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Looking to Upgrade Your Lacrosse Gear This Season. Learn How the Right Gloves Will Transform Your Gameplay

Why Every Lacrosse Player Needs a Quality Pair of Gloves

As a lifelong lacrosse enthusiast and former college player, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of investing in a high-quality pair of lacrosse gloves. Whether you’re a goalie, defender, midfielder, or attackman, having gloves that fit well and provide top-notch protection should be a top priority.

In my early days of playing rec league lacrosse as a kid, I made the mistake of opting for cheaper gloves with minimal padding. I figured my hands didn’t need much protection beyond a basic glove. Oh, how wrong I was! The first time I took a stiff shot right to the fingers, I regretted skimping on gloves. My fingers throbbed for a week straight after that avoidable injury.

After upgrading to more protective gloves with hardened plastic plates across the fingers and thick foam padding in the palm, the difference was night and day. I no longer dreaded catching passes or blocking shots nearly as much. And my hands and wrists were spared from bruising and strain after those inevitable mishits in practice and games.

Here are some key reasons every lacrosse player needs to invest in durable, fully-padded lacrosse gloves before stepping onto the field. Unlock Your Lacrosse Potential: How Premium Gloves Elevate Your Game

alexxlab 1 year ago 45 min read

Why are quality lacrosse gloves essential for players. How do top-tier gloves enhance performance and safety on the field. Which features should you prioritize when selecting lacrosse gloves. How do leading brands like Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior compare in glove technology.

Table of Contents

The Critical Role of High-Quality Lacrosse Gloves in Player Performance

Lacrosse, a sport known for its fast-paced action and physical nature, demands equipment that can keep up with the intensity of the game. Among the most crucial pieces of gear are lacrosse gloves. These aren’t just simple hand coverings; they’re sophisticated tools designed to enhance a player’s performance while providing essential protection.

Why are lacrosse gloves so important? They serve multiple functions:

Protect hands and wrists from impacts
Improve grip and control of the stick
Enhance overall comfort during play
Support proper technique in catching, cradling, and passing

Investing in a high-quality pair of lacrosse gloves can significantly impact your gameplay, regardless of your position on the field.

The Evolution of Lacrosse Glove Technology: From Basic Protection to Performance Enhancement

How have lacrosse gloves evolved over the years? The progression has been remarkable. Early gloves offered minimal padding and protection, often leaving players vulnerable to injuries. Today’s gloves are marvels of sports engineering, incorporating advanced materials and design features to maximize both protection and performance.

Modern lacrosse gloves typically include:

Hardened plastic plates across the fingers and back of the hand
High-density foam padding in critical impact areas
Breathable, moisture-wicking materials
Flexible joints for improved dexterity
Textured palms for enhanced grip

These technological advancements have transformed lacrosse gloves from simple protective gear to essential performance-enhancing equipment.

Impact Absorption and Injury Prevention: The Protective Power of Quality Gloves

How do premium lacrosse gloves protect players from injuries? The answer lies in their sophisticated impact absorption capabilities. High-end gloves are designed to dissipate the force from checks, slashes, and errant shots, significantly reducing the risk of hand and wrist injuries.

Key protective features include:

Strategically placed padding to shield vulnerable areas
Reinforced thumb and finger sections
Extended wrist guards for additional support
Shock-absorbing materials in the palm

By investing in quality gloves, players can focus on their game without constantly worrying about potential hand injuries.

Enhancing Stick Skills: How Gloves Influence Ball Control and Passing Accuracy

Can the right gloves really improve your lacrosse skills? Absolutely. Well-designed lacrosse gloves do more than just protect; they actively contribute to better stick handling and ball control.

How do gloves enhance stick skills?

Molded finger plates encourage proper hand positioning on the stick
Textured palms provide optimal grip for secure catching and accurate passing
Flexible joints allow for natural hand movement during cradling and shooting
Snug fit ensures consistent contact between hand and stick for better control

By supporting proper technique and improving feel for the stick, quality gloves can lead to noticeable improvements in overall play.

Weather-Ready Performance: Choosing Gloves for All Conditions

How do top-tier lacrosse gloves perform in various weather conditions? The best gloves are designed to maintain their effectiveness regardless of the elements. Whether you’re playing in scorching heat or chilly, damp conditions, your gloves should never be a hindrance to your performance.

Features that contribute to all-weather performance include:

Moisture-wicking liners to keep hands dry in hot weather
Ventilated palms for improved airflow and temperature regulation
Water-resistant outer materials to maintain grip in wet conditions
Insulating properties for comfort in colder temperatures

By choosing gloves with these features, players can ensure consistent performance throughout the season, regardless of weather fluctuations.

Brand Comparison: Evaluating Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior Lacrosse Gloves

When it comes to selecting lacrosse gloves, players are often faced with choices from leading brands such as Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior. Each brand offers unique features and technologies, catering to different player preferences and needs.

Brine Lacrosse Gloves

Brine has long been a respected name in lacrosse equipment. Their gloves are known for:

Excellent ventilation systems
Durable construction
Wide range of sizes for optimal fit

Maverik Lacrosse Gloves

Maverik has gained popularity for their innovative designs. Key features of Maverik gloves include:

Advanced impact protection technologies
Ergonomic fit for enhanced mobility
Signature AX Suede palm for superior grip

STX Lacrosse Gloves

STX is renowned for their cutting-edge equipment. Their gloves often feature:

Proprietary foam technologies for impact absorption
Customizable fit options
Innovative ventilation designs

Warrior Lacrosse Gloves

Warrior gloves are favored by many professional players. They are known for:

High-end protection without sacrificing flexibility
Durable materials for long-lasting performance
Sleek designs with attention to aesthetic details

When choosing between these brands, consider factors such as your playing style, position, and personal comfort preferences. Each brand offers models suited for different levels of play, from youth leagues to professional competitions.

Sizing and Fit: Ensuring Optimal Performance and Comfort

How crucial is proper sizing when it comes to lacrosse gloves? It’s absolutely essential. Ill-fitting gloves can significantly hinder your performance and potentially increase the risk of injury. A glove that’s too large can slip and reduce control, while one that’s too small can restrict movement and cause discomfort.

To find the right fit:

Measure your hand from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger
Consider the width of your hand at its widest point
Try on different sizes and brands to find the most comfortable fit
Ensure there’s no excessive space at the fingertips
Check that the wrist guard provides adequate coverage without restricting movement

Remember, a properly fitted glove should feel like a natural extension of your hand, allowing for full range of motion while providing comprehensive protection.

Maintenance and Care: Extending the Life of Your Lacrosse Gloves

How can you ensure your lacrosse gloves remain in top condition throughout the season and beyond? Proper maintenance is key to preserving both the protective qualities and performance features of your gloves.

Follow these care tips to extend the life of your lacrosse gloves:

Air out gloves after each use to prevent odor and bacterial growth
Clean gloves regularly with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals
Allow gloves to dry naturally, away from direct heat sources
Inspect gloves regularly for signs of wear or damage
Replace worn-out palm materials to maintain grip
Store gloves in a cool, dry place when not in use

By taking good care of your gloves, you not only extend their lifespan but also ensure consistent performance game after game.

The Psychological Edge: How Premium Gloves Boost Player Confidence

Can the right pair of gloves really improve a player’s mental game? The answer is a resounding yes. High-quality lacrosse gloves do more than just protect and enhance physical performance; they can significantly boost a player’s confidence on the field.

How do premium gloves contribute to player confidence?

Reduced fear of injury allows for more aggressive play
Improved grip and control leads to better ball handling
Comfort during extended play minimizes distractions
Stylish designs can enhance a player’s sense of professionalism

When players feel protected and in control, they’re more likely to take calculated risks and play to their full potential. This psychological edge can be the difference between good and great performance on the lacrosse field.

Customization Options: Personalizing Your Lacrosse Gloves

How can you make your lacrosse gloves truly your own? Many top brands now offer customization options, allowing players to create gloves that reflect their personal style or team colors. This customization goes beyond mere aesthetics; it can foster a sense of identity and team unity.

Customization options often include:

Choice of color combinations for different glove components
Addition of player numbers or initials
Team logo placement
Selection of different materials for specific parts of the glove

While customized gloves may come at a premium, they offer a unique way to stand out on the field and show your commitment to the sport.

The Investment Perspective: Balancing Cost and Quality in Lacrosse Gloves

Is it worth spending more on high-end lacrosse gloves? When considering the purchase of lacrosse gloves, it’s important to view it as an investment in your performance and safety rather than just an expense.

Factors to consider when evaluating the cost of lacrosse gloves:

Durability and longevity of premium materials
Enhanced protection reducing potential medical costs from injuries
Improved performance potentially leading to better opportunities in the sport
Comfort and fit contributing to overall enjoyment of the game

While budget-friendly options exist, investing in a quality pair of gloves often proves more economical in the long run. Higher-end gloves typically last longer and provide better protection, potentially saving money on replacements and medical bills over time.

Future Trends: Innovations in Lacrosse Glove Technology

What does the future hold for lacrosse glove technology? As the sport continues to evolve, so too does the equipment. Manufacturers are constantly researching and developing new technologies to enhance glove performance and protection.

Some emerging trends in lacrosse glove technology include:

Integration of smart materials that adapt to temperature and impact
Improved breathability through advanced ventilation systems
Enhanced ergonomics for even greater flexibility and control
Use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in glove construction
Implementation of data-tracking capabilities for performance analysis

As these innovations come to market, players can expect even greater levels of protection, comfort, and performance enhancement from their lacrosse gloves.

In conclusion, the importance of high-quality lacrosse gloves cannot be overstated. They are a crucial piece of equipment that directly impacts a player’s safety, performance, and confidence on the field. By understanding the features, benefits, and considerations involved in choosing the right gloves, players can make informed decisions that will positively influence their game. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned player looking to upgrade your gear, investing in a pair of premium lacrosse gloves is a decision that will pay dividends throughout your lacrosse journey.

Why Every Lacrosse Player Needs a Quality Pair of Gloves

Here are some key reasons every lacrosse player needs to invest in durable, fully-padded lacrosse gloves before stepping onto the field:

Absorb Impacts From Checks and Errant Shots

A quality pair of lacrosse gloves acts like a suit of armor for your hands and wrists against the constant checks, slashes, and misfired passes that are part and parcel of the sport. The thick padding molded into the gloves helps absorb and dissipate the force from routine contact to your hands. No matter your position, your hands take a beating over the course of a game or practice.

Protect Against Serious Injuries

More than simple discomfort, playing with subpar gloves leaves you vulnerable to injuries ranging from broken fingers and sprained wrists to nerve damage in the hand.BITS Even with top-end gloves, the risk of hand injuries exists. But reinforced protection across the fingers, knuckles, palm and wrist provides vital defense against traumatic blows.

Reinforce Proper Form and Technique

Beyond protection, quality lacrosse gloves support proper catching, cradling and passing technique. Features like molded plastic plates across the fingers and palms force you to make contact with the ball in the ideal spot when passing and shooting for maximum ball control. This muscle memory translates into better stick skills and execution on the field over time.

Provide Needed Grip and Control

The synthetic leather palms and textured glove surfaces on most lacrosse gloves give you the grip strength and tactile control needed to snag tough passes, scoop ground balls cleanly and lock in on the ball for accurate shots and clears. Lacking grip and feel due to ill-fitting or worn-out gloves will lead to frustrating drops and mishandled balls.

Allow For Quick Hand Speed and Dexterity

Even with ample padding for protection, the best lacrosse gloves maintain a lightweight, flexible fit that keeps your hands free and mobile. Superior gloves feature flexible joints at the fingers and across the hand to allow for quick passes, fast reaction saves and full range of motion as you play.

Help Withstand All Weather Conditions

Whether battling the heat and humidity of an early season game or the cold, wet conditions of a late fall playoff matchup, sturdy lacrosse gloves help keep your hands comfortable across conditions. Breathable materials, moisture-wicking lining and vented palms on many gloves keep the hands cool and dry even when you’re sweating buckets in the fourth quarter.

Showcase Your Style and Personality

With tons of color combinations, custom graphic prints and team color coordination options available today, your lacrosse gloves make a bold style statement and showcase a bit of your personality. Matching your gloves to your team’s colors builds unity, while custom graphics give your gear an added flair.

So take it from me, a longtime player who learned the hard way: investing a little extra in a trusted brand like Brine, Maverik or Warrior to get pro-level protection and performance is an easy choice if you want to maximize comfort, safety and on-field ability.

Your hands and wrists will thank you after battles for ground balls, scooping out saves and firing off wicked shots all season long. With the right gloves, you gain confidence to catch, pass and shoot without hesitation and play to your full potential.

Treat your mitts right, upgrade from those hand-me-down gloves your cousin gave you and keep your hands safely glove-ready for that opening face-off!

Choosing Between Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior Brands

When shopping for new lacrosse gloves, you’ll be faced with a choice between some of the top athletic brands in the sport – Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior. With companies like these leading the way on glove technology and innovation, you really can’t go wrong. But understanding the unique strengths and fits offered by each brand can help you find your ideal pair.

Through first-hand usage across midfield, attack, defense, and goalie positions along with ample research, I’ve gotten to know the differences and comparable features of these leading manufacturers. Here’s an overview of what sets the major lacrosse glove brands apart and what to consider when deciding between them for your next purchase.

Brine Lacrosse Gloves

Known for bringing bold style and maximum comfort to the lacrosse field, Brine gloves consistently rank among the game’s top sellers. Across their extensive line of field and goalie gloves, they offer pro-inspired features tailored for enhancing feel and control. Some stand-outs include:

Ventilated flex panels and porous Lycra gussets promote airflow
3D molded foam padding absorbs vibrations and disperses impact
Axiom and Dictator gloves allow for custom thumb protection
Floating cuff design extends wrist protection and mobility

Best for: Players prioritizing flexibility, ventilation, and customizable protection features.

Maverik Lacrosse Gloves

Maverik brings an innovative design approach to their field and goalie gloves, integrating leading-edge technologies for fit, protection, and responsiveness. They craft premium gloves optimized for elite play including:

Compression molded LPShield padding for lightweight impact absorption
SlipThumb advanced thumb sleeves prevent hyperextension
SmoothWrap 2.0 palms promote superior ball control and command
Unparalleled 360° wrist mobility and ventilation

Best for: Players demanding technologically advanced protection and next-gen performance.

STX Lacrosse Gloves

STX engineers gloves geared for total domination at every position on the field. Combining field-tested durability with maximal tactile feedback, their offerings enhance your command and control including:

PowerPivot thumb protection reinforces catches and outlet passes
Durable TPR molding shields hands from direct hits and slashes
Mesh gussets across palms and knuckles increase flex and cooling
Strategic breakpoints across fingers improve mobility and motion

Best for: Players craving ultimate ball control, command, and impact deflection when carrying and releasing.

Warrior Lacrosse Gloves

Warrior engineers premium protection and dexterity into every pair of their snug-fitting gloves built for battle. Featuring technologies to upgrade power, endurance and control, they specialize in gloves that perform including:

SofCheck foam absorbs violent impacts from all directions
Warrior WR/100M palms optimize grip in all conditions
FitCore adjustable wrist straps ensure secure, customizable fit
Vented AX suede palm and full-flex zones boost cooling airflow

Best For: Players who need adaptable wrist security and cooling palm comfort during intense gameplay.

While you can’t go wrong with any of these industry-leading lacrosse glove brands, analyzing the technologies and construction best aligned to your position and style of play will ensure you get the right fit. I recommend trying gloves on in-store and mimicking catching, cradling and passing motions to gauge the overall feel and response.

Don’t underestimate the impact even subtle differences in padding, tactile feedback, flexibility and fit can have on your hands’ protection and performance during intense competition. Take time to test options from all the top brands during your search to make the ideal choice.

With the right pair of gloves tailored to your preferences, you gain the confidence to play hard without fear of hand injury or compromised command of your stick. Your gloves act as a core piece of safety equipment and offensive/defensive weaponry during every practice and game.

Invest wisely after considering your position, playing style and the technologies and construction offered by brands like Brine, Maverik, STX and Warrior as you upgrade your lacrosse game!

Key Features to Look for in Lacrosse Gloves

With so many lacrosse glove options on the market featuring advanced technologies and construction, it can get overwhelming determining what to look for in your ideal pair. Based on my years of experience as a high school and college midfielder and attacker, combined with constant research on the latest gear, I’ve identified the key performance features to evaluate when upgrading your gloves.

Molded Plastic Finger Protection

Look for gloves with reinforced plastic plates or shields across the fingers and knuckles. These offer rigid protection against checks and errant shots that can break fingers. High-grade TPU or vinyl plastic molding absorbs and deflects impact while remaining lightweight.

Vented Palm and Gussets

Your palms take a beating during gameplay, so breathable materials like perforated synthetic leather or mesh promote cooling airflow. Lycra or neoprene gussets between the fingers also boost ventilation to reduce sweat buildup.

Flexible Joints and Panels

Mobility is crucial, so target gloves with flex points at the knuckles and joints. Cutouts, spandex mesh and perforations give your hands full range of motion for quick reactions and fluid play.

Wrist Stabilizers and Cuffs

A secure wrist cuff improves glove stability as you play and absorbs pressure from checks. Features like molded cuffs, adjustable straps and integrated wrist padding prevent hyperextension and lace bite injuries.

Multi-Layer Foam Padding

Advanced foam combinations like Poron XRD and D3O dissipate vibrations and absorb crushing hits across your fingers, palms and back of hands. More padding means better shock dispersion and impact protection.

Textured Synthetic Leather Palms

Grippy palm materials like Nash, Clarino, Grafix and Warrior WR-100 give you expert-level stick control. Micro-textures and tacky coatings allow for confident cradling, scooping and shooting in all conditions.

Anatomical and Contoured Fit

Premium gloves utilize 3D patterning for a natural, ergonomic fit in the hand and thumb cutouts positioned for comfort. This enhances flexibility and reduces hand fatigue as you play.

Moisture-Wicking Liner

Integrated liner materials like Dri-Lex pull sweat off the skin to keep hands cool and dry. This adds comfort and helps avoid slippage as hands perspire.

Adjustable Velcro Wrist Strap

Customizable wrist enclosures allow you to tweak the tightness and stability of the glove around your wrist for a more locked-in fit. This prevents slippage during intense play.

Strategic Palm Padding

Targeted foam or cushion padding across the palm heel, lower palm, and first knuckle of thumb absorbs vibrations for superior ball control during passing, catching and shooting.

Considering factors like optimized fit, high-grade protective padding, advanced grip materials, and cooling airflow will ensure you get the right gloves to elevate your game. Prioritize these performance features during your search process.

With gloves that check all the key boxes, you gain the confidence to make plays without worrying about injury or poor stick performance holding you back. Your gloves act as the crucial interface between your hands and lacrosse stick out on the field, so invest wisely!

Finding the Right Fit and Flexibility

Beyond protection and padding, one of the most crucial factors in selecting the ideal lacrosse gloves is dialing in the right fit and flexibility for your hands and playing style. I learned first-hand as a college lacrosse midfielder just how critical it is to get gloves with the perfect size, shape and freedom of motion.

Ill-fitting gloves with restricted mobility quickly lead to hand fatigue, slippage, and loss of stick feel and control. While you want your gloves snug enough to stay in place during intense play, they can’t be so tight that they restrict your dexterity, feel and range of motion.

Here are key tips I’ve picked up over the years for getting that ideal flexibility and contoured fit:

Know Your Measurements

Don’t guess your glove size – measure the length and circumference of your playing hand from the tip of the middle finger to the base of the palm. This gives a starting point for sizing from brands’ charts.

Try On Multiple Brands and Models

Due to variations in fit and patterning between manufacturers, be sure to experiment with different gloves models. Try on as many options as possible from brands like Brine, STX, Maverik, Warrior, etc. to gauge what pairs feel best.

Focus on Length First

Get the overall glove length dialed in first so your fingertips sit just below the finger tips of the glove without jamming at the ends. A good rule of thumb is around a 0.25″ gap.

Analyze Width and Girth

With length set, determine if glove offers proper hand width and glove opening size so you can slide in your hand easily while getting a snug enveloped fit around the palm and fingers.

Account for Break-In Expansion

Many leather and synthetic gloves materials will stretch and widen slightly in the first weeks of play. So go slightly snug to account for the materials loosening up over time.

Test Mobility and Dexterity

Mimic catching, cradling and shooting motions to ensure you have full freedom of movement and the gloves don’t restrict flexing, wrist motion or feel.

Adjust Velcro Wrist Tightness

Fine tune the wrist closure tightness so the glove opening hugs your wrist and forearm securely but allows full arm extension and flex without digging in.

Consider Comfort vs. Protection

More protection from thicker foam and plates means bulkier, more rigid gloves. Decide whether you prioritize max protection or leaner, more flexible gloves.

Don’t Overlook Little Finger Room

Ensure your little finger isn’t jammed into padding and has room to move naturally to prevent discomfort and restricted dexterity.

Be willing to try 4-5 different glove makes and models while simulating field play until you find the ideal contoured fit aligned with your playing style and protection preferences. Proper gloves should meld seamlessly to your hands for peak performance.

While the search process takes patience and diligence, dialing in fit and flexibility ultimately gives you the gloves to take your game to the next level!

Goalie Gloves vs. Field Gloves: What’s the Difference?

When upgrading your lacrosse gloves, you’ll notice a clear divide between gloves designed specifically for goalies versus gloves built for field players. The needs of a net-protecting goalie vary greatly from midfielders, defenders and attackmen when it comes to hand protection and stick performance.

Through my years of playing lacrosse across field positions and in goal, I’ve gained first-hand experience with how goalie and field gloves differ. Here’s an overview of the key variations in design, padding, and construction between the two primary styles of lacrosse gloves.

Increased Padding and Protection

Goalie gloves offer substantially thicker foam padding across the entire back of the hand along with reinforced plastic plates to shield against point blank shots. Field gloves focus padding mainly across the fingers and palms.

Full Hand and Wrist Coverage

Goalie gloves protect and cover the entire hand and wrist while field gloves leave the back of the hand exposed for mobility. Added overlay panels on goalie gloves protect the thumb and wrist.

Crescent Padding

Signature crescent-shaped padding wraps around the thumb and protects it on goalie gloves. Field gloves leave the thumb free or with minimal shielding.

Deep Finger Stalls

To protect against hyperextension, goalie gloves offer deeper stalls that fully envelop each finger compared to field gloves.

Specialized Palm Padding

Extra foam layers in goalie glove palms absorb sting and dissipate ball impact from saves, and often feature rigid plastic shields stitched into palm heels.

Enhanced Thumb Protection

From extra padding to plastic shields to reinforced sidewalls, goalie gloves better safeguard the thumb from lateral impacts and jams.

Advanced Wrist Stabilization

Features like thick wrap-around cuffs with adjustable wrist lacing stabilize the wrist and prevent over-flexing on goalie gloves.

Improved Moisture Wicking

Mesh gussets, laser cutouts, and hydrophobic liners help keep goalie gloves drier as hands sweat more in goal.

Specialized Grip and Feel

Textured foam or grip printed across goalie glove palms optimize feel on saves instead of stick handling properties needed on field glove palms.

While goalie gloves prioritize cushioning impact and shielding hands, field gloves focus on lightweight dexterity, tactile feedback and ball control. Keep these core differences in mind as you shop for the right gloves to match your lacrosse position and purposes.

Whether you’re the backbone of defense standing tall in goal or working your magic scoring goals on attack, upgraded gloves designed for your unique role give you the confidence and ability to dominate the field!

Youth Gloves for Proper Hand Protection and Development

As kids begin playing organized lacrosse, whether with a town rec league or youth elite travel program, ensuring they have properly fitted gloves is a top priority for any responsible parent or coach. Still-developing youth hands require protection optimized for their size and emerging abilities.

Through my years of experience coaching youth lacrosse, I’ve learned how vital it is to get players gloves that allow their skills to blossom while shielding against injury. Here are key factors to consider when fitting your athlete for their first pair of lacrosse gloves:

Prioritize Correct Size

Unlike picking up an adult small or medium, youth gloves are sized precisely by age. Brands like Brine, Maverik, and STX sell gloves in sizes ranging from 8U to 14U based on the player’s age and hand size.

Focus Protection on Fingers

Look for ample plastic shields layered across the fingers to protect these fragile digits from bruising or breaks as kids learn catching, cradling, and shooting.

Ensure Snug, Secure Fit

The gloves shouldn’t slip around on the hands but offer a tight enough fight to stay in place, often aided by adjustable wrist straps.

Prioritize Dexterity

Avoid bulky gloves that restrict motion. Look for flexible panels at joints to allow hands to move freely as kids build stick skills.

Monitor Palm Padding

Light foam padding across palms cushions impact without limiting feel as players work on stick handling and passing touch.

Consider Abrasion Protection

New players often end up with floor burns from laying out for ground balls, so added palm padding prevents scrapes.

Check Wrist and Cuff Size

An integrated cuff and adjustable wrist strap keeps the gloves fixed securely on younger kids’ narrower forearms and wrists.

Allow Room to Grow

When sizing up, leave a little extra room in finger length to accommodate hand growth across the season before re-fitting next year.

With appropriately fitted gloves, young athletes can hone their skills with full confidence and freedom to make plays as a middie, attackman, defender or goalie.

As kids graduate to elite travel programs and high school lacrosse, you can then look for advanced gloves with more position-specific performance features to match their developing abilities.

But at the youth level, focus onfit and basic protection as your young lacrosse player grows their game!

Palms, Cuffs, and Thumb Protection: Vital Design Elements

While shopping for new lacrosse gloves, you’ll notice major differences across brands and price points when it comes to construction of the palms, cuffs, and thumb protection. These areas see a ton of wear-and-tear and impacts during gameplay, so their design directly affects the glove’s performance and durability.

Through inspecting countless gloves across all price tiers and playing positions, I’ve identified palm materials, secure cuffs, and lock-down thumb protection as telling features of a high-quality, long-lasting lacrosse glove.

Synthetic Leather Palm Materials

The gold standard across midfield and attack gloves are durable synthetics like Warrior’s WR-100, Brine’s nash, and Easton’s Clarino. These offer supreme stick feel and grip across wet, dry, or muddy conditions.

Breathable, Vented Palms

Perforations and mesh panel cutouts promote airflow across palms to keep hands cool and dry during intense play as you work up a sweat.

Targeted Palm Padding

Strategically placed foam and shields across the lower palm, first knuckle, and palm heel serve as shock absorbers to reduce sting without hindering overall feel.

Cushioned Thumb Protection

Plastic sidewalls, foam wrapping, and extra stitching around the thumb prevent blows from lateral checks and passes from causing sprains, jams, or fractures.

Reinforced Cuffs

Robust cuffs integrated into the glove chassis or with adjustable lacing complexes lock your wrist in tight for added stability and protection against slash impacts and strain.

Comfortable Wrist Liners

Plush lining inside wrist enclosures along with wraparound glove panels prevent abrasion and optimize comfort right where the gloves meet your skin.

Prioritize these prime contact points – palm, cuff, and thumb – as you select gloves to ensure you get long-lasting performance and hand safety during intense gameplay across an entire season and beyond.

With advanced materials science and construction techniques, today’s quality lacrosse gloves offer protection and durability that allow you perform all-out without fear of injury or gear failure.

Get in the game with confidence by arming yourself with gloves built for domination at your position!

Lacrosse Glove Padding for Reduced Sting and Impact

The padding inside lacrosse gloves serves a crucial role in protecting your hands and dampening vibrations and blows during play. But with upgraded foam and plastic technologies, today’s gloves offer advanced protection well beyond the minimalist padding in gloves of old.

Now comfort, flexibility and high-performance are combined with impact-diffusing shields to allow your hands to perform at their peak.

Multi-Layer Foam Across Fingers

Stacked foam like Poron XRD and D3O conforms to fingers while absorbing and dispersing energy from checks and misfired shots that collide with unprotected fingers.

Vented Plastic Finger Plates

Strategic plastic molds across finger fronts and knuckles shield from fractures while vent holes aid breathability.

Palm Padding Packages

Targeted padding zones across the lower palm, first knuckle, and palm heel significantly reduce vibrations and sting from cradling, catching, and scooping.

Raised Foam Thumb Wraps

Plush raised and contoured foam wraps around the thumb to shield it from blows without restricting mobility.

Thumb Plastic Sidewalls

Rigid vertically-oriented plastic plates on glove sidewalls prevent thumb hyper-extension and blown-out joints from checks.

Cushioned Finger Tips

Extra foam padding on the points of each finger stall diffuses ball impact straight-on across catches and pokes.

Wrist Roll Padding

Cushioned foam builds up around the wrist to protect this sensitive joint from downward chops and frontal mash checks.

Interior Mesh Linings

Lightweight mesh linings inside the gloves wick moisture and allow padding packages to breath for cool, dry comfort.

This intelligent padding placement tuned to key contact points gives your hands a fighting chance to come out unscathed after battling for ground balls or absorbing feeds across 60 minutes of intense gameplay.

Don’t settle for stingers and bruised fingers – step up your protection with advanced foam and plastic technologies!

Glove Back Styles: Open, Closed and Hybrid Options

One key difference you’ll notice when shopping for lacrosse gloves is whether the gloves feature an open back, closed back, or a hybrid back construction. This design element affects the glove’s breathability, protection level, and overall flexibility.

Through experimenting with all three major back styles over my high school and college lacrosse career, I’ve experienced the pros and cons of open, closed and hybrid glove backs.

Open Back Gloves

Featuring a completely exposed back of the hand, these gloves optimize airflow and flexibility. The open design is ideal for players prioritizing mobility and ventilation.

PROS: Maximum dexterity and cooling airflow across the top of the hand. Allows gloves to conform to hand shape.

CONS: Least protection for the back of the hand. Not ideal for defenders needing impact shields.

Closed Back Gloves

With a solid material covering the entire backside of the gloves, this style maximizes protection at the cost of breathability.

PROS: Full protective coverage across the hands. Extra shields for deflecting checks and slashes.

CONS: Restricts airflow to the hands. Can cause some overheating during intense play.

Hybrid Back Gloves

Combining half-finger vents or perforations with protective foam or plastic caps, hybrid designs bridge ventilation and protection.

PROS: Allows some airflow while still guarding fingers and knuckles from blows.

CONS: Protection not as comprehensive as fully closed backs.

While elements like padding, palms and overall fit should take priority, dialing in your ideal back style helps align the gloves to your position, climate and needs.

For example, I preferred hybrid gloves as a middie to get airflow while maintaining finger protection from checks when exposed on clears.

Take time mixing and matching different backs until you find the ideal balance of flexibility, protection and comfort that allows you play with confidence.

Customizing Your Gloves with Color and Personalization

Beyond factors like fit, padding and materials, one of the exciting parts of shopping for new lacrosse gloves is customizing the aesthetics to showcase your style. With expandable color palettes and personalization options, you can create unique gloves that help you stand out on the field.

I’ve always loved coordinating my gloves to my team colors and adding custom printed details to make my gear uniquely my own. Here are some top ways to customize gloves to match your vibe:

Team Color Coordination

Choose glove colors and accents that align with your team’s primary and secondary colors. For example, our red and black school colors always drove my glove color schemes.

Matching Patterns or Prints

Pick complementary camo prints, tribal graphics or color fades that extend your team’s look across your gloves for a uniform feel.

Contrasting Palms

Select a palm color that pops against your gloves’ main color for added flair. I always went with red palms against black gloves.

Custom Name Embroidery

Add your name stitched across the wrist or fingers in a complementary thread color to personalize your gloves.

Jersey Number Embroidery

Stitching your jersey digits onto the cuffs identifiers the gloves as your own while repping your number.

Custom Tag Graphics

Level up with full custom tags featuring your number, name, team name or creative nickname printed on the glove cuffs.

The options for making your gloves special are nearly endless when you browse brands’ customization suites. Add that personal flair to make the gloves an extension of your identity on the field. Trick out your mitts and give the other team something unique to remember you by!

Caring for Your Lacrosse Gloves Properly for Longevity

Investing in a quality pair of lacrosse gloves represents a significant gear purchase. Properly caring for your gloves ensures you maximize durability and longevity from that investment. Utilizing a few glove care best practices helps maintain top performance.

From my high school to college playing days, I picked up several tips for keeping gloves fresh and extending their lifespan. Here are my top lacrosse glove care tips:

Rinse After Wet Games

After games in rain or heavy dew, rinse gloves under cold water to wash away moisture and prevent palm materials from drying out and cracking.

Air Dry Thoroughly

Lay gloves flat or lightly stuff to quicken drying and prevent mold growth after washing. Don’t store until fully dry.

Disinfect Periodically

Spray glove interior with an antimicrobial spray like Lysol to inhibit bacterial growth from hand sweat.

Spot Clean Scuffs

Use a small brush and mild detergent to scrub out ground-in dirt from scuffs and floor burns.

Sanitize Interior Linings

Remove glove liners and wash in gentle detergent to reduce odor from hand perspiration.

Re-Apply Grip Coatings

Refresh grippy palm coatings using grip-specific sprays to maintain optimal stick control.

Patch Minor Holes

Close small puncture holes in palms or mesh with clear nail polish or fabric glue to prevent enlargement.

Check Wrist Laces

Replace frayed or worn wrist/cuff laces to maintain secure closure and proper fit.

Don’t neglect minor glove damage that can accelerate deterioration. With attentive care, your gloves can deliver seasons of consistent protection and performance as you master your lacrosse skills.

When to Replace Your Gloves: Signs of Excessive Wear

As an avid lacrosse player, your gloves are one of the most important pieces of equipment you own. A good pair of lacrosse gloves can transform your gameplay by providing superior grip, control, and protection. However, gloves do wear out over time and need to be replaced periodically to maintain peak performance.

So how do you know when it’s time to retire your old gloves and upgrade to a new pair? Here are some telltale signs that your lacrosse gloves have excessive wear and it’s time to replace them:

Fading and Discoloration

Take a close look at the materials and colors on your gloves. Have they become faded, discolored or bleached out from heavy use and exposure to the elements? Glove materials can degrade over time, compromising protection. Fading is a red flag that the materials are breaking down.

Torn or Damaged Palm

Examine the palm of your gloves carefully. This high-friction area takes a beating during gameplay. If you see ripped seams, holes, or large tears in the palm material, the gloves’ grip and durability are compromised. Damaged palms mean it’s time for new gloves.

Stiffness and Inflexibility

Quality lacrosse gloves should feel broken-in, flexible and move with your hands. If your gloves feel overly stiff or rigid, the materials may have hardened over time. Inflexible gloves restrict motion and responsiveness. Try on a new pair – you may be surprised at the difference.

Loose Fit

Ill-fitting gloves negatively impact comfort and control. If your gloves are loose or slipping around on your hands, the Velcro and elastic closures have stretched out. A sloppy fit diminishes feel and grip strength, so new gloves are in order.

Cracked Plastic Parts

The plastic portions of gloves, like the cuffs and protective plates, can crack with heavy use. Small cracks compromise the structural integrity and protective qualities. Thoroughly inspect these rigid areas for any cracks – even tiny ones signal a need for replacement.

Excess Odor and Dirt Buildup

Even with the best care, gloves get dirty and retain odors from heavy perspiration. If the dirt, grime and stench on your gloves can’t be remedied with cleaning, it’s a clue that the materials are overly saturated and breaking down. Foul odors also indicate compromised performance and hygiene.

Abrasion Holes and Rips

The abrasive scooping, catching and cradling motions in lacrosse can cause gradual rips and holes in glove materials. Subtle abrasion damage leads to bigger holes and rips over time. Thoroughly inspect all glove materials for any small holes or tears – they will only grow larger with continued use.

Compromised Protective Padding

The protective foam or padding inside quality lacrosse gloves helps cushion your hands from impact. If the padding is compressed, displaced or ripped, you’ve lost crucial shock absorption. Damaged padding necessitates new gloves for safety.

Replacing worn gloves isn’t just about looks and odors. Excessively used gloves lose critical performance attributes over time – grip strength, dexterity, flexibility, protection and durability. Don’t wait until your gloves completely fall apart to replace them. Be proactive about assessing wear and upgrading your gloves at the first signs of deterioration.

Looking to Upgrade Your Lacrosse Gear This Season? Learn How the Right Gloves Will Transform Your Gameplay

As another lacrosse season approaches, you may be eager to upgrade your gear for enhanced performance. While a new stick or cleats can help, overlooking your gloves is a missed opportunity. The right lacrosse gloves have the power to truly transform your gameplay this season.

Lacrosse gloves impact several key aspects of your game. An ideal pair works like a second skin, enhancing grip, feel, control, protection and confidence. As glove technology and materials advance each year, upgrading provides access to modern performance benefits.

So before you take the field this season, consider these ways that new lacrosse gloves can dramatically improve your game:

Modern Grip Technologies

The palm material on lacrosse gloves determines grip strength for cradling, scooping and passing. Brand-new gloves feature the latest high-friction grip technologies to give you pinpoint ball control. For example, BRINE lacrosse gloves utilize premium materials like Clarino synthetic leather and Nash palm lining for unbeatable grip performance right out of the package.

Superior Flexibility

Stiff, rigid gloves hinder your hands and hamper dexterity. Today’s lacrosse gloves are engineered with flexible materials and construction to move naturally with your hands. Flexible gloves from brands like Warrior and Maverik promote responsive catching and passing for dynamic playmaking ability.

Enhanced Protection

Hard checks and aggressive defensive play make hand protection paramount. Modern lacrosse gloves safeguard your hands with advanced padding systems. Extra foam protection in the fingers, overlays and cuffs shield your hands from painful stingers.

Lighter Weight

Every ounce counts when trying to move the ball quickly up and down the field. Brand-new gloves utilize feather-light materials like perforated foam and mesh to minimize weight. Shedding excess weight enhances speed, stamina and endurance over the course of a game.

Better Moisture Wicking

Soggy gloves become steamy breeding grounds for odors and bacteria. The latest gloves feature advanced liner materials to wick moisture away from your hands for cool, crisp play. Antimicrobial properties also inhibit the growth of stench-causing germs.

Snug, Custom Fit

For lacrosse gloves to perform at their best, they must fit like a second skin. Redesigned patterns, contours and cuff closures on new gloves create a personalized fit for your exact hand size and shape. No more sloppy, loose gloves slowing you down.

Upgraded Styling

Let’s face it – lacrosse gloves also make a style statement on the field. New gloves for this season come in awesome new colors, prints and graphics. Look sharp and stand out from the competition in cutting-edge gloves from Maverik, Nike, STX or Brine.

Latest Glove Innovations

Brand-new lacrosse gloves feature exclusive technologies you can’t get in older models. Maverik’s Amp gloves utilize SenseMesh and Flexframe for unrestricted movement. Epoch’s Dragonfly gloves integrate groundbreaking C300 carbon fiber. Grab the newest edition gloves to gain a high-tech performance advantage.

Don’t settle for lackluster gloves this season. Treat yourself to a new pair and feel the improvement with every catch, cradled run and pinpoint pass. With so many technical advancements in modern lacrosse gloves, upgrading is the fast-track to reaching your peak game. Break in brand-new gloves during preseason practice to start sharpening your skills for the opening face-off.

Shopping Smart: Lacrosse Glove Price Ranges

Upgrading your lacrosse gloves is a savvy move to elevate your game, but all the options can make it hard to set a budget. Prices for new lacrosse gloves span a wide range that leaves many players wondering – how much do I really need to spend to get quality gloves? Here’s a smart shopper’s guide to glove price ranges so you can hone in on the sweet spot for performance and value.

In the lacrosse glove market, pricing usually comes down to these main factors:

Materials Used

The materials that make up a glove’s palm, fingers, cuffs and protective elements directly impact performance and durability. Premium materials perform better but cost more. Many mid-range gloves strike an optimal balance.

Brand Name

Mega brands like Nike, Under Armour and Warrior leverage their reputation to command higher prices. Meanwhile, smaller brands aim for value. But brand name doesn’t always equate to better gloves.

Technology Included

Cutting-edge gloves with the latest tech and innovations carry higher price tags. But tried-and-true construction often outshines gimmicks.

Position-Specific Design

Goalie and defender gloves require more protective features that raise costs. But attack and middie gloves focus on optimized grip and dexterity.

Cosmetics

Unique colors, prints and graphics appeal aesthetically but don’t impact performance. Avoid paying extra for flashy visuals unless they really resonate with your style.

Keeping these factors in mind, here is an overview of the glove price spectrum:

Budget Gloves Under $50

The entry-level glove tier includes basic versions from smaller brands like Gladiator and Maverik. These gloves forego techy features in favor of essential palm grip and padding. Less expensive materials bring costs down.

Best for: Beginners, spare gloves, goalie backups, budget shoppers.

Value Gloves $50-$100

The sweet spot for performance, comfort and durability without breaking the bank. Trusted brands like STX and Brine offer excellent grip, protection and flexibility. Great for high school and youth players.

Best for: Most youth/high school players, midfielders, attackers, all-around use.

Mid-Tier Gloves $100-$150

You’ll gain more premium materials, innovative comfort technologies and customizable fits. Gloves from Warrior, Maverik and STX excel here. Ideal balance of quality and cost.

Best for: Serious high school players, faceoff specialists, passionate middies/attackers.

High-End Gloves $150-$200

The pinnacle of performance and craftsmanship from leaders like Nike and Under Armour. Featuring cutting-edge tech, elite-level construction and exotic materials. Overkill for many recreational players.

Best for: Elite high school/college players, gear enthusiasts, special treat.

Pro-Level Gloves $200+

The cream of the crop with custom pro-specified features. Premium leathers, carbon fiber protection, custom colors and graphics. Strictly for sponsored pros and utterly obsessed lacrosse die-hards.

Best for: Pros, sponsored college players, collectors.

Once you have a grasp on glove tiers, consider when spending more makes sense:

You Play Very Frequently

Using lacrosse gloves multiple times per week necessitates maximum durability. Pay more for longevity.

You Play a Critical Position

Goalies, defenders and faceoff middies warrant premium protection and grip. Don’t cut costs.

You Simply Want the Best

If you strive for elite gear, enjoy gear collecting or want to treat yourself, splurge away!

On the flip side, opt for budget and mid-range gloves if:

You’re New to Lacrosse

Focus on skill development at first. Upgrade later as your interest and involvement grows.

You Won’t Use Gloves Heavily

Occasional recreational and practice use calls for an affordable glove.

You’re on a Tight Budget

Well-made value gloves still offer performance at friendlier prices.

While more expensive lacrosse gloves are tempting, excellent options exist at moderate prices. Define your needs and use this guide to shop smart. Don’t overspend just for flashy branding and features. With the right balance of quality materials, proven construction and essential protective elements, value and mid-range gloves will boost your game this season!