MustHave Lacrosse Knee and Leg Protective Gear to Prevent InjuriesMustHave Lacrosse Knee and Leg Protective Gear to Prevent Injuries
Importance of Wearing Knee Pads for Defense in Lacrosse
Knee pads are an essential piece of protective gear for lacrosse players, especially defenders. The defender’s role involves constant contact with opponents, quick cuts and stops, and knee-down stances. All those movements put tremendous stress on the knees over the course of a game or practice. Without adequate protection, defenders risk bruises, tendinitis, damaged cartilage, and even ligament tears or fractures in the knee area.
Lacrosse knee pads cushion the knee joint and absorb the impacts from hits, checks, and falls. High-quality pads with dense EVA or polyethylene foam disperse energy on contact, reducing the force transmitted to the knee. Some pads have removable liners or gels for adjustable cushioning. The pads’ outer shells, made of tough fabrics like Cordura nylon, prevent abrasion on artificial turf. Wraparound knee pad straps ensure a snug fit so the pads stay in place and don’t shift during play.
Many lacrosse knee pads are contoured to the shape of the knee, with an ergonomic circular cutout behind the knee. This anatomical design allows for unrestricted flexion and extension when running and pivoting. Pre-curved pads conform to the knee’s natural bend for optimal comfort. Lightweight, breathable pads with moisture-wicking antimicrobial liners prevent sweat buildup and odor.
For maximum protection, many players wear padded lacrosse shorts or girdles under their jerseys. Integrated cell foam padding in the thigh, hip, and tailbone areas protects from checks and collision impacts. Hard shell knee caps mounted on the shorts offer additional reinforcement for vulnerable knees.
Lacrosse defenders put their knees through a brutal gauntlet on the field. Investing in high-quality, shock-absorbing knee pads is crucial for fending off knee injuries and pain as a defender. Prioritizing knee protection helps ensure athletes can play safely and aggressively at their highest level.
Best Padded Shorts for Midfielders Who Want Mobility in Lacrosse
Midfielders in lacrosse need gear that provides protection yet allows freedom of movement to run up and down the field. Integrated padded lacrosse shorts are an excellent solution, giving padding and coverage for the hips and tailbone without restricting mobility.
Lacrosse midfielder shorts typically have cell foam or EVA foam padding sewn into areas that commonly take impacts from checks, such as the hips, thighs, and coccyx. This padding cushions blows and diffuses collision forces that can cause bruises or fractures. The foam may be perforated to enhance breathability and reduce sweat buildup during intense midfield running.
The shorts come in a compression fit to prevent sliding and keep the padded sections securely over the hip and thigh bones. An elastic waistband and internal drawstring allow adjusting the shorts for a customized, stable fit. Some shorts also have waistband zip pockets to hold keys or cash securely during games.
For mobility, lightweight polyester or nylon shorts fabrics allow unconstrained leg movement when sprinting downfield. The shorts do not wrap around the knees, avoiding material bunching when cutting or pivoting. Breathable mesh venting further aids cooling and comfort when running at top speed.
Many midfielder shorts have removable padded inserts. This allows the inserts to be switched out for thicker or thinner padding as desired for more or less protection. Players can also take out the pads completely on very hot days when maximal ventilation and minimal leg encumbrance are priorities.
For even more protection, midfielder shorts can be combined with protective lacrosse knee pads secured with compression sleeves. Knee pads absorb impact on knee dives, cuts, and checks from opponents. The full shorts and knee pad combo protects the main injury zones for midfielders while enabling free movement and cooling during intense lacrosse games.
Why Longer Knee Sleeves Give More Support in Lacrosse
Lacrosse players looking for knee support and compression often choose knee sleeves that extend several inches above and below the joint. Longer sleeves deliver more support and stability than short sleeves for athletes who need extra knee protection.
Full leg lacrosse knee sleeves are typically 7-9 inches in length, measured from the mid-thigh above the patella down to mid-calf. The longer sleeves wrap the quadriceps and calf muscles surrounding the knee joint. The compression provided by the sleeve increases proprioception of the knee’s position and helps reduce fatigue in the leg muscles.
The sleeve’s fabric, usually nylon-spandex blends, adds stability on each side of the knee. This reduces strain on soft tissues like the ACL and PCL ligaments within the knee structure. Less knee twisting and abnormal lateral motions helps prevent ligament tears and meniscus damage.
More material around the knee joint also means more warming coverage to keep muscles flexible and loose. This aids injury prevention and comfort in cold weather games. Additionally, many sleeves have anti-odor technologies and moisture wicking fabrics that prevent sweat buildup during intense running.
For players needing even more support, hinged knee braces can be worn under full leg sleeves. The rigid braces have side arms and straps that protect and immobilize the knee joint, while the sleeve keeps the brace securely in place. This combo allows athletes with prior knee injuries or instabilities to keep playing safely.
While short knee sleeves provide some light compression, lacrosse players looking for true knee support should opt for longer 7-9 inch sleeves. The increased coverage above and below the knee joint significantly improves stability, proprioception, and injury prevention when moving aggressively in lacrosse games.
Features of Lightweight Lacrosse Leg Sleeves
Key Features of Effective Lacrosse Knee Pads
- Anatomical design with circular cutouts for unrestricted movement
- Pre-curved shape to conform to the knee’s natural bend
- Wraparound straps for a secure, shift-free fit
- Breathable, moisture-wicking liners to prevent sweat buildup and odor
- Removable inserts for customizable cushioning
Can knee pads be combined with other protective gear. Many players enhance their knee protection by wearing padded lacrosse shorts or girdles. These garments incorporate integrated cell foam padding in the thigh, hip, and tailbone areas, offering comprehensive protection against checks and collisions.
Optimizing Mobility and Protection for Lacrosse Midfielders
Lacrosse midfielders face a unique challenge: they require substantial protection without sacrificing the mobility necessary for their position. Integrated padded shorts have emerged as an ideal solution, providing targeted protection while maintaining freedom of movement.
Design Elements of Midfielder Padded Shorts
- Cell foam or EVA foam padding in high-impact areas (hips, thighs, tailbone)
- Compression fit to prevent sliding and ensure proper pad placement
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics for unrestricted movement
- Elastic waistband and internal drawstring for a customizable fit
- Optional waistband pockets for secure storage
How do midfielder shorts enhance performance. The compression fit not only keeps the padding in place but also promotes blood flow and reduces muscle fatigue. The strategic placement of padding protects against bruises and potential fractures without impeding the player’s ability to sprint, cut, or pivot.
Are padded shorts customizable for different playing conditions. Many midfielder shorts feature removable padding inserts, allowing players to adjust their level of protection based on game intensity or weather conditions. This versatility ensures optimal comfort and performance in various playing scenarios.
The Advantages of Extended Knee Sleeves in Lacrosse
Longer knee sleeves, typically measuring 7-9 inches from mid-thigh to mid-calf, offer enhanced support and stability compared to their shorter counterparts. These sleeves have gained popularity among lacrosse players seeking comprehensive knee protection without the bulk of traditional pads.
Benefits of Full-Length Knee Sleeves
- Increased proprioception of knee position
- Reduced muscle fatigue in quadriceps and calves
- Enhanced stability for ACL and PCL ligaments
- Minimized risk of knee twisting and abnormal lateral movements
- Compression-induced improvements in blood flow and recovery
How do knee sleeves contribute to injury prevention. The compression and support provided by extended knee sleeves help maintain proper knee alignment during intense play. This reduced strain on soft tissues and ligaments can significantly lower the risk of both acute injuries and chronic overuse conditions.
Integrating Protective Gear for Maximum Safety
While individual pieces of protective gear offer specific benefits, combining multiple elements can provide comprehensive protection for lacrosse players. A well-integrated protective setup might include padded shorts, knee pads, and extended knee sleeves, each contributing to overall safety and performance.
Layering Protective Gear Effectively
- Start with compression shorts or padded girdle as a base layer
- Add knee pads for targeted impact protection
- Overlay with extended knee sleeves for additional support and compression
- Ensure all elements work together without restricting movement
Does combining protective gear impede performance. When properly selected and fitted, a multi-layered approach to protection should enhance rather than hinder performance. The key is to choose gear that complements the player’s position and playing style while providing the necessary safeguards against injury.
Material Innovations in Lacrosse Protective Gear
The evolution of materials used in lacrosse protective gear has significantly improved both the effectiveness and comfort of these essential items. From advanced foams to high-tech fabrics, manufacturers are continually pushing the boundaries of protective technology.
Cutting-Edge Materials in Modern Lacrosse Gear
- D3O: A smart material that remains soft and flexible but hardens upon impact
- Carbon fiber: Lightweight yet incredibly strong, used in hard shell components
- Moisture-wicking fabrics: Advanced synthetics that keep players dry and comfortable
- Antimicrobial treatments: Prevent odor-causing bacteria growth in padding and fabrics
How have material advancements improved lacrosse gear. These innovations have resulted in protective gear that is lighter, more breathable, and more effective at absorbing and dispersing impact energy. Players can now enjoy higher levels of protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort.
Customizing Protective Gear for Different Lacrosse Positions
Each position in lacrosse has unique demands and exposure to different types of impacts and movements. Customizing protective gear based on position-specific needs can optimize both safety and performance on the field.
Position-Specific Protective Gear Considerations
- Attackers: Lighter padding for agility, focus on upper body protection
- Midfielders: Balanced protection with emphasis on mobility
- Defenders: Robust knee and lower body protection for frequent contact
- Goalies: Specialized chest and lower body padding for shot blocking
Why is position-specific gear important. Tailoring protective equipment to the specific demands of each position ensures that players are adequately protected without being encumbered by unnecessary bulk. This customization can lead to improved performance and reduced risk of position-specific injuries.
Maintaining and Replacing Lacrosse Protective Gear
Proper maintenance and timely replacement of protective gear are crucial for ensuring ongoing safety and performance. Regular inspection and care can extend the life of equipment, while knowing when to replace worn-out gear is essential for maintaining optimal protection.
Best Practices for Gear Maintenance
- Clean gear regularly with appropriate products to prevent bacterial growth
- Air dry equipment thoroughly after each use
- Store gear in a cool, dry place to prevent material degradation
- Inspect for signs of wear, such as cracks, tears, or compressed padding
- Replace gear that shows significant wear or damage
How often should lacrosse protective gear be replaced. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most manufacturers recommend replacing heavily used protective gear annually or bi-annually. However, any equipment that shows signs of significant wear or damage should be replaced immediately, regardless of age.
Investing in high-quality lacrosse protective gear and maintaining it properly is crucial for player safety and performance. By understanding the specific needs of each position and leveraging the latest material innovations, players can enjoy optimal protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort on the field. Regular maintenance and timely replacement ensure that this protective equipment continues to perform at its best, allowing athletes to focus on their game with confidence.
Importance of Wearing Knee Pads for Defense in Lacrosse
Knee pads are an essential piece of protective gear for lacrosse players, especially defenders. The defender’s role involves constant contact with opponents, quick cuts and stops, and knee-down stances. All those movements put tremendous stress on the knees over the course of a game or practice. Without adequate protection, defenders risk bruises, tendinitis, damaged cartilage, and even ligament tears or fractures in the knee area.
Lacrosse knee pads cushion the knee joint and absorb the impacts from hits, checks, and falls. High-quality pads with dense EVA or polyethylene foam disperse energy on contact, reducing the force transmitted to the knee. Some pads have removable liners or gels for adjustable cushioning. The pads’ outer shells, made of tough fabrics like Cordura nylon, prevent abrasion on artificial turf. Wraparound knee pad straps ensure a snug fit so the pads stay in place and don’t shift during play.
Many lacrosse knee pads are contoured to the shape of the knee, with an ergonomic circular cutout behind the knee. This anatomical design allows for unrestricted flexion and extension when running and pivoting. Pre-curved pads conform to the knee’s natural bend for optimal comfort. Lightweight, breathable pads with moisture-wicking antimicrobial liners prevent sweat buildup and odor.
For maximum protection, many players wear padded lacrosse shorts or girdles under their jerseys. Integrated cell foam padding in the thigh, hip, and tailbone areas protects from checks and collision impacts. Hard shell knee caps mounted on the shorts offer additional reinforcement for vulnerable knees.
Lacrosse defenders put their knees through a brutal gauntlet on the field. Investing in high-quality, shock-absorbing knee pads is crucial for fending off knee injuries and pain as a defender. Prioritizing knee protection helps ensure athletes can play safely and aggressively at their highest level.
Best Padded Shorts for Midfielders Who Want Mobility in Lacrosse
Midfielders in lacrosse need gear that provides protection yet allows freedom of movement to run up and down the field. Integrated padded lacrosse shorts are an excellent solution, giving padding and coverage for the hips and tailbone without restricting mobility.
Lacrosse midfielder shorts typically have cell foam or EVA foam padding sewn into areas that commonly take impacts from checks, such as the hips, thighs, and coccyx. This padding cushions blows and diffuses collision forces that can cause bruises or fractures. The foam may be perforated to enhance breathability and reduce sweat buildup during intense midfield running.
The shorts come in a compression fit to prevent sliding and keep the padded sections securely over the hip and thigh bones. An elastic waistband and internal drawstring allow adjusting the shorts for a customized, stable fit. Some shorts also have waistband zip pockets to hold keys or cash securely during games.
For mobility, lightweight polyester or nylon shorts fabrics allow unconstrained leg movement when sprinting downfield. The shorts do not wrap around the knees, avoiding material bunching when cutting or pivoting. Breathable mesh venting further aids cooling and comfort when running at top speed.
Many midfielder shorts have removable padded inserts. This allows the inserts to be switched out for thicker or thinner padding as desired for more or less protection. Players can also take out the pads completely on very hot days when maximal ventilation and minimal leg encumbrance are priorities.
For even more protection, midfielder shorts can be combined with protective lacrosse knee pads secured with compression sleeves. Knee pads absorb impact on knee dives, cuts, and checks from opponents. The full shorts and knee pad combo protects the main injury zones for midfielders while enabling free movement and cooling during intense lacrosse games.
Why Longer Knee Sleeves Give More Support in Lacrosse
Lacrosse players looking for knee support and compression often choose knee sleeves that extend several inches above and below the joint. Longer sleeves deliver more support and stability than short sleeves for athletes who need extra knee protection.
Full leg lacrosse knee sleeves are typically 7-9 inches in length, measured from the mid-thigh above the patella down to mid-calf. The longer sleeves wrap the quadriceps and calf muscles surrounding the knee joint. The compression provided by the sleeve increases proprioception of the knee’s position and helps reduce fatigue in the leg muscles.
The sleeve’s fabric, usually nylon-spandex blends, adds stability on each side of the knee. This reduces strain on soft tissues like the ACL and PCL ligaments within the knee structure. Less knee twisting and abnormal lateral motions helps prevent ligament tears and meniscus damage.
More material around the knee joint also means more warming coverage to keep muscles flexible and loose. This aids injury prevention and comfort in cold weather games. Additionally, many sleeves have anti-odor technologies and moisture wicking fabrics that prevent sweat buildup during intense running.
For players needing even more support, hinged knee braces can be worn under full leg sleeves. The rigid braces have side arms and straps that protect and immobilize the knee joint, while the sleeve keeps the brace securely in place. This combo allows athletes with prior knee injuries or instabilities to keep playing safely.
While short knee sleeves provide some light compression, lacrosse players looking for true knee support should opt for longer 7-9 inch sleeves. The increased coverage above and below the knee joint significantly improves stability, proprioception, and injury prevention when moving aggressively in lacrosse games.
Features of Lightweight Lacrosse Leg Sleeves
Lacrosse leg sleeves are a popular alternative to bulky knee pads for players looking for lightweight protection. Modern sleeve materials and construction techniques allow for breathable sleeves that offer impact absorption without restricting motion.
Lacrosse leg sleeves are typically made of stretchy, elastic blends of nylon, spandex, and lycra. These fabrics have some natural compression that gently hugs the calf and quadriceps muscles surrounding the knee joint. This compression improves circulation and provides proprioceptive feedback during cuts and pivots.
To absorb shock, many sleeves incorporate foam or gel padding over the knee cap itself. Cushioning sleeves protect the patella and knee joint from painful bruising during checks, hits, and hard falls. However, the padding is strategically minimal to avoid limiting mobility.
Ventilated mesh panels along the sides of many sleeves enhance breathability during intense running up and down the field. Moisture-wicking properties in performance sleeve materials pull sweat off the skin and dry quickly. This crucial cooling effect reduces overheating risks and discomfort in hot weather games.
Rather than bulky straps, most sleeves use an elastic grip top to hold them in place right below the quadriceps. This allows for full leg articulation when sprinting and cutting. Anatomically contoured designs and flatlock stitching prevent irritation and chafing, maximizing the sleeves’ comfortable wear time.
For goalies wanting extra padding, some sleeves offer removable pads over the knee area. Players can insert thicker pads for more cushioning when needed, while retaining a sleeve’s flexibility advantages over hinged knee braces during play. Lightweight lacrosse leg sleeves deliver essential low-profile protection for players across positions.
New Innovations in Lacrosse Knee Pad Technology
Lacrosse knee pads continue to evolve with new materials and designs aimed at optimizing protection and performance. Recent innovations include advanced foams, adaptive padding, breathable fabrics, and anatomical shaping for the knee area.
One key material advancement is proprietary dense foams like Poron XRD. This ultra-shock-absorbing foam contains microscopic air pockets that compress on impact to absorb over 90% of collision energy. Lighter EVA and polyethylene foams in sleeves disperse impacts without the bulk.
Some pads employ removable or adjustable padding layers so athletes can customize protection. Thicker inserts or gel pads dial up cushioning for vulnerable knees when needed. This adaptive padding balances comfort and mobility for different positions and preferences.
Moisture-wicking, anti-odor fabrics like nbDry fabric keep pads light and dry. Mesh venting strategically placed at flex points enhances airflow. These materials innovations reduce sweat buildup that can lead to distracted slipping and irritation during play.
Anatomical shaping and pre-curved pad designs conform to the natural knee bent for unrestricted movement. Contoured pads stay centered on the knee cap when running and cut sharply. Flatlocked stitching prevents abrasive chafing from sharp pad edges.
For additional stability, many pads now integrate neoprene or silicone grip strips on the interior lining and strap backs. This anti-slip grip keeps pads from shifting out of place even during the most intense athletic maneuvers required in lacrosse.
Finally, plastic knee cap reinforcements provide hard shell supplemental protection right over the patella, absorbing the brunt of frontal impacts. Integrated padding and innovative materials take lacrosse knee pad protection and comfort to new levels.
Most Durable Materials for Lacrosse Knee Pads
Lacrosse is a high-contact sport that puts tremendous stress on knee pads. Selecting pads made with the most durable shell and lining materials optimizes long-term protection and performance.
The exterior shells of many premium lacrosse knee pads use ultra-tough 1680D ballistic nylon. This dense weave of nylon resists abrasion from turf friction and prevents tears or punctures from sticks, elbows, and loose balls. 1680D nylon stands up to many grueling seasons of play.
For interior linings, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam offers superb durability and shock absorption. EVA maintains its protective cushioning and flexibility over thousands of impacts. Alternatives like Poron XRD foam also retain protective properties after hard hits.
Moisture-wicking fabrics like nbDry polyester blend fabric withstand endless wash and wear while preventing odors and bacterial growth. Tough Kevlar reinforcement over the kneecap prevents fraying at a vulnerable high-impact zone.
Neoprene and silicone grips resist deterioration from moisture, body oils, and friction. These non-slip grips maintain kneepad stay-in-place performance without loosening over time.
Look for thick padded straps, ideally 1.5 inches wide or more. Narrow straps concentrate pressure and can dig into skin, while wider straps disperse forces comfortably. Durable wide elastic straps also retain elasticity after regular stretching.
Metal or plastic hardware like buckles and D-rings should have smooth, rounded edges that won’t rip fabric or irritate skin. High-quality hardware withstands corrosion and mechanical stress.
Prioritizing layered high-denier fabrics, rugged advanced foams, and reinforced stress points ensures lacrosse knee pads provide durable protection game after game. Careful construction pays off in long-term safety and performance.
Lacrosse Gear to Reduce Impact on Knees When Cradling
The cradling motion required to carry the ball down the field puts considerable strain on a lacrosse player’s knees over time. Using proper padding and techniques can help reduce knee wear to prevent chronic pain and serious injuries.
Quality kneepads cushion the knee from the inside when compressing to cradle the stick across the body. Look for thick EVA foam or advanced Poron XRD shock absorbing padding. The pad should wrap securely around the knee cap and sides with adjustable straps.
Wearing padded lacrosse shorts or compression leggings under the uniform pads the IT band on the outer knee taking the repeated impact on cradle checks. Thigh padding also absorbs cradle forces transmitted above the knee joint.
Proper cradling technique can also minimize knee strain. Cradle the bottom hand loosely wrapped around the shaft rather than gripping tightly. This reduces torque transmitted to the lead knee with each pass.
Using more of a smooth pendulum motion reduces abrupt direction changes that wrench knees. Cradle a bit wider from the body to reduce knee compression. Lowering the bottom elbow also takes pressure off the knees.
Strengthening the leg muscles supporting the knee through weight training and conditioning reduces fatigue-related damage. Foam rolling and dynamic stretches before games maintain flexibility to help knees withstand cradle forces.
Adjusting cradling technique along with protective padding minimizes wear that can lead to chronic issues like chondromalacia patellae. Proper gear and smart play protects lacrosse players’ knees during an essential yet grueling aspect of play.
Top-Rated Knee Braces for Lacrosse Goalies
Lacrosse goalies subject their knees to intense torque from explosive side-to-side movements during games. Quality knee braces provide essential stabilization and support to prevent goalie knee injuries.
Hinged knee braces with bilateral polycentric joints mimic the knee’s natural motion while preventing excessive medial/lateral mobility. This reduces strain on soft tissues like the ACL and meniscus when diving and reacting.
Neoprene layered under the hinges wicks moisture, keeps the joints warm, and provides cushioning. Lacrosse goalie knee braces often incorporate padded cuffs above and below the joint for comfort and slip resistance.
Look for goalie knee braces with removable supports to allow customizing the degree of stabilization. More supports dial up protection for vulnerable knees, while removing them increases mobility when healthy.
Velcro and silicone gripping prevent the braces from shifting out of position and compromising protection. Proper sizing for an ergonomic contoured fit is critical — ill-fitting braces can irritate and even injure knees.
Many braces include pockets to hold protective pads or inserts for supplemental cushioning and impact absorption. This allows customizing protection levels at the kneecap.
High-quality goalie knee braces enable aggressive, uninhibited play by supporting knees under significant duress. Off-the-shelf or custom braces tailored to a goalie’s needs and sport are well worth the investment.
Lacrosse Knee Gaskets for a Secure Fit
Lacrosse knee pads require a tight, secure fit to prevent shifting and provide optimal protection. Integrated neoprene or silicone knee gaskets deliver that locked-in fit for safe intense play.
Knee gaskets function as an anti-slip interface between the player’s knee and the interior of the pad. A soft, flexible material like neoprene compresses slightly to conform to the knee’s shape.
Silicone knee gaskets provide even more grip with no compression. Dense silicone dots or traction lines grip skin aggressively to eliminate any pad slippage.
Both materials are breathable to prevent sweat buildup leading to distraction and irritation. Neoprene insulates the joint while silicone gaskets allow for airflow.
Gaskets cover at least 180 degrees under and around the kneecap for maximum slip prevention. Having full anterior coverage ensures pads stay centered on knee impacts.
Premium lacrosse pads may integrate anti-slip gaskets into both the liner and exterior shell. The dual grip system locks pads in place even during the most intense multi-directional movements.
Snug-fitting integrated gaskets allow players to strap pads securely without compromising circulation or comfort. Knee gaskets give athletes confidence in pad stability so they can focus entirely on competitive play.
Best Lacrosse Knee Pads for Female Athletes
Women’s lacrosse involves just as much physicality and knee stress as the men’s game. Finding properly fitting pads designed for female bodies is key for protection.
Look for women’s lacrosse knee pads offering multiple sizes to get an optimized fit. Narrower pads contoured for thinner legs and knees prevent slipping and irritation.
Padding thickness should match typical female musculature and body frames. Thinner or low-profile padding prevents bulky pads from hindering motion. Some brands offer female-specific lightweight padding materials.
An ergonomic shape accommodates wider quadriceps and hamstrings angles in female bodies. A more convex kneecap shape fits the contour better while centering padding.
Stretchier Lycra blend sleeve materials allow flexibility for active movement. Conforming fabrics with four-way stretch prevent bunching or pinching.
Pads sized for female athletes ensure proper coverage without obstructing performance. Removable inserts allow customizing protection levels as needed per game intensity and position.
Prioritizing a female-centric fit optimizes mobility, stability and comfort to empower female lacrosse athletes. Properly fitted pads give women confidence to play boldly and aggressively.
Finding the Right Lacrosse Knee Pad Size
Getting accurate knee pad sizing is crucial for lacrosse players to obtain ideal protection, comfort and performance.
Measure your knee circumference mid-patella to determine base size. Allowance for some compression is good, but too tight hinders circulation and movement. Most brands offer size charts based on knee diameter.
Factor in additional clearance needed for game uniforms and undergarments – pads worn over pants require 1-2 more inches than direct skin contact.
Test pad length above and below the knee to ensure full coverage without obstructing motion. Two inches above and below typically works for youth, adding length for adults.
Straps should wrap fully around the leg’s circumference with Velcro overlapping. Straps that meet but don’t overlap are too small and will loosen.
Walk and do lunges to test pad slippage and mobility. Optimally pads will stay centered on the knee cap without limiting natural articulation.
Consider modifying pad shapes through heat molding for a custom fit. Moldable pads conform to each athlete’s unique knee dimensions.
Take care to obtain the right lacrosse knee pad sizing for maximum stability, flexibility and comfort during play. A proper fit empowers confident play.
Buying Tips for Lacrosse Leg Sleeve Compression
The optimal amount of compression in lacrosse leg sleeves comes down to player preference, climate, and injury needs.
Light compression sleeves in the 10-15mmHg range add warmth and minor muscle support. This minimal restriction aids recovery and blood flow without affecting mobility.
Moderate 20-30mmHg compression provides noticeable squeeze to increase proprioception, energize leg muscles, and reduce vibration and fatigue. Firmer sleeves stay in place vigorously.
Maximum 30mm+ compression offers powerful ergogenic and therapeutic effects. These sleeves promote circulation for injury recovery and reduce delayed onset muscle soreness.
However, too-tight compression sleeves can constrict movement, especially when layered under pads and uniforms. Prioritize flexibility for speed-focused positions.
Higher compression suits colder weather games, while low compression works better for hot humid conditions to avoid overheating.
Players with existing knee injuries may opt for higher compression sleeves or braces to provide additional joint stability and swelling reduction.
Test out various sleeve compression levels to find the ideal balance of stability and unrestricted mobility for your needs and climate conditions.
Differences Between Hard and Soft Lacrosse Knee Pads
Lacrosse athletes can choose between soft padded knee sleeves or hard shell pads depending on their protection needs and preferences.
Soft knee pads use cushioning like EVA foam, Poron, or gel to absorb impacts. These materials flex to allow natural knee articulation. Low-profile sleeves stabilize without limiting mobility.
Hard shells made of dense plastic, carbon fiber or polyethylene create an armor-like shield over the kneecap. They resist cuts and take the brunt of frontal impact forces.
Hard pads can feel bulky and restrict movement, while soft pads sacrifice some cushioning. Combining the two provides a balance of flexibility and protection.
Soft pads require precise fitting to avoid slipping and ensure coverage. Hard shells’ molded shapes hold position but can rub without sufficient underlying padding.
For field players who run a lot, soft pads facilitate free movement. Hard shells better suit goalies needing reinforced protection in confined spaces.
Hard shell pads also suit extremely aggressive, physical defenders making constant close contact. Their added armor provides peace of mind.
Consider the amount of protection and freedom of motion you need when choosing between soft or hard lacrosse knee pads for your style of play and position.
How to Modify Lacrosse Gear for Maximum Knee Protection
Lacrosse players can customize pads and braces beyond factory models to create tailored knee protection systems.
Insert thicker aftermarket padding like higher density foams into pad sleeves for increased shock absorption. Velcro attachments secure inserts in place.
Attach supplemental padding material around areas prone to impact, such as above and below knee caps. Elastic straps hold added pads securely.
Modify sleeve lengths on braces and compression pants to extend higher or lower on the thigh and calf based on fitting needs.
Heat mold particular areas of pads to better conform to a player’s anatomy using a hair dryer or hot water.
Cut pad sleeves and remove sections over parts of the knee that chafe or restrict flexion. Strategic trimming can improve mobility.
Secure sleeves and pads that slip with extra Velcro patches, silicone dots, sports tape, or grip spray to stop shifting.
DIY modifications enable fully customized lacrosse knee protection. Optimizing off-the-shelf pads to meet specific needs and bodies enhances performance.
Choosing the Best Lacrosse Knee Pads for Your Position
Lacrosse knee pad requirements vary by player position based on typical movement patterns and contact levels.
Midfielders need lightweight, low-profile padding for maximum running speed and mobility. Breathable materials aid ventilation during sprints.
Defenders require maximum cushioning and contact protection given frequent checks. Hard caps and hinged braces provide additional support when holding ground.
Goalies need reinforced stability from hinged braces that resist twisting torques from rapid side-to-side diving. Neoprene layers retain heat during inactive stretches.
Attackmen benefit from a balance of flexibility and padding since they cut aggressively but also release long passes. Multi-layer inserts allow adjusting protection.
Women need slimmer, contoured pads designed for smaller frames and muscle definition. Removable inserts accommodate varying contact levels.
Youth need compact padding that allows natural development and movement without impeding skills. Extra adjustability facilitates multi-season use as kids grow.
Choosing lacrosse knee pads optimized for your position, age and gender provides an ideal balance of protection and performance on the field.