As a lacrosse goalie, having the right protective equipment is crucial for keeping you safe in the cage. Let’s take a look at some of the key gear every lacrosse goalie needs:
Helmet – Protects the Head from Impacts
A helmet specifically designed for lacrosse is essential. Look for a helmet with a strong face mask to protect against shots to the head. Brands like Cascade and Warrior make excellent lacrosse goalie helmets that provide ample coverage and impact absorption.
Chest Protector
The chest is vulnerable to hard shots, so having a chest protector is a must. Look for one with thick foam padding across the heart, shoulders, and sternum. It should fit snugly without restricting mobility. Brands like STX and Maverik offer chest protectors made specifically for lacrosse.
Arm Pads
Getting hit in the arms by 90+ MPH shots is no joke. Arm pads will shield your arms from bruising during checks. Look for pads with plastic caps to disperse impact. Sliding elbow pads add extra protection too.
Gloves
A good pair of lacrosse goalie gloves will protect the hands and wrists from injury. Look for gloves with thick foam across the back of the hand and extra padding across the thumb. Gloves with cuffs help shield the wrists as well. Brands like Warrior and Brine excel at lacrosse goalie gloves.
Cup
Protecting the groin area is vital for all lacrosse players, but especially goalies who see a lot of shots. Look for a cup with shock absorbing foam or gel and a compression jock strap for maximum protection. Brands like Shock Doctor make cups designed for lacrosse.
Pants
Lacrosse goalie pants provide padding on the thighs and tailbone. Look for pants with foam or plastic thigh guards to protect against low shots. Padded shorts can work too. Brands like STX and Maverik offer goalie pants.
Knee Pads
Look for sturdy knee pads to shield the knees from impact and save your joints. Hard cap knee pads work well for lacrosse goalies who are constantly dropping down into the butterfly stance. Brands like Gait make knee pads for lacrosse.
Shin Guards
Getting hit in the shins or ankles can be excruciating. Shin guards protect these vulnerable areas from checks. Look for adjustable guards that wrap around the leg. Soccer and hockey shin guards can work for lacrosse too.
Cleats
The right cleats provide traction and support for quick lateral movements in the goal. Look for lacrosse cleats with a wider toe box for toe splaying when pushing off. Football and soccer cleats can work as well.
With the right protective gear, you’ll have the confidence to make those game-saving stops! Remember comfort and mobility are also key when selecting lacrosse goalie equipment. And don’t neglect a good lacrosse goalie stick, the final piece of the goalie gear puzzle!
When suiting up for battle between the pipes, a sturdy chest protector is a lacrosse goalie’s best friend. Taking a scorcher right to the chest is no fun at all. That’s why having quality padding across your sternum and rib cage is so crucial. Let’s dig into the key things to look for when selecting a lax chest protector:
Chest Protector – Protects the Chest and Heart
First and foremost, your chest protector needs to fully cover vital organs like your heart and lungs. A good lacrosse-specific chest pad will use high-density foam or plastic padding to absorb the force of point-blank shots to the chest and sternum.
Make sure to get the right fit – you want full coverage without restricting your range of motion. No one likes a chest protector that’s constantly riding up. Straps and removable pads help dial in the perfect custom fit.
While you want robust protection, don’t overlook ventilation. The best lax chest protectors use mesh panels and breathable fabrics to keep you cool under pressure. Playing goalie already makes you sweat – no need to boil in your gear!
Shoulder Pads
Padding for your shoulders is also key. Lacrosse shots can hit you right in the collarbone or shoulder joint, which is extremely painful. Quality chest pads will include removable shoulder caps and adjustable straps to protect your shoulders.
Look for Specificity
As you shop for chest protectors, be sure to look for options designed specifically for lacrosse. Soccer and hockey chest pads just won’t cut it. The protection needs to be designed for facing rapid-fire shots from close range.
Brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior make chest protectors built for lax. Look for units with compression straps, removable bicep guards, and ventilation zones to keep you cool. Shooting shirts with some padding can also help complement your chest protector.
Dialing in the right fit and coverage is key to playing confidently in goal. You need full protection without limiting your range of motion as you explode into each save. With the right chest pad, you’ll be ready to step into the cage and take on the fiercest shooters!
As a lacrosse goalie, your arms take a beating from all those screaming shots. That’s why wearing quality arm pads is so important for protecting your limbs and avoiding nasty bruises. Let’s explore key factors to consider when selecting lacrosse goalie arm pads:
Arm Pads – Protect Arms from Bruising During Checks
Lacrosse arm pads need to provide padding on the forearms, biceps, and elbows. Look for pads with molded plastic caps on the elbows and forearms to disperse impact from checks and shots.
Foam padding along the bicep and tricep will shield your upper arms from bruising. Adjustable straps allow you to dial in a secure fit so the pads don’t slide around.
Breathable mesh backing helps keep you cool under pressure. And finger loops make it easy to slip the pads on and off between possessions.
Length
Longer arm pads provide more coverage for your wrists and forearms. But don’t sacrifice mobility for protection. You want a length that doesn’t restrict throwing or passing the ball.
Sliding Elbow Pads
For extra elbow protection, lacrosse goalies often wear sliding sleeves with padded caps. The sleeves protect your elbow joint as you drop into the butterfly stance to make saves.
Look for elbow pads that use EVA or polyurethane foam for impact absorption. A compression fit will keep them from shifting during play.
Comfort
The best lacrosse arm pads feel like a second skin. Lightweight, breathable materials prevent overheating so you stay focused and alert. Pre-curved designs contour to your natural arm shape for full freedom of movement.
With quality arm pads, you can fearlessly take on blistering shots and not worry about your arms looking like a bruised peach after the game. Protect those limbs and make save after save!
A lacrosse goalie’s hands take a pounding game after game. Finding gloves with ample padding and protection is key to keeping those digits safe in the crease. When shopping for lacrosse goalie gloves, keep these key factors in mind:
Gloves – Added Protection for Hands and Wrists
Look for gloves specifically designed for lacrosse goalies. They’ll have extra thick foam padding across the back of the hand and wrist to absorb stingers.
Quality lax goalie gloves also boast reinforced thumb protection. The thumb is vulnerable when you make saves, so added padding there is crucial.
Finger protection is also important. Broken fingers are no joke. Look for gloves with individual finger stalls so you can still handle your stick.
Closure System
The best lacrosse goalie gloves use large Velcro wrist closures that make the gloves easy to take on and off. They allow you to fine tune the fit for security and flexibility.
Ventilation
Your hands sweat – it’s a fact of life. Look for gloves with ventilated gussets, mesh panels and breathable fabrics to keep your paws cool and dry inside.
Durability
Lacrosse goalie gloves take a beating every game. Seek out options made with premium leather palms and reinforced stitching that will stand up to season after season of abuse.
With protective and comfortable gloves, you can stop shots without fear of broken bones or nagging stingers in your hands. Brands like Warrior and Brine offer excellent goalie glove options designed for the rigors of lacrosse.
Protecting the groin area is a must for all lacrosse players, but especially goalies who constantly place their bodies on the line. A sturdy cup provides vital protection for your most sensitive anatomy. When shopping for a lacrosse goalie cup, keep these factors in mind:
Cup – Vital Protection for Groin Area
Look for a cup designed specifically for lacrosse with ample coverage and a compression fit. Solid one-piece units are ideal for dispersing impact force from shots.
Shock absorbing foam or gel liners provide an extra layer of padding and comfort. Ventilation is also key – sweaty crotches are no bueno.
Make sure the cup fits your body type and style of play. Field lacrosse goalies need ample side coverage when dropping into butterfly stance. Box lacrosse tenders move more vertically, requiring more frontal protection.
Jock Strap
A good jock strap keeps the cup locked in place so it doesn’t shift during play. Look for a compressive fit with adjustable leg and waist straps. Breathable fabrics help avoid swamp crotch.
Cup Checks
Get in the habit of giving your cup a check before each game. Make sure it’s not cracked or overly compressed. Replace it once it loses its shock absorbing properties to keep your precious jewels safe.
Female Goalies
Women also need groin protection. Pelvic protectors shaped for female anatomy are ideal. Soft shields help avoid irritation while still absorbing impact force.
Taking one to the lady parts is extremely painful. Invest in a tailored women’s cup and jock so you can fearlessly get your legs down and make those saves!
As a lacrosse goalie, having quality pants is crucial for protecting your lower body as you drop down to make saves. Padded lacrosse pants absorb impact and help you play free of pain. When selecting goalie pants, keep these key factors in mind:
Pants – Added Padding on Thighs and Tailbone
Look for goalie pants designed specifically for lacrosse. They’ll have removable foam or plastic thigh guards to shield your thighs from bruising shots.
Also key is tailbone padding. Landing on your tailbone hurts! Good lacrosse goalie pants will have a padded coccyx protector built in.
Breathable materials are a must to avoid swamp butt. Features like stretch gussets and mesh ventilation panels keep you cool under pressure.
Range of Motion
Despite the padding, your goalie pants shouldn’t restrict movement. Look for a relaxed fit through the hips and knees so you can get low and move laterally with ease.
Sizing
Dialing in the right size is important. Goalie pants should fit snug but not pinch or bind. Measure your inseam and waist when sizing to get an accurate fit.
Alternative Options
Some lacrosse goalies opt for padded shorts instead of full pants. These provide protection for the tailbone and thighs in a lighter package.
Compression leggings or sliding shorts underneath provide an extra layer of comfort and absorption too.
With padded goalie pants or shorts, you’ll have the lower body protection needed to fearlessly drop into butterfly and snag shots all game long!
As a lacrosse goalie, your knees take a beating from constant contact with the ground. Wearing quality knee pads is vital for keeping your joints pain-free and protected. When selecting lacrosse goalie knee pads, keep these key factors in mind:
Knee Pads – Shields Knees from Contact and Impact
Look for knee pads designed specifically for lacrosse goalies. They’ll provide ample coverage and absorb shock from impact.
Hard cap knee pads work well for lacrosse since goalies are constantly dropping down. The caps disperse force from contact with the ground.
Padding with high-density foam or EVA absorbs stingers. An adjustable strap ensures a secure fit so the pads don’t slip.
Butterfly Style
For field lacrosse goalies in particular, opt for pads sized to accommodate the butterfly style. Wider knee stacks allow freedom of movement in butterfly.
Compression Fit
A compressive fit is key so the pads move with your knees. Neoprene sleeves with silicone grips prevent sliding. Moisture-wicking lining keeps you dry.
Keep Them Clean
Remember to regularly wash your knee pads to prevent buildup of dirt, sweat and bacteria that can cause skin irritation.
With sturdy lacrosse knee pads, you can fearlessly drop into each save. Protect those joints from bruising shots and play pain-free all season long!
Protecting your shins and ankles is crucial as a lacrosse goalie. Taking a blistering shot to the shins is incredibly painful and can lead to nasty bruises or even fractures. High-quality shin guards help prevent these types of injuries.
Shin Guards – Shield Shin and Ankles from Checks
Look for adjustable lacrosse goalie shin guards that wrap securely around your lower leg. Guards with a hard shell exterior disperse impact from shots and checks.
Padding beneath the shell absorbs force so you don’t feel the full brunt of each blow. Neoprene or fabric strapping keeps the guards anchored in place.
Full ankle circulation is important, so make sure the shin guards aren’t too rigid or restrictive.
Sizing
Shin guards should fit snugly without limiting your mobility. Measure your calf circumference when sizing to ensure a proper fit.
Protection Level
Field lacrosse goalies need guards with ample shin and ankle bone protection since shots can come from all angles. Box lacrosse goalies rely more on frontal knee stacks.
Maintenance
Check your shin guards regularly for cracks or damage that can compromise protection. Hand wash and air dry guards to prevent foul odors.
With quality shin protection, you can fearlessly face blistering shots knowing your lower legs and ankles are safe from harm.
Having the right cleats is vital for lacrosse goalies. Cleats provide traction so you can move quickly within the crease to track shots from all angles. When selecting lacrosse goalie cleats, keep these key factors in mind:
Cleats – Provides Traction and Support for Quick Movements
Look for cleats designed specifically for lacrosse. They’ll have a wider toe box to allow toe splaying when pushing off into saves.
Options with a mid to high cut support the ankle during lateral movements. Low cut cleats allow more mobility.
Molded studs provide solid traction on natural grass. Blades work for turf fields. Get the stud style suited for your primary playing surface.
Support
A sturdy outsole stabilizes the foot while allowing flexibility. Shock absorbing midsoles cushion landings from dives.
Comfort
Getting the right fit is crucial – cleats shouldn’t pinch or rub. Look for breathable, flexible uppers that conform to your feet.
Alternatives
Many lacrosse goalies opt for football or soccer cleats which also offer lateral support. Just get the right studs for your field type.
With the right cleats, you’ll have the explosive speed needed to move within the arc and react to shots from all angles. Traction and support are vital for goalie domination!
Throat Protector – Shields throat from errant checks
Looking to Gear Up Your Lacrosse Goalie? Here’s the Ultimate Equipment List:
As a lacrosse goalie, having the right protective equipment is essential for staying safe and performing at your best. The goalie position comes with increased exposure to shots on goal, so wearing specialized gear designed to cover vulnerable areas is a must. While the basic requirements are set by league rules, goalies can customize their kits based on playing style, comfort preferences, and budget.
Here is a comprehensive guide to assembling the best lacrosse goalie gear to meet game day needs:
Helmet
A helmet is the most vital piece of protective equipment for any lacrosse player, but especially goalies. Lacrosse helmets are designed with additional padding and visors to shield the face and head from the high-speed shots seen between the pipes. Goalie helmets offer full head and jaw coverage, unlike field player versions. High-end goalie lids also feature vision-optimizing cage designs so you can track the ball clearly while staying protected.
Chest Protector
The chest area is vulnerable to injury from shots, so a chest protector is required for goalies. Chest pads cushion the sternum, heart, lungs and ribs from impact. They come in various sizes to fit snugly from collarbone to abdomen. Most goalie chest protectors secure with adjustable straps and include removable shoulder caps for comfort. Consider lighter pads for mobility or extra-padded options for maximum protection.
Arm Pads
Arm pads safeguard the elbows, forearms and biceps from checks, collisions and stray balls. Lacrosse goalies choose length based on preference and comfort – some extend to the wrist while others stop above the elbow. Padding thickness also varies, so select according to your desired balance of flexibility and protection. If wearing a short chest protector, extended arm pads help fill coverage gaps.
Gloves
Hand protection is a must for goalies. Padded lacrosse gloves allow you to safely catch and control incoming shots. Goalie gloves offer full hand and wrist coverage with reinforced palms and adjustable cuffs. For the best grip, look for options with textured latex or silicone palms. You can choose thicker foam for impact absorption or thinner, more flexible gloves for mobility.
Throat Protector
A throat guard protects a vulnerable spot from errant sticks and balls. Lacrosse goalies wear a padded collar around the neck area for safety. Throat protectors are usually integrated into the chest pad strap system for a secure fit. Some goalies opt for standalone neck guards for full coverage.
Pants
Goalie pants are heavily padded to shield the thighs, hips and tailbone from injury. They typically feature internal hip and tailbone pads plus external thigh and knee padding. Most goalie pants integrate with knee/shin guard straps for stability. Consider loose-fitting pants with stretch panels for mobility and breathable materials for comfort.
Cup
A cup is essential lacrosse gear for protecting the pelvic region from injury. Goalies choose athletic supporters with built-in pocketed cups for full coverage and a secure fit. Many also wear padded compression shorts over top for extra protection.
Shin Guards
Goalie shin guards are beefed up compared to field player versions. Extra thick and durable pads cushion the shin bone from dangerous shots. Most goalies opt for extended shin pads that wrap around the calf for full coverage. The guards secure to the pants with Velcro straps so they stay put when in motion.
Cleats
Goalie cleats provide traction for quick lateral movements in the crease. Lacrosse goalie shoes feature a flat bottom with short studs under the balls of the feet. This optimizes side-to-side propulsion while anchoring the toes for pushing off. Goalies tend to choose mid-cut cleats for ankle stability when moving in all directions.
Stick
A goalie stick is key equipment for blocking shots. The heads are up to 15 inches wide and feature a flat face to maximize the blocking surface area. Goalie stick handles range from 30-72 inches long to allow for extended reach and quick ball pickup in the crease. Choose a length based on your height and preference.
Jock Strap
For comfort and breathability, many goalies wear a basic jock strap underneath their protective cup and shorts. This wicks moisture and keeps everything in place for distraction-free play. Look for a contoured pouch and stretchy waistband for a secure, chafe-free fit.
Jersey and Shorts
Goalie jerseys and shorts help identify you on the field and complete the protective ensemble. Loose-fitting lacrosse shorts allow pads to be worn underneath. Goalie jerseys provide lightweight breathability with number and team identification for referees. Some goalies opt for padded girdle systems instead of traditional pads and shorts.
When suiting up for game day, start from the skin out to ensure pads sit comfortably under outer layers. Take time to find the right helmet and chest protector fit so vital areas feel secure when in motion. Break in gloves and shoes ahead of time so they conform to your hands and feet. And inspect all gear before each game to confirm everything is in proper working order.
With the right protective equipment in place, lacrosse goalies gain the confidence to command the crease and make those game-saving stops. Do your research and select gear that caters to your style of play and needs at your position. A fully equipped goalie ready to take on shots helps instill confidence in the whole defensive unit. Gear up accordingly and get out there to put those pads to work protecting the net!
Stick – Lengthy stick helps block shots on goal
Looking to Gear Up Your Lacrosse Goalie? Here’s the Ultimate Equipment List:
As a lacrosse goalie, having the proper protective equipment is crucial for staying safe and performing your best. The goalie position involves increased vulnerability to shots on goal, so wearing specialized gear designed to cover at-risk areas is essential. While basic requirements are mandated by league rules, goalies can customize their kits based on playing style, comfort needs, and budget.
Here is a comprehensive guide to assembling ideal lacrosse goalie gear to meet game day demands:
Helmet
A helmet is the most vital piece of protective equipment for any lacrosse athlete, but especially goalies. Lacrosse helmets are designed with extra padding and visors to shield the face and head from the high-velocity shots seen between the pipes. Goalie helmets provide full head and jaw coverage, unlike field player versions. High-end goalie lids also incorporate vision-optimizing cage designs so you can track the ball clearly while staying protected.
Chest Protector
The chest area is susceptible to injury from shots, so a chest protector is mandatory for goalies. Chest pads cushion the sternum, heart, lungs and ribs from impact. They come in various sizes to fit snugly from collarbone to abdomen. Most goalie chest protectors fasten with adjustable straps and include removable shoulder caps for comfort. Consider lighter pads for mobility or extra-padded options for maximum protection.
Arm Pads
Arm pads safeguard the elbows, forearms and biceps from checks, collisions and stray balls. Lacrosse goalies choose length based on preference and comfort – some extend to the wrist while others stop above the elbow. Padding thickness also varies, so select according to your desired balance of flexibility and protection. If wearing a short chest protector, extended arm pads help fill coverage gaps.
Gloves
Hand protection is a must for goalies. Padded lacrosse gloves allow you to safely catch and control incoming shots. Goalie gloves provide full hand and wrist coverage with reinforced palms and adjustable cuffs. For ideal grip, opt for options with textured latex or silicone palms. You can choose thicker foam for impact absorption or thinner, more flexible gloves for mobility.
Throat Protector
A throat guard protects a vulnerable area from errant sticks and balls. Lacrosse goalies wear a padded collar around the neck region for safety. Throat protectors are usually integrated into the chest pad strap system for a secure fit. Some goalies choose standalone neck guards for complete coverage.
Pants
Goalie pants are heavily padded to shield the thighs, hips and tailbone from injury. They typically incorporate internal hip and tailbone pads plus external thigh and knee padding. Most goalie pants integrate with knee/shin guard straps for stability. Consider loose-fitting pants with stretch panels for mobility and breathable materials for comfort.
Cup
A cup is essential lacrosse gear for protecting the pelvic region from injury. Goalies choose athletic supporters with built-in pocketed cups for full coverage and a secure fit. Many also wear padded compression shorts over top for extra protection.
Shin Guards
Goalie shin guards are reinforced compared to field player versions. Extra thick and durable pads cushion the shin bone from dangerous shots. Most goalies opt for extended shin pads that wrap around the calf for complete coverage. The guards fasten to the pants with Velcro straps so they stay put when in motion.
Cleats
Goalie cleats provide traction for quick side-to-side movements in the crease. Lacrosse goalie shoes feature a flat bottom with short studs under the balls of the feet. This optimizes lateral propulsion while anchoring the toes for pushing off. Goalies tend to choose mid-cut cleats for ankle stability when moving in all directions.
Stick
A goalie stick is key equipment for blocking shots. The heads are up to 15 inches wide and have a flat face to maximize the blocking surface area. Goalie stick handles range from 30-72 inches long to allow for extended reach and quick ball pickup in the crease. Choose a length based on your height and preference.
Jock Strap
For comfort and breathability, many goalies wear a basic jock strap underneath their protective cup and shorts. This wicks moisture and keeps everything in place for distraction-free play. Look for a contoured pouch and stretchy waistband for a secure, chafe-free fit.
Jersey and Shorts
Goalie jerseys and shorts help identify you on the field and complete the protective ensemble. Loose-fitting lacrosse shorts allow pads to be worn underneath. Goalie jerseys provide lightweight breathability with number and team identification for referees. Some goalies opt for padded girdle systems instead of traditional pads and shorts.
When gearing up for game day, start from the skin out to ensure pads sit comfortably under outer layers. Take time to find the right helmet and chest protector fit so vital areas feel secure when in motion. Break in gloves and shoes ahead of time so they mold to your hands and feet. And inspect all gear before each game to confirm everything is in proper working order.
With the proper protective equipment in place, lacrosse goalies gain the confidence to command the crease and make those game-saving stops. Do your research and choose gear that caters to your style of play and needs at your position. A fully equipped goalie ready to confront shots helps instill confidence in the whole defensive unit. Gear up accordingly and get out there to put those pads to work protecting the net!