How To Choose The Best Nike Lacrosse Gloves For Your Needs in 2023

How To Choose The Best Nike Lacrosse Gloves For Your Needs in 2023

Choosing the Right Size Nike Lacrosse Gloves

When selecting your Nike lacrosse gloves, one of the most important factors to consider is getting the proper size. Having gloves that fit correctly will allow you to handle your stick and ball control with precision, while also providing full protective coverage.

The sizing for Nike gloves is based on hand measurements, not age or glove size in other sports. Be sure to actually measure your dominant hand from the tip of the middle finger to the base of the palm. Refer to Nike’s size chart to find your corresponding glove size based on those hand measurements. Keep in mind that glove sizes may vary slightly between models.

In general, the gloves should fit snugly but allow some flex room, especially across the fingers and knuckles. The wrist cuff should overlap any arm pads you wear. For goalies, a tighter fit helps improve rebound control. Field players want a balance of flexibility and secure coverage.

Try on different sizes if possible, holding your stick while wearing the gloves. Your fingers should reach all the way into the finger stalls with around 0.25-0.5 inches of extra room at the tips. The gloves shouldn’t pinch or restrict mobility. Move your hand and flex your fingers to gauge the overall comfort and range of motion.

Shop earlier in the season for the best selection of sizes. Break in your new gloves properly over time. You may need to adjust the wrist closure for a more customized fit. Don’t sacrifice protection or play with gloves that are too small in the hopes you will grow into them. Taking the time to get the sizing right ensures your Nike lacrosse gloves will provide superior performance all season long.

Comparing Nike Lacrosse Glove Models

When selecting your Nike lacrosse gloves, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right model based on your position, skill level, and preferences. Nike offers several glove models and technologies to meet the needs of every type of player.

The Nike Vapor line is lightweight and designed for maximum mobility, featuring a flexible back-of-hand design. The Vapor gloves use compressed foam for protection. They come in different price points based on features. The basic Vapor gloves offer an excellent value for newer players. Step up to the Vapor Pro model for increased padding and durability. Vapor Elite adds maximum protection and an inner Thermoplastic PolyUrethane (TPU) liner. Vapor Jet gloves utilizeadvanced Lycra gussets for flexibility.

For female players, the Nike Vapor Female gloves deliver an anatomical fit tailored for women. They have the same Vapor technology as the unisex models. The sizing accommodates the average female player’s smaller hand size.

Nike Alpha lacrosse gloves utilize Tri-Layer Poron XRD foam for lightweight, flexible cushioning that disperses impact. The Alpha line includes the Alpha Elite, Alpha Pro, and Alpha Huarache models. Alpha Elite gloves offer max protection, while Alpha Pro balances protection and mobility. Alpha Huarache gloves are ultra-lightweight for elite players.

For goalies, Nike offers Vapor Goalie gloves engineered to enhance rebound control. They feature thick foam protection in the main impact zones along with an inner TPU liner. The compression cuff helps lock the glove in place. Finger vents allow breathability. The Vapor Goalie gloves come in different cuts based on preference.

When comparing glove models, consider your position, skill level, budget, and specific needs regarding fit, protection, and mobility. Study the features and technologies used in each Nike glove line. Reading glove reviews can provide additional insight into sizing, comfort, quality, and durability. Try on different gloves if possible to determine the best option for your playing style.

Choosing the Right Palm and Cuff Type

When selecting your Nike lacrosse gloves, choosing the right palm and cuff type based on your preferences is an important consideration. The palm material and cuff closure system both impact the overall fit, feel, and performance of the gloves.

Nike gloves feature different palm materials depending on the model. Basic synthetic leather palms offer durability and grip. Premium leather palms provide a soft, natural feel and increased control. Some high-end gloves use a custom Clarino palm material made of synthetic fibers for a light, supple feel. Goalie gloves may use a textured Nash palm designed to enhance rebounds.

Consider your stick skills and needs for grip when choosing palm type. Synthetic palms with texture provide excellent all-around grip in various conditions. Leather palms offer a smooth, consistent feel for cradling and catching. Clarino palms are lightweight for quick release when passing. Nash goalie palms help grab and deflect shots.

The cuff closure also affects security and flexibility. Nike gloves use different cuff systems such as basic Velcro, adjustable hook and loop, or compression closures. Standard Velcro cuffs deliver a secure fit. Dual adjustable straps allow you to customize tightness and get the right fit dialed in. Compression cuffs integrate into arm pads to lock the glove in place.

For field players, adjustable closures allow you to tweak the tightness as needed for comfort and protection. Goalies may prefer compression cuffs to prevent gaps between the glove and arm guard. Consider how the cuff impacts range of motion based on your position and preference. Trying on different glove closure styles can help determine the most suitable option.

Taking the time to evaluate different Nike palm materials and cuff closures will ensure you get lacrosse gloves with the exact combination of control, flexibility, and protective coverage you need to maximize your performance on the field.

Custom Design Options for Unique Style

One of the best things about Nike lacrosse gloves is the ability to customize them with unique style designs. Nike offers several custom glove personalization options to help you stand out on the field.

The Nike Custom Glove Studio allows you to fully personalize the colors and graphics on select Nike vapor gloves. You can choose from a variety of template designs or create your own custom look from scratch. Upload photos, input text, and select custom colors to make gloves that match your preferences.

Nike also offers the ability to customize gloves with embroidery. Add your name, number, team logo, or other embroidered graphics to customize the look. Embroidery is available on leather or synthetic gloves. Keep embroidery simple for the best results.

For a creative way to rep your team pride, the Nike Vapor Glove Talon and Blade plate systems allow you to switch out customizable nameplates on the cuff closure. The plates easily slide in and out of the closure for a unique interchangeable design.

Nike NCAA team gloves feature school colors and logos for collegiate players. Many college teams have exclusive Nike-sponsored glove designs. Check if your school has special team gloves available.

With Nike lacrosse gloves, you can express your personal style while getting the perfect fit and high-performance features you need. Custom gloves also make great unique gifts for lacrosse players. Be sure to order custom gloves well in advance of the season to allow time for processing and delivery.

Having your own customized Nike lacrosse gloves helps motivate you on the field. The ability to add custom colors, graphics and embroidered details gives you options to create one-of-a-kind gloves that showcase your personality.

Choosing Youth or Women’s Models

When selecting your Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s important to consider sizing options like youth and women’s models to get the proper fit. Nike makes gloves specifically designed for younger players and female athletes.

The Nike Vapor Youth gloves are engineered for younger athletes. They utilize the same innovative Vapor technology and materials as the adult gloves. The fit is scaled down with a tapered, contoured shape optimized for smaller hands.

Youth gloves help enhance performance by allowing for dexterity and responsiveness. A proper fit helps young players develop skills and ball control. Youth gloves are available in age-specific sizes rather than standard men’s sizing.

For female players, Nike offers Vapor, Alpha, and goalie gloves made specifically to fit women’s hands. The narrower, more anatomical shape accommodates the average female player’s smaller hand size compared to men.

Women’s gloves help maximize protection and minimize interference for female athletes. The tapered shape allows freedom of movement. The cuffs are designed to contour arms smoothly. An adjustable closure customizes fit.

The Nike Vapor Female glove is engineered to support elite female athletes. It uses the same technologies as the male Vapor glove, like Poron XRD foam, in a women’s cut. The Nike Alpha Female glove balances protection and quickness.

Don’t compromise with gloves that are too bulky and limit mobility. With youth and women’s lacrosse gloves, Nike provides an optimized fit to help young players and female athletes perform their best. Be sure to reference size charts and focus on key needs like flexibility, protection, and breathability when selecting the right Nike kids or women’s gloves.

Prioritizing Protection and Durability

When choosing your Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s important to prioritize protection and durability to help minimize injury risk and maximize glove lifespan.

Nike uses advanced foam technology in its gloves to disperse impact. Multi-layer Poron XRD foam protects the back of the hand and fingers using a unique structure that flexes on impact. The cushions shock and absorbs vibration at key contact points for defense against checks.

Strategically placed padding in the palm helps dampen ball impact and protect the hand when scooping up ground balls. Thicker padding on the cuff and wrist guard against slashing. Inner TPU liners add an extra layer of impact protection.

Superior protection allows you to play aggressive with confidence. Well-padded gloves help prevent bruising, fractures, and other traumatic injuries from hard checks, errant sticks, and batted balls.

When it comes to durability, Nike lacrosse gloves utilize abrasion-resistant materials on high wear zones. Tough synthetic leathers withstand friction from scooping and stick handling. The palms incorporate textured grip patterns to prevent tearing.

Reinforced stitching throughout boosts structural integrity. Compare gloves based on critical reviews regarding longevity and signs of premature wear. Properly caring for your gloves by avoiding machines and air drying extends usable life.

While flexibility and feel are still important, don’t sacrifice necessary padding for the sake of mobility. Take the time to ensure any gloves you choose have ample high-quality foam cushioning in vulnerable areas. Prioritizing protection and durability ensures you get the most out of your Nike gloves.

Reading Reviews and Asking for Recommendations

When shopping for your Nike lacrosse gloves, taking the time to read reviews and ask for recommendations can provide valuable insight into choosing the best option.

Check out glove reviews from objective experts as well as fellow players. Look for consistent feedback on sizing, comfort, protection, quality, and durability. Reviews can reveal pros and cons compared to other glove models. Pay attention to any common issues with fit or construction.

Trusted sites like LacrosseMonkey and Amazon offer customer reviews that provide first-hand accounts of glove performance and longevity. YouTube reviews allow you to see the gloves visually. Specialty lacrosse forums contain discussions that can help narrow options.

In addition to online reviews, don’t underestimate the value of asking coaches, teammates, and other experienced players for input. Those who have used Nike gloves extensively can offer personalized recommendations based on factors like playing style, skill level, and preferences.

Teammates who play your position and have similar needs make great resources. Ask about the specific Nike gloves they use and why. Inquire about any pros and cons they’ve experienced. Trying on their gloves can help you compare fit.

Getting insights from both reviews and people familiar with Nike gloves can help you identify the ideal pair. The right gloves ultimately come down to your individual needs and budget. But leveraging the experience of others saves research time and helps avoid disappointments from gloves that don’t live up to expectations.

Shopping Early for Custom Orders

When getting ready to purchase your Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s important to shop early to allow plenty of time for custom orders.

Nike’s customized gloves like the Custom Glove Studio and embroidered gloves require extra production time. The customization process can take 6-8 weeks for gloves to be designed, printed, and shipped.

Shopping well before the season starts ensures customized gloves will be delivered in time for practices and games. Rushing custom orders close to the start of season risks long delays and receiving gloves after you need them.

Shopping early also gives you time to get the sizing right, especially if you plan on ordering multiple pairs like game and practice gloves. Order early so you can exchange any that don’t fit properly once received, without worrying about tight delivery windows.

For the best selection, shop off-season when most lacrosse retailers have a full range of inventory in all sizes rather than picked-over remaining stock. Early shopping ensures you get the color and design options you want before popular versions sell out.

The earlier you start the buying process, the more you can take advantage of presales, special discounts, and limited-time promos retailers offer on the newest gear each season. Sign up for email lists to get notified of deals.

Getting an early jump on shopping for your Nike lacrosse gloves eliminates hassles, ensures customized items arrive on time, and can save you money. Make a plan to start researching options a couple months before the season so you’re ready to order your perfect gloves with time to spare.

Considering Extra Features Like Thermo Plastic Resin or Poron XRD

When selecting your Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s worth looking at extra features like Thermo Plastic Resin (TPR) or Poron XRD foam that enhance fit, protection, and performance.

TPR is a molded plastic material that Nike incorporates into some glove components. Strategically placed TPR plastic plates on the back of the hand, wrist, and thumb provide extra shielding from checks while maintaining flexibility.

The injected plastic molding process allows Nike to shape protective TPR padding in anatomical designs that contour to hands and wrists. TPR disperses and deflects impact force for added protection beyond foam alone.

Poron XRD foam takes cushioning a step further. Its unique structure instantly absorbs impact and diffuses shock vibrations rather than just compressing. The advanced cross-linked polymer material flexes naturally for unrestricted mobility.

Poron XRD is formulated to be lightweight yet extremely protective. Nike places pre-contoured XRD pads in high-impact zones. The long-lasting material resists hardening or flattening over time compared to basic foam.

For goalies, TPR palm plates prevent sting and add reinforcement for knocking down shots. XRD foam provides enhanced cushioning in the cuff and hand to protect against deep pocket saves. TPR and XRD technologies work together for all-around protection and responsiveness.

Consider shelling out a little extra for Nike gloves featuring bonuses like TPR and Poron XRD. Advanced materials like these enable gloves to be both supple and protective, keeping hands safe from trauma while maintaining natural quickness.

Comparing Prices Online to Find the Best Deals

One of the best tips for getting your Nike lacrosse gloves at the most affordable pricing is to compare prices online at different retailers.

Shopping online for gloves gives you the ability to quickly evaluate pricing from a wide range of sellers. Take the time to search major online lacrosse stores like LacrosseMonkey, Lax.com, Amazon, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Compare the retail list prices across different sites for the specific Nike gloves you want. Factor in shipping costs. Sign up for e-newsletters and enable notifications to get alerts on promotional sales and coupon codes.

Check lesser-known lacrosse outlets online that may offer discounted pricing but still provide a legitimate buying experience. There are many niche e-commerce shops with competitive glove prices.

Don’t forget to check Nike’s website directly. Nike runs special deals on gloves, including clearances on last year’s models still in stock. They also have holiday sales around events like Black Friday where you can score gloves for cheap.

Set price drop alerts on gloves you have your eye on and buy when the price hits your target. Check back frequently around the start of spring season for clearance sales on remaining inventory.

With a little research effort, comparing online prices makes it possible to snag the Nike lacrosse gloves you want at the best possible price point. Shopping around saves you money compared to buying at just one retailer.

Taking Advantage of Sales and Limited-Time Discounts

Getting a good deal on your Nike lacrosse gloves often comes down to taking advantage of sales events and limited-time promotions offered at various times of the year.

During the holiday shopping season around Thanksgiving and Christmas, many lacrosse retailers run major sales on gear for the upcoming spring season. Nike gloves are often discounted 20-30% or more during these peak sales periods.

Popular summer events like Father’s Day, Memorial Day, and July 4th also tend to coincide with glove sales and promotions. The key is signing up ahead of time to get email and text alerts when sales go live.

At the start of spring each year, retailers will discount remaining previous-year glove stock to make room for new incoming models. Older styles can be marked down significantly while inventory lasts.

Limited-time coupon codes and stacking other discounts like team pricing on top of sales can increase savings even more. Following lacrosse retailers and Nike on social media provides notice of any special promos.

The beginning and end of season are when you’ll generally find the steepest discounts. Set aside a budget and purchase gloves during a major holiday or inventory clearance sale to maximize value.

With a little strategic timing, taking advantage of sales and promotions throughout the year makes purchasing new Nike lacrosse gloves much more affordable.

Considering Pre-Owned and Used Gloves

If looking to save money on Nike lacrosse gloves, one option to consider is buying high-quality pre-owned or used gloves rather than paying full price for brand new ones.

Used gloves can offer excellent value if they are lightly worn and still have plenty of life left. Many players upgrade frequently or outgrow gloves after one season. Gloves that are gently used but too small for one player may be the perfect fit for you.

Check lacrosse forums and community classifieds for individuals selling quality used gloves. Vet the seller and inspect photos closely to verify condition. Ask detailed questions about usage, diligent cleaning, and signs of wear.

Retail sites like SidelineSwap offer pre-screened new and used gloves where you can shop by model and size. All gear is authenticated before listing. Purchasing through reputable sites provides buyer protections.

Before purchasing any used gloves, carefully examine for worn palm materials, loose stitching, flattened padding, and tears. Try them on while holding a stick to ensure good dexterity and protection. Only buy used gloves in near-new condition.

Consider budgeting to replace palm pads and worn cuffs on used gloves to extend their usefulness. With some TLC, pre-owned gloves can be restored to like-new quality at a fraction of the price.

Searching for high-quality used or pre-owned gloves takes more effort but can net you premium Nike lacrosse gloves for hundreds less. Just be diligent in verifying condition and fit when going the used route.

Focusing on Proper Fit Rather Than Brand Names

When shopping for Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s important to focus on getting the proper fit for your hands rather than fixating on Nike’s brand name alone.

While Nike makes quality gloves loaded with innovative features, the right fit is critical. Don’t get caught up in brand recognition and make assumptions about correct sizing.

Carefully measure your hand size and check Nike’s size charts when selecting gloves. Their sizing accommodates a wide range of hands, but varies across glove models. Trying them on while holding your stick is ideal.

Determine your size objectively in Nike gloves just as you would with any brand. Be willing to go up or down a size from your regular glove size to dial in the ideal fit. Getting the length and palm width right ensures maximum comfort.

Consider other top glove brands as well and make your decision based on true fit rather than associations with the Nike name. While features differ across brands, fit and feel should be the top priority.

A narrow focus on Nike without considering gloves from Maverik, STX, or Warrior that may actually fit your hand better does you no good. Don’t assume Nike’s acclaimed technologies automatically equal gloves that suit your needs.

No doubt Nike’s glove innovations set them apart from competitors. But the right fit ultimately allows you to maximize your skills. Let your hand measurements and preferences, not brand recognition, dictate which lacrosse gloves deliver that ideal fit and feel.

Properly Breaking In New Gloves Over Time

Once you purchase new Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s important to break them in properly over a period of time for maximum performance.

With leather and synthetic gloves, the materials start out stiff before conforming to your hand. Take it slow by wearing the gloves around the house to begin loosening them up before hitting the field.

Gradually work the gloves by catching and cradling balls to heat up the leather Palm materials and flex the shape. Frequently clenching and opening your gloved hand accelerates break-in.

Apply leather conditioner to the palm to soften and improve pliability. Massage conditioner into the palm material while kneading the gloves to make them more supple.

During on-field use, remember brand new gloves require an adjustment period as you get accustomed to the snug fit. Don’t expect optimal comfort and dexterity in the first practices. Performance improves as the construction molds to your hands.

While breaking gloves in, pay attention to any developing pressure points or fit issues. Address lacing tightness, finger stall depth, and wrist closure adjustments early before problems arise.

Have patience and limit use to shorter periods until the gloves achieve that just-right shape and feel. Properly broken-in gloves ultimately move with your hands as if custom fitted.

Invest the time upfront to carefully break in new Nike lacrosse gloves. Following some simple steps helps maximize performance and usable life of your gloves.

Caring for Your Gloves Properly

To get the most out of your Nike lacrosse gloves, it’s important to care for them properly by following some basic maintenance steps.

Always air dry gloves fully after use before storing to prevent moisture damage. Stuff gloves lightly with newspaper to absorb dampness and retain shape as they dry. Storing wet gloves breeds bacteria and premature breakdown.

Sanitize gloves regularly by spot cleaning palm material with a disinfectant leather wipe to eliminate odors and germs. Use a soft bristle brush on textured palms to loosen trapped dirt after heavy use.

Check for signs of wear each time you use the gloves. Re-adhere any loose stitching right away with clear nail polish. Touch up scuffed leather or synthetic palms with glove polish to recondition.

Every few weeks, thoroughly clean gloves with a gentle leather cleaner, rinse residue, and recondition. Avoid harsh cleaners that can strip oils. Follow with a quality leather conditioner to replenish oils and prevent cracking.

For long-term glove storage, remove laces and insert glove shapers to retain form. Place gloves in breathable mesh bags, not airtight containers. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

Avoid machine washing and drying gloves which can degrade materials. Skip over-oiling palms which causes a tacky feel. Handle gloves with care to minimize rips and fraying.

With regular TLC, proper maintenance keeps Nike gloves fresh and extends their useful life so you get more seasons of play out of each pair.