What are the new chest protector rules for lacrosse in 2023. How do these changes impact players and equipment. Are existing chest protectors still legal for use. What steps should players take to ensure their gear meets the new standards.

Understanding the NOCSAE ND200 Standard for Lacrosse Gear

The lacrosse world is buzzing with excitement and a touch of apprehension as new safety standards come into play for the 2023 season. US Lacrosse, in collaboration with the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE), has introduced stringent requirements for protective gear, particularly focusing on chest protectors and shoulder pads. These changes aim to enhance player safety and reduce the risk of injuries on the field.

The cornerstone of these new regulations is the NOCSAE ND200 performance standard. This standard significantly raises the bar for chest and shoulder pads used in boys’ and men’s lacrosse. It’s crucial to note that all gear worn during games and practices must now meet ND200 protocols and carry the NOCSAE seal of certification.

Key Features of the NOCSAE ND200 Standard

• Mandatory heart protection for chest pads
• Rigorous impact attenuation testing
• Evaluation of structural integrity
• Environmental conditioning tests

Why is the ND200 standard so important. It ensures that protective gear can effectively absorb and disperse the force of impacts, reducing the risk of serious injuries. The standard also takes into account real-game conditions, testing equipment after exposure to various environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and UV radiation.

Impact on Players and Equipment Manufacturers

The implementation of the ND200 standard has sent ripples through the lacrosse community. Many players and parents were caught off guard by the new requirements, as some of the most popular chest protector and shoulder pad models on the market were not ND200 approved as recently as last fall.

How has the industry responded to these changes. Most major brands have since released updated, certified gear to meet the new standards. However, this means that players with older equipment will need to replace their gear, which can be an unexpected expense, especially for parents of growing youth players who may need new equipment annually.

Challenges in Equipment Compliance

1. Individual certification: ND200 certification applies to specific pad models, not entire brands or companies
2. Mixing and matching: Combining new ND200 certified gear with older equipment may impact overall protection
3. Retailer adaptations: Some retailers are offering trade-ins or discounts on ND200 gear to ease the transition

Eyewear Safety: The NOCSAE ND101 Standard

In addition to the chest and shoulder pad regulations, US Lacrosse has also introduced new standards for eyewear. The NOCSAE ND101 standard now requires all eyewear worn during lacrosse play to be certified. What does this mean for players. All goggles must now carry the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) mark, indicating that they meet minimum safety criteria.

This change provides much-needed protection for players’ eyes and vision, addressing a critical aspect of player safety that was previously less regulated. How does the ND101 standard benefit players. It ensures that eyewear can withstand the impacts typical in lacrosse, reducing the risk of eye injuries and providing peace of mind for athletes and their families.

Navigating the Transition to ND200 Certified Gear

For players, parents, and coaches, the transition to ND200 certified gear may seem daunting. However, with the right approach, it can be a smooth process that ultimately enhances player safety. Here are some steps to ensure compliance with the new regulations:

• Check current equipment for ND200 certification
• Research and purchase new ND200 certified gear if necessary
• Consider upgrading all padding at once for optimal protection
• Verify that eyewear meets the ND101 standard and carries the SEI mark
• Stay informed about any future updates to equipment standards

Is it necessary to replace all equipment immediately. While it’s ideal to have fully compliant gear as soon as possible, US Lacrosse understands that this transition may take time. They recommend prioritizing the replacement of chest protectors and ensuring that all new purchases meet the ND200 standard.

The Science Behind Enhanced Protective Gear

The development of the ND200 standard is rooted in scientific research aimed at understanding and mitigating the risks associated with lacrosse impacts. How do these new chest protectors differ from their predecessors. The key lies in their ability to manage energy transfer and reduce the risk of commotio cordis, a rare but potentially fatal disruption of heart rhythm caused by a blow to the chest.

Advanced Materials and Design

ND200 certified chest protectors utilize advanced materials and innovative designs to achieve superior protection. These may include:

• High-density foams that absorb and disperse impact energy
• Rigid plates strategically placed to shield vital areas
• Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort during play
• Ergonomic designs that allow for full range of motion

How do these materials work together to protect players. The combination of impact-absorbing foams and rigid plates creates a multi-layered defense system. When an impact occurs, the outer layers absorb and spread the force, while the inner layers provide a final barrier of protection for the body’s most vulnerable areas.

Financial Implications and Industry Response

The introduction of the ND200 standard has significant financial implications for players, families, and equipment manufacturers. How are different stakeholders in the lacrosse community responding to these changes?

For Players and Families

The need to purchase new, compliant gear can be a substantial expense, especially for families with multiple players or those in youth leagues where equipment needs frequent replacement due to growth. Some strategies to manage these costs include:

• Taking advantage of trade-in programs offered by retailers
• Looking for sales or discounts on ND200 certified equipment
• Exploring team or club bulk purchasing options
• Considering gently used ND200 certified gear from reputable sources

For Manufacturers and Retailers

Equipment manufacturers have had to invest heavily in research, development, and production to meet the new standards. How has this affected the industry? Many companies have:

• Redesigned existing product lines to meet ND200 requirements
• Introduced new, innovative protective gear
• Increased marketing efforts to educate consumers about the new standards
• Collaborated with retailers to offer trade-in programs and discounts

These efforts aim to ease the transition for players while also seizing the opportunity to innovate and improve their product offerings.

Long-Term Benefits of Enhanced Safety Standards

While the immediate focus may be on the challenges of transitioning to new equipment, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of these enhanced safety standards. How will these changes impact the sport of lacrosse in the years to come?

Injury Prevention and Player Longevity

The primary goal of the ND200 and ND101 standards is to reduce the risk of serious injuries in lacrosse. Over time, this is expected to lead to:

• Fewer severe chest and eye injuries
• Reduced risk of commotio cordis incidents
• Increased player confidence and participation
• Longer playing careers due to better protection

How does improved safety equipment benefit the sport as a whole? By reducing the risk of severe injuries, these standards may help attract more players to the sport and alleviate concerns that parents might have about their children participating in lacrosse.

Advancing Sports Science and Technology

The development of ND200 certified gear has pushed the boundaries of sports equipment technology. This progress is likely to have ripple effects across other sports and protective gear industries. What innovations might we see in the future? Some possibilities include:

• Smart protective gear that monitors impacts and player health
• Even more lightweight yet highly protective materials
• Customizable equipment tailored to individual player needs
• Cross-sport applications of lacrosse safety innovations

These advancements not only benefit lacrosse players but could also lead to improved safety equipment in other contact sports.

Educating the Lacrosse Community

With such significant changes to equipment standards, education becomes a crucial component of successful implementation. How can the lacrosse community ensure that all stakeholders are informed and compliant?

Roles and Responsibilities

Various groups within the lacrosse community have important roles to play in educating about the new standards:

• Coaches: Ensuring team compliance and explaining the importance of the new standards to players and parents
• League Officials: Enforcing the new rules and providing resources for teams and players
• Equipment Manufacturers: Offering clear information about which products meet the new standards
• Retailers: Guiding customers to compliant gear and explaining the benefits of the new standards
• US Lacrosse: Providing comprehensive resources and updates on equipment regulations

How can players and parents stay informed about equipment standards? Regular check-ins with coaches, visiting the US Lacrosse website, and consulting with reputable retailers are all good practices to stay up-to-date on the latest safety requirements.

Promoting a Culture of Safety

Beyond mere compliance, the introduction of these new standards presents an opportunity to foster a broader culture of safety in lacrosse. This could include:

• Integrating safety discussions into regular team meetings and practices
• Encouraging players to report any equipment issues or concerns
• Recognizing teams and individuals who prioritize safety and proper equipment use
• Sharing success stories of how proper equipment prevented injuries

By emphasizing the importance of safety equipment and proper usage, the lacrosse community can create an environment where player well-being is paramount, potentially influencing other sports to follow suit.

Adapting to Change: A Community Effort

The introduction of the ND200 and ND101 standards represents a significant shift in the landscape of lacrosse equipment. While it presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity for the lacrosse community to come together and prioritize player safety. How can different stakeholders work together to ensure a smooth transition?

Collaborative Initiatives

Several collaborative efforts could help ease the transition to the new standards:

• Community equipment drives to help provide compliant gear to those in need
• Partnerships between schools, clubs, and retailers to offer bulk purchasing discounts
• Mentorship programs where older players guide younger ones on proper equipment use and care
• Open forums for players, parents, and coaches to discuss concerns and share solutions

These initiatives not only help with the practical aspects of transitioning to new equipment but also strengthen the sense of community within the sport.

Embracing Innovation

The new standards have spurred innovation in lacrosse equipment design. How can players and teams leverage these advancements? Some possibilities include:

• Exploring new gear features that enhance both safety and performance
• Providing feedback to manufacturers to drive further improvements
• Participating in product testing and development programs
• Staying open to new equipment designs that may look or feel different from traditional gear

By embracing these innovations, players can not only comply with the new standards but also potentially improve their game.

As the lacrosse community navigates these changes, it’s important to remember that the ultimate goal is to make the sport safer and more enjoyable for all participants. While there may be short-term challenges, the long-term benefits of enhanced safety standards will help ensure that lacrosse remains a thriving and exciting sport for generations to come.

US Lacrosse Introduces New Safety Standards for 2023

As another lacrosse season gears up, players, parents and coaches need to be aware of important new rules regarding protective gear that will impact the 2023 season. US Lacrosse, the sport’s national governing body, along with leading safety standards organization NOCSAE, have enacted more stringent requirements for chest protectors, shoulder pads and eyewear in an effort to improve player safety and reduce injuries. While this is great news for the well-being of athletes, it also means many players will need to upgrade some of their equipment before taking the field this spring.

The new NOCSAE ND200 performance standard significantly raises the bar for chest and shoulder pads used in boys’ and men’s lacrosse. All gear worn for games and practices going forward must meet ND200 protocols and carry the NOCSAE seal indicating certification. This includes mandatory heart protection for chest pads. Girls’ and women’s lacrosse equipment is not affected by the ND200 standard at this time.

The new requirements caught many in the lacrosse world off guard. As recently as last fall, some of the most popular chest protector and shoulder pad models on the market were not ND200 approved. While most major brands have since released updated, certified gear, anyone with older equipment will need to swap it out. This can come as an unwelcome expense, especially for parents of growing youth players who may need new gear yearly.

Making matters more confusing is that ND200 certification applies to individual pad models, not blanket brands or companies. So padding from a trusted brand you’ve used for years may suddenly become illegal. It will take diligence to ensure each item meets specifications. Some retailers are assisting by allowing trade-ins or discounts on ND200 gear.

There is also increased potential for issues resulting from mixing and matching new chest and shoulder pads with old equipment. Even if individual items are ND200 approved, they are tested and certified as integrated units so combining different generations could impact protection. Athletes will be best served by upgrading all their padding at once when possible.

Along with improved chest and shoulder equipment, another NOCSAE standard called ND101 now requires all eyewear worn during lacrosse play to be certified. Goggles must carry the SEI mark indicating they meet minimum safety criteria. This change provides much needed protection for players’ eyes and vision.

As we’ve seen in other sports such as football and hockey, advancing safety standards and protocols in athletic gear improves player welfare and lessens injury risk. While the new lacrosse rules may create short-term challenges, they are an important step in making the game safer. Taking the time to ensure all equipment is ND200 and SEI certified will give parents and athletes peace of mind that they are protected when facing off on the field.

Stringent Requirements for NOCSAE ND200 Certification

When new safety standards are introduced in a sport like lacrosse, it’s understandable that athletes, parents and coaches may have questions about what exactly is changing and why. The newly mandated NOCSAE ND200 performance requirements for boys’ lacrosse chest and shoulder pads aim to better protect players, but meeting these stringent certification protocols requires significant modifications to gear construction and materials.

The ND200 standard thoroughly tests the impact attenuation of padding in key contact areas like the heart, shoulders and sternum. Chest protectors must demonstrate the ability to reduce force and dispersing energy on impact to keep trauma below injury thresholds. This necessitates the use of advanced foams, plates and liners tailored to manage heavy lacrosse-specific hits. Simply adding generic foam or padding won’t cut it under ND200 protocols.

In addition to impact protection, the ND200 standard evaluates structural integrity, ensuring pads maintain their shape and performance even after repeated heavy blows. Flimsy or substandard materials tend to bottom out or lose shock absorbing capacity quickly, while sturdy gear meeting ND200 retains protective qualities over time.

Unlike some past equipment protocols, ND200 takes into account real game conditions by testing pads after environmental conditioning. Exposure to various temperatures, moisture levels and UV radiation can degrade pads so ND200 ensures they work as intended during actual play in the heat, cold, sun and rain.

While parents might logically assume gear from major manufacturers is protective and safe, the truth is many top brands had models that failed ND200 validation prior to updates. This really drives home the need to verify ND200 certification, as brand reputation alone doesn’t guarantee legal or adequate protection. Only equipment displaying the NOCSAE logo and ND200 tag should be considered compliant.

The thoroughness of ND200 testing provides reassurance to parents, players and coaches that properly certified gear meets stringent standards designed specifically to prevent lacrosse injuries. However, the new rules also mean many are facing unplanned expenses for replacement equipment. For maximum safety and compliance, it’s advisable to upgrade all chest and shoulder protection at once with integrated ND200 padding.

While adapting to change is always challenging, the in-depth ND200 certification process should give athletes confidence they’ll be safer on the field. That peace of mind is worth investing in new gear that will help minimize risk and prevent traumatic injuries during play.

Where to Find ND200 Certified Chest Protectors

With new mandates requiring NOCSAE ND200 certification for all boys’ lacrosse chest protectors this season, many players and parents are scrambling to find approved gear before games get underway. The good news is that major manufacturers have responded quickly to the new rules, updating their product lines and making ND200 compliant padding widely available.

Still, it’s imperative to verify that any new chest protector purchased does indeed meet current standards. The ND200 tag and NOCSAE logo should be prominently displayed on both the product description and on the gear itself. Some brands may sell leftover non-certified stock from previous seasons, so check carefully.

Many sporting goods retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Lacrosse Unlimited, and Lacrosse Monkey have sections of their websites dedicated to ND200 approved equipment. This makes it easy to shop for compliance gear. Some stores are also offering trade-in discounts for swapping older pads for new ND200 protectors.

In addition to retail outlets, many lacrosse equipment manufacturers like Maverik, STX, and Warrior list their ND200 certified gear on their websites. You can often buy directly from the producer and take advantage of custom sizing or team discounts not available elsewhere.

For parents ordering gear online, be sure to consult sizing charts and allow time for returns or exchanges if the fit isn’t right. Keep in mind many manufacturers use unique sizing systems that differ from generic small/medium/large apparel. An accurately fitted chest protector maximizes comfort and protection.

Buying pre-owned ND200 gear through lacrosse forums, eBay, SidelineSwap and Craigslist can also be a cost-effective option. Just be absolutely certain used padding is indeed certified, not older discontinued equipment. Ask for photos of the NOCSAE tags if buying online.

While upgrading lacrosse equipment to meet new safety rules can be an annoyance, verified ND200 protectors are readily available from most major retailers. Taking a few minutes to ensure your gear is certified can give peace of mind and prevent injuries throughout the season.

Lacrosse Chest Pads Must Have Heart Protection

One of the most vital yet overlooked aspects of the new NOCSAE ND200 chest protector requirements is the mandate for heart safety shields. Lacrosse has one of the highest rates of commotio cordis – sudden cardiac arrest due to chest impact – of any sport. New ND200 certified pads are engineered to reduce this catastrophic risk.

Previously, adding protective cardiac shields to chest pads was optional for manufacturers. But given the vulnerable location of the heart in relation to typical lacrosse check locations, improved protection is crucial. ND200 validated gear must incorporate specialized energy absorbing foams and plates over the cardiac region.

During common lacrosse collisions, a directly struck heart can go into fatal arrhythmia, even in young healthy athletes. But cardiac shields made of viscoelastic foam dissipate impact forces, preventing the abrupt disruption of heart rhythm that causes commotio cordis. Integrated arch plates also improve the distribution of energy across the pad.

Since most lacrosse chest protectors sold prior to 2023 lacked specific heart guards, parents of players using older gear should be particularly concerned. Even light chest contact could prove catastrophic without proper protection.

Beyond commotio cordis reduction, ND200 certified pads also lower the risks of broken ribs, internal organ bruising, and sternal fractures from routine lacrosse hits. Advanced sternum plates prevent flex and bottoming out of the padding, maintaining protection after repeat blows.

While men’s lacrosse has a relatively high rate of cardiac injuries, women’s lacrosse rules prohibit most body checking, so chest protectors are not currently mandated. Still, some female players opt to wear optional pads for safety.

Ultimately, integrated heart guards represent a literal lifesaver for lacrosse athletes. All boys’ and men’s teams should immediately ensure players only use ND200 certified chest protection fully tested for cardiac safety this season.

Shoulder Pads Also Need NOCSAE ND200 Approval

With all the focus on upgraded chest protectors for lacrosse this season, it’s easy to overlook that shoulder pads also need to meet new NOCSAE ND200 standards. Both chest and shoulder gear is tested and certified together as an integrated unit, so both must display the ND200 mark.

Lacrosse shoulder pads see significant contact on checks, blocks, and falls. Without proper impact attenuation, blows to the shoulder can cause AC joint separations, dislocations, clavicle fractures and cartilage damage.

ND200 validated shoulder pads are constructed with layered foam and plastic discs to displace energy on collision. This allows the shoulder to compress without transmitting excessive forces to joints and bones. Materials withstand thousands of impacts without breaking down.

Cutting-edge shoulder capsules made of proprietary thermoplastic urethane provide advanced protection and motion. Suspension systems with adjustable belts ensure the pads stay situated on impacts rather than shifting and exposing the shoulder.

Since ND200 certification analyzes chest and shoulder pads together as a system, mixing new shoulder pads with old chest protection could reduce safety margins and is not recommended. For optimal coverage, players should upgrade to integrated upper body protection all at once.

An ND200 label on shoulder pads confirms they’ve passed a rigorous battery of tests mimicking real-world lacrosse checks and blows. Parents and players can have confidence certified gear provides superior protection versus outdated equipment.

While buying all new lacrosse pads can be a financial burden, shoulder health is too important to cut corners. With aggressive play and high-speed shots defining today’s game, ND200 shoulder and chest combo pads should be considered essential safety gear for all competitors.

Don’t wait until a preventable shoulder injury occurs this season. Take proactive steps now to ensure your lacrosse athlete is outfitted with integrated ND200 certified upper body protection before hitting the field.

Several Popular Models Won’t be Legal This Spring

With the new NOCSAE ND200 equipment standards in lacrosse taking effect for the 2023 season, many players are surprised to find some of the sport’s most popular chest and shoulder pads will no longer be legal for games. As recently as last fall, several top-selling models from major brands were still not ND200 certified.

This serves as an urgent reminder for athletes, parents and coaches to thoroughly verify all protective gear meets current specifications. Trusted brand names and high price tags do not guarantee equipment complies with the updated requirements.

Specific pad models like the Maverik Rome and Bullitt chest protectors along with the Cascade S and Cascade R shoulder pads were mainstays for years but have now been replaced and discontinued due to lacking ND200 approval. These were quality pads in their day but the game has progressed.

Retailers may still have old stock available so buyers must be vigilant in checking for the NOCSAE ND200 tag. Using non-certified pads by mistake could result in injuries and ejection once referees begin equipment checks.

Major manufacturers like STX and Warrior have also introduced entirely new ND200 lines, rendering their former pads obsolete. While some brands are offering trade-in discounts, simply purchasing the newest expensive gear does not ensure compliance.

It’s a tricky situation for consumers, as the ND200 standard is based on equipment models, not blanket companies. Having to replace favorite but now illegal pads feels unfair for many lacrosse families, even if ultimately for the best.

Careful research is required, but a wealth of ND200 options have emerged giving athletes access to protective gear that meets modern safety norms. This will ensure the fastest, toughest game on two feet can thrive safely for years to come.

Mixing Old and New Gear May Cause Issues

With the mandate for NOCSAE ND200 certified lacrosse gear taking effect for 2023, many players may be tempted to save money by mixing some new ND200 pads with older existing equipment. However, given how chest and shoulder pads are engineered as integrated systems, combining non-matched parts risks compromising safety and performance.

ND200 testing analyzes chest protectors and shoulder pads in tandem, as the components work synergistically to attenuate and distribute impact forces. The advanced foams, thermoplastics and shields complement each other when strikes are absorbed and dispersed across the upper body.

But if older pads are worn with updated ND200 protectors, the mismatch could transmit excess energy through gaps or weak points rather than working in unison. Even if individual parts are certified, the overall protection is not validated when mixed-and-matched.

Athletes may also experience discomfort or restricted mobility when trying to combine pads with differing construction, strap placements and weight distribution. This could impair play and increase injury risk as well.

Some lacrosse retailers do sell separate ND200 shoulder and chest pads, but matching brands with the same model line is recommended. Complete integrated protection optimizes safety margins.

Ideally, families should plan to replace all old lacrosse upper body pads at once with new NOCSAE certified protectors, even if it adds expense. Trying to cut corners and make non-approved gear last another season jeopardizes health.

While upgrading all equipment is an investment, a player’s well-being is priceless. Take the steps to ensure your lacrosse athlete hits the field this spring with fully integrated ND200 certified protection.

Certified Goggles Also Required Under New Rules

With the focus on upgraded chest and shoulder pads, it’s easy to overlook that new NOCSAE standards also mandate protective eyewear for boy’s lacrosse starting in 2023. But certified goggles are now just as required under the rules as proper pads.

Recognizing eye injuries were still occurring at an unacceptable rate in lacrosse, the governing bodies enacted a new performance standard called ND101. This requires all goggles worn during games and practices to carry an SEI mark indicating they meet safety specifications.

Previously, the use of eyewear was strongly recommended but not compulsory. Generic goggles could be worn without needing specific testing or approval. But starting this season, uncertified goggles will no longer be permitted on the field.

The ND101 protocol mandates Lacrosse goggles provide frontal protection against balls and sticks traveling up to 120 mph from up to 20 yards away. Lenses must be impact resistant and limit light transmittance while still allowing sufficient visibility.

Price alone doesn’t determine whether goggles meet requirements. Candidates must pass actual product testing to receive SEI certification. Several popular budget options may be disqualified, so check for proper markings.

Wearing approved goggles reduces the risks of orbital fractures, dislodged lenses, detached retinas and eyeballs being ruptured or knocked out of sockets. Unprotected eyes are extremely vulnerable to lacrosse balls and sticks.

Take steps now to ensure all your team’s eyewear carries the NOCSAE label and SEI tag. Don’t allow preventable lacrosse eye injuries to occur simply because proper protective goggles weren’t purchased.

Youth and High School Players Most Impacted

While new equipment requirements affect lacrosse athletes at all levels, younger youth and high school players will likely bear the biggest brunt of the changes. Not only must completely new gear be purchased in many cases, but the rapid growth of developing teens means equipment has a shorter usable lifespan.

Youth lacrosse leagues for elementary and middle school kids usually require full protective equipment. But younger players outgrow pads and helmets quickly as they grow taller and fill out. Gear that fit properly last season may be obsolete just a year later.

This constant need to replace outgrown pads means many parents of youth players had already recently purchased new non-ND200 gear anticipating it would get several years of use. Now that investment has been wasted with the sudden rule changes.

High school level athletes face similar equipment challenges. While sizing changes may not happen year-to-year, replacing ill-fitting or damaged pads is common. Families likely budgeted for the expected replacement cycles, not suddenly having to buy all-new ND200 gear.

College and professional lacrosse players will have less trouble adapting since they have reached full adult size. Outfitting an entire youth program with ND200 pads will take much greater effort and financial commitment from athletic departments and booster clubs.

Ensuring all players only use compliant gear is paramount, but the abrupt mandate has put a strain on many families’ equipment budgets. Hopefully governing bodies consider effective phase-in periods and financial assistance for future safety upgrades.

College and Pro Teams Likely Less Affected

While the new NOCSAE ND200 equipment mandates will impact lacrosse players at every level, college and professional teams should have an easier time adapting compared to youth and high school groups. With athletic department budgets and stable sizing needs for full grown men, upgrading to compliant gear will be more seamless.

Major college lacrosse programs frequently cycle through new equipment annually anyway as sponsors update deals and styles change. The ND200 transition will simply fold into the standard refresh process. Teams have the infrastructure to efficiently outfit dozens of players.

Since collegiate athletes’ bodies have matured, pads purchased this season should have a multi-year lifespan barring damage. There is less wasted gear due to outgrown sizing year-to-year.

Professional lacrosse leagues like the NLL and PLL may even use the rule change as a marketing play, promoting the latest ND200 pads used by the world’s best players. Pro teams also reap big discounts buying bulk orders in cooperation with sponsors.

For club and varsity high school teams, hand-me-down systems commonly distributed used gear to younger players. But mixing ND200 and legacy pads could be dangerous, so new procurement strategies may be needed.

While the mandate will require awareness and adaptation, elite college and pro lacrosse teams have the infrastructure to make the transition smoothly. Continually advancing safety standards helps grow the sport with parents and makes the game more appealing long-term.

New Gear Means Extra Expenses for Many Families

While improved safety standards are unanimously welcomed, one undeniable consequence of the ND200 lacrosse equipment rules is the added expenses thrust upon families. At a time of high inflation, buying all-new ND200 pads can represent a significant financial outlay.

A full set of new chest, shoulder and arm pads plus gloves and helmet can easily cost over $500 per player. For parents buying gear for multiple children playing youth lacrosse, the total investment is substantial.

Many families had recently purchased new equipment anticipating it would last 2-3 seasons as kids grew. But now much of that gear will need replaced immediately to comply with ND200 protocols. This essentially renders the prior investments worthless.

Some retailers are assisting by offering trade-in discounts on ND200 gear when older pads are turned in. Also buying certified used equipment can help defray costs. But make sure second-hand pads are verified as ND200 compliant.

Team fundraisers, used gear donation programs through leagues, and retailer promotions will also aim to ease the transition burden. But the reality is most lacrosse parents will incur several hundred dollars of unplanned expenses this season.

While ND200 gear represents a significant upfront cost, keeping athletes protected and safe is a universal priority. Families will adjust spending plans and make sacrifices elsewhere in hopes the new rules reduce injuries long-term.

Some Retailers Offering Trade-In Discounts

To help offset the unexpected equipment costs imposed by new lacrosse gear rules, some retailers are offering trade-in discounts for swapping old pads for new ND200 certified protectors. Taking advantage of these deals can provide substantial savings for families.

Major chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods and specialty lacrosse shops are allowing parents to trade in used shoulder pads, arm guards, gloves and helmets toward the purchase of replacement ND200 gear. Typically a 20%-30% credit is being offered based on the item’s condition.

This essentially allows last year’s equipment to retain some residual value versus being fully worthless and unused now. Even pads with some wear and tear often qualify for the trade-in values.

Of course the chains end up reselling used goods or recycling components, so they benefit as well. But the programs do present a tangible way for families to defray costs on what can easily amount to $500 or more in new mandatory gear.

Retailers are also advertising package discounts when buying complete new ND200 sets – chest and shoulder pads, arm guards and gloves. So take advantage of these bundled offers that can save another 15-20% typically.

While any savings helps, parents are still saddled with major unexpected outlays this lacrosse season. But keeping athletes safe in compliant gear remains the top priority, however it must be funded.

Gear Swaps an Option for Gently Used Equipment

Along with trade-in offers, organizing used gear swaps is another way lacrosse families can save on upgrading to ND200 equipment. By trading gently used pads within teams or leagues, costs stay down while retiring non-compliant gear.

Youth and high school lacrosse programs often have informal hand-me-down chains as players outgrow equipment. But mixing ND200 and legacy pads compromises safety, so straight swaps for compliant gear work better.

Set up a swap event where families can trade in functional ND200 equipment their athletes have outgrown for the next size up. Younger players get fairly new certified pads at heavily discounted costs while older players recoup some value.

Online sites like SidelineSwap also connect buyers and sellers of approved used lacrosse gear. Ensure any pre-owned items are verified as ND200 compliant before purchase. Significant savings are possible but avoid non-certified equipment.

For families financially struggling with the abrupt equipment change, donors and team sponsors may be able to fund inventory specifically set aside for need-based distribution. But all players must wear ND200 gear one way or another.

Getting creative to equip teams in compliant pads without breaking budgets will require some effort. But prioritizing safety over equipment costs is the only sensible path forward for parents and coaches.

Time is Running Out to Get Up to Date

With opening day rapidly approaching, lacrosse athletes, parents and coaches cannot delay any longer in ensuring all equipment meets NOCSAE ND200 protocols. Don’t risk injuries or ejections by mistakenly using non-compliant gear once games begin.

Some players may still be under the false assumption that gear deemed safe last year will be grandfathered in or that enforcement will be lax early on. But make no mistake – ONLY ND200 certified pads will be permitted for the 2023 season.

Officials will be directed to closely inspect all equipment and immediately bar players found using non-approved items. Injuries occurring with non-compliant gear could also raise liability issues.

Retailers still have plentiful ND200 inventory readily available. So take action now to upgrade your athlete’s pads or replace ill-fitting gear. Confirm all required NOCSAE and SEI tags are present before purchasing.

Waiting until the last minute risks equipment shortages and delivery delays. Don’t scramble once scrimmages start – get your lacrosse player fully up to date with certified gear today.

The new requirements are an adjustment, but ultimately prioritize player safety. Take the steps to ensure your team meets all mandates well in advance of opening whistle.

Though Controversial, Changes Aim to Improve Safety

While the abrupt mandatory switch to NOCSAE ND200 certified lacrosse equipment has certainly been controversial, the ultimate goal is improving player safety. Preventing injuries and trauma should always take priority over arguments over cost or change.

Some resistance is expected any time major rules alter the game so dramatically. But eventually the benefits become clear and early skepticism fades. Similar debates surrounded football and hockey upgrades like mandatory face masks and helmets.

By holding gear to higher modern performance standards directly linked to reducing injuries, governing bodies are fulfilling their ethical duties – even if unpopular temporarily. NFHS and US Lacrosse must act proactively when hazard data compels change.

And manufacturers have responded by rapidly bringing ND200 pads to market, giving athletes excellent compliant options. Yes, costs are higher but protecting a child is paramount.

Hopefully in coming years we’ll see the standards have real impact lowering lacrosse’s troubling head, eye and chest injury rates. Any financial or temporary hassles will be justified.

Staying the course with outdated equipment that analysis showed insufficient would be negligent. Despite frustrations, this move will prove wise in the long run. That’s what matters most to parents and coaches.

By next season, ND200 gear will be the new normal. Early adoption pains will subside as the rules fulfill their vital mission – advancing player safety in a sport that’s thriving but still dangerous. Upholding that responsibility is what’s most important.