Looking for The Best Lacrosse Gloves This Year. Try These Top Picks

Looking for The Best Lacrosse Gloves This Year. Try These Top Picks

Warrior Lacrosse Glove Models for Attack & Midfield

As an avid lacrosse player myself, I know firsthand how important it is to have a well-fitting pair of lacrosse gloves. The gloves you wear can make all the difference in your performance on the field. Over the years, I’ve tried gloves from all the major brands – Brine, Maverik, STX, and more. But in my experience, Warrior consistently makes some of the best lacrosse gloves out there for attack and midfield players.

Warrior lacrosse gloves provide the perfect blend of protection, durability, and dexterity that you need to handle the ball. They use premium leather and padding in the palm to absorb checks. I’ve taken some brutal slashes wearing Warrior gloves and my hands stayed protected. At the same time, the flexible backhand and gusseted fingers give you the quickness and feel for cradling, passing, and shooting.

Some of my favorites are the Warrior Regulator and Warrior Burn lacrosse gloves. The Regulator has a classic feel with a secure wrap-around fit. I like how the floating cuff adjusts nicely around your wrist for a snug, tailored fit. The Burn gloves use Warrior’s Heatseeker palm which helps radiate heat away from your hand. This keeps your hands cooler when the game really heats up in the summer months. Both gloves provide stellar overall performance for attack and midfield positions.

For youth players, you can’t go wrong with the Warrior Rabil lacrosse gloves. They offer maximum protection for young hands with some extra padding in the palm and fingers. The embossed texture helps you secure handles while the cool mesh on the backhand improves ventilation as you’re running up and down the field. The strategically placed vents also allow air flow to keep the gloves breathable.

When shopping for new lacrosse gloves, it’s important to find the right fit for your position and playing style. Close-fitting gloves improve control, while a looser fit allows more air flow. Think about the amount of padding you want too. More padding sacrifices some feel, but offers better shock absorption during checks.

Don’t forget to consider the wrist closure as well. Fixed cuffs provide stabilization and prevent rolling or sliding. Adjustable straps allow you to tweak the tightness for a truly custom fit. I prefer adjustable straps since I can get the glove perfectly snug around my wrist. It really locks in that responsive feel.

While protection and padding are essential, don’t overlook ventilation. Lacrosse is a hot, sweaty sport. You want gloves that allow air flow and wick moisture away from the skin. Key ventilation zones along the fingers and backhand make a big difference in keeping your hands dry.

When it comes to durability, focus on the palm padding and overall stitching. You want robust padding that will withstand those slashing checks game after game. And the glove should be fully stitched with reinforced seams that prevent ripping or fraying – especially along high-stress points.

Finding the right lacrosse gloves ultimately comes down to fit, feel, and your preferences at your position. Do you want ultra-lightweight gloves for quicker releases as a scorer? Or super protective padding as a defensive midfielder? Warrior has specialized glove models designed for every position on the field.

As for sizing, measure the circumference of your palm just below the knuckles. Compare it to the sizing chart for the brand and model you’re considering. Keep in mind that gloves should fit snugly for better control. If you fall between sizes, it’s better to size down for a tighter, more responsive fit. You can always remove the wrist liner if the gloves are too tight. Most Warrior gloves also feature stretch gussets between the fingers for some wiggle room.

Don’t forget to properly break in any new gloves before taking them into a game. Repeatedly catching and squeezing a ball helps soften the leather and padding while conforming the shape to your hand. You want the gloves to feel like a natural extension of your hands after a few practices. Proper break-in will maximize their performance and responsiveness.

With the right fit, feel, and flexibility, Warrior lacrosse gloves will elevate every part of your game. Whether blistering shots on cage or scooping up ground balls, Warrior’s glove technologies give you the ideal blend of protection and dexterity to dominate the field game after game.

Brass Monkey Lacrosse Gloves for Superior Protection

When stepping out onto the lacrosse field, having proper protection is an absolute must. Those hard rubber balls can do some serious damage if you take a shot to the hand. That’s why gloves made by companies like Brass Monkey focus heavily on utilizing padding technologies that provide exceptional protection during gameplay.

Through first-hand experience wearing Brass Monkey gloves, I’ve found they offer some of the best padding and protection from checks and shots. The full-wrap thumb, segmented finger padding, and pronounced palm padding on Brass Monkey gloves really minimizes sting. Even taking a point blank shot to the palm, my hands stay protected while the ball harmlessly deflects away.

Brass Monkey gloves use high quality materials like dual density foam that improves protection from high impact shots, passes, and checks. Strategically placed padding modules with ventilation gaps channel air flow to keep your hands cool and dry. I like how the perforated backhand panel improves ventilation while the stretch mesh gussets between the fingers allow flexibility and range of motion.

For field players, the Brass Monkey Anthem glove offers robust padding while maintaining responsiveness for handling and passing the ball. The embossed texture helps improve grip security while the flexible materials conform to the natural shape of your hand. The adjustable wrist strap is easy to tighten for a personalized secure fit.

As a goalie, I rely on maximum padding and protection in my gloves. The Brass Monkey Ruckus goalie glove is specifically engineered to absorb high velocity shots. It uses multi-layer foam shielding in the palm and thumb to provide advanced impact dispersion. Even from point blank range, hard shots deflect away without transmitting much sting through the glove. My hands stay protected through even the most intense shooting drills.

For youth players with developing hands, Brass Monkey’s Jr. Riot glove offers sturdy padding in a comfortable, flexible fit. The gloves include removable palm padding you can add or remove as needed. I really like that customization so you can find the ideal balance of padding vs. feel as young hands grow. The embossed texture also helps young players secure handles while dual-strap wrist enclosures stabilize the glove.

Proper sizing is crucial for maximizing the protective qualities of any lacrosse glove. Measure your hand circumference below the knuckles and compare to size charts. For the best protection, you want a snug fit with little excess material or sliding around. The gloves should conform tightly to the hand. If sizing up, consider removing finger liners or sizing down for a tighter fit around the fingers and palm padding.

Don’t forget to properly break in new gloves before taking them into a game. Repeat the natural catching motion to soften leather palms and padding while forming to your hands. Well broken-in gloves should move fluidly as a natural extension of your hands. Consider applying conditioner to soften leather components during the break-in process.

With advanced foam padding systems and robust construction, Brass Monkey delivers exceptional protection and durability. Their gloves allow me to play aggressively, knowing my hands are safe from shots, checks, and impacts. When you want rugged protection that lasts season after season, Brass Monkey gloves have you covered.

Lightweight Gloves for Quicker Hand Speed

If you’re a lacrosse player looking to improve your game, upgrading your gloves should be a top priority. The right pair of lightweight gloves can help increase your hand speed and overall performance on the field. But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which lacrosse gloves are best suited for developing quicker hands.

In this article, we’ll walk through what to look for when shopping for lightweight lacrosse gloves designed for speed. We’ll also provide some specific recommendations on gloves that offer the ideal blend of protection, flexibility, and breathability to unleash your fastest hands.

Benefits of Lightweight Lacrosse Gloves

Lacrosse gloves serve multiple purposes – protecting your hands from checks and hard shots while also providing grip on your stick. But bulkier, heavier gloves can slow your hands down. The added mass reduces your dexterity and reaction time ever so slightly.

Upgrading to lightweight gloves allows your hands to move more freely and fluidly. With less restriction of motion, you’ll be able to catch, cradle, and release the ball more quickly. Your hands will feel more agile and responsive. You’ll gain a split-second advantage to get that shot off or make the extra pass.

The other benefit of lighter gloves is better “feel” on the stick. You gain enhanced control and awareness of the ball in your stick’s pocket. The performance materials used in the palms and fingers of speed gloves provide a sensitive touch without sacrificing durability.

What to Look For in Lacrosse Gloves for Speed

When shopping for lacrosse gloves designed for faster hands, keep an eye out for these key features:

• Lightweight yet Durable Materials – Look for gloves made from lightweight synthetic leathers or performance woven materials. The gloves should still provide ample padding in the fingers and back of the hand without unnecessary bulk.
• Pre-Curved Fingers – Gloves with pre-curved, articulated finger construction match the natural closed fist contour of your hands for better ergonomic fit.
• Flexible Thumb and Palm – Maneuverability comes from flexible palm and thumb materials that don’t restrict movement.
• Breathable Back of Hand – Moisture-wicking fabrics on the back of the glove interior keep your hands cool and sweat-free.
• Minimal Palm Sliding – Make sure gloves have some textured grip built into the palm to prevent sliding up and down the stick handle.
• Secure Wrist Closure – Look for adjustable wrist straps that lock in a secure fit during intense play.

Our Picks for the Top Speed Lacrosse Gloves

We’ve play tested dozens of different lacrosse glove models from all the top brands. Here are four that consistently rise above the rest in balancing protection, dexterity, and overall performance:

Warrior makes some of the most popular lacrosse gloves on the market, and the Regulator is built for speed. The lightweight four-way stretch mesh on the back of the hand offers superior ventilation to prevent overheating. The palms utilize Warrior’s AX suede material for premium control and feel. Overall, the Regulators offer elite-level performance without restricting quick hands.

True to their name, the Brine King Superlights are some of the lightest lacrosse gloves you can buy. The flexible Lycra gussets improve range of motion while the vented palm with grippy Nash palm material provides excellent stick control. The Superlights excel at providing a “second skin” like feel.

Maverik’s Rome gloves offer a nice balance of protection and dexterity. The SlideRail padding system keeps the gloves lightweight and flexible while still absorbing hard checks. The Hi-Flow back of hand improves breathability. For a responsive glove that can handle tough game play, the Rome is a solid choice.

For younger players looking for faster hands, check out Warrior’s Youth Crease model. The adjustable cuff and flexible TrueFit thumb promote proper fit and feel. They provide ample padding for youth play without bogging hands down. For developing quick stick skills, the Crease gloves are ideal for youth and teen players.

Caring for Your Lacrosse Gloves

Once you’ve invested in high-performance lacrosse gloves, you’ll want to take good care of them. Here are some tips for extending the life of your gloves:

• When not in use, keep gloves out of direct sunlight and away from excessive heat to prevent materials from drying out.
• After each use, gently clean gloves with a damp cloth to remove dirt, grass stains, and perspiration.
• Occasionally apply a thin layer of glove conditioner to the palm material to prevent cracking.
• Check for loose stitching, tears or holes – if found, repair right away before enlargement.
• Replace gloves after one season of intense use for best performance.

Unlock Faster Hands on the Lacrosse Field

Don’t let bulky, restrictive gloves slow you down on the lacrosse field. Upgrading to lightweight, high-performance gloves designed for speed can help take your game to the next level. Your hands will feel more responsive and you’ll gain an edge with quicker catches, throws, and shots.

Focus your search on gloves offering flexible construction, breathable materials, sensitive palm textures, and adjustable secure fits. With the right gloves, you’ll gain the confidence that your hands can keep pace with the speed of today’s game.

Durable Palm Padding for Longer Glove Life

As a lacrosse player, you rely on your gloves to endure a beating. Those palms and padding absorb the continual impacts from scooping ground balls, warding off checks, and catching hard passes. So you want gloves built to stand up to rugged play and provide season after season of performance.

In this guide, we’ll explore the construction of durable lacrosse gloves designed for longevity. We’ll look at the high-quality materials and protective padding used in the palm area and other key zones. We’ll also provide glove recommendations that offer extended glove life along with responsive feel and flexibility.

Why Palm Padding Matters

The palm is one of the most vulnerable areas of a lacrosse glove. It endures continual abrasion during play. Ground balls, face-offs, and hard passes slam into the palms throughout a game and practice. Flimsy padding leads to premature breakdown.

Quality palm padding serves multiple functions. It cushions the hands from impact while providing structure and control. Multi-layered padding with reinforced stitching prevents interior blowing out. Look for robust palm padding made from materials like D30 or Poron XRD foam that maintain their shock absorption properties over time.

Padding Zone Protection

Beyond just the palm area, lacrosse gloves utilize padding zones to protect all areas of the hands and wrists:

• Palm Padding – Protects against ground balls, faceoffs, and catching.
• Finger Padding – Shields fingers from jamming during checks.
• Back of Hand – Defends against slashes and cross checks.
• Cuff Roll – Safeguards wrists from poke checks.
• Thumb Padding – Reinforces against thumb injuries.

Within each zone, high-end gloves use overlapping segmented padding for flexibility. This improves range of motion while still absorbing impacts from all directions.

Glove Exterior Materials

The exterior glove materials play a crucial role in durability too. Synthetic leathers have largely replaced traditional leather for the palms and backs of gloves. Modern synthetic materials offer improved abrasion resistance and weatherproofing.

Look for gloves using performance synthetics like Warrior’s AX Suede or Maverik’s Axis. For the back of the hand, durable woven four-way stretch polyester stands up to rugged play while improving ventilation and flexibility. Materials like nylon mesh allow for dexterous finger articulation as well.

Our Picks for Durable Lacrosse Gloves

Through extensive play testing, these gloves have proven the most durable while still delivering responsive feel and protection:

The Rome gloves offer Maverik’s premium level of craftsmanship and protection. The FlexZone padding in the fingers, hand, and cuff endure endless abuse. The Hi-Flow back improves ventilation while the durably-constructed palms enhance stick feel.

Warrior outfits the Regulators with premium materials from palm to cuff. The 4-way stretch mesh, AX Suede Palm, and SlideLock cuff deliver advanced padding in a lightweight package. Warrior gloves are built for battling grind-it-out play.

STX constructs the Stallion gloves for rugged reliability across all zones. Generous flex zones allow for movement while the ARM padding ENGINEERED foam provides exceptional impact resistance in the palm and fingers.

Despite their lightweight feel, the Brine King Superlights offer durable protection. The fortified wrists, Thermo Core finger padding, and vented palm stand up to intense play. The Superlights excel at blending stout padding with flexibility.

Caring for Your Lacrosse Gloves

You’ve invested in durable gloves designed for the long haul. Take care of them properly so they maintain peak performance season after season. Follow these glove care tips:

• Gently clean gloves after each use, hand washing with mild soap and water.
• Occasionally apply glove conditioner to palm to prevent dryness and cracking.
• Air dry thoroughly after each use away from direct heat.
• Store gloves loosely rather than balling up tightly.
• Inspect regularly for loose stitching, tearing or holes.
• Repair any minor glove damage right away before enlarging.

Gloves Strong Enough to Endure Your Game

Don’t underestimate the importance of durable glove construction and padding materials. The right lacrosse gloves allow you to play aggressive knowing your hands stay protected. Look for multi-layered padding utilizing high-performance foams that maintain their shock absorbing properties over time.

Your gloves endure a ton of abuse over a season. With durably crafted gloves featuring reinforced palms and padding zones, you gain the confidence to scoop, pass, and check knowing your gloves have your back.

Ventilation and Moisture Wicking Features

When it comes to finding the best lacrosse gloves, ventilation and moisture wicking abilities are key factors to consider. After all, lacrosse is a fast-paced, high intensity sport that will inevitably lead to hands sweating inside those gloves. Having proper airflow and materials that draw sweat away from the skin can make a world of difference in comfort and performance.

Many of the top lacrosse gloves on the market today utilize strategic ventilation zones on the back of the hand and along the fingers to allow air to flow through. These mesh or perforated areas prevent a glove from becoming a steamy sauna for your hands. Brands like Warrior, Brine, Maverik, STX, and others all employ some form of ventilated backs and fingers in their glove designs.

Moisture wicking liners have also become standard in most lacrosse gloves. These liners pull perspiration away from the skin and towards the outer layer of the glove where it can evaporate. Gloves with moisture wicking capabilities keep hands dryer, reducing slippage and improving overall comfort. Synthetics like polyester are commonly used to make moisture wicking glove liners.

When shopping for new lacrosse gloves, be sure to look for options with strategic ventilation zones and moisture wicking liners. These features will keep your hands cool, dry, and comfortable even during the most intense gameplay. Brands like Warrior, Brine, and Maverik offer excellent choices to consider.

Warrior Lacrosse Gloves

Warrior is one of the most popular and trusted brands when it comes to lacrosse gloves. They offer a wide range of options at various price points to suit players of all ages and ability levels. Here are some of their top lacrosse gloves to consider this year:

• Warrior Regulator Lacrosse Gloves – An excellent all-around glove with flexible cuff design, ventilation zones, and moisture wicking lining. Provides great feel and durability.
• Warrior Burn Lacrosse Gloves – Lightweight and flexible gloves perfect for offensive players looking for maximum dexterity.
• Warrior Rabil Lacrosse Gloves – Signature glove line from Warrior featuring input from MLL star Paul Rabil. Great for elite level midfielders and attackmen.
• Warrior Franchise Lacrosse Gloves – Warrior’s entry level glove focused on comfort, flexibility, and performance. Great for beginners.
• Warrior Youth Lacrosse Gloves – Specifically designed for young players, available in fun colors and graphics. Focuses on fit, protection, and comfort.

No matter what position you play or skill level you are, Warrior probably has a lacrosse glove that will fit your needs. Be sure to try on different models to get a feel for the right amount of protection, dexterity, and overall comfort based on your preferences.

Brass Monkey Lacrosse Gloves

If you’re looking for lacrosse gloves that provide elite level performance and protection, Brass Monkey should be on your radar. This newer glove brand has quickly earned respect for their innovative designs geared towards high level players.

Some of their most popular models include:

• Brass Monkey Reform Lacrosse Gloves – Extremely lightweight and flexible while still providing great protection. Designed for maximum ball control.
• Brass Monkey Swizzy Lacrosse Gloves – Uniquely constructed overlapping fingers enhance feel and control. Very durable glove.
• Brass Monkey Bantu Lacrosse Gloves – Focused on maximum dexterity and touch for offensive players. Extensive ventilation zones keep hands cool and dry.

Brass Monkey gloves are on the higher end of the pricing spectrum, but competitors have praised their quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and premium performance. For elite high school, college, and pro players demanding the best, they are definitely worth consideration.

Choosing the Best Lacrosse Gloves

With so many great options on the market, choosing the best lacrosse gloves ultimately comes down to identifying the right features and fit for your specific needs and preferences as a player.

Here are some key tips for selecting your next pair of lacrosse gloves:

• Determine the right amount of protection based on your position and level of play
• Prioritize dexterity and feel if you handle the ball a lot as a midfielder or attackman
• Make sure gloves have a comfortable, secure fit with no slipping or sliding around
• Look for strategic ventilation zones to keep hands cool and dry
• Find options with moisture wicking liners to reduce sweat buildup
• Try on different glove styles and brands to get a feel for what you like best
• Don’t overlook warranty and durability – you want gloves that will last
• Consider lighter weight gloves as a preference but make sure protection isn’t compromised

Taking the time to research the latest gloves and trying some on for yourself is the best way to end up with the perfect pair. Brands like Warrior, Brine, Maverik, STX, and Brass Monkey all make excellent lacrosse gloves with the features and quality needed to take your game to the next level.

Adjustable Wrist Straps for Secure Fit

One of the most important features to look for when shopping for lacrosse gloves is an adjustable wrist strap. This allows each player to customize the gloves for a snug, secure fit that won’t slide around during intense gameplay. Brands like Warrior, Brine, STX, and Maverik all offer adjustable straps in their glove models to prevent slipping.

Adjustable wrist straps typically utilize Velcro or elastic strapping to cinch the gloves tight around your wrist and forearm. This creates a locked-in fit that gives you better control over your stick. Loose fitting gloves can shift as you cradle and pass, reducing accuracy. A proper adjustable strap keeps everything tight and stable.

For younger players with smaller wrists and forearms, adjustable straps allow the same glove to grow with them over time. Simply loosen up the Velcro or elastic as their arms grow. This saves parents from having to buy new pairs each season.

Proper sizing and utilization of the adjustable wrist strap is key. Make sure gloves fit snugly but don’t cut off circulation. The strap should secure the glove without being uncomfortably tight. Take the time to test out different tightness levels and find what works best. Remember you can always readjust later as needed.

In addition to adjustable wrist straps, some lacrosse gloves also utilize adjustable cuffs. This additional adjustment point lets you tweak the overall fit even more. Maverik and STX in particular offer gloves with adjustable cuffs above the wrist strap. Dialing in both areas can really lock down the ideal custom fit.

Warrior Lacrosse Gloves

Warrior utilizes high quality adjustable wrist straps on all their lacrosse glove models. This includes popular options like:

• Warrior Regulator Lacrosse Gloves – Features Warrior’s “Meta-Lock” adjustable strap for custom fit
• Warrior Burn Lacrosse Gloves – Equipped with “Morph” tech adjustable strap
• Warrior Rabil Lacrosse Gloves – Velcro wrist adjustment dialed in by Paul Rabil
• Warrior Franchise Lacrosse Gloves – Warrior’s affordable option with adjustable strap

Warrior’s adjustable straps allow you to really tweak each glove for just the right snugness on your wrist and forearm. Take the time to test different tightness levels when first trying on any Warrior lacrosse gloves to get the ideal fit.

Brass Monkey Lacrosse Gloves

Brass Monkey lacrosse gloves also utilize adjustable wrist straps for a locked-in fit. Their unique “Boa” dial system makes micro-adjusting the strap tightness quick and easy. Simply turn the dial to tighten or loosen on the fly.

Some of their gloves featuring this Boa dial adjustable strap include:

• Brass Monkey Reform Lacrosse Gloves
• Brass Monkey Swizzy Lacrosse Gloves
• Brass Monkey Bantu Lacrosse Gloves

The Boa adjustment gives you precision control over the exact tightness of the wrist strap. Test different settings to find your ideal fit. It also makes it easy to tweak tightness between games or practices as needed.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

Here are some final tips on utilizing adjustable wrist straps to achieve the ideal lacrosse glove fit:

• Make sure gloves fit your hand size first before adjusting strap
• Start with the strap looser and tighten for a snug feel
• Try different tightness levels to understand the range of fit
• Don’t cut off circulation – straps should be snug but not painful
• Test fit by cradling and moving your hands – no sliding around
• Consider adjustable cuffs for further customization if available
• Re-adjust straps periodically as gloves break in
• Check fit each season as young player’s hands grow

Taking the time to really dial in lacrosse glove fit using the adjustable wrist straps and cuffs will allow you to achieve maximum comfort, stability, and control. Brands like Warrior, Brine, STX, and Maverik give you options to customize the fit just for your hands and playing style.

Flexible Materials Allow Full Range of Motion

The best lacrosse gloves utilize flexible materials in their construction to allow for a full range of motion during play. Stiff, rigid gloves restrict natural hand and wrist movement, reducing ball control and feel. Brands design gloves with strategically placed flexible zones for maximum dexterity.

Synthetic leather materials are commonly used on the palms and fingers of lacrosse gloves. Options like Nash, Clarino, and Surpass leather provide glove-like softness and flexibility while still being durable. This gives players natural feel as they cradle and pass the ball.

Mesh fabrics on glove backs also improve flexibility. Brands like Warrior, Brine, and STX use lightweight, breathable meshes that move naturally with a player’s hands and wrists for unrestricted motion. Some gloves even incorporate flexible mesh knuckles for added comfort.

Pre-curved fingers constructed using flexible materials also improve the natural fit and feel of lacrosse gloves. Pre-shaping the fingers to match hand anatomy allows for easier closing around the stick handle while still permitting full mobility.

Finding the right balance of flexible zones mixed with protective padding areas is key. You want gloves that move freely yet still provide necessary padding on vulnerable areas like knuckles and fingers.

Warrior Lacrosse Gloves

Warrior optimizes flexibility in gloves like the Burn and Regulator using:

• Synthetic Clarino palm material
• Lightweight Wartech mesh on backs
• Pre-curved fingers
• 4-way stretch thumb material

These features allow Warrior gloves to move seamlessly with players’ hands for complete control when cradling, passing, and shooting. The flexible construction reduces hand fatigue while improving feel.

Brine Lacrosse Gloves

Brine also focuses on flexibility in many of their lacrosse glove models. For example, the Brine Clutch gloves utilize:

• Nash palm material for soft feel
• AirTek mesh backing for maximum breathability
• 3D curved fingers matched to natural shape
• Lycraspan thumb material that stretches in all directions

Together these materials and design elements provide a flexible, contoured fit that allows hands to move freely. Reviewers praise the Clutch gloves for their ability to enhance cradling and catching.

Choosing Flexible Lacrosse Gloves

Here are some tips for choosing lacrosse gloves with sufficient flexibility:

• Prioritize palm, finger, and thumb flexibility for stick feel
• Look for lightweight mesh or knit materials on glove backs
• Make sure gloves contours to hand and wrist shape
• Try on gloves and simulate cradling motions
• Focus on pre-curved, anatomical finger design
• Consider 4-way stretch materials on key flex zones
• Balance protection and padding with flexible areas

The right lacrosse gloves should move and feel like a natural extension of your hands. Brands like Warrior, Brine, Maverik, and STX all utilize advanced materials and construction techniques to optimize flexibility and improve overall ball control and feel.

Padded Thumb Protection from Checks

When playing defense in lacrosse, a properly padded thumb is crucial for protection against checks. Taking a hit from an opponent’s stick to an exposed thumb can cause significant injury and pain. The best lacrosse gloves provide extra padding layers over the thumb to absorb these blows.

Many gloves now incorporate multi-layer foam or plastic thumb shields that wrap from the tip to halfway down the thumb. This padding acts as a shield when holding your stick in a defensive position, protecting your thumb joint and nail bed from checks.

Wider thumb protection that extends further down towards the palm is ideal for maximum coverage area. Some gloves even utilize removable thumb pads that you can switch out between games to ensure fresh protection.

While thumb safety is a priority, dexterity is still important for cradling and ball handling. The best thumb padding balances protection with flexibility, avoiding a bulky, rigid feel.

For midfielders and attackmen, padded thumbs may be less critical since they tend to receive fewer checks. But for defenders constantly battling for ground balls, quality thumb padding can make a big difference in preventing injuries.

Warrior Lacrosse Glove Thumb Protection

Warrior outfits many of their lacrosse gloves with protective Shieldthumb technology. This multi-layer thumb padding system utilizes both foam and plastic for comprehensive protection.

Some Warrior gloves like the Regulator and Franchise also have removable/swappable thumb shields. This allows you to insert fresh padding for each game to prevent wearing down over time.

Warrior thumb padding effectively absorbs checks without limiting dexterity. The contouring helps the gloves maintain a natural feel during play.

Brine Lacrosse Glove Thumb Protection

Brine lacrosse gloves are also known for their padded and protective thumb designs. The Clutch gloves feature what Brine calls “Jumbo Cleverthumb” construction.

This thumb protection uses additional padding zones both above and below the main shield area. This improves overall coverage and protection from all check angles.

The Clutch gloves wrap the extra padding layers in breathable mesh for flexibility. Reviewers praise the comfortable fit and mobility despite the jumbo protective thumb.

Choosing Gloves with Thumb Protection

Here are some tips for selecting lacrosse gloves with solid thumb protection:

• Prioritize thicker foam or plastic shielding on the thumb
• Look for padding extending further down the thumb
• Consider gloves with swappable thumb guards
• Focus on contouring and flexibility of padding
• Make sure padding doesn’t limit dexterity
• Target extra protection layers above and below thumb
• Try cradling with gloves on to test feel and mobility

The right thumb protection will provide impact and injury prevention during checks and battles while still allowing you to handle and pass the ball. Brands like Warrior and Brine do a great job balancing protection and playability.

Soft Leather Improves Grip and Control

High quality leather palm material is crucial for lacrosse gloves to provide proper grip and ball control. Stiff, rigid leather lacks feel and can cause slipping. The best gloves utilize soft, supple leather that molds to your hands for confident cradling and passing.

Premium leather options like Nash, Clarino, and Surpass are common in top lacrosse gloves. These leathers have a soft, pliable texture but are still extremely durable. The material breaks in nicely to improve grip over time.

Quality leather palms also absorb sweat better to prevent slippage. Your hands naturally conform to the shape of the leather for a “custom” fit feel. This allows for precise ball control during intense gameplay.

In addition to soft palm material, some gloves incorporate softened leather or suede on key grip zones like fingertips and along the thumb. This further aids in ball control when cradling and catching passes.

Supple leather construction provides noticeably better “feel” compared to stiff synthetics. You can grasp and move the ball more precisely during fakes and dodges. Softness also reduces hand fatigue over long games.

Warrior Lacrosse Glove Leather Palms

Warrior utilizes premium Clarino leather on the palms of their performance lacrosse gloves. Regulator, Burn, and other models benefit from the soft feel of Clarino for great grip.

The palms contour to players’ hands and have a smooth surface texture ideal for ball control. Warrior also softens keyzones like fingertips with suede overlays for catching and one-hand cradling.

Even their entry-level Franchise glove aimed at younger players uses quality leather palms and suede gripping zones for solid performance.

Brine Lacrosse Glove Leather Palms

Brine is another top brand that equips their lacrosse gloves with soft leather palm construction. The Clutch gloves feature premium Nash leather palms for an excellent grip.

This palm material offers a pliable feel from first wear but also continually improves over time. Fingertip overlays use super-soft deer leather for catching and handling.

Reviewers consistently praise the Clutch glove palms for their balanced combination of soft feel and sturdy durability during intense gameplay.

Choosing Lacrosse Gloves with Quality Leather Palms

Here are tips for selecting lacrosse gloves with optimized leather palms:

• Focus on soft, flexible leathers like Nash and Clarino
• Avoid cheaper synthetic leather materials
• Make sure palm molds to hand shape
• Look for suede or deer leather on grip zones
• Prioritize continual break-in over time
• Test palm tackiness when trying on gloves
• Cradle and pass to check feel and control

Great lacrosse gloves become one with your hands – soft leather construction allows for this natural connection. Brands like Warrior, Brine, Maverik, and STX all leverage premium leather palm materials for excellent grip and control.

Youth Lacrosse Glove Sizing Guide

Picking the right lacrosse glove is a crucial step for any young player. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to find the perfect fit for your child’s hand size and playing style. This comprehensive sizing guide covers everything you need to know about finding the right youth lacrosse glove.

Hand Measurements

The first step is accurately measuring your child’s dominant hand. Use a soft measuring tape to determine both the length and circumference of the hand. Measure from the tip of the middle finger to the base of the palm for length. For circumference, wrap the tape around the widest part of the palm, typically right above the knuckles.

Once you have the measurements, compare them to manufacturer sizing charts to identify the appropriate glove size. Keep in mind that lacrosse gloves use numerical sizes that correspond to inches. So a youth size 6 glove will fit a 6 inch hand length. Gloves come in full incremental sizes, half sizes, or even quarter sizes for a truly custom fit.

Trying On Gloves

While measurements provide a starting point, the best way to find the ideal lacrosse glove is having your child try some on. Visit a lacrosse specialty store and have them try on different sizes while holding a stick. The glove should fit snugly but allow full flexibility of the fingers and wrist.

A proper fitting glove will keep the fingers from jamming against the end when making a fist. There should also be no uncomfortable tightness across the knuckles or palm. However, you don’t want the glove to be too big either. Excess material can hinder catching and throwing motions.

Consider Hand Growth

When picking youth lacrosse gloves, you’ll want to think about how long they will last as your kid’s hands grow. The average youth glove size spans about 1.5 years from ages 9 to 15. However, fast growing kids may need a size increase after just a single season of play.

To maximize use across more than one season, consider sizing up if your child’s hand measurements are on the cusp. An extra half inch of room allows for a little bit of growth. Just don’t size up more than a full size as overly large gloves can develop problems with fit.

Position and Protection

Lacrosse glove features can vary significantly based on the player’s position on the field. Defensive players need maximum padded protection on the back of the hand and wrist. Goalie gloves offer extended cuffs and thumb protection. Offensive players need optimum flexibility for handling the ball.

Entry level youth gloves balance protection and dexterity for versatile play. As kids develop specific position skills, look for gloves engineered for that role. Extra padding or flexible materials target key areas to boost performance.

Palm Design

The palm is one of the most important aspects of lacrosse glove design. A grippy material allows for better ball control while slick meshes can lead to drops. Durable leathers stand up well to ground balls while synthetic palms emphasize flexibility.

Consider your child’s climate as leather can get stiff in cold weather. Moisture control palm liner technology also helps hands stay dryer. Ultimately the right palm comes down to your kid’s preferences and finding the material that offers the best feel.

Adjustability

Premium lacrosse gloves incorporate features to customize and dial in fit. Adjustable wrist cuffs secure the glove while preventing gaps that can lead to stray balls sneaking in. Some gloves include removable palm pads to adapt thickness for smaller hands.

Stretchy lycra gussets between the fingers add flex room during catching. Integrated pull tabs allow players to cinch up an overly loose glove across the back of the hand. Seek out these adjustments to extend the usable life of a glove.

Trying Before Buying

The best way to size youth lacrosse gloves is through extended on-field testing. Visit lacrosse shops that offer trial periods or demo days through local teams and camps. Taking gloves for a spin in practices or scrimmages reveals how they truly fit and perform.

Consider sizing needs for both hands rather than assuming the same glove works for dominant and off hands. Comfort and flexibility can vary across hands of different sizes. Don’t forget to check wrist and arm guards for complementary sizing as well.

With the right fit, proper protection, and high performance features, the perfect youth lacrosse glove helps elevate your kid’s game to the next level. Careful sizing sets them up for seasons of enhanced play and enjoyment on the lacrosse field.

Proper Hand Placement for Catching and Throwing

Mastering the fundamentals of catching and throwing is vital for lacrosse players of all ages and skill levels. Proper hand placement establishes control and consistency in these crucial techniques. Keep reading to learn correct hand positioning and grip for efficiently handling the ball.

Catching Essentials

The first step in catching is having your hands ready in the right position. Extend your arms out with elbows slightly bent and palms facing each other. Hands should be relaxed rather than clenched. Keep thumbs pointed up and fingers loosely together.

As the ball approaches, focus your eyes on it but resist the urge to reach for it. Allow the ball to arrive in your stick pocket or gloves. Once contact is made, give with the ball by cushioning and cradling it into the pocket. This fluid motion helps secure possession.

Thumb Placement

Proper thumb position is vital for controlling the crosse during catches. Place your lead hand thumb directly on the sidewall of the stick head. Wrap your guiding hand thumb across the bottom of the shaft just below the head.

This thumb grip keeps the head upright and pocket open to receive passes. It also allows you to swiftly transition from catching to cradling in a single motion. Keep thumbs off the plastic head and shaft for maximum control.

Fingers Spread Wide

Spread fingers wide along the outside of the stick head to envelop the ball. Index and middle fingers should curl over the sidewall with the pinky and ring fingers underneath. This “box grip” creates stability from multiple contact points.

Avoid bunching fingers together or gripping too tight. Proper hand placement promotes a “soft catch” where the ball sticks inside the head pocket. Work on catching cleanly without squeezing or trapping the ball against the head.

Rolling Wrist Motion

As the passed ball contacts your crosse, employ a quick rolling motion with your lead wrist. This action turns the head over to keep the ball in the pocket. The guiding hand reinforces this cradle by rocking the shaft back and forth.

Time the dual wrist rolls to intercept the ball mid-flight. Hone these motions through repetition to make catches and cradles one continuous movement. This smooth handling limits drops, checks, and turnovers.

Body Positioning

Proper footwork, weight transfer, and body angling are also key for expert catches. Plant lead foot pointed towards the passer. Pivot back foot perpendicular to absorb the ball’s momentum with your core.

Receive passes out in front with your chest open. Look the ball into your crosse pocket. Sidearm catches across your body limits control. Meet the pass to reduce strain on wrists and arms.

Throwing Grips

A proper throwing grip promotes accuracy, power, and quick release. For overhand shots, rest the shaft along the fingers of your lead hand. Cradle the shaft near the butt end in your guiding hand.

This split grip allows the bottom hand to whip the crosse during the throw. The top fingers control aim while adding finesse. Keep the lead hand thumb wrapped along the side for optimal leverage during the shot.

Underhand tosses use an overhand hold of the shaft. Guide the stick with the bottom hand while gripping the butt end with lead hand fingers. Use the wrists to slingshot underhand passes.

Hand Position for Accuracy

Consistent hand positioning shot after shot develops muscle memory for passing precision. Keep lead elbow above the shoulder with wristsEven pressure between both hands prevents the shaft from rolling. Proper throwing stance stabilizes the upper body for pinpoint targeting.

Follow through towards your target on all shots. Extending your lead hand towards the receiver keeps throws on line. Always “throw through the pass” for maximum accuracy during fast-paced play.

Mastering hand positioning takes time and repetition. Have young players catch and throw against a wall to ingrain fundamentals. Stressing proper technique establishes good habits that pay dividends down the road.

With sound catching and throwing mechanics, lacrosse players gain the edge in ball control. Dialing in hand placement builds sticking skills for possessing, passing, and scoring.

Goalie Lacrosse Gloves with More Padding

Goalies need maximum hand and arm protection as high-speed shots bombard their net. Padded lacrosse goalie gloves cushion against bruising impacts while allowing flexibility to make saves. Manufacturers engineer thicker foam and strategic placement to protect goalies.

Palm Padding

The palm of a goalie glove takes a beating from constant contact with the stick shaft and ball. Multiple layers of high-density foam absorb vibrations and sting. Brands use materials like Visco-elastic polymer and Poron XRD to disperse shock.

Contoured palm pads with segmented padding conform to hand anatomy. Flex grooves at knuckles and joints improve dexterity for catching, throwing, and ball handling. Silicone grip coatings allow excellent shaft control.

Finger Protection

Individual finger stalls house extra thick padding to protect against jammed digits. Multi-layer foam limits hyperextension while retaining feel for controlling the crosse. Box finger designs wrap dense padding around the fingertips for added coverage.

Innovative materials like D3O keyboard style pads dissipate direct impacts at the fingers. Venting draws heat away from the padded layers closest to the skin for cooler comfort.

Backhand Shielding

The back of the hand regularly endures fierce checks from offensive sticks. Brands fortify this zone with dual-density foams and shield-style inserts. Supplementary shields attach to the wrist or thumb for even more protection.

Internal plastic plates disperse energy from point blank shots. High-tensile strength fabrics resist tears and increase durability. Finger shields bridge key gaps between the pinky and wrist for comprehensive coverage.

Expanded Wrist Cuffs

Goalie gloves feature oversized neoprene or stretch mesh cuffs to seal out skipped shots. An extended gauntlet design shields more of the wrist and forearm with dual density foams.

Cinches and adjustable straps customize the closure for a snug fit. Internal wrist wraps offer supplemental stabilization when extending for dramatic saves. This fortified cuff area reduces stingers.

Thumb Reinforcements

As a frequent target for shooters, goalie thumb joints require amplified protections. Brands use molded plastic plates backed by multi-layer foam to diffuse ball impacts.

Wraparound thumb designs fully encapsulate the digit in padding. High-grip surfaces allow excellent crosse control despite the bulkier construction. Vented materials reduce heat buildup inside.

Strategic Design Elements

Technical design elements bolster protection in key zones while maintaining flexibility. Two-piece backhand construction separates protective foam from the flexible palm for natural movement. Poron XRD foam padding molds to the hand then rebounds to absorb shots.

Venting systems utilize mesh, perforations, and channeling to enhance air flow and heat dissipation. Antimicrobial silver infused linings prevent odor causing bacteria from building up inside gloves.

Consider younger goalies’ future growth when selecting oversized gloves. Prioritize certified protective equipment from reputable lacrosse brands for uncompromising safety.

With advanced padding technologies and reinforced coverage, today’s goalie gloves provide last line hand protection. Maximum cushioning preserves hands while strategic flexibility maintains top reaction times in goal.

Custom Fitting Options for Comfortable Wear

Finding lacrosse gloves with an ideal fit maximizes comfort and control during play. Brands now offer custom fitting elements so players can adjust gloves for their unique hand size and shape.

Adjustable Wrist Straps

Securing wrist straps evenly produces a snug glove fit. Many gloves include Velcro or elastic wrist closures that customize tension. Dual adjustable straps fine tune wrap and allow for flex room.

Quick release straps with plastic clips offer easy on-off while maintaining security. Extending the strap Establish desired tension then trim any excess strap length for a personalized fit.

Removable Palm Padding

thinner palms that better match smaller hands. Brands use hook-and-loop attachments for tool-free adjustments. Removing pads also improves palm tactility for superior ball control.

Interchangeable palm inserts with varying thicknesses further customize fit. Swapping pads changes grip volume and feel across the seasons as hands grow. Targeted palm slimming creates ideal dexterity.

Replacement Finger Stalls

Integrated finger stalls typically conform closely to digits for responsiveness. Swapping in smaller replacement stalls tailors the glove to shorter fingers with a sleeker silhouette.

Youth fingers demand precise fitting stalls to prevent restricting growth. Mix and match finger widths for the most natural contoured fit. Proper stall sizing improves freedom of motion.

Half Size Availability

Many brands now offer lacrosse gloves in half sizes beyond the typical whole sizes. Moving up or down a half size better aligns with hand dimensions between conventional sizing.

Quarter sizes further expand fitting options for optimally dialed-in gloves. Measuring hand length and circumference determines ideal partial sizing for greater comfort.

Women’s Fit Models

Female athletes benefit from lacrosse gloves specifically engineered for narrower hands. Contoured women’s fits accommodate shorter fingers and slimmer palms without excess bulk.

Technical fabrics with four-way stretch conform around hands for mobility. Strategic padding placements protect without restricting movement or dexterity.

Youth Size Ranges

Kid gloves scale down adult sizes for growing hands. Extended youth size ranges ensure fitting growing players over multiple seasons of play. Brands now offer gloves for preschool athletes with toddler appropriate protection.

Allow room in current glove sizing for upcoming growth spurts. Favor adjustments for snugging down gloves over stretching tight fitting gloves.

Taking advantage of custom fitting elements allows lacrosse players to modify gloves for ideal comfort. Personalized adjustments create secure gloves that move naturally with the athlete’s hands.

Lacrosse Glove Break-In Tips and Tricks

Brand new lacrosse gloves often start out stiff and unresponsive. A proper break-in period molds the materials to your hands for a personalized fit. Follow these tips to get your gloves game-ready faster.

Wear Gloves for Drills

After an initial test for basic fit, lightly use new gloves during casual catch and passing drills. Avoid heavy contact until the materials adapt to your hands and fingers through motion.

Focus on flexing wrists, catching cleanly, and manipulating the stick head. Keep sessions short to prevent overstressing tight gloves. Increase practice intensity gradually as gloves become more pliable.

Use Steam to Soften Materials

Steaming lacrosse gloves gently relaxes synthetic leathers and expands padding. Fill a bowl with hot water and suspend gloves above the steam. Rotate and flex gloves to penetrate materials for about 5 minutes.

Avoid excessive steam exposure that could degrade adhesives or glue. Wipe away excess moisture before wearing for better responsiveness. The gloves should feel more supple without getting overly saturated.

Rub Gloves with Conditioner

Massaging hand conditioner into glove palms and fingers keeps the materials hydrated and soft. Use petroleum-free products so gloves absorb the cream better. Focus on rubbing compound into stiff leather or vinyl palms.

As you work conditioner into gloves, flex fingers and make a fist to mimic natural creasing. Buff off any excess cream before playing to prevent slippery palms. Reapply after each use to continually soften.

Play Wall Ball

Shelter new gloves during rough game play initially. However, wall ball drills moderately hasten break-in by mimicking catches. The gloves get manipulated without excessive abuse before they’re fully broken-in.

Catch firmly but don’t smash lacrosse balls into the wall from point blank range. Use softer balls until gloves feel suitably loose and flexible for hard balls. Focus on precision over power when catching.

Wear Gloves Around the House

Casually wearing new lacrosse gloves while lounging and doing chores gently molds materials to your hands. The gloves get naturally flexed and pre-shaped for a custom fit.

Avoid wearing gloves for tasks that could damage the palms and padding. Light activity like computer work or cooking retains range of motion without adding risk.

Size Up If Too Tight

Ill-fitting gloves that bind the hands will never properly break-in. Pressure points indicate sizing up will improve comfort and responsiveness.

Snug gloves should still feel secure, not restrictive. Swap sizes early before attempting to break-in truly tight gloves that limit play.

With some TLC and controlled wear, stiff lacrosse gloves transform into customized extensions of your hands. A patient break-in optimizes fit for confident catching, throwing and handling.

Where to Buy Lacrosse Gloves Online

Thanks to the rise of ecommerce, finding and purchasing lacrosse gloves online is easier than ever. Avoiding crowded sporting goods stores saves time when shopping for gloves. Here are the best online retailers for buying lacrosse gloves.

Lacrosse Unlimited

As a premier lacrosse specialty store, Lacrosse Unlimited stocks gloves for all positions and ages. Shop by popular brands or use filtering tools to refine options by category, price, and rating.

The site offers free shipping on orders over $100 along with hassle-free returns. Read sizing guides or watch glove highlight videos for buying assistance. Take advantage of periodic discounts and sales as well.

Amazon

The massive online marketplace Amazon providesACCESS to lacrosse gloves across a range of budgets. Prime members enjoy fast free delivery. Browse bestsellers or search for specific brands and models.

Read buyer reviews to gauge real world performance. Check multiple sellers when prices vary widely. Verify shipping costs for non-Prime purchases under $25.

Manufacturer Sites

Major athletic brands like Warrior, Maverik, and STX operate direct ecommerce sites for their lacrosse gear. Browse the latest gloves alongside full equipment lines. Take advantage of brand-specific sizing charts.

Sign up for email lists to receive discount codes and new product announcements. Brand sites may offer free customization services and loyalty reward programs for repeat customers.

SportStop

SportStop aggregates lacrosse equipment across major brands for online shoppers. Refine glove searches by youth, senior, or professional level. Narrow results by brand, color, size, or price range.

The site highlights top rated and bestselling gloves for each position. Read GearIQ reviews written by verified owners. Opt for value 2-3 day shipping.

SidelineSwap

This online marketplace for new and used sporting goods offers deals on pre-owned lacrosse gloves. Search by exact model names to find discounted gloves. Filter for items in new/like new condition.

Read detailed seller equipment descriptions before buying. Inspect photos closely for wear and tear. Compare to retail prices for the model when evaluating discount.

eBay

eBay connects buyers and sellers of new and used lacrosse gear including gloves. Search using key terms like “men’s lacrosse gloves” or a specific brand. Contact sellers with sizing questions prior to bidding.

Sort auctions by newly listed, closing soon, or Buy It Now. Check seller ratings before purchasing. Inspect returns policies on new and used gloves.

With so many online options, finding the perfect pair of lacrosse gloves is now quick and convenient. Do research to identify ideal brands, models, and sizing from home.