What are the must-have pads and protectors for lacrosse players. How can the right protective gear improve your performance on the field. Which lacrosse equipment offers the best protection against injuries.

Shoulder Pads: The Foundation of Lacrosse Protection

Shoulder pads are the cornerstone of any lacrosse player’s protective gear arsenal. These essential protectors shield the collarbone, shoulders, and upper back from the intense physical contact inherent to the sport. Unlike their bulkier football counterparts, lacrosse shoulder pads prioritize flexibility and range of motion without compromising on protection.

What makes lacrosse shoulder pads effective? Key features include:

• Adjustable straps for a personalized fit
• Hard plastic caps over the shoulders
• Foam or plastic padding across the chest and back
• Ventilation channels for improved airflow
• Lightweight, low-profile construction

When selecting shoulder pads, consider your position and playing style. Defensemen typically require more robust protection, while attackmen and midfielders might opt for lighter, more mobile options. Trying on different models and pairing them with shoulder liners can help you find the perfect balance of comfort and protection.

Rib Pads: Safeguarding Your Core from Impacts

Rib pads are crucial for protecting one of the most vulnerable areas of a lacrosse player’s body. These specialized protectors cushion the torso from stick checks and collisions, allowing players to maintain their agility and flexibility on the field.

What should you look for in quality rib pads?

• Hard plastic caps for enhanced sternum protection
• Flexible, breathable materials for comfort
• Adjustable straps for a secure fit
• Low-profile design to fit under jerseys

Some players prefer stretchy, shirt-style rib pads for full coverage, while others opt for more minimal protection. Regardless of your choice, ensuring your ribs are adequately protected can give you the confidence to play aggressively without fear of injury.

Chest Protectors: Vital Organ Defense System

Chest protectors offer an additional layer of defense for lacrosse players, particularly those who frequently engage in close-quarter play near the crease. These protective garments typically feature padded shirts with strategically placed plastic covering over the heart, shoulders, and collarbone.

How do chest protectors benefit different types of players?

• Goalies rely on full upper body protection to withstand powerful shots
• Field players can opt for more flexible chest padding for improved mobility
• Attackmen near the crease benefit from extra protection against defensive checks

Brands like Shock Doctor and Epoch offer lightweight chest protectors that balance protection with freedom of movement. When selecting a chest protector, consider the level of coverage you need based on your position and playing style.

Arm Pads: Shielding Your Upper Extremities

While arm pads are mandatory in box lacrosse, they remain optional for field players. However, many athletes choose to wear them for added protection against checks and slashes. These pads typically cover the elbow and forearm, providing crucial impact absorption without restricting movement.

What features should you look for in lacrosse arm pads?

• Lightweight, breathable materials
• Hard caps over the elbow for impact protection
• Flexible design for unrestricted arm movement
• Moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool and dry

Field lacrosse players often prefer partial arm sleeves that focus on elbow protection, while box players may opt for more comprehensive coverage. Experiment with different styles to find the right balance of protection and mobility for your game.

Gloves: Protecting Your Most Valuable Tools

Lacrosse gloves are essential for safeguarding your hands and wrists during play. These specialized gloves provide crucial protection against stick checks, ground balls, and the impact of catching passes. High-quality lacrosse gloves offer a perfect blend of protection, dexterity, and comfort.

What are the key components of effective lacrosse gloves?

• Palm padding to absorb shock from catching and cradling
• Reinforced thumbs and wrists to prevent sprains and fractures
• Ventilation channels to keep hands cool and dry
• Flexible cuff designs for improved range of motion
• Durable materials to withstand the rigors of play

Attack players often prefer gloves with maximum dexterity for precise stick handling, while defenders may opt for bulkier options with enhanced protection. Many brands offer customizable cuff lengths and palm padding to help players fine-tune their fit and feel.

Throat Protectors: Guarding Against Serious Injury

Throat protectors, also known as neck guards, are vital pieces of equipment that can prevent potentially life-threatening injuries. A well-designed throat protector safeguards the windpipe and neck area from errant sticks, balls, and collisions.

What should you consider when choosing a throat protector?

• Lightweight, breathable materials for comfort
• Secure attachment to shoulder pads or helmet
• Extended coverage for collarbone protection
• Flexibility to allow for head movement

Some players prefer integrated designs that attach directly to their shoulder pads, while others opt for standalone guards. Regardless of the style, ensuring proper fit and coverage is crucial for maximum protection.

Protective Cups: Essential Gear for Every Player

No piece of lacrosse equipment is more important for protecting sensitive areas than the athletic cup. This crucial protector shields players from potentially devastating impacts to the groin area, which can result from errant shots, checks, or collisions.

What features make for an effective lacrosse cup?

• Durable, impact-resistant materials
• Comfortable, anatomically correct design
• Moisture-wicking properties to prevent chafing
• Secure fit to prevent shifting during play

Many players prefer compression shorts with built-in cup pockets for a streamlined, comfortable fit. Regardless of the style you choose, wearing a properly fitted cup is non-negotiable for all lacrosse players.

Additional Protective Gear for Comprehensive Coverage

While the aforementioned items form the core of a lacrosse player’s protective arsenal, several other pads and protectors can provide additional safety and comfort on the field. These include:

1. Bicep Pads: Offering extra protection for the upper arms
2. Forearm Pads: Shielding the lower arms from checks and slashes
3. Hip Pads: Cushioning impacts to the pelvic area
4. Tailbone Pads: Protecting the lower back during falls and collisions
5. Thigh Pads: Guarding against bruising hits to the upper legs
6. Shin Guards: Shielding the lower legs from stick checks
7. Knee Pads: Offering added protection for sliding and ground balls
8. Ankle Braces: Providing support and preventing sprains

The level of additional protection you choose will depend on your position, playing style, and personal preferences. Experimenting with different combinations of pads can help you find the perfect balance of protection and mobility.

Mouthguards: Protecting Your Smile and More

While not technically a pad or protector, mouthguards are an essential piece of safety equipment for all lacrosse players. These dental protectors not only safeguard your teeth and gums but also help reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing impact to the jaw.

What should you look for in a quality lacrosse mouthguard?

• Proper fit and comfort for easy breathing and communication
• Durable materials that can withstand repeated impacts
• Moldable options for a custom fit
• Antimicrobial properties to prevent bacterial growth

Many players opt for custom-fitted mouthguards created by dental professionals for maximum protection and comfort. However, high-quality boil-and-bite options can also provide excellent protection at a more affordable price point.

The Importance of Proper Fit and Maintenance

Regardless of the quality of your protective gear, its effectiveness is greatly diminished if it doesn’t fit properly or is poorly maintained. How can you ensure your lacrosse pads and protectors are performing at their best?

• Regularly inspect all gear for signs of wear or damage
• Replace pads and protectors as recommended by manufacturers
• Clean and dry equipment after each use to prevent bacterial growth
• Adjust straps and fittings to maintain a secure, comfortable fit
• Store gear in a cool, dry place to prevent degradation

Taking the time to properly care for your protective equipment not only extends its lifespan but also ensures it continues to provide optimal protection throughout your lacrosse career.

Balancing Protection and Performance

While having the right protective gear is crucial, it’s equally important to find a balance between safety and on-field performance. Over-padding can restrict movement and hinder your ability to play at your best. How can you strike the right balance?

• Assess your playing style and position to determine your protection needs
• Try on different combinations of pads to find your optimal setup
• Consider lightweight, low-profile options that offer protection without bulk
• Gradually introduce new gear to allow time for adjustment
• Seek feedback from coaches and teammates on your mobility and effectiveness

Remember, the goal is to feel protected and confident without sacrificing the agility and speed that make you a formidable player on the field.

Investing in Quality: A Long-Term Approach to Protection

While it may be tempting to cut costs on protective gear, investing in high-quality pads and protectors can pay dividends in the long run. How does choosing premium equipment benefit lacrosse players?

• Enhanced durability leads to longer-lasting protection
• Superior materials offer improved comfort and performance
• Advanced technologies provide better impact absorption
• Higher-end gear often features more customizable fits
• Quality protection builds confidence, allowing for more aggressive play

By viewing protective gear as an investment in your safety and performance, you can make informed decisions that will benefit you throughout your lacrosse career.

Adapting Your Gear to Evolving Playing Styles

As you progress in your lacrosse journey, your playing style and position may evolve. How can you ensure your protective gear keeps pace with your changing needs on the field?

• Regularly reassess your protection requirements
• Experiment with new pad combinations as your skills develop
• Stay informed about advancements in protective gear technology
• Seek advice from more experienced players in similar positions
• Be open to trying different brands and styles to find your perfect fit

By staying adaptable and open-minded about your protective gear, you can ensure that your equipment continues to support your growth and development as a lacrosse player.

In conclusion, the right combination of pads and protectors is essential for any lacrosse player looking to elevate their game. By carefully selecting and maintaining your protective gear, you can step onto the field with confidence, knowing you’re well-equipped to handle the physical demands of this exciting sport. Remember, the best lacrosse players are those who can play aggressively and skillfully while staying safe – and the right protective gear is key to achieving that balance.

Shoulder Pads – Crucial for Protection Against Checks & Falls

When suiting up for lacrosse, one of the most important pieces of protective gear is a good pair of shoulder pads. The right pads can be the difference between walking away from a tough game with a few bruises or suffering a more serious injury like a separated shoulder or dislocated joint.

Lacrosse shoulder pads are designed to shield the collarbone, shoulders, and upper back from the blows dished out through stick checks, body checks, and hard falls. They absorb and distribute impact to minimize injury risk. While football shoulder pads aim to make players seem larger and more imposing, lacrosse pads focus more on flexibility, lightweight protection, and range of motion.

Key Features of Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

• Adjustable straps for a customized fit
• Hard plastic caps over the shoulders
• Foam or plastic padding across the chest and back
• Ventilation to allow airflow and cooling
• Lightweight and low-profile construction

When shopping for new shoulder pads, be sure to consider your position and style of play. Defensemen and players who battle physically in front of the net need maximum protection. Meanwhile, faster players like attackmen and middies may opt for more lightweight pads for mobility.

Try on different pad models to find the right blend of comfort, fit, and protection for your needs. It’s also smart to pair pads with shoulder liners or undershirts that add extra cushioning. Well-padded, properly fitted shoulder pads give players confidence to play physically without fear of injury.

While helmets and gloves may get more flashy styling, shoulder pads are a foundational lacrosse protective that every player needs. With the right pads, you can charge into contact without worrying about the landing!

Rib Pads – Shield your ribs from bruising hits

Rib Pads

Shoulder Pads

Bicep Pads

Arm Pads

Gloves

Elbow Pads

Forearm Pads

Hip Pads

Tailbone Pads

Thigh Pads

Shin Guards

Knee Pads

Ankle Braces

Mouthguards

Chest Protectors – Extra armor for vital organs

Looking to Up Your Lacrosse Game This Year? 15 Must-Have Pads & Protectors

Every lacrosse player knows that having the right protective gear can make all the difference on the field. With hard checks, wild passes, and loose balls flying everywhere, staying protected is a must. So if you’re looking to step up your lacrosse game this season, having the right pads and protectors should be a top priority.

Here are 15 essential pads and protectors every lacrosse player needs:

Shoulder Pads

A good pair of lacrosse shoulder pads is perhaps the most important piece of protective gear. Shoulder pads absorb the shock of checks while allowing a full range of motion. For attack players, more lightweight and flexible pads maximize mobility. Defensive players typically opt for bulkier pads with more padding. Companies like Maverik, Warrior, and STX make excellent shoulder pads for all positions.

Rib Pads

Getting hit with a stick in the ribs is extremely painful, so rib pads are a must. Rib pads cushion the blow of any hits to the torso while allowing players to twist and turn. Hard plastic caps add an extra layer of protection over the sternum. For total rib coverage, stretchy shirt-style pads are available too.

Chest Protectors

For close-quarter play near the crease, a chest protector is essential. These padded shirts have plastic covering the heart, shoulders, and collarbone. Goalies rely on full upper body protection, but field players can get away with more flexible chest padding. Brands like Shock Doctor and Epoch make lightweight options.

Arm Pads

Mandatory for box lacrosse but optional for field, arm pads protect players from checks and slashes. Lightweight pads slip right over the elbow and forearm for mobility and coverage. Hard caps over the elbow and wrist add impact protection too. For field lacrosse, partial arm sleeves are popular for extra elbow padding.

Gloves

Lacrosse gloves provide essential protection for the hands and wrists. Palm padding absorbs shock from catching passes, while reinforced thumbs and wrists prevent sprains and fractures. Attack players favor gloves with maximum dexterity, while defense relies on bulkier options. Customizable cuff lengths and palm padding make it easy to dial in the perfect fit.

Throat Protectors

Also known as neck guards, throat protectors are vital for preventing serious injury. A stick or ball to the throat can crush the windpipe and restrict breathing. Guards made of lightweight, breathable materials sit comfortably under the chin attached to the shoulder pads or helmet. For maximum protection, look for guards with extended collar bones and wrap-around coverage.

Cup

No piece of gear is more important for protecting sensitive areas than the cup. Lacrosse balls and errant checks to the groin are extremely debilitating. A padded cup absorbs impact while staying comfortable under uniforms. Breathable cotton or microfiber construction helps prevent chafing and irritation during intense play.

Girdle

Worn over the hips and thighs, lacrosse girdles provide padding and impact protection to the lower body. Interior pads cushion from routine bumps and checks while the exterior shell disperses energy on big collisions. Girdles keep all the padding secured in place while adding abdominal protection too.

Pants

Today’s lacrosse pants combine lightweight protection with athletic mobility. Stretchy yet durable fabrics allow full range of motion while interior padding shields the quadriceps and hamstrings. Built-in girdles and removable hip, knee, and thigh pads let players customize protection. For field players, breathable polyester or nylon pants are ideal.

Knee Pads

As players scoop up ground balls and cut sharply, knees absorb a lot of contact and stress. To defend against bruising joint pain, knee pads are essential. Foam or gel padding cushions the kneecap and surrounding area. Slip-in pads fit right under pants, while hard shelled caps on some models add more durable protection.

Cleats

The right cleats provide traction for quick cuts and sprints while protecting feet from impacts. Synthetic leather or mesh uppers are durable and breathable. Removable studs provide custom traction for any surface. For midfielders covering lots of ground, lightweight and supportive cleats are ideal.

Mouthguards

Mouthguards may be the most overlooked piece of protective gear in lacrosse. But dental injuries from shots, elbows, and sticks are all too common. Protecting teeth and jaw with a mouthguard prevents serious harm. Custom-fit offers the best protection and comfort, but affordable boil-and-bite options still get the job done.

Helmet

Last but certainly not least, a helmet is mandatory head protection against shots, collisions, and stick checks. Advanced helmets like the Cascade R or Warrior Regulator have engineered foams and shells to absorb huge impacts while staying light. Face masks keep eyes and teeth protected too. For goalies, full head and throat protection is a must.

Getting decked out in complete lacrosse padding and protection is the best way to minimize injuries this season. With high-quality pads in all the right places, you can play confidently and aggressively knowing your body is safe. Don’t neglect protection in the name of mobility or comfort. The latest pads offer lightweight, breathable protection that moves with you and helps take your game to the next level.

Shin Guards – Defend lower legs from checks

Looking to step up your lacrosse game this season? Protecting your body with the right pads and guards should be a top priority. Here are 15 must-have pieces of lacrosse protective gear to keep you safe on the field:

Shoulder Pads

Sturdy shoulder pads are crucial for absorbing hard checks. Attack players favor more lightweight, flexible pads for maximum mobility, while defenders need bulkier pads with extra padding. Brands like Maverik and Warrior make excellent shoulder pads catered to each position’s needs.

Rib Pads

Getting whacked in the ribs with a lacrosse stick is super painful. Wearing rib pads helps cushion the blow of any hits to the torso. Models with hard plastic sternum caps provide an extra layer of vital chest protection. Stretchy shirt-style pads offer full wrap-around rib coverage.

Chest Protectors

Chest protectors with plastic shielding over the heart, shoulders and collarbone are essential for close-quarter play near the crease. While goalies need extensive upper body padding, field players can opt for more low-profile, flexible chest guards from companies like Shock Doctor.

Arm Guards

Optional for field lacrosse but required for box lacrosse, arm guards slip over the elbow and forearm to protect against checks and slashes. Hard caps on the elbow and wrist provide additional impact protection. Partial arm sleeves with extra elbow padding are popular in field lacrosse too.

Gloves

Proper lacrosse gloves safeguard the hands and wrists from injury. Palm and thumb padding help absorb the shock of catching passes. Reinforced wrists prevent dangerous sprains and fractures. Attack players need gloves with maximum dexterity, while defenders rely on bulkier, more protective options.

Throat Protectors

Also called neck guards, throat protectors prevent serious injury from sticks hitting the windpipe. Lightweight, breathable protectors attach to the shoulder pads or helmet for comfort. For maximum coverage, look for guards with extended collar bones and wrap-around design.

Cup

Protecting the groin from lacrosse ball impacts and stick checks is a must. A well-fitted, padded cup absorbs blows while staying comfortable under uniforms. Breathable cotton and microfiber help reduce irritation during intense play.

Girdle

Hip and thigh padding is crucial in lacrosse. Girdles worn over the hips provide lower body protection and keep padding secured in place. They cushion routine bumps while dispersing big collision energy through the shell exterior.

Pants

Lightweight, breathable lacrosse pants with interior padding shield the quadriceps and hamstrings from harm. Stretch fabrics allow full mobility while built-in girdles and removable pads let players customize protection. Polyester and nylon pants work great.

Knee Pads

Knee pads are vital to defend against painful joint bruising during play. Foam or gel padding cushions the kneecap area when scooping up ground balls. For durable protection, opt for hard shelled caps on slip-in pads fitted under pants.

Cleats

Proper lacrosse cleats provide traction for quick cuts while protecting feet from impact. Synthetic, durable uppers and removable studs dial in custom traction. Midfielders covering lots of ground need super lightweight and supportive cleats.

Mouthguards

Don’t overlook mouthguards – they prevent serious dental injuries. Custom-fitted offers the best protection and comfort, but more affordable boil-and-bite guards still get the job done against shots, elbows and sticks.

Helmet

Lastly, helmets with engineered foams and shells are mandatory for absorbing high-impact shots to the head. Advanced options like the Cascade R or Warrior Regulator maximize protection while staying lightweight. Integrated face masks keep eyes and teeth safe too.

Getting fully equipped with lacrosse protective gear is the best way to minimize injury risk this season. With high-quality, lightweight pads in all the right places, you can charge ahead confidently knowing your body is protected.

Shoulder Liners – Extra cushioning under pads

Looking to step up your lacrosse game this season? Protecting your body with the right gear is key. Here are 15 essential lacrosse pads and protectors to help take your game to the next level:

Shoulder Pads

Sturdy shoulder pads absorb checks while allowing full mobility. Attackers need lightweight, flexible pads, while defenders require bulky, heavily-padded ones. Top brands like Maverik and Warrior cater pads to each position.

Shoulder Liners

Shoulder liners add extra cushioning and comfort under pads. Thin, breathable materials help prevent chafing and irritation during play. Some liners even include padded inserts for customizable protection.

Rib Pads

Painful rib shots are common in lacrosse. Rib pads cushion torso blows and many feature hard plastic sternum caps for added protection. Full coverage shirt-style pads wrap around the entire ribcage area.

Chest Protectors

Chest protectors shield the heart, shoulders and collarbone from close-range hits. While goalies need extensive padding, field players can get by with flexible guards from Shock Doctor or Epoch.

Arm Guards

Mandatory for box lacrosse but optional for field, arm guards protect from checks and slashes. Models with elbow/wrist caps provide serious impact protection. Partial sleeves work for extra field lacrosse elbow padding.

Gloves

Proper lacrosse gloves prevent hand and wrist injuries when catching passes. Palm and thumb padding help absorb impact while reinforced wrists prevent sprains. Attackers need maximum dexterity and defenders require bulkier protection.

Throat Protectors

Also called neck guards, throat protectors prevent windpipe injury from stick shots. Lightweight, breathable protectors attach to shoulder pads or helmets for comfort. For maximum coverage, look for extended collarbones and wrap-around design.

Cup

A well-fitted, padded cup is crucial for protecting the groin area from ball and stick impact. Breathable cotton and microfiber help reduce chafing and irritation during intense play.

Girdle

Girdles worn over the hips provide padding for lower body protection while keeping everything secured. They cushion routine bumps and check impacts through the exterior shell.

Pants

Lightweight lacrosse pants with interior padding protect the quadriceps and hamstrings. Stretchy fabrics maximize mobility and built-in girdles/removable pads let players customize protection. Polyester and nylon rock.

Knee Pads

Knee pads defend against painful joint bruising during play. Foam or gel padding cushions the kneecap area when scooping up ground balls. Opt for hard shells for maximum durability.

Cleats

Proper lacrosse cleats provide traction for quick cuts while protecting feet. Durable uppers and removable studs customize traction. Lightweight, supportive cleats work best for midfielders.

Mouthguards

Mouthguards prevent serious dental injuries from shots, elbows, and sticks. Custom-fitted offers the best protection, but cheaper boil-and-bite guards still get the job done.

Helmet

Helmets with engineered foams and shells are mandatory for absorbing high-impact shots. Advanced options like the Cascade R or Warrior Regulator maximize protection while staying lightweight and providing integrated face masks.

Equipping yourself with complete lacrosse protective gear is the best injury prevention. Premium pads in all the right places allow you to play confidently this season knowing your body is protected.

Cleats – Enhance traction & speed

Shoulder Pads

Rib Pads

Chest Protectors

Arm Guards

Gloves

Helmets

Goalie Gear

Cup & Supporter

Knee Pads

Throat Guard

Mouthguard

Cleats

Stick – Affects handling, passing, shooting & defending

Head Shape

Head Material

Pocket Type

Pocket Depth

Sidewall Material

Handle Material

Handle Size

Stick Length

Stiffness & Flex Profile

Weight

Balance