to keep padding tight to the leg. The constant physical play causes shifting if gear is loose.

Breathability and ventilation may be sacrificed in box guards to maximize protective surface area. Field players have more space to opt for air flow.

For box players and goalies, the priority is durability and maximum coverage. Shin guards designed specifically for box lacrosse provide the right protection for the fast and physical play inside the confined rink.

Budget-Friendly Lacrosse Shin Guards Under $50

Finding reliable lacrosse shin guards doesn’t have to break the bank. Several brands offer quality budget-friendly options priced under $50.

New Balance, Warrior and STX all offer entry-level shin guards between $25-$45. These feature durable plastic shells with essential multi-layer foam protection. Secure calf strapping keeps guards in place.

Maverik’s M3 Protective line has lightweight shin guards with compression sleeve bindings starting around $30. Great for youth players.

Nike Vapor shin guards offer a streamlined compression fit with padded liner sleeves for $35-$45. Ideal for speedy attack players.

For goalies, the Warrior Ritual GT shin guards provide essential knee and thigh protection starting at $45. Ample padding for youth goaltenders.

At the $50 price point, athletes can access primary features like breathable shells, moisture wicking liners, and secure calf or sleeve strapping. While premium guards do offer more protection and durability, these affordable options still provide fundamental lacrosse-specific padding.

When shopping on a budget, focus first on proper fit and comfort over maximizing features. Well-fitting entry-level shin guards can still boost confidence and prevent injuries during play.

High-End Lacrosse Shin Guards Over $100

For lacrosse players seeking maximum protection and durability, investing in high-end shin guards over $100 delivers premium features and materials. Top equipment brands like Maverik, STX and Warrior offer advanced guards at elite price points.

Premium guards use higher grade hardened plastic shells to resist cracking on impact. Multi-layer foam padding incorporates SAS-Tec or Poron-XRD technologies for optimal energy absorption.

Anatomical shaping utilizes 3D scanning and modeling software for a true custom fit. This wrapped construction hugs the leg securely across all movement planes.

Moisture wicking and anti-microbial liners actively fight odor and keep legs dry and comfortable. Ventilation cutouts and mesh promote air flow during intense play.

For goalies, high-end guards add more thigh, knee and calf protection for unrivaled coverage. Many incorporate removable padding to customize coverage.

While the $100+ price tag is steep, advanced engineering and design make these guards a smart investment for serious lacrosse athletes. When fitted and maintained properly, high-performance guards can be utilized for multiple seasons of elite play.

Popular Brands for Lacrosse Shin Guards

When shopping for youth lacrosse shin guards, reputable athletic brands offer equipment engineered specifically for the sport’s dynamic demands. Top lacrosse brands include Maverik, STX, Warrior, Brine and Nike.

Maverik emphasizes anatomical design for unrestricted mobility. Guards like the Rome and Max protect without sacrificing agility. The M3 line offers budget options.

STX shin guards use high-density foam and sturdy ABS shells to withstand checks. The Stallion line is popular for its durable wrapped padding.

Warrior emphasises protective construction optimized for specific positions. The Burn and Franchise lines cater towards attack and defensive needs.

Brine features compression shin sleeves and stretch liner fabrics for lightweight flexibility. The Clutch guards offer protection starting under $40.

Nike Vapor shin guards focus on low-profile, second-skin designs ideal for speed. The Vapor Elite guards provide premium lightweight protection.

Second-tier brands like New Balance and Under Armour also offer entry-level options catering to youth leagues. Focus on fit and comfort when evaluating budget picks.

Sticking with established lacrosse brands ensures access to sport-specific features like anatomical shaping, vented shells, and adjustable strapping needed for confident play.

Proper Care and Maintenance Tips for Lacrosse Shin Guards

Investing in quality lacrosse shin guards is just the first step – keeping them in optimal condition improves performance and extends their usable life. Here are some best practices for caring for youth lacrosse shin guards:

Inspect padding and shells before each use for cracks or deformation. Damaged guards compromise protection. Replace guards that can’t be repaired.

Wipe down exterior shells and interior lining with non-abrasive cloths after games to remove dirt, debris and sweat. Clean gently with mild detergent if needed.

Sanitize interior lining and removable pads regularly to prevent bacteria growth. Avoid submerging pads in water – instead use sanitizing wipes or sprays.

Air dry shin guards fully after cleaning and before storage. Storing in a breathable mesh bag allows ventilation and prevents trapped moisture.

Replace detachable padding components like knee or calf inserts once they lose elasticity or compress fully.

Check straps and buckles periodically and replace loose or damaged closures to maintain secure fit.

Consider off-season break-in sessions to prolong padding flexibility before first wearing again.

With regular inspection, gentle cleaning and component replacement, lacrosse shin guards can deliver seasons of reliable protection for developing young athletes.