Choosing the Right Lacrosse Stick
As the main tool for handling and passing the ball, a lacrosse stick is the most vital piece of equipment for any new player. When selecting your first stick, focus on finding the proper length based on your height and position, as well as the appropriate head type. Offset and curved heads are best for newer players still developing fundamentals.
Lacrosse Gloves for Protection and Control
Sturdy yet flexible lacrosse gloves safeguard hands from checks and passes while also improving overall stick control. Look for durable leather or synthetic palms along with stretchy Lycra backs. Proper fitting is also key – gloves shouldn’t be painfully tight but allow for full finger flexion and movement.
Getting the Proper Helmet Fit
A helmet is mandatory for protecting your head during play. Ensure a snug fit all around, with the front sitting just above the eyebrows. Foam or gel padding cushions impacts while metal facemasks and chinstraps keep everything securely in place. Prioritize comfort and visibility when selecting your lacrosse helmet.
Shoulder Pads for Collision Protection
Checks and collisions are common in lacrosse, making shoulder pads a vital piece of protective gear. Seek out lightweight, breathable options that won’t restrict arm movement. Foam or plastic caps diffuse direct shoulder impact. For comfort, ensure your shoulder pads properly contour to your body.
Mouthguards Guard Teeth and Absorb Shock
No lacrosse player should take the field without a mouthguard. Custom-molded guards offer the best fit and protection. Cheaper alternatives like boil-and-bite guards work too but tend to be less comfortable. Mouthguards shield teeth from trauma and absorb some of the force transmitted to the jaw from hits.
Cleats for Traction and Maneuverability
The right cleats provide the traction you need for quick cuts, starts, and stops on the field. For beginners, opt for molded plastic or rubber cleats over metal screw-ins, as they’re more stable and less likely to cause injury. Proper lacrosse cleats position your heel below the toes for optimal acceleration.
The Importance of Groin Protection
An athletic cup is vital to shield the groin from potential trauma, especially from errant checks and shots. Look for a design offering comprehensive protection without restricting mobility. Breathable cups with vents or moisture-wicking fabrics enhance comfort during play.
Selecting Lacrosse Gloves for Optimal Fit and Function
When shopping for your first pair of lacrosse gloves, prioritize finding the right balance of protection, dexterity and flexibility. Synthetic leather or durable Nash palm materials will withstand those forceful stick checks. Look for four-way stretch Lycra or mesh on the back for full range of motion. Take the time to properly size your gloves – a little snug is good, but you still want full finger and hand articulation. Trying on different brands can help find the best match for your hands. High quality lacrosse gloves will become an extension of your hands, enhancing your control and feel with the stick.
Finding the Right Lacrosse Helmet Fit
When selecting your lacrosse helmet, fit and comfort should be your top priorities. The helmet should sit just above your eyebrows in front. Make sure it feels snug all around your head – spinning or rocking are signs it’s too loose. Foam or gel interior padding helps absorb impacts while providing a custom fit. High-quality metal facemasks and adjustable chin straps keep everything locked securely in place. Go with white or neutral colors to minimize glare. Test out different helmet brands and sizes to find your ideal match.
Choosing the Right Shoulder Pads
Since checks and collisions are commonplace in lacrosse, protective shoulder pads are a must-have. Look for lightweight, low-profile designs that won’t restrict your arm and shoulder mobility. Breathable materials like compressed EVA foam promote airflow. For comfort, ensure your shoulder pads properly contour to your frame – improper sizing can impede movement. Plastic caps on the shoulders diffuse direct impact from checks. While protection is key, maintaining a full range of motion remains vital for lacrosse players.
Custom Molding Your Lacrosse Mouthguard
Mouthguards are non-negotiable in lacrosse to protect teeth and absorb shocks to the jaw. Boil-and-bite options get the job done, but custom-fitted guards offer superior protection and comfort. Most dentist offices can take impressions to create a mouthguard mold perfectly contoured to your teeth. Look for models with thick shock-absorbing layers across the front and palate. Proper breathing holes prevent gagging. Custom lacrosse mouthguards allow you to talk and breathe freely while providing max dental protection.
Choosing the Right Lacrosse Cleats
Proper lacrosse cleats provide essential traction for quick cuts, accelerations, and stops during gameplay. For beginners, molded plastic or rubber cleats are the safest bet over metal screw-ins, as they offer more stability. Opt for cleats with shorter, conical studs for optimal maneuverability on grass fields. They should position your heel slightly lower than the toes to maximize speed and acceleration. Try on different cleats to find the right fit – they shouldn’t pinch but your heel shouldn’t slip either. Take time to break them in before full-contact play to prevent blisters.
The Importance of Lacrosse Groin Protection
While an athletic cup may seem unnecessary, it provides vital protection for a lacrosse player’s vulnerable groin area. Stray checks, ricocheting ball shots, and even routine plays can all pose risks. Look for breathable cups with ventilation to enhance comfort, and ensure a design offering comprehensive coverage during movement. Snug compression shorts help keep the cup in place. Taking the time to find a cup that fits and feels comfortable is key – you want protective gear that you’ll actually wear consistently. Don’t risk going without groin protection and incurring a serious preventable injury.
The Role of Practice Balls
Having your own practice balls is vital for honing your lacrosse handling and passing skills at home. Look for softer, rubber versions compared to game balls – they’ll be easier on your hands as a beginner. Different colors also help with drills. Carry a few practice balls in your equipment bag at all times. Work on cradling, quick sticks, catching, scooping and more. Develop confidence and stick skills before stepping on the field. With consistent practice using appropriate balls, you’ll notice serious improvements in your fundamentals.
Choosing a Durable Mesh Equipment Bag
A mesh lacrosse bag with shoulder straps makes transporting your gear to and from the field much easier. Look for a bag made from durable, heavyweight nylon able to withstand regular use. Multiple compartments help organize equipment while ventilation pockets promote airflow and prevent bad odors. Padded, adjustable shoulder straps enhance comfort when loaded up. Choose a bag that’s spacious enough to hold all your equipment but not overly bulky. Mesh bags are designed to conveniently carry all a player’s lacrosse gear.
Using Athletic Tape on Your Lacrosse Stick
Having athletic tape on hand is useful for taping up lacrosse stick handles to improve grip. White, cotton cloth tape works best – it provides texture without getting overly sticky or gooey. Wrap tape snugly up the handle in a spiral pattern, leaving the bottom uncapped. Re-tape as needed before tape gets too dirty or worn. Proper taping ensures you can maintain control even when your hands get slick with sweat. It also absorbs vibration and protects against blisters. Tape allows for customized grip on your stick handle.
Supplemental Padding as Skills Progress
As an introductory lacrosse player, basic protective gear like helmets and gloves should suffice. But as skills and competition level increase, adding supplementary padding can be beneficial. Lightweight arm pads help shield limbs from checks and passes. Optional eyewear like rec-spec goggles offers an extra layer protecting eyes. Look for padding that provides protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort. Any gear that impedes natural movement can do more harm than good. Targeted supplemental padding boosts protection once fundamentals are ingrained.
Protective Eyewear Options
Once ready to add supplemental gear, protective eyewear is a wise consideration for any lacrosse player. Stray balls and checks pose risks to unprotected eyes. Many options exist -Rec-spec goggles offer an adjustable, wrapped design with ventilation to prevent fogging. More robust shield-style goggles provide increased coverage. Find eyewear that fits comfortably with your helmet without obstructing vision. Proper sports-specific eyewear effectively shields eyes from injury while allowing you to play uninhibited.
Having a Backup Stick on Hand
Once settled into lacrosse, it’s wise for players to have a backup stick readily available. Sticks can break at inopportune times from checks or misuse. A backup allows you to swap out damaged gear and quickly get back in the game. Look for a used stick in playable shape to save money. As skills progress, you may opt for a backups similar to your primary stick for consistency. Rotate to keep both sticks in good condition. With an extra stick bagged and ready, you can avoid missing crucial game time if equipment fails.
Goalie Gear Essentials
For lacrosse goalies, additional specialized protective equipment is required beyond standard gear. Padded chest protectors cushion the torso from close-range shots. Thick gloves help knock down the ball. Shin guards shield lower legs not covered by pads. Most importantly, a full helmet with chin strap and throat protector defends the head and neck. Goalie gear focuses on covering more surface area given the increased risks. Take time to properly fit and adjust all goalie equipment for maximum protection and ease of movement in the crease.