Find Your Perfect Lacrosse Glove Size with This Easy Guide

Find Your Perfect Lacrosse Glove Size with This Easy Guide

Measure Your Dominant Hand to Find the Perfect Lacrosse Glove Size

When looking for new lacrosse gloves, the very first step is to accurately measure the length and width of your dominant hand. This will give you a baseline size to start with when trying on different gloves. Use a soft measuring tape and carefully measure from the tip of your longest finger to the base of your palm. Round up to the nearest inch or half-inch.

Also measure the widest part of your palm, across the knuckles. Compare your hand measurements to sizing charts from lacrosse glove manufacturers. Keep in mind that a proper fitting glove should be snug but not restrict finger and wrist movement. Goalies in particular need gloves with maximum dexterity and protection.

For youth players, measuring hand size is crucial to find gloves that allow proper development of stick skills. Gloves that are too big will hinder handling and passing. Going a size up for more growing room is okay, but avoid sizing way up.

When in doubt between sizes, try on the smaller size first. It’s easier to size up later than deal with overly large gloves flopping around. With the right size lacrosse gloves, you’ll maximize comfort, flexibility and performance on the field.

Know Your Position to Choose the Right Lacrosse Glove Size

Lacrosse positions have different requirements when it comes to glove sizing and features. Attack players need maximum dexterity and ball control with their sticks, while defenders need protective padding to absorb checks. Midfielders need a balance of flexibility and protection as they transition between offense and defense. Goalies have specialized gloves with maximum padding and grip.

For attack players, focus on finding snug fitting gloves that don’t restrict quick wrist and finger movements. A glove that is slightly too big will negatively impact cradling, catching, throwing and shooting skills that rely on stick handling finesse. Avoid bulky, oversized gloves with dense foam or plastic padding. Fingers should reach all the way into each glove finger slot without extra room.

Defenders and midfielders need gloves with more protective padding in the back of the hand and wrists. An extra half inch in glove length helps cover more of the forearm during checks. However, dexterity is still important for picking up ground balls and passing accurately. Palm width should match the width of the player’s dominant hand. Those in youth leagues should use gloves with lightweight padding until their hand size increases.

Goalie gloves are measured by catch glove width and feature heavy foam or plastic blocks to protect the fingers, hands and wrists. The glove should fit snugly to maximize grip on the crosse handle while clearing or passing the ball. For junior goalies, oversized gloves can be detrimental to developing proper catching and throwing techniques.

Trying on different glove brands and models is the best way to find the right mix of fit, flexibility and protective padding for your lacrosse position.

Consider Age and Skill Level When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

When sizing lacrosse gloves, it’s important to take into account both age and skill level. Youth players still developing their athletic skills need gloves that allow maximum hand mobility and dexterity. More advanced high school and college players need equipment sized for their full-grown hands, with protective padding in the right areas.

For young players under age 12, focus on gloves that fit snugly but don’t restrict finger wiggling or wrist flexing. Their hands are still growing, so allow some extra room in the fingers without compromising control of the stick. Avoid bulky gloves weighted down by plastic shields and dense foam padding. Lightweight padding in the palm and back of the hand is sufficient protection.

Teenage players have more defined positions and hand sizes. Attackers still need responsive gloves, while defenders require upgraded padding on gloves sized for their mature hands. Goalies need sturdy gloves with palm padding and finger protection. Get fitted yearly as hand dimensions can change rapidly during growth spurts.

College players have full-grown hands and specialized gear needs. Attackers may prefer professional gloves allowing effortless catch and throw movements. Defenders need maximum hand protection during physical play. Goalies need pro-level padded gloves measured in inches wide.

For new players learning stick skills, lightweight and flexible gloves are best. As you progress in lacrosse, consider more protective features while maintaining responsiveness. Don’t choose oversized gloves assuming you’ll “grow into them” – a proper fit is vital from the start.

Try on Different Lacrosse Glove Brands and Models

With so many lacrosse glove brands and models available, trying on different options is the best way to find the right fit and features. Brands like Warrior, Maverik, STX, and Brine have gloves designed for specific positions and skill levels. Try on gloves in your size range to evaluate overall comfort and responsiveness.

Bring your lacrosse stick into the store with you to test each glove’s dexterity. Mimic motions like cradling, scooping, passing and catching to ensure flexibility isn’t restricted. Pay attention to how the glove interacts with the stick handle and pocket. Make fists to check finger room and squeeze a ball to test grip strength.

Compare glove palm and back padding between brands. Some use dense foam or hardshell plastic on the back of the hand for protection. Others focus padding in the palm for stick handling. Goalie gloves have extra foam blocks on the fingers and knuckles. Ensure padding doesn’t limit motion.

Trying gloves on in-store allows you to assess true fit and feel. Be wary of gloves that feel either too loose or too tight when brand new. Proper breaking-in should create an ideal snugness over time. Don’t choose lacrosse gloves based on aesthetics alone – performance, protection and responsiveness are what matter most.

With consistent play, gloves get broken down and need replacement every season or two. Visit lacrosse specialty stores yearly to get sized and find the best gloves for your developing hand dimensions and playing style.

Focus on Palm Width When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

One of the most important factors in finding properly fitted lacrosse gloves is getting the right palm width. A glove palm that is either too narrow or too wide will negatively impact stick handling, catching and throwing. Take time to carefully measure the width of your dominant hand across the knuckles to determine your glove size.

Ideally, the palm width of your new lacrosse gloves should match the measurement of your hand’s widest part. Having padding and materials that extend beyond your actual palm width restricts natural wrist and finger movements during play. This loss of dexterity will hinder your passing, scooping and shooting skills.

However, going too small in the palms creates a different problem. With your palm jammed into an undersized glove, you lose the protective padding cushion needed on checks and hard throws. Compressed palms are also uncomfortable and can numb your hands over time.

Trying on different glove sizes and brands is the best way to gauge palm width fit. When possible, bring your own lacrosse stick into the fitting room to test palm grip and flexibility. Mimic your exact hand positioning during play.

For youth players with growing hands, allow a little extra room in the palm without going oversized. Goalies require gloves measured in inches wide to maximize hand protection. Dialing in the right palm width ensures your new lacrosse gloves perform as an extension of your hands.

Mind the Finger Length When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

In addition to getting the right palm width, evaluating finger length is critical for finding properly fitted lacrosse gloves. The glove fingers should match the length of your actual fingers to maximize dexterity. Gloves that are too short can expose your fingertips to checks and hits. Overly long fingers cause bunching and impact stick handling.

When trying on new gloves, insert your hand all the way in so your fingers reach the end of each slot. The material should lie smoothly against each fingertip without extra room. Bend and wiggle your fingers – you should feel snugness but no pinching or restricted motion.

For youth players, allow a little extra finger length to accommodate future growth. But avoid sizing way up in anticipation of bigger hands. Oversized glove fingers are detrimental to developing key lacrosse skills. Goalies need maximum finger dexterity and protection.

Trying gloves on with your lacrosse stick is ideal for judging finger slot length. Mimic motions like cradling, catching and throwing to gauge overall responsiveness. If gloves are challenging to get off after use, the fingers are likely too long.

Focusing on both palm width and finger length ensures your new lacrosse gloves achieve that “second skin” feeling. With the right fit, you’ll be equipped to handle, pass and catch like a pro this season.

Test Wrist Flexibility When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

The wrist area is a vital aspect of lacrosse glove sizing, as it impacts flexibility during play. Try flexing your wrist back and rotating it while wearing potential new gloves to ensure they don’t restrict motion. You need full wrist dexterity when handling ground balls, passing, shooting and defending.

Ideally, your lacrosse gloves should extend several inches past the palm to provide wrist protection. But going too long in the wrist can make gloves feel bulky and inflexible. Test different glove lengths by placing your arm straight out and bending your wrist back.

You want protective padding around the wrist bones without compromising mobility. Gloves with adjustable wrist straps allow you to customize the fit. Tighten straps firmly but not to the point of pinching off circulation or movement.

Goalies rely heavily on free wrist motion when passing and clearing the ball. For field players, defenders need more wrist coverage when absorbing checks. Middies and attackers should maximize dexterity. Consider your position and style of play when choosing glove wrist length.

The wrong lacrosse glove size in the wrist area throws off ball handling. Don’t settle for gloves that make your wrists feel stiff and enclosed. Proper sizing paired with break-in provides the flexibility and protection you need.

Evaluate Overall Fit and Feel When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

When trying on new lacrosse gloves, it’s important to assess the overall fit and feel. Make sure the gloves are snug but not restrictive and allow full range of motion.mimic motions during gameplay to determine if dexterity is compromised.

Slide your hands all the way into the gloves so fingertips reach the end and palms fit smoothly against padding. Shake your hands – there should be no sliding around inside the gloves. Walk around and flex your wrists to gauge overall comfort.

Pick up your stick and practice cradling, scooping ground balls, catching, and passing. Pay attention to any pinching, tightness, or lack of feel while handling the ball. You want the gloves to function as natural extensions of your hands.

Consider when you’ll be wearing your gloves. Cold weather play requires a warmer, tighter fit than warm conditions. Those who play all year may need multiple pairs in different sizes.

Don’t ignore small fit issues assuming they’ll improve after break-in. Lacrosse gloves should feel great right away. While materials will mold to your hands over time, the base size and comfort should already be optimal.

Finding lacrosse gloves with the right blend of dexterity, protection, and responsiveness ensures you perform your best. Take time to properly evaluate overall fit before purchasing.

Break In Your Lacrosse Gloves Properly

Getting new lacrosse gloves game-ready requires gradually breaking them in to shape your hands. Take time to properly loosen up the materials and padding for peak comfort and performance. Never play a competitive match in brand new unworked gloves.

To start the break-in process, moisten your gloves lightly and put them on for 30-60 minutes of TV watching or reading. The moisture helps materials soften and expand quicker.

Next, practice cradling and passing drills in your yard or wall ball games. The friction and repeated motions continue molding the gloves to your hands. Apply leather conditioner to soften stubborn spots.

During your first few practices, swap between old and new gloves each quarter or half. This allows more controlled, incremental break-in before using the gloves full-time.

Be sure to keep gloves clean and conditioned throughout the season. Perspiration and dirt breakdown the gloves faster. Storing gloves properly maintains shape between uses.

Well-broken-in gloves move naturally with your hands for precision ball handling. Take a patient approach when prepping new gloves for game action. The investment of time pays off in fit, feel and performance.

Choose Youth Sizes for Younger Lacrosse Players

When sizing lacrosse gloves for youth players, it’s important to select an appropriately fitted youth size rather than simply scaling down an adult glove. Kids’ hands are still developing coordination and stick skills, so gloves should allow maximum dexterity.

Many lacrosse gear brands offer gloves in junior or youth sizes for elementary and middle school players. These feature smaller dimensions in the fingers, palm width, and wrist opening to fit young hands. Padding is focused on the palm for lightweight protection.

Trying on different youth glove models is the best way to find the right fit. There should be no sliding around inside the glove or restricted finger wiggling. Allow a little extra room in fingers and palm to accommodate future growth.

Avoid the temptation to buy oversized youth lacrosse gloves assuming your child will eventually grow into them. Oversized gloves will hinder handling skills. Replace ill-fitting gloves as their hands grow.

For pre-teens transitioning into teen sizes, go with 12-13 year old gloves before sizing up to adult small. This ensures the right blend of responsiveness and protection as their hands and skills develop.

With properly fitted youth lacrosse gloves, young players can hone essential abilities like cradling, scooping, passing, and catching needed on the field.

Size Up Lacrosse Gloves for More Protection

When sizing up in lacrosse gloves, going slightly bigger can provide more protective padding for positions like defender and midfielder. But avoid sacrificing too much dexterity and stick handling in oversized gloves.

For defenders, an extra 1/2 to 1 inch in glove length helps protect more of the forearm when absorbing checks. Just ensure longer gloves don’t make wrist flexing and rotation too stiff.

Palm width can also size up slightly for more shielding on the hands. Ensure thicker padding doesn’t restrict natural grip and feel with the crosse though. Fingers should still reach fully into slots.

Midfielders benefit from a blend of protection and agility as they transition between offense and defense. Goalies need maximum hand coverage without compromising quickness.

Consider sizing up for colder weather play when thicker gloves are needed. But don’t assume you must break in overly large gloves over time. Responsiveness and flexibility should still feel ideal.

While more protection has advantages, oversized gloves hinder ball handling skills. For developing youth players, focus on responsiveness over max protection until hands mature.

Don’t Sacrifice Dexterity for Size When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

When sizing up lacrosse gloves for more protection, it’s important not to sacrifice critical hand dexterity and responsiveness. Oversized gloves with bulky padding that limit your ability to handle the ball will hinder performance.

Palm padding that extends far beyond your actual hand width restricts the natural grip and feel needed for cradling, scooping and passing. Fingers jammed into slots that are too long lose necessary touch on the pocket.

Wrists wrapped in thick, inflexible materials struggle to rotate and flex properly when handling ground balls and checking. Goalies need complete wrist and finger freedom of motion.

Rather than assuming you’ll break in stiff, oversized gloves over time, prioritize fit and dexterity from the start. Proper glove sizing may require going smaller than expected.

Focus protective padding in key areas like the palm and wrist while maintaining light flexibility elsewhere. Youth players especially need responsive gloves for developing skills.

While it’s tempting to size up for more coverage, precision ball handling impacts the game more than max padding. Don’t settle for lacrosse gloves that hinder your natural dexterity and feel.

Compare Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse Glove Sizing

When sizing lacrosse gloves, it’s important to note that men’s and women’s gloves are sized differently. Women’s gloves take into account the typically smaller hand dimensions of female players. Carefully check sizing charts to find the right fit.

Women’s gloves are constructed to fit narrower palm widths along with shorter fingers and overall hand length. Brands design gloves specifically contoured for female hands versus just scaling down men’s sizes.

Trying on different gloves in your size range allows you to assess the right fit. Palm width should match your hand without restricting wraparound grip on the stick handle. Fingers should reach fully into slots with no pinch points.

Allow a little extra room in the fingers if you anticipate growth, but avoid bulky oversized gloves that hinder dexterity. Those with broader hands may opt to size up in women’s gloves or try boys youth gloves.

Goalies should pay close attention to sizing charts for women’s gloves which measure palm width in inches for maximum protection.

While based on average hand dimensions, women’s lacrosse glove sizes vary across brands. Trying before buying ensures you get the right blend of fit, feel and female-specific contouring.

Check Manufacturer Charts When Sizing Lacrosse Gloves

When determining your lacrosse glove size, be sure to carefully consult sizing charts provided by glove manufacturers. Compare your hand measurements and current glove size against brand-specific charts to identify the best fit.

Most lacrosse brands such as Maverik, STX, Brine, and Warrior include detailed sizing guides with their gloves. Measure hand length, palm width, and fingers then cross-reference with the charts.

Keep in mind that sizing varies across youth, men’s, and women’s gloves. Goalie gloves are measured by palm width in inches rather than standard S/M/L glove sizes. Check manufacturers’ fit recommendation for your position.

Online customer reviews can also provide feedback on how certain gloves tend to run size-wise. Some brands may fit slightly big or small in the fingers and palms.

While charts give a starting point, trying on different glove sizes is ideal to find your match. Be wary of assuming you need a certain size based on previous gloves, as fit can vary.

With branded gloves ranging in price, getting the right size match maximizes both performance and your investment. Take time to consult sizing guides and reviews to narrow down your options before purchasing new gloves.

Get Properly Fitted for Lacrosse Gloves In-Store

For the most accurate lacrosse glove sizing, visit a sporting goods or lacrosse specialty store for an expert in-person fitting. Trying on numerous sizes and brands with staff guidance ensures you find the ideal match.

Provide the salesperson with your measurements and position. They can then bring you appropriate glove options to try based on your hand dimensions and needs. Ask about newest styles that may fit differently than past gloves.

Slide each glove on fully and move your hands around. Share any fit issues like tightness, looseness, or fingertip room. Listen to feedback from the salesperson as an objective set of eyes. Mimic motions like scooping balls and passing.

Narrow down the gloves that feel most responsive while providing adequate padding. Try them on with your lacrosse stick to gauge overall dexterity. If also buying new gloves for a child, have them try on options.

For goalies, discuss desired features like maximize fingertip protection and wrist support. Ask about proper break-in procedures once purchased.

In-store fittings allow you to make the most informed sizing decision through direct try-on. With guidance, find lacrosse gloves that balance comfort, flexibility, and protection.