Must-Have Lacrosse Training Gear That Takes Your Game to The Next Level
Must-Have Lacrosse Training Gear That Takes Your Game to The Next Level
As a lifelong lacrosse player and coach, I’ve tried just about every training tool out there. Through trial and error, I’ve found the gear that provides the biggest boost to your skills and game performance. If you’re looking to improve your lacrosse abilities, these are the must-have pieces of equipment that will take you to the next level.
Lacrosse Cones for Drills That Improve Stick Skills
Lacrosse cones are essential for setting up drills that hone your cradling, scooping, passing, catching, and shooting mechanics. You can use cones to weave in and out while practicing cradling, set up passing lanes to hit on the run, or line up multiple cones for shooting target practice. Sturdy rubber lacrosse cones hold their position on turf or grass so you can focus on your stick work.
Some of my go-to cone drills for enhancing stick skills include the zig-zag cradle, box passing, triangle passing, and the shooting gauntlet. The simplicity of working with cones lets me repeat these drills and ingrain proper form. Setting up cones to simulate game situations like dodging defenders or winding through midfield trains my hands and brain to react instinctively during live play.
Having a full set of durable, weighted cones allows you to set up elaborate passing networks, intricate dodging patterns, or rapid-fire shooting games anywhere. I like to bring cones with me to the park or backyard to get extra reps in. With some creativity and strategic cone placement, you can practice just about any lacrosse move to build stick confidence.
Weave Through Cones for Cradling Mastery

One of my favorite drills is the zig-zag cone cradle. Set up a line of 5-10 cones about 1-2 yards apart in a zig-zag pattern. Start with the ball in your stick’s pocket and weave in and out through the cones, cradling the ball smoothly the entire time. Concentrate on protecting the ball with your stick while maintaining speed and control around the cones.
This drill forces you to cradle the ball with proper hand positioning as you sharply change directions. The cones teach you to cradle confidently in traffic while keeping the ball secure. Vary your cradle direction each time you run the drill – go right to left, then left to right. Cradling cleanly through the zig-zag will translate directly to dodging defenders on the field.
Box Passing Sharpens Accuracy
Set up 4 cones in a 10 yard square box shape. Begin at one cone with a partner and make crisp passes back and forth to each other around the box perimeter. Concentrate on quick passes, hitting each cone target accurately while moving around the box.
This box passing drill develops your passing accuracy, power, and footwork. Having to hit precise cone targets from different angles and distances improves your passing mechanics. Quick repositioning around the box strengthens your athletic stance and footwork agility. Vary the drill by passing one-touch or allowing a catch between passes. Box passing with cones will sharpen your passing for breaking the clear or hitting cutters in motion.
With some simple lacrosse cones and creativity, you can take your stick skills to the highest level through deliberate, focused practice. Setting up cone patterns tailored to various lacrosse moves will ingrain muscle memory faster than random practice. Work these cone drills into your training routine and you’ll notice crisper cradling, increased passing precision, and greater overall ball control.
Rebound Nets for Solo Shooting Practice Anywhere

Finding time for consistent shooting practice can be tough, especially without a partner or net handy. Lacrosse rebound nets are a game-changing solution that let you get quality shooting reps in whenever and wherever.
Rebound nets have a bungee cord system that cradles the goal. When you shoot into the goal, the ball rebounds back out to you. This allows you to continuously shoot without having to chase balls or rely on a goalie. With a rebound net you can practice your shot from any location – your backyard, a parking lot, an empty field, etc. I like to keep one in my car for quick shooting sessions at the park.
The rebounding action strengthens your shooting form by forcing you to shoot then immediately recover for the next shot. This builds muscle memory for quick-release shooting in game situations. The constant repetitions also improve your shot accuracy. Dialing in your shot on a rebounder translates directly to increased scoring during competition.
Look for rebound nets with replacement bungees and all-weather nylon material that can withstand outdoor use. I recommend hanging a rebounder about 6 feet high for overhand rifle shots on goal. Angle the bottom outward slightly for better rebounding. You can always lower the net for side-arm or underhand shots too.