Choosing the Optimal Lacrosse Goal Size for Your Backyard
When looking to purchase a lacrosse goal for backyard practice, one of the most important considerations is finding the right size to fit your available space. Most full-size lacrosse goals are 6 feet by 6 feet, but you can also find smaller 4×4 foot goals for tight areas. The 6×6 goals are regulation size for high school, college, and pro play, so they allow you to hone your skills for competitive matches. However, the larger lacrosse goals do take up more room in your yard.
If you have a spacious backyard, then a regulation 6×6 lacrosse goal is likely your best option to experience authentic gameplay scenarios. Practicing shots, passes, and dodges on a full-sized goal with a 5mm lacrosse net will maximize your improvement for real games. The wider goal also provides a larger challenging target to test your shooting accuracy. Just make sure to leave adequate safety space around the goal perimeter.
For more compact yards, a 4×4 lacrosse goal is a suitable alternative to still be able to practice shooting, passing, and footwork skills. The smaller footprint allows you to set up the goal in tighter spaces. While you won’t get the full competitive experience, a 4×4 goal is certainly better than not having a goal at all for honing your lacrosse abilities. You can even look for adjustable lacrosse goals that allow you to switch between full and half sizes.
When gauging the appropriate lacrosse goal size, make sure to account for any backyard landscaping, gardens, trees, or structures that may get in the way. Measure to find the largest open space that allows for full safety margins around the goal. Proper goal positioning is vital to prevent errant shots from damaging property or injuring others. With the right sized lacrosse goal that fits your backyard layout, you’ll be able to practice shots from all angles to become a better player.
Finding Durable and Sturdy Lacrosse Goal Construction
When buying a lacrosse goal for your backyard, one of the key factors to evaluate is the overall durability and stability of the goal’s construction. Since lacrosse goals need to withstand repeated impact from high-speed shots, you’ll want to choose an option made from rigid, rugged materials that can handle the abuse. Avoid flimsy goals that seem prone to bending, shaking, or toppling over easily. Sturdy lacrosse goal construction will also provide better safety, so you don’t have to worry about shots ricocheting in unintended directions.
The ideal lacrosse goal material is steel, providing unmatched strength and durability for many years of use. Look for goals made from heavy-gauge steel tubing measuring at least 2 inches in diameter for the main frame sections. The thicker tubing is more resistant to denting from missed shots. For even greater stability, choose lacrosse goals with a double rear support bar design to prevent wobbling after powerful shots. Steel lacrosse goals with powder-coated or galvanized finishes will be optimized for outdoor use, resisting corrosion and rust.
If choosing an aluminum lacrosse goal due to the lighter weight, inspect the thickness and diameter of the tubing. Higher-quality extruded aluminum that is at least 3mm thick can approach the durability of steel for a lighter goal. But thinner, weaker aluminum goals are more prone to damage over time. Aluminum goals with tempered joints will also have enhanced sturdiness.
For optimal safety, verify that the lacrosse goal meets official quality standards, like those from the NCAA or NFHS. This ensures rigorous testing of the goal’s durability. And be sure to properly secure the goal into the ground with stakes or sandbags per the manufacturer instructions. With a rigid, shake-free lacrosse goal, you can unleash your hardest shots without worrying about structural instability issues.
Purchasing a Lacrosse Goal with Net to Save Money
When shopping for the best lacrosse goal for your backyard practice sessions, an important factor to consider is whether a net is included or if you’ll need to buy one separately. Getting a full lacrosse goal set with the net included right in the package can save you time and extra expenses down the road.
High-quality lacrosse goal nets are typically made from durable nylon or polyethylene materials, with thicker 5mm to 6mm knotless mesh for the best performance. Nets attach to the lacrosse goal via a quick-release net strap system or metal hooks to make set-up simple and fast. The taut net allows for accurate rebounds and ball retention for continuous shooting practice. And a UV-treated net will be resistant to deterioration from sunlight, rain, and other outdoor elements.
If the lacrosse goal does not come with a net, you may end up spending $30 to $100+ to buy a compatible net later on. This unexpected additional cost can put you over your planned budget. But by finding lacrosse goal and net bundles on Amazon or directly from the manufacturer, you can get everything you need in one complete package. Combination lacrosse goal and net sets are convenient and can sometimes even cost less overall than purchasing separately.
It’s recommended to look for lacrosse goals promoting “net included” right in the product listing title or description to ensure it ships as a ready-to-use set. If specifics on the net are not provided, be sure to contact the seller to confirm a net is packaged with the goal before completing your order. Investing in a bundled lacrosse goal and net set will let you start playing right after assembly without needing to source a net on your own later.
Choosing a Portable Lacrosse Goal for Easy Setup and Breakdown
One of the most convenient lacrosse goal types for home use is a portable goal that can be quickly and easily set up or taken down as needed. Portable lacrosse goals are designed for maximum maneuverability thanks to lightweight materials, foldable joints, and wheeled bases.
Look for portable lacrosse goals made from hollow aluminum tubing or flex-goal composites. The lighter weight compared to steel allows one person to more easily move the goal. Wheeled goals also facilitate transport across your yard to adjust positioning. Folding lacrosse goals feature joints that allow the frame to collapse down for compact storage. Premium models even fold up into carrying bags for supreme portability.
For rapid setup, portable lacrosse goals utilize push-button locks or auto-locking telescoping joints. Simply extend the frame pieces and secure into place within minutes. The quick assembly means you can get playing sooner without lengthy construction. And for net attachment, convenient quick-release clips allow fast net changes or takedown.
When finished with your practice session, portable lacrosse goals break back down just as swiftly. Fold up the frame, detach the net, and wheel the goal into a garage or shed for protected storage. The easy breakdown prevents you from having to leave the goal exposed to elements or yard hazards when not in use. Prioritizing portability gives you the flexibility to stow the goal away as needed for yard access or mowing.
With their lightweight maneuverability and compact storage, portable lacrosse goals are perfect for maximizing your backyard space. You’ll be able to set up adjustable practice scenarios anywhere in your yard and stow the goal away neatly when finished.
Lacrosse Goals with Backbars Improve Ball Retention
When practicing your shooting skills on a backyard lacrosse goal, you’ll get the most efficient workout from goals designed with ball retention features. Lacrosse goals with backbars or sidebars help prevent missed shots from rapidly flying out of the goal area.
Many regulation lacrosse goals include a top crossbar that joins to vertical backbars spanning the width of the goal. The backbars sit behind the net to block errant high or wide shots from escaping too far. This allows you to retrieve the ball quicker for your next shot attempt without having to chase rebounds across the yard.
Some more compact lacrosse goal options have backbars only across the top rear of the goal frame. While not as encompassing as full vertical backbars, a rear backbar can still retain more missed shots within the goal space. And folding lacrosse goals may incorporate hinged or removable backbars for portability.
In addition to backbars, sidebars running horizontally along the goal’s left and right net edges provide even better ball control. Sidebars combined with a full backbar frame essentially create a rebound “corral” to keep practice shots contained. This continuous ball retention system is especially helpful when practicing alone, since you won’t need to interrupt your shooting rhythm to retrieve balls.
When shopping for home lacrosse goals, prioritize options advertising backbars or fully encompassed side and rear bars. The ball retention capabilities will maximize the efficiency of solo and team practice sessions. Be sure to account for some open space around the goal’s rear and sides, so you can move freely to catch rebounded shots off the backbars.
Ensuring Lacrosse Goals Meet Safety and Quality Standards
When installing a lacrosse goal in your backyard, it’s extremely important to choose an option that adheres to strict safety and performance standards. Using a certified lacrosse goal ensures proper construction to minimize tip-over or collapse hazards that could cause injury.
In the United States, look for lacrosse goals that meet the ASTM F2950 standard, regulated by the American Society for Testing and Materials. This rigorous certification process evaluates the goal’s materials, welding, net attachment system, stability, and durability under game conditions. Goals also must undergo stability testing using calibrated shot impact forces and weights.
The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) provides additional lacrosse goal safety standards and testing methodology. Choosing an NOCSAE-certified goal provides assurance that all stability aspects have been thoroughly assessed for safety.
For college and high school level quality, opt for lacrosse goals that are NCAA or NFHS compliant. These goals meet collegiate and federation rule specifications for proper dimensions, net requirements, and durability. Goals with NCAA or NFHS certification give athletes an authentic practice experience.
Be sure to carefully review product details and descriptions before purchasing a lacrosse goal to confirm all applicable safety standard conformance. Many goals will advertise visible ASTM, NOCSAE, NCAA, or NFHS logos directly on the product images. Prioritizing certified goals reinforces safety for athletes of all ages and abilities.
Comparing Lacrosse Goal Prices on Amazon
Amazon provides a huge selection of lacrosse goals from top brands at varying price points for every budget. Taking the time to compare options and reviews on Amazon can help you score the best backyard lacrosse goal deal.
Amazon showcases lacrosse goals in all materials, sizes, and designs, including regulation steel goals, adjustable aluminum goals, folding goals, and pop-up goals. Convenient sorting tools and filters make it easy to refine your search by brand, price range, goal size, and prime shipping eligibility.
Be sure to read through all the product specifications and details on a lacrosse goal listing before purchase. Check that the construction, materials, net type, safety certifications, warranty, and included accessories or hardware align with your needs and preferences.
Browse through user reviews and ratings for candid feedback on a particular goal’s ease of assembly, durability, portability, and value for money. This helps identify potential issues to be aware of or provides validation if a goal has overwhelmingly satisfied buyers.
Cross compare prices across similar lacrosse goals to find the best deal for your budget. Factor in any extra shipping fees for oversized items. And don’t forget to check if there are any active coupons or promotions you can apply at checkout for additional savings.
Leveraging Amazon’s expansive lacrosse goal selection and platform tools makes it simple to discover the optimal model to bring your backyard practices and training games to the next level.
Reading Lacrosse Goal Reviews for Buyer Insights
Checking out customer reviews is one of the best ways to perform due diligence before purchasing a lacrosse goal online. Reading feedback from other buyers can provide valuable insights on a particular goal’s real-world performance, quality, and ease of use.
Browse reviews on the goal’s Amazon product page, the manufacturer’s website, retailer sites, and third party review aggregators. Look for goals with overwhelmingly positive reviews and high average ratings for indicators of quality and satisfaction. Be sure to read both the 5 and 4-star reviews as well as the lower rated ones to get a balanced perspective.
Pay attention to any recurring feedback on things like stability, durability, portability, and net quality. This helps you set proper expectations on the goal’s strengths and weaknesses. Seek reviews from actual verified purchasers for more credibility vs general brand reviews.
Consider the lacrosse experience level of reviewers for the most relevant insights. Feedback from coaches, competitive players, and league athletes will provide a more discerning take on gear performance. Photos of goals set up in backyards can also give you visual examples of real-world usage.
Reading multiple reviews allows you to make a thoroughly informed buying decision. You can factor in potential benefits and drawbacks before committing to a purchase. Customer-provided photos and videos are also valuable for assessing the lacrosse goal setup process and seeing the fully constructed goal in use.
Choosing Weatherproof Lacrosse Goals for Durability
Since your backyard lacrosse goal will be exposed to outdoor elements year-round, it’s smart to choose an option built from weatherproof materials for extended durability and longevity.
For the frame, powder-coated steel is ideal to resist corrosion, chips, and rust caused by rain, humidity, and UV rays. Powder coating provides a protective seal on the steel for enhanced weatherability compared to standard paint. Look for a baked-on powder coat finish of at least 2 mils thickness.
Marine-grade aluminum is another excellent weatherproof lacrosse goal material, able to withstand moisture, sun exposure, and temperature swings. Anodized aluminum and aluminum with a powder coated finish offer even better protection.
For the net, opt for weatherproof nylon or polyethylene knotless netting. UV-treated net material will not degrade as quickly in sunlight. And the knotless construction prevents moisture retention that can lead to mildew and rotting.
Check that all fasteners and hardware components are made from weatherproof metals like stainless steel or zinc plated steel. This prevents rusting and seizing up.
Carefully maintaining your lacrosse goal can also improve its lifespan. Keep the net tightened, lubricate moving parts, and safely store the goal when not in use. Investing in weatherproof lacrosse goals right from the start saves you from continually having to replace goals that wear out prematurely.
Buying Complete Lacrosse Goal Sets for Quick Starts
As a newer lacrosse player, the easiest way to start practicing your skills at home is by purchasing an all-in-one lacrosse goal set. Complete sets come with everything you need to begin playing right out of the box.
Look for lacrosse goal sets that include the full goal, net, sticks, balls, and carrying bag or case. The bundled packages provide great value by combining must-have gear at discounted pricing. Some sets even incorporate protective equipment like helmets, gloves, and pads.
For an instant practice setup with friends, multi-goal lacrosse sets provide two foldable goals and multiple sticks and balls. Large mesh bags make transporting the gear simple and convenient.
When shopping bundles, opt for regulation-sized steel or aluminum goals with durable weatherproof nets. Sturdy composite or aluminum sticks and soft, grippy lacrosse balls ensure proper handling and play. Carrying cases with shoulder straps allow easy mobility.
Prioritize lacrosse goal sets from reputable sporting brands like STX, Brine, Champion, and Silverback. This brings confidence in the gear quality and construction. Sets promoted as “Backyard Lacrosse” bundles are ideal for casual practice needs.
With a comprehensive lacrosse goal set, new players can bypass researching individual pieces and dive right into honing their passing, catching, cradling, and shooting mechanics in the backyard or driveway.
Portable Lacrosse Goals with Convenient Carrying Cases
For ultimate portability and protection, look for lacrosse goals that include a carrying case or bag. The case allows you to neatly transport and store the goal after breakdown.
Premium folding lacrosse goals designed for mobility will often come with a zippered nylon carry case. Padding inside the case protects the goal frame parts when packed inside. Backpack-style straps make the loaded case easy to haul and lift into a vehicle or storage area.
Some full-sized steel lacrosse goals include a wheeled bag or trailer. You can load the disassembled goal inside and pull it around like wheeled luggage. Look for bags with all-terrain or treaded wheels for easy mobility across grass and uneven terrain in your yard.
For pop-up style goals, a drawstring mesh sack is commonly provided to contain the folded goal frame and net. The lightweight bag can be carried over the shoulder for transportation between locations.
Before buying a lacrosse goal, check the product images and details to confirm a carrying case or bag is included. If not specified, contact the seller to inquire about case availability or aftermarket options. An included goal case eliminates the hassle of figuring out storage on your own.
With a protective lacrosse goal case, you can wheel or haul the gear anywhere without worrying about damage. Stow the goal away in a garage, shed, or closet without taking up excessive space.
Quick Attach and Detach Lacrosse Goal Nets
For optimal convenience when setting up or taking down your backyard lacrosse goal, look for models with quick net attachment systems. Quick-release net clips allow you to rapidly mount and detach the net as needed.
Many full-size lacrosse goals incorporate metal S-hooks around the rim of the frame to connect to rope lacing on the net. While functional, attaching all the hooks can be time consuming. For faster setup, some goals utilize quick-release plastic clips that snap the net rope into place with one hand.
Portable pop-up goals often have a continuous loop net that simply slides over the top of the frame and secures via elastic cords on bottom attachment points. This allows effortless and tool-free net installation in seconds without clasps.
For goals with backbar frames, look for net attachment systems that don’t require rear access. Side or front-loading clip designs are most convenient for attaching net ropes on goals placed against fences or other barriers.
No matter the style, be sure to get a net made specifically for your goal size and shape. Custom net shapes ensure an ideal fit. Prioritizing quick net attachments enables you to start your lacrosse practice session without delay anytime.
Maneuverable Wheeled Lacrosse Goals
For backyard lacrosse goals requiring frequent position changes or storage, consider a wheeled goal base for easy mobility. Built-in wheels eliminate heavy lifting so you can relocate the goal anytime.
Full-size regulation lacrosse goals can weigh over 100 lbs, making them cumbersome to move around a yard. Goals with rear or bottom-mounted wheels allow you to tilt and roll the goal into place. Durable treaded wheels handle various yard surfaces and terrain.
Folding lacrosse goals also benefit from wheels when in their collapsed, portable form factor. Simply tilt the folded goal onto the integrated wheels and pull like wheeled luggage to transport into storage.
Wheeled goals should incorporate well-designed ergonomic handles at natural grip points to make guiding the goal straightforward. Look for padded or rubberized handles for comfort during transport.
For the best stability when playing, the wheels should lift off the ground when positioned upright. Weights or pegs help keep the goal anchored in place while practicing shots.
Maneuvering a heavy lacrosse goal around your backyard is made easy with a wheeled design. Pick a model with all-terrain wheels and comfortable handles so you can reposition the goal as often as needed.
UV Treated Lacrosse Goal Nets for Durability
For a backyard lacrosse goal net that will stand up to sun, rain, and other weather factors, look for UV treated netting. The UV treatment makes the netting more resistant to premature degradation.
Repeated exposure to sunlight can cause plastic net material to become brittle and discolored over time. UV radiation eventually breaks down the polymeric bonds in plastics. Using lacrosse nets specifically treated with UV inhibitors helps prevent this UV damage.
Quality UV treated nets still incorporate durable polyethylene or nylon copolymer materials but are chemically shielded from UV rays. Look for knotless net mesh that won’t retain moisture and accelerate deterioration.
Beyond UV aspects, the lacrosse net should be mildew and rot resistant. Netting optimized for outdoor use will last much longer than generic nets when kept outside year-round.
Prioritize lacrosse goal sets or replacement nets that specifically advertise UV protection in their product details. Reputable sporting goods brands design nets to cope with sun, rain, and other environmental factors. Investing in a UV treated net provides peace of mind that your goal will stay protected in the elements.
Lacrosse Goal Warranties for Added Buyer Protection
When making any major sports equipment purchase, product warranties provide invaluable peace of mind and financial protection as a buyer. Be sure to consider warranty coverage when shopping for your backyard lacrosse goal.
Reputable lacrosse goal manufacturers will often include warranties spanning 1-3 years or more. This safeguards against defects in materials and workmanship that lead to premature failure under normal use conditions.
Review warranty terms to understand what types of damage are covered, length of coverage, service fees, and claim processing procedures. More comprehensive warranties cover all components including the frame, net, and moving parts.
For goals purchased through Amazon, you can add supplemental warranty plans from 1-4 years offered directly by Amazon. This provides a hassle-free additional layer of warranty protection.
Register your lacrosse goal warranty with the manufacturer promptly after purchase. Save your receipt and track key product details to streamline potential future claims. With warranty coverage, you can get replacement parts or repairs for manufacturer defects.
Considering warranty inclusion, terms, and purchase options ensures you can rectify problems without taking a total financial loss. Protect your lacrosse gear investment with adequate warranty safeguards right from the start.