Reviews

Ready to Play Lacrosse. 15 Must-Have Mens Lacrosse Gear Essentials for 2023

Lacrosse Helmets – Vital For Head Protection

As any lacrosse player knows, a helmet is the most vital piece of protective gear. After all, we only get one head! Lacrosse is a full contact sport with sticks flailing and balls flying at high speeds, making head protection an absolute must. When choosing a lacrosse helmet, look for solid construction with advanced impact absorption systems. Brands like Cascade and Warrior offer high-tech helmets engineered to handle even the hardest checks and wildest shots.

Today’s lacrosse helmets use innovative materials like polyethylene foam pads covered in vinyl nitrile to disperse energy on impact. This helps prevent concussions better than old-school hard shell designs. Inner liners wick away sweat and provide antimicrobial protection as well. Ventilation is key too, with multiple air vents that allow airflow to keep you cool when the action heats up. Don’t forget the facemask either – look for one with thick durable chrome bars spaced close enough to deflect stray balls and swinging sticks.

High-end lacrosse helmets offer even more features like interchangeable visors, adjustable chin straps, and custom sizing for the perfect fit. With your melon protected, you can focus on the game knowing even the gnarliest checks won’t rattle your brain. Remember, no goal or big hit is worth sacrificing safety – so invest in a quality lacrosse helmet that offers full head coverage.

More Vital Protective Lacrosse Gear

A helmet is just one piece of the protection puzzle in lacrosse. Padding up with additional gear safeguards vulnerable areas during play. Check out these other vital pieces of protective lacrosse equipment. 15 Essential Lacrosse Gear Items for Men: Dominate the Field in 2023

alexxlab 2 years ago 47 min read

What are the must-have lacrosse gear items for men in 2023. How can you choose the right equipment to enhance your performance. Which protective gear is crucial for player safety on the lacrosse field.

Table of Contents

Lacrosse Helmets: The Ultimate Head Protection

In the fast-paced world of lacrosse, head protection is paramount. Modern lacrosse helmets have evolved significantly, offering unparalleled safety features. How do these helmets protect players from potential injuries?

Advanced impact absorption systems are at the core of today’s lacrosse helmets. Brands like Cascade and Warrior utilize innovative materials such as polyethylene foam pads covered in vinyl nitrile. This combination effectively disperses energy upon impact, reducing the risk of concussions compared to older, hard-shell designs.

What other features should players look for in a high-quality lacrosse helmet?

Inner liners with moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties
Multiple air vents for improved airflow and cooling
Durable chrome facemask with closely spaced bars
Interchangeable visors for versatility
Adjustable chin straps for a secure fit
Custom sizing options for optimal comfort

Investing in a top-tier lacrosse helmet ensures players can focus on their game without compromising safety. Remember, no goal or play is worth risking a head injury.

Essential Protective Gear: Safeguarding Your Body

While helmets protect the head, lacrosse players need additional gear to shield other vulnerable areas. What are the key protective items every player should have?

Shoulder Pads: Upper Body Shield

Lacrosse shoulder pads are crucial for absorbing the impact of body checks and collisions. Modern designs offer maximum coverage for the sternum, collarbone, shoulders, and upper back while maintaining flexibility. When selecting shoulder pads, consider the following features:

Lightweight, breathable materials
Adjustable straps for a custom fit
Strategic padding placement for optimal protection
Low-profile design for enhanced mobility

Arm Guards: Defending Against Stick Checks

Arm guards protect players’ biceps and elbows from aggressive stick checks. How do you choose the right arm guards for your position?

Consider the level of protection needed based on your playing style. Defensemen might opt for more robust guards, while midfielders may prefer lighter options for increased agility. Look for arm guards with:

Hard outer shell for impact resistance
Soft inner lining for comfort
Adjustable straps to prevent slipping
Ventilation channels to reduce heat buildup

Rib Pads: Cushioning for the Torso

Rib pads are essential for absorbing the shock of point-blank shots to the torso. These pads should offer a balance between protection and mobility. Key features to consider include:

Anatomical design for a snug fit
Flexible materials that move with the body
Moisture-wicking properties to keep players dry
Integrated spine protection for added safety

Lacrosse Gloves: Grip and Protection Combined

Lacrosse gloves serve a dual purpose: protecting hands from stick checks while providing optimal grip for stick handling. How have glove designs evolved to enhance player performance?

Modern lacrosse gloves incorporate advanced materials and ergonomic designs to offer superior protection without sacrificing dexterity. When selecting gloves, consider these factors:

Segmented finger design for increased flexibility
Reinforced palm for improved durability
Ventilated backhand to reduce sweating
Adjustable wrist closure for a secure fit
Textured grip surfaces for enhanced ball control

Choosing the right gloves can significantly impact a player’s ability to handle the stick effectively while protecting their hands from potential injuries.

Lacrosse Sticks: The Player’s Primary Tool

A lacrosse stick is more than just equipment; it’s an extension of the player’s body. How do stick designs vary based on position and playing style?

Attack Sticks: Precision and Maneuverability

Attackmen require shorter sticks for quick handling and precise passing in tight spaces around the goal. Key features of attack sticks include:

Shorter shaft length (typically 30 inches)
Narrower head shape for improved ball control
Flexible mesh pocket for quick release shots
Lightweight materials for increased speed

Midfield Sticks: Versatility in Action

Midfielders need sticks that balance offensive and defensive capabilities. What characteristics define an ideal midfield stick?

Medium shaft length (around 30-42 inches)
Versatile head shape for all-around play
Balanced pocket depth for passing and shooting
Durable construction to withstand ground balls

Defense Sticks: Reach and Power

Defensemen rely on longer sticks to intercept passes and check opponents. Key features of defense sticks include:

Extended shaft length (up to 72 inches)
Wider head shape for easier interceptions
Stiffer pocket for increased checking power
Reinforced construction for durability

Regardless of position, the right lacrosse stick can significantly enhance a player’s performance on the field.

Footwear: Traction and Support on the Field

Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining stability and agility during intense lacrosse matches. What should players look for in lacrosse cleats?

Ideal lacrosse cleats offer a combination of traction, support, and comfort. Key features to consider include:

Shin-high design for ankle support
Molded studs for optimal grip on various surfaces
Lightweight, breathable upper materials
Reinforced toe box for durability
Cushioned insole for comfort during extended play

Investing in high-quality cleats can significantly improve a player’s ability to make quick cuts, change direction, and maintain balance during gameplay.

Equipment Bags: Organizing Your Gear

A well-designed lacrosse bag is essential for transporting and organizing all your gear. What features make a lacrosse bag stand out?

Look for bags that offer ample space, durability, and clever organizational features. Key elements to consider include:

Multiple compartments for separating clean and dirty gear
Ventilated pockets to prevent odor buildup
Reinforced bottom for durability
Padded straps for comfortable carrying
Water-resistant materials to protect gear from the elements
External stick holders for easy access

A well-organized bag ensures players have everything they need at their fingertips, allowing them to focus on the game rather than searching for equipment.

Practice Gear: Honing Your Skills Off the Field

Dedicated practice is key to improving lacrosse skills. What essential practice gear should players have in their arsenal?

Practice Balls: Perfecting Your Technique

Having a supply of practice balls allows players to work on their skills anytime, anywhere. Look for balls that meet official size and weight requirements for consistent training.

Rebounders: Solo Training Made Easy

Rebounders are invaluable tools for practicing passing, catching, and shooting techniques. How can players benefit from using a rebounder?

Improve hand-eye coordination
Develop quick reflexes
Perfect passing accuracy
Enhance shooting precision
Practice in limited space

Agility Ladders: Boosting Footwork and Speed

Agility ladders help players improve their footwork, speed, and coordination. Incorporating ladder drills into training routines can lead to better on-field performance.

Target Nets: Sharpening Shooting Accuracy

Target nets with multiple pockets allow players to practice precise shot placement. Regular use of target nets can significantly improve scoring capabilities during games.

By incorporating these practice tools into their training regimen, players can continuously improve their skills and gain a competitive edge on the field.

Additional Accessories: Enhancing Performance and Safety

Beyond the core equipment, several accessories can further improve a player’s performance and safety. What are some essential lacrosse accessories to consider?

Mouthguards: Protecting Your Smile

Mouthguards are crucial for preventing dental injuries during play. Look for models that offer a comfortable fit and allow for clear communication on the field.

Athletic Tape: Support and Protection

Athletic tape serves multiple purposes in lacrosse, from securing pads to providing additional support for joints. Keep a roll in your bag for quick fixes and adjustments.

Sweatbands: Staying Dry and Focused

Sweatbands for the head and wrists help keep perspiration at bay, allowing players to maintain their grip and vision during intense gameplay.

Eyewear: Safeguarding Your Vision

While not required during games, protective eyewear is essential for practice sessions and warm-ups to shield eyes from stray balls and debris.

These accessories may seem small, but they can make a significant difference in a player’s comfort, safety, and performance on the lacrosse field.

As the sport of lacrosse continues to evolve, so does the equipment used by players. Staying up-to-date with the latest gear innovations can give athletes a competitive edge while ensuring their safety on the field. By investing in high-quality, well-fitted equipment, players can focus on honing their skills and enjoying the fast-paced action of this exciting sport.

Lacrosse Helmets – Vital For Head Protection

More Vital Protective Lacrosse Gear

Shoulder pads cover the collarbone, chest, and back.
Arm guards shield the biceps and elbows from checks.
Rib pads absorb the shock of point blank shots to the torso.
Gloves provide grip while defending against stick checks.
Cups and supporters protect the groin from loose balls.

Just like helmets, pads and guards come in various sizes and protection levels. Heavier padding offers more shock absorption, while lightweight gear improves mobility. Consider how physical your position is when selecting lacrosse protective equipment. Close-checking defensemen may opt for maximal coverage, while speedy midfielders need lighter pads for running up and down the field.

Gear Up For Offense With Lacrosse Sticks

You can have all the pads in the world, but a lacrosse stick is what really gets you in the game. Sticks come in different shapes and sizes for various playing positions and styles. Attackmen use shorter sticks for quicker handling and passing in tight spaces around the goal. Meanwhile, defenders rely on longer poles to intercept passes and checks opponents’ sticks.

Regardless of position, a great lacrosse stick becomes an extension of a player’s hands. When shopping for a stick, pay attention to the head, shaft, and pocket. Optimal ball control comes from the right mesh pocket for cradling and scooping up ground balls. Shafts made of lightweight metals like titanium and scandium offer the best strength-to-weight ratio. Finally, head shapes affect passing, catching, and shooting accuracy.

With the right stick, you’ll develop soft hands for precise passing, pinpoint shooting, and securing ground balls. Pair your lacrosse stick with the essential pads and protective gear above, and you’ll be geared up to take the field like a pro!

Don’t Forget Footwear, Bags, and Practice Gear!

We’ve covered the major protective and stick lacrosse gear, but a few other equipment items complete your lineup:

Cleats – Shin-high cleats with molded studs provide traction and ankle support for those quick cuts and direction changes.
Bags – Roomy duffels transport all your gear to and from the field.
Goggles – Protect your eyes from loose balls in practice and warmups.
Practice balls – Perfect for honing your skills anytime.

With the right gear, you’ll have the tools needed to take your lacrosse game to the next level. Remember to try on pads and helmets for optimal fit and comfort. Don’t settle for used hand-me-down sticks either – get a stick tailored to your position and playing style. Investing in quality equipment pays off all season long as you outplay, outhustle, and outlast the competition! Just don’t forget the essentials like tape, mouthguards, and extra shoelaces. Grab your bag and gear up, it’s time to hit the field!

Lacrosse Shoulder Pads – Shield Your Upper Body

Let’s be real, taking a check can hurt! That’s why lacrosse shoulder pads are so vital for protection. Quality pads cushion the impact of body blows while allowing full range of motion. When shopping for shoulder pads, look for maximum coverage of the sternum, collarbone, shoulders and upper back.

Today’s shoulder pad designs utilize space-age materials for optimal impact absorption. Multi-layer foam construction disperses energy, reducing trauma from violent collisions. Strategically placed plastic caps augment padding in vulnerable areas like the sternum and collarbone. Meanwhile, flexible segmented padding across the deltoids, trapezius and shoulder blades enables natural movement.

Fit is also key for dialing in comfort and protection. Adjustable straps at the chest, back and shoulders customize the pad profile for your physique. Well-fitting shoulder pads move seamlessly with your upper body, enhancing speed and agility on the field. Just make sure to test mobility by fully extending your arms to cradle and pass.

Don’t forget compatibility too – shoulder pads need to work harmoniously with your other gear. Make sure they fit properly over your rib pads and under your jersey. With full-contact defense, the right lacrosse shoulder pads pay dividends by taking the brunt of checks game after game.

Padding Up For Peak Performance

Lacrosse shoulder pads are just one piece of protective gear engineered for the rough and tumble sport. Smart padding choices elsewhere safeguard vulnerable areas:

Arm guards shield elbows and biceps from slashing sticks.
Rib pads protect the torso and abdomen.
Gloves defend hands while providing grip.
Helmets prevent traumatic brain injuries.
Cups and supporters protect the groin area.

With full-body protection, you gain the confidence to play aggressively knowing checks and errant balls won’t inflict serious damage. Lightweight breathable pads maintain comfort during intense play too. Don’t forget custom fitting for each pad to maximize mobility and prevent shifting.

Gear up with high-performance shoulder pads and protective equipment so you can keep your head in the game. Leave the pain on the sidelines as you hustle all over the field intercepting passes, disrupting offenses, and taking checks like a champ!

Whether you’re a seasoned lacrosse player or just starting out, having the right gear is essential. As the fast-paced, full contact sport continues to grow rapidly in popularity, brands are coming out with new and improved equipment to meet players’ needs. Let’s explore 15 must-have items to add to your lacrosse bag for 2023.

Lacrosse Arm Guards – Shield Elbows and Biceps

Arm guards are a vital piece of protective lacrosse gear, shielding your elbows and biceps from checks and slashing. Brands like Maverik and STX offer padded, lightweight guards with plastic caps to absorb impact. For attackmen who face more checks, beefed up arm guards with extra padding like the Warrior Regulator Arm Guards are ideal. While they may restrict mobility slightly, the extra protection is worth it to protect your arms from bruising. Midfielders can opt for more flexible, low-profile arm guards that provide padding without restricting movement.

New tech in arm guard design focuses on strategic placement of padding and plastic for optimized protection and mobility. The Epoch Dragonfly Arm Guards use dual-density foam and flexible pads to shield key contact points. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in materials science brings new options like the Cascade S lacrosse arm guards, integrating ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for its lightweight strength.

Lacrosse Helmets – Critical for Safety

Your lacrosse helmet is hands down the most important piece of protective gear. Concussions and head injuries are an unfortunate risk in such a high-contact sport. Lacrosse helmets consist of a hard polycarbonate shell covering expanded polystyrene foam padding. Face masks also help protect your face from checks and errant sticks.

Make sure your lacrosse helmet fits snugly for optimal protection. Popular helmet brands like Cascade and Warrior offer adjustable options as well as helmet models designed for specific head shapes and sizes. Newly released helmets like the Epoch Dragonfly 9 boast innovative safety features like floor-to-ceiling protection to better shield the jawline and back of the head.

Don’t forget to outfit your helmet with a molded mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaw. Custom mouthguards formed by your dentist offer the best fit. But boil-and-bite guards you mold yourself like Shock Doctor or SISU guards are more affordable options that still get the job done.

Protective Lacrosse Gloves

Protecting your hands is a must, as stick checks can easily injure fingers. Lacrosse gloves shield the back of your hand and fingers with plastic and padding. However, dexterity is still key, as you’ll need free range of motion for cradling, passing, and shooting. Popular gloves like Maverik Rome and STX Cell combine protection and flexibility.

For defenders, bulked up gloves with thermoplastic cuffs like Brine King 4 gloves offer max protection when poke checking. Unique gloves like Warrior Regulator Max gloves even have removable thumb spines for extra defense against slashes. Meanwhile, flexible padded gloves like Nike Vapor or New Balance Freeze allow midfielders more finesse.

New tech like 3D-printed gloves offers customization for the ideal fit. Or gloves like Epoch Dragonfly use FlexForce to eliminate seams that can irritate hands.

Shoulder Pads

Shoulder pads are essential for withstanding checks, especially for defenders covering attackers. Bulkier designs with high-density foam like STX Cell 4 pads offer max protection. Attackers can opt for lighter padded options to enhance mobility, like Maverik Rome pads. New shoulder pads like Epoch Dragonfly use “hit redirection” technology to deflect impact.

For field players, smaller shoulder pads work best, like Brine Clutch and Warrior Regulator pads. Goalies need extra protection for their chest and arms from close range shots, so larger goalie-specific pads are a must.

Rib Pads

While required in youth lacrosse, rib pads are optional in men’s lacrosse. But they’re highly recommended for added protection, especially for defenders. Common injuries like bruised or broken ribs can sideline players. Brands like STX and Maverik offer lightweight, low-profile pads that go under your shoulder pads.

Newer rib pad tech focuses on breathability and flexibility, like the Epoch Dragonfly pads using FlexForce material. Or the Cascade R rib pads offer full-wrap adjustable protection. While small, rib pads boost protection from checks while barely restricting motion.

Lacrosse Cleats

Proper footwork is crucial in lacrosse, making cleats a key piece of equipment. While many aspects of gear come down to player preference, cleats directly impact performance. The best lacrosse cleats balance lightness, durability, and traction. Popular models include Nike Vapor, New Balance Freeze, Under Armour Highlight, and Warrior Burn.

Cleat technology enhances fit, feel, and traction. Brands like Nike and New Balance offer lacrosse cleats with synthetic uppers for durability and breathability. Removable studs with options for different types of turf help maximize traction and prevent slipping.

Lacrosse Sticks

Of course, no lacrosse kit is complete without a stick orCrosse. Attackmen use short-stick crosses for quicker handling and passing. Defensive long poles give defenders extra reach when covering opponents. Field players opt for mid-length crosses for a balance of skills.

Stick advancements aim to boost handling, passing, and shooting. Offset heads like Maverik Optik put your hands closer to the ball for quicker releases. Scoop designs get better at picking ground balls. Materials like nano-ceramic make shafts stronger yet lighter weight. Decide between pre-strung or unstrung heads to customize your pocket and throwing mechanics.

For goalies, oversized heads up to 15 inches wide help them protect the net. Goalie-specific handles help outlet passes while protecting hands from shots.

Practice Lacrosse Balls

Quality lacrosse balls for practice make a big difference, improving your throwing, catching, and scooping skills. While game balls are solid rubber, practice balls have more give for developing stick skills and handling ground balls. Brands like Maverik and Warrior offer affordable multi-ball packs for practice.

Soft lacrosse balls compress on impact to catch errant passes and reduce ball sting. Textured covers enhance grip and control while handling and passing. Weighted balls help strengthen throwing muscles and mechanics. Pick up a variety of practice balls to hone all facets of your game.

Having the right gear and essential equipment makes all the difference on the lacrosse field. Protect yourself from routine bumps and bruises while boosting your performance. With new seasons come new gear, so upgrade your lacrosse bag with the latest protective equipment, cleats, sticks, and training tools.

Lacrosse continues growing rapidly in popularity, leading brands to design new gear that meets players’ needs. Let’s explore 15 must-have items to include in your lacrosse bag for 2023.

Lacrosse Gloves – Crucial Grip and Protection

Lacrosse gloves are vital to shield your hands from checks while still allowing dexterity for cradling, throwing, and catching. Popular options like Maverik Rome and STX Cell gloves balance protection and flexibility.

For defensemen, bulked up thermoplastic cuff gloves like Warrior Regulator Max offer max protection from slashes. Unique features like removable thumb spines add protection too. Meanwhile, padded yet flexible gloves like Nike Vapor give midfielders finesse.

New glove tech focuses on fit, feel, and durability. Brands use 3D printing for ideal customized fits. Innovative materials like FlexForce eliminate irritating seams against hands. Consider your position and needs when picking lacrosse gloves.

Lacrosse Arm Guards

Arm guards shield elbows and biceps from bruising checks and slashes. Attackers facing frequent checks need beefy, padded guards like Warrior Regulator guards. Midfielders can opt for flexible, low-profile guards allowing free movement like Epoch Dragonfly.

Advancements in arm guards include strategic padding placement and innovative materials. Dual-density foam in Epoch Dragonfly guards protects contact points while maintaining mobility. Cascade S guards use ultra high molecular weight polyethylene for lightweight strength.

Lacrosse Helmets for Safety

Your lacrosse helmet is undoubtedly the most crucial protective piece. Concussions and head injuries are risks in this high-contact sport. Helmets have hard polycarbonate shells covering foam padding to absorb impact from checks.

Ensure your helmet fits snugly for max protection. Adjustable models from brands like Cascade and Warrior ensure ideal fits. New helmets like Epoch Dragonfly 9 boast safety features like jawline padding to better shield you.

Don’t forget a molded mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaw from injury. Custom guards from your dentist offer ideal fits, but affordable boil-and-bite guards still get the job done.