How Do You Determine Lacrosse Glove Size For Youth Players? 15 Tips
1. Start With Hand Measurements
2. Consider Age Recommendations
3. Account for Growth
4. Try Both Brands and Models
5. Get the Right Width
6. Palm Length Matters
7. Mind the Fingers
8. Check Mobility and Dexterity
9. Get a Snug Fit Around the Wrist
10. Consider Adjustability Features
11. Try On with Shoulder Pads
12. Break Gloves In
13. Prioritize Comfort and Flexibility
14. Replace Gloves Annually
15. Seek Expert Guidance
How Do You Determine Lacrosse Glove Size For Youth Players? 15 Tips
1. Measure Hand Length
2. Account for Hand Width
3. Consult Age-Based Sizing Charts
4. Compare to Brand Sizing Charts
5. Try Multiple Brands
6. Prioritize Palm Length
7. Allow Finger Room to Grow
8. Check Mobility and Dexterity
9. Get a Secure Wrist Fit
10. Consider Adjustability Features
11. Try On with Shoulder Pads
12. Allow for Break-In Period
13. Prioritize Comfort and Flexibility
14. Replace Gloves Annually
15. Enlist Expert Help
How Do You Determine Lacrosse Glove Size For Youth Players? 15 Tips
Under Armour Lacrosse Glove Sizing
Reebok Lacrosse Glove Sizing Tips
Trying On Different Brands and Models
Prioritizing Comfort and Flexibility
Allowing for Growth
Replacing Gloves Yearly
Consulting Retailers
How Do You Determine Lacrosse Glove Size For Youth Players? 15 Tips
Size Up for Growth
Measure Current Hand Size
Consider Age Guidelines
Compare to Sizing Charts
Prioritize Palm Fit
Leave Extra Finger Room
Ensure Dexterity Isn’t Compromised
Consider Adjustability Features
Try On Properly
Allow a Break-In Period
Replace Gloves Annually
Consult Retail Experts
How Do You Determine Lacrosse Glove Size For Youth Players? 15 Tips
12-Inch Gloves Fit Hands Around 7.5 to 8 Inches
Measure Hand Size Accurately
Compare Measurements to Brand Charts
Try On Different Brands and Models
Prioritize Snug Palm Fit
Allow a Bit of Extra Finger Room
Ensure Mobility Isn’t Restricted
Consider Adjustability Features
Try On with Shoulder Pads
Allow Gloves to Break In
Replace Gloves Annually
Consult Retailers When Unsure
How Do You Determine Lacrosse Glove Size For Youth Players? 15 Tips
Size 13 Fits Hand Length of 8-8.5 Inches
Accurately Measure Hand Size
Use Sizing Charts as a Guide
Try Different Brands and Models
Focus on Snug Palm and Wrist Fit
Allow a Bit of Extra Finger Room
Check Mobility and Dexterity
Consider Adjustment Features
Try On with Shoulder Pads
Break Gloves In Over Time
Replace Gloves Annually
Ask Retailers for Guidance
Youth with 4-4.5 inch hands need extra small lacrosse gloves
Finding the right lacrosse glove size is crucial for young players. Gloves that are too big will hinder ball control and catching ability. Gloves that are too small will be uncomfortable and restrict hand movement. For youth players with smaller hands, getting the sizing right can be a challenge. Generally, youth players with hand measurements of 4-4.5 inches from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger need extra small lacrosse gloves.
There are a few factors to consider when determining the ideal lacrosse glove size for your young athlete:
1. Measure hand size
The most important starting point is accurately measuring your child’s hand size. Have them spread their hand out flat, palm down, fingers together. Use a soft measuring tape to measure from the base of the palm where the wrist creases, straight out to the tip of the middle finger. Round to the nearest quarter inch. This measurement in inches will correspond to glove sizes.
For youth players with hand sizes of around 4-4.5 inches, extra small lacrosse gloves are usually the best fit. Gloves typically come in quarter-inch increments, so a hand measuring 4.25 inches would wear a size 4 glove while a hand of 4.5 inches would be a 4.5 glove.
2. Consider brand sizing
Lacrosse glove sizes can vary slightly between brands. It’s a good idea to consult the sizing chart for the specific brand you are considering to see how their sizing compares to your child’s hand measurements.
For example, Maverik youth gloves run smaller than some other brands, so a 4 inch hand may fit better in a Maverik size 5 glove rather than a size 4. Brands like STX and Warrior tend to have more true-to-size glove sizing.
3. Try gloves on
There is no substitute for having your young lacrosse player try on gloves to assess fit and comfort. Even if you have measured their hand size carefully, glove sizing across brands varies enough that you’ll want to have them test out a couple different sizes.
The gloves should fit snugly without restricting finger wiggle room. Extra small gloves usually fit youth with hands measuring 4-4.5 inches best. But some kids may prefer the feel of a half size larger glove, while others need that ultra-snug fit. Trying them on is the only way to know for sure.
4. Prioritize palm size
Focus on palm size over finger length when assessing glove fit. Extra small gloves are designed for smaller hands, with finger stalls sized proportionally shorter. As long as your child’s fingertips still reach the end of the finger stalls, palm fit should take priority.
Palm size determines grip and ball control. Make sure the glove palm creates a comfortable snug fit across your kid’s hand. Fingers can be more easily tucked in slightly long stalls but an overlarge palm area will hinder performance.
5. Consider adjustable wrist closures
Many lacrosse gloves feature adjustable wrist closures with Velcro or elastic. This can help fine tune the fit, especially for younger players with smaller wrists and hands. Look for gloves with adjustable wrists if concerned about overall fit.
6. Prioritize comfort
No glove will improve performance if it doesn’t feel comfortable on your young athlete’s hand. Have them flex their hands, make fists, and mime catching and throwing while trying on gloves. Watch their facial expressions for signs of discomfort.
Ensuring a comfortable glove fit will make them more confident catching, cradling, and handling the ball. Don’t settle for gloves that seem slightly off size-wise if your player says they just don’t feel right.
7. Consider glove weight
Lacrosse gloves are made from a range of materials with differing weights. Lighter weight gloves may be easier for younger kids to handle. Look for gloves made of nylon, polyester, and spandex blends as opposed to heavy leather.
Also look for youth gloves advertised as lightweight. Brands like STX make special lightweight gloves for young players with smaller hands who will benefit from reduced glove weight.
8. Buy professional fit for goalies
Goalie gloves require an even more precise fit than field gloves. The gloves impact goalies’ ability to safely stop hard shots, so perfect sizing is key.
Take your young goalie to a specialty lacrosse store for professional fitting. Most lacrosse retailers offer comprehensive goalie glove sizing guidance to protect hands and optimize performance.
9. Break in gloves before use
Brand new lacrosse gloves often have very stiff palm and finger areas that soften up over time. Have your youth player gently work the gloves to crease the palms and fingers before using them in competition.
Catching and throwing a ball against a wall or lacrosse rebounder can help soften up stiff new glove leather to improve fit and feel.
10. Monitor fit as kid’s hands grow
Youth player’s hands grow rapidly. At the start of each new lacrosse season, take fresh hand measurements and assess current glove fit. Expect to size up every year or two as your athlete grows.
Goalies in particular need glove replacements anytime their old pair becomes too snug in the palms and fingers for optimal protection and flexibility.
11. Favor snugness for attack/middie gloves
A tighter, compression-like glove fit helps offensive players cradle and handle the ball. Attackers and middies should opt for gloves on the snug side with minimal play in the palms and fingers.
Just ensure a full range of finger and hand motion remains uncompromised. Fitting in stores will allow attack and midfield players to test stick work in potential new gloves.
12. Loosen up fit slightly for defenders
Defenders rely more on glove protection than ball handling. Their gloves take a beating from stick checks, body checks, and ground balls. A slightly looser fit improves durability.
Look for thick padding with a bit of play for hard-hitting defensive players. Ensure the glove still provides full hand maneuverability when fitted more loosely.
13. Use youth-specific gloves whenever possible
Many lacrosse brands now make gloves sized specifically for younger players. These feature smaller palm and finger areas, along with adjustments like flexible wrist closures.
Youth lacrosse gloves account for kids’ smaller hands and weaker grip strength. They allow for optimal dexterity and ball control in growing athletes. Buy youth gloves over simply sizing down an adult pair.
14. Emphasize comfort over position fits
While a snugger fit suits offensive players and a looser fit helps defenders, comfort should take priority. Don’t size gloves way up or down just to align with positional conventions if it negatively impacts comfort.
A hesitant player adjusting to an ill-fitting glove won’t perform their best. Make sure your young athlete is comfortable first and foremost, regardless of position.
15. Replace gloves that are too snug
Youth players often try to stick with old gloves even after outgrowing them. But overly snug gloves restrict finger and hand mobility. Don’t wait for ripped seams or finger holes – replace gloves at the first sign of tightness and discomfort.
Growing young athletes hand switch out gloves more frequently than adult players. Stay vigilant for proper fit as their hands grow. Prioritize replacing undersized gloves right away.
Finding lacrosse gloves in just the right size for your youth player’s smaller hands takes some trial and error. Measure their hand size frequently, have them try on a range of sizes and brands, and keep comfort as the number one priority. With some persistence you’ll find gloves that support their development as young athletes while allowing full hand mobility as they learn the game.
Those with 5-5.5 inch hands wear small youth lacrosse gloves
Properly fitting lacrosse gloves are essential for young players to develop their skills. The right glove size provides protection, enhances ball control, and allows full hand motion. For youth athletes with hand sizes measuring 5-5.5 inches, a small glove size typically works best.
Choosing the optimal lacrosse glove size involves several considerations:
1. Precisely measure hand size
Measuring hand size is the starting point for determining glove sizing. Have your youth player spread their fingers out flat and measure from the base of the palm where the wrist bends to the tip of the middle finger. Round to the closest 1/4 inch.
Hand sizes of 5-5.5 inches generally correspond to a small glove size. A 5.25 inch hand would wear a size 5 glove while a 5.5 inch hand fits a 5.5 glove. Measure regularly as growing hands change.
2. Consult brand sizing charts
Youth lacrosse glove sizes are not uniform across brands. Refer to sizing charts to see how a manufacturer’s gloves fit hand measurements. Mawerik tends to run smaller, STX and Warrior are true to size, for example.
If your 5.5 inch hand kid tries on a size 6 Maverik glove that fits well, the sizing chart explains why that larger size worked better than expected based on hand size.
3. Try on different sizes
Have your young athlete try on various sizes of lacrosse gloves in person for the most accurate fit determination. A measuring tape can’t replace the feel of different glove sizes on their hands.
The ideal fit should be snug without limiting finger mobility. Trying on gloves allows players to assess real life flexibility and comfort across sizes.
4. Focus on palm measurements
Palm size matters most for lacrosse gloves. As long as finger tips reach the end of the stalls, achieving a relaxed but snug palm fit is optimal. Oversized palms hinder handling.
For players with 5-5.5 inch hand measurements, small youth gloves around size 5-6 match up palm width best for ball control and security.
5. Utilize adjustable wrist closures
Many youth gloves feature Velcro or elastic wrist closures allowing tweaks to snug up fit. This customization ensures a secure glove hold around smaller wrists.
Adjustable wrists also help dial in the ideal closeness around growing hands by tightening or loosening as needed.
6. Make sure gloves feel good
No lacrosse glove enhances performance if uncomfortable. When trying on gloves, have your young player flex hands, grip imaginary sticks, and mime catching and throwing.
Ensure no odd pinching, pressure points, or other discomfort. A glove must feel good for optimal confidence and ball control development.
7. Select lightweight materials
Look for nylon, polyester, and spandex glove materials instead of heavy leathers. Lighter options suit younger kids best through increased flexibility and breathability.
Many brands now make lightweight youth gloves to aid smaller hands and developing wrist strength. Prioritize lighter gloves for 5-5.5 inch hand size kids.
8. Size up goalie gloves professionally
Goalie gloves require precise fit for hand protection and grip. Take your youth goalie to a specialty lacrosse retailer for an expert fitting.
Most stores provide detailed glove sizing knowledge to select ideal goalie gloves for your 5-5.5 inch hand kid to thrive and stay safe.
9. Break in gloves before games
Brand new gloves often run stiff, especially in palms and fingers. Have your young athlete gently work the gloves to loosen them up before competition.
Catching and throwing with new gloves accelerates break-in. Frequently flexing fingers and palms inside hastens softening too.
10. Remeasure hands before each season
Kids’ hands grow rapidly, so old gloves may not fit come fall ball or spring season. Remeasure hands prior to gearing up each lacrosse year.
Expect to size up every year or two as 5-5.5 inch hands grow. Lack of finger mobility or palm tightness signals time for larger gloves.
11. Get snug fit for offensive positions
A tight glove compression fit optimizes ball control for attackers and midfielders. Finger stalls and palms should have minimal excess material.
Ensure full hand mobility remains uncompromised. Glove-specific wall ball accelerates break-in for ideal snugness.
12. Size up slightly for defenders
Defenders need impact protection more than stick skills from gloves. A minimally looser fit improves durability against checks, scrums, and ground balls.
Ensure the relaxed fit still supports hand mobility when sizing up. Palms should not have major wrinkling or bunching.
13. Buy youth-specific gloves when possible
Many brands design gloves tailored to younger players’ smaller hands and developing coordination.
Youth gloves feature adjustable wrists, flexible materials, and palm and finger construction catering to kids’ needs. Choose youth gloves over adult gloves.
14. Let comfort guide positional fits
Stick to snugger offensive or looser defensive glove fits based on position conventions, but not if discomfort results. Comfort trumps conventions.
Don’t size way up or down just for positional “rules.” Ensure your 5-5.5 inch hand kid stays comfortable and confident first and foremost.
15. Replace undersized gloves immediately
Young players often try prolonging tight gloves’ lives. But discomfort and hand constraints hinder performance.
At the first sign of overly snug fit from finger tip jamming or palm squeezing, replace gloves no matter how new. Don’t wait for ripped seams or holes.
Proper lacrosse glove sizing relies on frequent hand measurement, trying on multiple brands and fits, and keeping comfort the priority. With some trial and error, you’ll dial in the right gloves to protect those 5-5.5 inch hands while enhancing development.
Youth with 6-6.5 inch hands fit size medium lacrosse gloves
Finding the right lacrosse glove size is crucial for youth players to maximize their performance and protect their hands properly on the field. With so many sizes and options available, it can get confusing determining which glove is the right fit. Here are 15 tips to help parents and players get the ideal lacrosse glove size for youth:
1. Measure hand size
The starting point for any glove fitting is measuring the player’s hand size. Have them spread their hand out flat and measure across the palm at the widest point, usually across the knuckles. This measurement in inches will correspond to glove sizes.
2. Refer to sizing charts
Most lacrosse glove brands provide sizing charts that recommend gloves based on hand measurements. A youth player with a 6-6.5 inch hand would typically fit a medium glove according to most sizing guides.
3. Try on different sizes
There is no substitute for having players try on different sizes of gloves to find the right fit. Even if their hand measurement indicates a certain size, it’s good to try a size larger and smaller to compare the fit.
4. Snug but not too tight
The glove should fit snug around the hand with no major gaps, but not be uncomfortably tight either. Wiggle fingers to ensure flexibility without constraint.
5. Check wrist and cuff
With the glove on, make a fist to check that the wrist cuff and closure sits right above the wrist bone without digging in or sliding down the forearm.
6. Palms and fingers
Fingers should reach all the way into the glove fingers without excess room. Palm padding should cover the entire palm without gaps at the bottom or heel of the hand.
7. Thumb protection
The glove’s thumb protection should follow the thumb’s natural curve without bending or resistance when the thumb is moved.
8. Gripping crosse
With the glove on, grip the crosse as normal – gloves that are too small may not allow proper hand wrapping around the shaft or head.
9. Flexibility test
Bend fingers, make a fist and move the wrist with gloves on to ensure the gloves allow full mobility and flexion without resistance.
10. Arm length
Glove cuffs should extend 2-3 inches past the wrist up the forearm for protection from checks. Longer gloves provide more arm coverage.
11. Growth spurts
Consider sizing up if a player is experiencing major growth spurts to allow room for hand size increase in the coming season.
12. Position needs
Goalies need more fingertip and thumb protection so may size up. Defensive players also tend to prefer more arm coverage with longer gloves.
13. Comfort over size
If a player falls between sizes, better to size down and opt for more snug fit and dexterity rather than overly loose gloves.
14. New gloves require break-in time
Brand new gloves often feel stiff – allow 2-3 practices to properly break-in gloves before evaluating fit.
15. Consult coaches and sales associates
Talk to coaches and sales associates at lacrosse retailers for sizing recommendations based on experience fitting other youth players.
With proper glove sizing, youth lacrosse players will be able to catch, throw, scoop and protect their hands better. Take the time to carefully evaluate the fit and measure hand size rather than guessing. Well-fitting gloves instill confidence in young athletes while preventing injury. Consider the options and invest in quality gloves that are sized right for optimal performance.