Choose Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics
The right lacrosse shorts are made with lightweight, breathable fabrics that promote airflow and prevent overheating. Look for shorts made of polyester or nylon materials that wick moisture away from the skin to keep you cool and dry. The thinner and more ventilated the material, the better for maximizing mobility and comfort on the field.
Focus on Strategic Paneling and Seams
Premium lacrosse shorts utilize strategic paneling and seam placement to allow for full range of motion. Look for shorts with side mesh panels and gusseted crotch seams that allow for free movement of the legs and prevent chafing. Flatlock stitching that reduces bulk and irritation is also ideal. The shorts should flex and move with you as you cut, pivot and run across the field.
Secure Side Pockets for Storage
Quality lacrosse shorts will often incorporate side pockets to hold essentials like your mouthguard, phone or wallet. Side pockets located on the thigh offer secure storage and easy accessibility of items. Zippered pockets are ideal for safely holding small valuables close at hand. Some shorts even include a hidden inner pocket for storing keys or cash.
Invest in Quick-Dry Technology
Look for shorts made of moisture-wicking polyester with quick-dry technology to keep you light and comfortable even when sweaty. Quick-dry mesh liner shorts paired with lacrosse shorts also help you avoid that soggy feeling during intense gameplay. The right quick-dry shorts will whisk perspiration away while maintaining breathability.
Check for UPF Rating for UV Protection
Since lacrosse is often played outdoors under the sun, shorts with built-in UV protection help safeguard against harmful rays. A UPF rating of 50+ indicates excellent UV protection. The material, fit, construction and dye method all affect the UPF rating, so check the product specs before buying.
Choose a Reputable Lacrosse Apparel Brand
Trustworthy athletic brands like Nike, Under Armour and Adidas offer quality lacrosse shorts designed for optimal movement and comfort. More specialized lacrosse brands like Maverik and STX also market excellent shorts purpose-built for the sport. Look for durable construction from top brands known for their innovative sporting apparel.
Look for Moisture Wicking Properties
When shopping for lacrosse shorts, prioritize moisture wicking fabrics that pull sweat away from the skin. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon combined with mesh ventilation panels allow maximum airflow to keep you cool and dry. Quick-dry technology draws perspiration to the surface of the shorts so it can evaporate rapidly. This moisture wicking ability is essential to avoid discomfort from wet shorts chafing as you run up and down the field.
Some key features to look for include mesh liner shorts, gusseted crotches, and flatlock stitching. The lightweight mesh liner shorts provide an extra moisture wicking layer while the gusseted crotch prevents chafing from thigh friction. Flatlock stitching reduces irritation because it lays flat rather than protruding outward. With moisture wicking shorts, you can play at peak performance without soggy distractions.
Get the Right Fit for Full Range of Motion
Finding lacrosse shorts with the ideal fit is crucial for unrestricted mobility on the field. Look for shorts with an athletic cut and flexible fabric that move with you. A shorts length a few inches above the knee gives the best freedom of movement for running and dodging. The waistband should be snug enough to stay put without restricting your core as you pivot and twist.
Custom lacrosse shorts allow you to get the perfect size tailored to your body measurements. With the right fit, the shorts become like a second skin allowing you to extend, jump and stretch freely. Whether you prefer a compression fit, loose fit or something in between, the shorts should feel fitted but not constricting in any way. The right fit means the shorts disappear beneath you as you focus on playing your best game.
Add Mesh Venting for Cooling Airflow
Proper ventilation is key for keeping cool during intense lacrosse games. Look for shorts constructed with mesh paneling in sweat-prone areas to allow for maximum airflow. Strategically placed mesh ventilation zones on the sides and along the inner thighs help release heat and moisture.
Moisture-wicking mesh liner shorts provide an extra breathable layer underneath lacrosse shorts. Lightweight micro mesh fabrics promote air circulation while also quick-drying sweat. Ventilated mesh pockets can also improve ventilation through the shorts. The cooling effect of mesh venting gives you an edge when playing in hot weather.
Add Mesh Venting for Cooling Airflow
Proper ventilation is key for keeping cool during intense lacrosse games. Look for shorts constructed with mesh paneling in sweat-prone areas to allow for maximum airflow. Strategically placed mesh ventilation zones on the sides and along the inner thighs help release heat and moisture.
Moisture-wicking mesh liner shorts provide an extra breathable layer underneath lacrosse shorts. Lightweight micro mesh fabrics promote air circulation while also quick-drying sweat. Ventilated mesh pockets can also improve ventilation through the shorts. The cooling effect of mesh venting gives you an edge when playing in hot weather.
Secure Side Pockets for Storage
Having easily accessible yet secure storage in your lacrosse shorts is essential for holding small gear and valuables during games. Side thigh pockets are ideal for stashing essentials close at hand. Look for zippered pockets that keep items safely tucked away.
Moisture-resistant pockets help protect any electronics or wallet you store. Some shorts feature both open top stash pockets as well as covert hidden interior pockets for valuables. The right pocket design and placement improves convenience while giving peace of mind.
Consider Antimicrobial Treatments
Since lacrosse involves heavy sweating and equipment rubbing, shorts with antimicrobial treatments help inhibit odor and bacteria growth. Silver ion technology infused into the fabric fights microbes and prevents smelly buildup in the shorts. This antimicrobial protection keeps shorts fresher for longer.
Some brands also apply anti-odor treatments to the mesh liner for extra odor blocking power. Seek out shorts made of quick-dry, moisture-wicking material already inclined to stay cleaner and minimize odor. Antimicrobial tech gives an added level of cleanliness and hygiene for active play in hot conditions.
Invest in Quick-Dry Technology
The best lacrosse shorts utilize quick-dry technology to whisk away sweat and prevent sogginess during play. Polyester fabrics combined with breathable mesh panels allow for rapid moisture wicking and drying. Quick-dry mesh liner shorts provide an extra layer to keep you light and dry even when perspiring heavily.
Look for shorts that are both hydrophobic to repel water and highly breathable to expedite evaporation. Quick-dry shorts help you avoid discomfort from damp shorts clinging as you move. With lightweight quick-dry shorts, you stay cool, mobile and focused on the game.
Opt for 4-Way Stretch Capability
Mobility is paramount in lacrosse, so seek out shorts made of fabric with 4-way stretch capability. Material that stretches and recovers in all directions allows for full range of motion as you run, cut, pivot and shoot on the field. The shorts should flex and move with you as you extend, bend and twist without any restriction.
Lightweight, gusseted shorts with strategic panel placement further improve mobility. Compression shorts with 4-way stretch fabric provide muscular support without impeding movement. With unhindered flexibility in all directions, 4-way stretch lacrosse shorts become like a second skin.
Prioritize Durability and Strength
With all the running, contact, and wear and tear of lacrosse, it’s important to choose shorts made of durable, abrasion-resistant fabric. Synthetic blends incorporating polyester or nylon provide both flexibility and toughness to withstand impact and friction.
Reinforced seams and stitching add structural integrity. Some shorts incorporate ripstop fabric for heightened tear resistance in high stress areas. Compression shorts with supportive spandex blends resist bagging out over time. Durable lacrosse shorts withstand repetitive motion and withstand the rigors of rough play.
Check for UPF Rating for UV Protection
Lacrosse is an outdoor sport, so shorts with built-in sun protection help safeguard against harmful UV radiation. A UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating indicates how effectively fabric blocks UV rays. Look for shorts rated UPF 50 or higher for excellent sun protection.
Synthetic fabric blends, tighter weaves, UV-absorbing dyes and specialty treatments help boost UPF. Some brands apply UV-blocking finishes to improve sun protection. Compression shorts with UPF properties provide defense against UV rays. Seek out lacrosse shorts that protect your skin while practicing and playing in the sun.
Select Bold Colors and Patterns
Lacrosse shorts are available in a wide range of colors and prints to showcase your personal style. Bold, bright colors like red, yellow and orange make you pop on the field. Two-tone color-blocked shorts provide visual interest and dimension.
Cool graphic prints featuring checkerboards, camo or geometric shapes express your personality. Team shorts come in coordinated colors and designs. Choose from solids, stripes, digital prints or tie-dyes in colors that energize and motivate you. Vibrant, eye-catching lacrosse shorts let you play with passion and confidence.
Compare Waistband Styles Like Drawcord or Elastic
The waistband design of lacrosse shorts affects their fit and function. Elastic waistbands with internal drawcords provide adjustable fit and comfort. They move freely with your body. Flat elastic waists offer flexibility without dig-in. Encased elastic waists add stability during active play.
Some shorts have compression waistbands for a secure, streamlined fit. Traditional exposed waistbands with belt loops work well too. Consider if you want an adjustable or snug fixed waistband. Trying on different waistband styles can help determine the most comfortable option for all-day wear.