Safeguard Your Eyes Playing Lacrosse With Essential Protection Gear

Safeguard Your Eyes Playing Lacrosse With Essential Protection Gear

Choose Lacrosse Face Guards That Fit Snugly And Won’t Slip

One of the most important pieces of protective lacrosse gear is the face guard. A properly fitted face guard shields the vulnerable areas around your eyes, nose, and mouth from errant sticks and hard rubber balls that can come hurtling toward your face at over 100 mph during gameplay. Look for face guards made from sturdy metals like titanium that can withstand ball impacts without cracking or denting. The guard should fit flush against your cheekbones and jawline so it doesn’t shift around, while also feeling comfortable when you talk and breathe. Straps that attach to your helmet should be adjustable for a custom and secure fit.

For optimal vision and airflow, look for face guards with wider spacing between the bars as well as ventilation holes along the mouths and nose area. Avoid guards with bars that are too narrowly spaced together, as these can obstruct your field of view. You’ll want to be able to see the whole field and track the ball and other players without any blindspots caused by the guard itself. The ventilation holes will prevent the guard from fogging up with sweat and make it easier to breathe during intense gameplay. Consider removable face guards that snap or clip onto your helmet, allowing you to detach the guard when you’re on the bench but easily reattach it when going back on the field.

Taking the time to find a well-constructed face guard that fits your face precisely will allow you to play aggressively while knowing your eyes are protected. You won’t have to worry about the guard unexpectedly slipping or need to adjust it repeatedly during gameplay. With full sight lines and ample airflow, a form-fitting face guard gives you one less thing to think about so you can focus on your lacrosse performance.

Choose Lacrosse Helmets With Removable Face Masks for Flexibility

Along with face guards, lacrosse helmets provide vital protection for the head and face. Many high-quality helmets now feature removable face masks that snap or clip onto the front of the helmet. This modular design allows you to remove the mask when you’re on the sidelines to get better airflow and visibility, while keeping the helmet on for continued head protection.

Look for lacrosse helmets constructed from robust polymers that resist cracking on impact. Interior padding should cushion your head while wicking away sweat and moisture. Adjustable chin straps, side straps, and a dial or system at the back all allow you to customize the fit for comfort and security. Well-ventilated helmets allow airflow over your head to keep you cool. Consider rounded helmets that deflect ball impacts from all directions versus flat-sided helmets.

Ideal face masks attach securely to the helmet when you need facial protection on the field. Full-surround masks will shield your entire face, while partial masks cover the eyes, nose and mouth only. The mask should be made of sturdy, evenly-spaced bars that allow for unobstructed vision from all angles. As with standalone face guards, look for ample ventilation and a snug fit that follows your facial contours.

The removable mask system gives you the flexibility to gear up fully when playing but also remove layers when appropriate. For example, you can take off just the mask when sitting out and leave the helmet on for continued cranial protection. Or remove both mask and helmet for complete cooling when back in the locker room or on the sidelines for an extended time. Quick-release systems make it easy to detach and reattach the mask as needed.

Choosing a helmet with a removable face mask allows you to adapt your protective gear for different scenarios. You’ll stay protected when active on the field, while having the option to increase air circulation and visibility when not in play.

Lacrosse Goggles Provide Eye Protection From All Directions

In addition to face masks and shields, lacrosse goggles are essential for protecting your eyes during gameplay. Goggles wrap securely around the eyes to create a protective barrier against rubber balls, swinging sticks, dirt, and debris approaching from all angles on the field.

Look for lacrosse goggles made from impact-resistant polycarbonate with adequate ventilation to prevent fogging. The goggles should feature wide lenses that provide a wide field of vision without distortion or obstruction. A supple gasket lining the edges will create a comfortable seal against your face. Some goggles come with adjustable straps for a customized fit, while others may use an elasticized headband. Make sure the goggles stay snug when you run yet don’t dig into your skin.

Consider tinted lenses to reduce glare on sunny days along with clear lenses for lower light conditions. Interchangeable lenses allow you to swap out tints depending on the weather and field conditions. Anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings help maintain clarity throughout games and practices. Look for lacrosse goggles that can be worn comfortably under your helmet without compromising the fit.

Since the ball and sticks are constantly in motion during lacrosse matches, your eyes are vulnerable from all sides. Goggles provide an extra layer of protection that shields against blows from the periphery that could slip past face guards. Wearing lacrosse goggles under your helmet ensures your eyes are always protected, no matter which way you’re facing on the field. Keeping your eyes safe from incidental contact will give you the confidence to play your best game.

Choose Ventilated Lacrosse Face Masks to Keep Cool

When shopping for lacrosse face masks and shields, be sure to look for adequate ventilation to allow airflow. Face guards can get hot and uncomfortable during intense gameplay, so ventilation is key for staying cool under pressure. Well-ventilated guards prevent moisture build-up and allow heat to dissipate.

Look for face masks constructed of metal or plastic bars spaced widely enough to allow good airflow to your face. Avoid masks with narrow, grid-like spacing that obstructs airflow. Ventilation holes along the mouth and nose areas also enhance breathability. Some masks incorporate ventilation slits or meshes into the main construction for even better airflow.

Consider removable face masks that attach securely to your helmet with clips or snaps. When you’re on the sidelines, you can take off the mask for improved ventilation while keeping your helmet on. Just snap the mask back into place when you return to the game. This allows you to alternate between protection and airflow as needed.

Proper ventilation gives you comfort and visibility while battling for possession in midfield during intense summer heat. The last thing you want is for your face mask to fog up with condensation or restrict your breathing in the clutch. Optimizing ventilation minimizes facial sweat and allows you to keep a cool, collected head.

Choosing the right lacrosse face mask with smart ventilation enables you to play with aggression and energy without overheating. Well-designed protection gear makes all the difference between distraction and domination on the lacrosse field.

Select Lacrosse Goggles That Are Comfortable and Don’t Obstruct Vision

Along with face shields and helmets, lacrosse goggles provide essential eye protection from speeding balls and swinging sticks coming at all angles during gameplay. To keep your eyes shielded without compromising performance, look for goggles that offer a comfortable and unobstructed field of view.

Lacrosse goggles should have soft, supple padding around the edges that creates a secure seal against your face without irritating the skin or letting in dust and debris. Avoid rigid frames that dig into your brow and cheekbones. The lens shape should allow for expansive peripheral vision so you can see the full scope of the field without blind spots.

Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant yet lightweight for protection without noticeable heft. Anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings help maintain optical clarity throughout games and practices. Vented lens designs prevent moisture build-up inside the goggles for fog-free performance. Make sure any lens tinting provides sufficient visibility for daytime and nighttime play.

Adjustable straps and headbands allow you to customize the fit of your lacrosse goggles so they stay secure when running yet don’t slip or feel tight. Quick-change lenses make it easy to swap out tints to match different conditions. Look for goggles sized to fit comfortably under your helmet.

With lacrosse goggles that don’t distract from play by pinching, slipping, or limiting your vision, you can focus on the game knowing your eyes are protected. Clear sight lines and a customized fit give you the confidence to scan the field, track the ball, and power through the opposition without worrying about eye safety.

Custom Lacrosse Mouthguards Provide Superior Protection

Lacrosse mouthguards are essential protective gear that shield your teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw from high-speed balls and flailing sticks. Custom-fitted mouthguards mold to the unique contours of your teeth for unrivaled comfort and protection.

Custom mouthguards are digitally scanned or imprinted from dental impressions to perfectly match your bite alignment. This tailored fit distributes impact forces evenly across your teeth rather than concentrating them in one area. Custom guards stay firmly in place and won’t shift around or require constant re-positioning like generic boil-and-bite options.

Look for custom lacrosse mouthguards constructed from durable medical-grade materials like silicone rubber. Advanced 3D computer modeling enables precise fabrication for the most accurate fit. Some high-end guards even allow you to choose thickness based on your level of protection needs.

Guards come in a variety of colors and designs so you can represent your team pride. Ventilation holes allow you to speak and breathe freely without removing the mouthguard. Look for adequate lip and gum protection to shield these sensitive areas from harm.

Never step on the field without a mouthguard in place. Protect your smile and prevent serious dental injuries by using a custom-fit guard that feels like a natural extension of your teeth. Precision protection will empower you to play boldly without hesitation.

Upper Body Padding Reduces Sting From Checks and Collisions

Adding protective padding to the upper body is highly recommended for reducing the sting of routine contact in lacrosse. Shoulder pads, padded shirts, and arm guards provide an extra layer of cushioning against the physicality of the sport.

Look for adjustable shoulder pads with thick padding over the deltoids, collarbone, and sternum – common point of impact when checking an opponent. Lightweight foam or air cushioning absorbs shock while allowing a full range of motion. For additional protection, wear a padded lacrosse compression shirt under your shoulder pads.

Compression shirts keep pads secured in place while adding padding across the ribs, chest, and back to protect these vulnerable areas. Long sleeve shirts shield the arms from slashes while built-in elbow pads safeguard the joints from falls and flailing sticks.

Forearm guards slip on over the sleeves to add another layer of armor over this frequently struck region. Use adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit. Half-glove padding provides extra shielding for the hands and wrists as well.

The robust physical play central to lacrosse makes padding a necessity. Compression gear with smart cushioning absorbs impact while allowing you to play fast and aggressive. The more contact your position encounters, the more padding you need. Gear up accordingly so you can charge into the scrum without hesitation.

Shoulder Pads Absorb Impact From Checks and Collisions

Lacrosse shoulder pads are essential for absorbing the brunt of high-speed collisions from body checks, defender stick checks, and incidental contact. Quality padding over the shoulders, collarbone, and sternum helps prevent injuries to these vulnerable zones.

Look for adjustable shoulder pads with thick, shock-absorbing foam or air cushions over the deltoids and upper chest. The best pads will be lightweight and low-profile for protection without restricting motion. Straps should provide a snug fit so the pads don’t shift during gameplay.

Rounded pad designs allow the protector to deflect impacts from all directions. Some pads incorporate removable bicep guards for additional coverage. Breathable mesh backing prevents overheating under the pads while wicking away sweat.

For field players, hinged shoulder caps with additional padding down the upper arm offer expanded protection for aggressive defensive play. Goalie-specific shoulder pads extend farther down the arm while beefing up padding around the collarbones.

Don’t take the field without shoulder protection. Taking a slash or cross-check directly on the bone can lead to serious injuries that put you out of commission. Lacrosse shoulder pads absorb the brunt of impacts so you can keep your head in the game and focus on your performance rather than padding up injuries after the fact.

Arm Guards Shield Elbows From Hits and Falls

Lacrosse arm guards provide protective padding over the vulnerable elbow joint, shielding it from blows during gameplay. Guards slip on over sleeves and use adjustable straps to maintain a secure fit.

Look for arm guards made of moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics that keep you cool and dry during intense play. Lightweight foam or plastic caps cushion the point of the elbow without restricting mobility. The best guards absorb shock on impact while allowing a full range of motion.

Extended length guards provide extra coverage down the forearm for added protection. Some guards incorporate abrasion-resistant fabrics over the forearm to resist turf burn from layouts. Adjustable hook-and-loop straps across the bicep and forearm ensure a customized fit.

For field players, arm guard sizing varies based on arm length and position. Bulkier guards offer more padding for aggressive defensive players who see frequent contact. Goalies may wear full elbow-to-wrist arm guards for maximum coverage.

The elbow joint is highly vulnerable when diving for loose balls or colliding with opponents. Sturdy lacrosse arm guards are essential insulation against blows that can sideline your season. Protect your elbows so you can play all out with peace of mind.

Lacrosse Gloves Cushion Blows and Improve Stick Control

Lacrosse gloves provide vital protection to the hands while also enhancing ball control and stick handling. Padding across the fingers, knuckles, palms, and wrists helps absorb routine contact from sticks, balls, and turf.

Look for gloves with dense foam or plastic padding across the back of the hand to shield from checks. Palm padding safeguards against abrasion from the shafts on ground balls. Added padding along the thumb helps cushion one-handed checks.

Leather, synthetic leather, mesh, and abrasion-resistant fabrics stand up to rugged play. Breathable materials prevent overheating. Look for adjustable wrist straps for a secure fit. Goalie gloves offer more padding across the fingers and hands for added protection.

Stick-specific gloves improve control with tactile grips and padding along key pressure points for cradling. Specialized palms enhance ball handling for different player positions and styles of play.

Never take the field bare-handed. Lacrosse gloves allow you to play aggressively with your hands protected. Padding and optimized materials give you the confidence to slash, check, and scoop balls without fear of injury.

Cups and Supporters Protect the Vulnerable Groin Area

Lacrosse cups and supporters are essential protective gear for shielding the groin region from harm. A cup fits over the genitals and attaches to a compression short with pocket or supporter strap.

Look for lacrosse cups constructed from dense plastic or composite materials that resist impact from shots, slashes, and collisions. An ergonomic and ventilated cup design maximizes comfort and breathability. Padding around the edges cushions blows from all angles.

The cup should be sized to comfortably fit your anatomy without pinching or chafing. Supporter straps keep the cup centered and secure throughout active play. Consider larger goalie cups for expanded protection.

Snug-fitting compression shorts worn over the cup keep it positioned correctly. Longer shorts with built-in knee and thigh padding provide additional protection from checks and ground balls.

Never take the field without a cup firmly in place. A properly fitted jock and cup allow you to run, cut, and take hits with confidence knowing your most sensitive anatomy is protected. Don’t let fear of groin blows cause you to shy away from physical play.