Searching for Quality Used Lacrosse Gear. Don’t Miss Out on These Helpful Tips

Searching for Quality Used Lacrosse Gear. Don’t Miss Out on These Helpful Tips

Why Buying Pre-Owned Can Save You Money

As a long-time lacrosse enthusiast and player myself, I know firsthand the costs associated with gearing up for the sport. Those shiny new helmets, sleek carbon fiber shafts, and buttery leather gloves can put a serious dent in your wallet. But before you resign yourself to sitting out until you’ve saved up enough cash, consider looking to the pre-owned market. Buying used lacrosse equipment is a great way to score quality gear at fraction of retail prices.

Now I know what you might be thinking – used means worn out and damaged, right? Not necessarily! With some savvy shopping techniques, you can find pre-owned equipment that still has plenty of play left or requires minimal reconditioning. For example, last season I was able to buy a set of lightly used shoulder pads and arm guards from a teammate who had outgrown them. After a thorough cleaning, they looked and performed like new. That saved me almost $200 compared to buying that gear at full price.

In my experience, the key is knowing where to look and what to inspect for. Local online classifieds and community swap meets are treasure troves where you can uncover great discounted lacrosse finds. Vintage sporting goods stores often have solid old-school wood sticks and retro leather gloves that just need a little TLC. And don’t forget to ask around – chances are many of your teammates have drawers full of old gear they’d be happy to part with.

When evaluating potential used purchases, functionality and safety should be your top concerns. Carefully check helmets for cracks or dents, swivel and tug on facemasks, and replace old foam inserts. For sticks, ensure the head isn’t too warped and the shaft isn’t bent or splintered. Give gloves a sniff test for mildew and examine palms and fingers for excess wear. Don’t forget to budget for new nuts and screws, a fresh coat of paint or stringing, or other minor reconditioning needs.

While buying used does come with some risk, there are also ways to minimize it. Meet up in-person whenever possible so you can thoroughly inspect items; beware of excessively cheap online-only deals that seem too good to be true. Ask sellers direct questions about usage and condition. And don’t forget to sanitize! A good deep clean of a used helmet or pads is a must.

At the end of the day, going pre-owned requires some diligence and care. But with the right approach, you can score amazing discount finds that allow you to get out on the field while also saving some cash. As an avid player myself, I always keep one eye on the used market so I can pounce when great deals pop up. With some savvy shopping, you can too – so don’t resign yourself to the bench just yet!

What to Look for When Shopping for Used Sticks

As an avid lacrosse player, I’ve learned through experience that used sticks can be a great bargain – if you know what to look for. When evaluating pre-owned lacrosse sticks, there are a few key areas I always inspect closely to ensure optimal performance and value.

Starting with the head, check for any significant warping, especially on the sidewalls. Run your hand along the plastic – it should have a smooth, consistent contour without major dents or flat spots. Also examine the scoop and make sure the shape hasn’t become overly pinched or widened. For the sidewalls, give them a flex test by pushing in – they should have some give but quickly rebound back. Avoid sticks with brittle, cracked walls.

Don’t forget to peek inside the head. Those small holes you see are drainage ports that allow water to escape. If they appear clogged with significant dirt buildup, it could mean the stick wasn’t cared for properly and could have interior damage you can’t see. Make sure the runner and stitches look intact too while you’re in there.

The pocket is where you can uncover the biggest potential issues. Hold it up to the light and use your fingers to probe every diamond, feeling for small tears or holes. Give the nylon a gentle pull – it shouldn’t stretch much or come loose from the sidewall stitches. Loose or sloppy stringing is easier to fix than torn mesh, so keep that in mind. Also check that the shooters and V’s aren’t overly baggy, unless that’s the pocket style you prefer.

For shafts, start by examining the overall straightness. Roll it on a flat surface, site down the length, and look for any obvious bends or wobbles. Next, run your hands along the entire shaft, feeling for small cracks, chips, or dents. These vulnerabilities compromise the shaft’s integrity. Give it a solid bend as well – quality carbon fiber and alloy shafts should be stiff without creaking or splintering.

Don’t forget to look at the screw holes where the head attaches. If they appear significantly stripped or damaged that could lead to wobble and inaccuracy. Loose rivets on metal shafts are another red flag. And give the butt end a smell check – mildew odor likely means the shaft’s interior has retained moisture.

When buying online, request any additional photos you think would be helpful, like closeups of the pocket and sidewalls. Ask questions too – how long was it used for? How often was it cleaned? Reasons for selling? The more detail, the better sense you’ll get of potential wear and tear.

While shopping for used sticks does require diligence, it can really pay off. Some of my best performing and longest-lasting sticks have been pre-owned finds I scored for a fraction of the price. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect key areas and don’t hesitate to walk away if anything seems amiss. With the right research and discrimination, you can find phenomenal discounted sticks with plenty of playing life left in them.

How to Find Hidden Gems at Vintage Sporting Good Stores

As an avid lacrosse player and bargain hunter, I get a thrill from uncovering hidden gem finds at vintage sporting goods stores. There’s something nostalgic and rewarding about giving old-school equipment new life. But locating those diamonds in the rough takes some savvy shopping skills.

My first tip is to keep an open mind when browsing and don’t judge a stick by its dust cover. Sometimes the most unassuming, tattered boxes hold the coolest vintage treasures inside. I once found a handcrafted wooden stick from the 1950s stashed way in the back with a $15 price tag. A little TLC and it was game-ready.

Talk to the shop owner when you arrive and let them know specifically what you’re looking for. They likely have insights into unlisted inventory not visible on the shelves. I once got a retailer to pull out a bin of random lacrosse heads from the basement after I mentioned my used gear hunt. He was happy to be rid of them, and I snagged 3 at $5 apiece – one even had a barely used Marc Mesh pocket!

While you browse, don’t just eyeball things casually – really inspect items hands-on. Check stick heads thoroughly for warps and cracks, squeeze gloves to check padding resilience, and look for fraying on netting. Be willing to put in elbow grease fixing up imperfect finds, as long as the underlying construction is intact. Don’t be afraid to haggle on pricing for items needing repairs either.

Make friends with the employees too if you plan to come back regularly. I have a go-to staffer at one shop who always texts me photos when lacrosse items come in, knowing what I’ve been searching for. Having someone scouting for you is a huge asset.

Keep a list on your phone of your must-have brands, styles, and sizes so you don’t forget. Whenever I’m considering a purchase, I’ll pull up my list as a reference to avoid duplicate gear. I also jot down what I see while browsing but don’t buy right away, so I can come back if it’s still there.

Don’t ignore the other sporting sections either in your hunt. I once found some killer vintage Adidas lacrosse arm pads in a random football bin. And the used golf club section inexplicably yielded some nice old Brine gloves in great shape.

Check listings websites too for vintage stores’ incoming inventory. Sometimes they’ll post new lacrosse arrivals online that aren’t out on the floor yet when you visit. You can then call to have them hold items for you.

With the right mix of persistence, creativity, and research, unearthing amazing one-of-a-kind lacrosse steals at vintage shops is extremely rewarding. By putting in the time and effort, you can build an unbelievable custom collection on the cheap.

Scouring Local Classifieds Sites for Deals

As a bargain-hunting lacrosse player, one of my go-to used gear sources is scouring local online classifieds. Sites like Craigslist, OfferUp, and Facebook Marketplace are treasure troves, especially as seasons change and players upgrade their equipment. With some search savvy and persistence, awesome discounted finds can be uncovered.

When browsing, don’t just enter generic searches like “lacrosse gear.” You’ll get overwhelmed with results. Instead, use targeted phrases like “men’s lacrosse gloves” or “women’s lacrosse goggles” along with your city name. Fiddle with word order for more options. This focuses results to more closely match what you really want.

Think expansively about creative search phrases too, like “lacrosse lot” or “full equipment bag.” Sellers needing fast cash may bundle multiple items for quick sale. I once landed an entire beginner’s set this way for $50 – complete with stick, pads, and cleats!

Make sure to check new listings multiple times per week, even daily if seriously searching. Good deals go fast, so you need to pounce immediately before someone else spies that mint condition helmet or lightweight shaft.

When messaging sellers, don’t just ask “Is this available?” Explain why you’re interested, your experience level, and ask detailed condition questions. This builds rapport, making the seller more comfortable with you as an informed buyer less likely to nitpick.

Don’t get discouraged by curt or non-responsive sellers either. Some folks are overwhelmed by messages and inadvertently ignore earnest buyers like you. Politely follow up again expressing your interest. You never know what gems you could uncover with a little extra effort.

If possible, prioritize meeting in-person before purchasing so you can thoroughly inspect items. Check stick pocketing and sidewalls, scrutinize helmets for cracks, and examine gloves for excess wear. But don’t fully dismiss shipped items either – just ask for plenty of detailed photos during the negotiation process.

Finally, don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially for bundling multiple items. Sellers expect it. But stay reasonable based on quality and demand. Offering to pay cash right away can help sweeten deals too.

With the right mix of targeted searches, messaging diligence, inspection, and haggling, scoring awesome discounted lacrosse gear through local classifieds is totally doable. It just takes persistence and imagination. Stay vigilant and deals will come your way!

Finding Teammate Hand-Me-Downs and Re-Sells

As a lacrosse player, one of my favorite used gear sources is teammate hand-me-downs and re-sells. Not only are these convenient within your own network, but teammates can provide detailed usage insights that help score equipment likely to have plenty of game life left.

Younger players are always growing, so keep an ear out for who’s sizing up their stick or ordering new pads for the season. Politely inquire if they’re planning to sell or donate their outgrown gear and express interest in buying. This allows first dibs before items are advertised publicly.

For graduating seniors, touch base near season’s end to ask what equipment they’re looking to offload. Get on their radar early so you’re the first in line. Offering a few bucks now to “reserve” desired items beats competing later.

Don’t forget to check school lost and founds too. Unclaimed equipment left behind after seasons or gym classes can often be purchased very affordably if coaches don’t require returns.

When possible, try to watch teammates using gear you’re interested in buying firsthand. This allows you to gauge condition based on playing style. Were they particularly physical defenders? Frequent crash crease scorers? Watching wear and tear in action is invaluable.

Ask questions about usage too like years played, positions, and practice habits. How often was the head strung? Did they sanitize pads regularly? Know how they stored gear? Details like this help identify potential issues or value.

See if parents kept receipts or records as well. This documents age and provides price comparison. And remember – parents want storage space back too, so are highly motivated sellers!

Team re-sell Facebook groups are another great insider resource. Teammates may advertise gear here before making public posts. You can also request notifications when particular items are posted for quick response.

Buying used lacrosse gear from familiar teammates just makes sense. You can inspect items firsthand, gather usage insights, negotiate fairly, and help your community – all while scoring great deals and giving pre-owned equipment new life.

Important Questions to Ask Before Purchasing Used Pads

If you’re in the market for quality used lacrosse gear, but don’t want to break the bank, you’ve come to the right place. Buying pre-owned can be a great way to outfit yourself or your player without paying full retail. However, it’s important to keep some key factors in mind so you end up with equipment that’s safe and functional.

Here are some of the most important questions to ask before purchasing used pads:

What is the age and condition of the pads?

Age and wear and tear are critical considerations when buying used gear. Very old pads or pads that have seen heavy use may not provide adequate protection. Examine the pads closely for cracking, fraying, or compression of the foams. Straps should be intact and buckles fully functional. Avoid gear with major flaws or damage.

Have the pads been professionally reconditioned?

Some retailers specialize in reconditioning used pads, replacing worn parts and ensuring the gear meets safety standards. Purchasing reconditioned pads reduces risk and helps guarantee the pads have plenty of life left. Ask the seller if the equipment has been professionally inspected and refurbished.

What brand are the pads?

Established lacrosse brands like STX and Warrior are known for their durable gear that stands up well over time. Lesser known brands may use cheaper materials and construction. Opt for pads from reputable manufacturers if possible.

Are replacement parts available?

Even the highest quality pads will need new straps, buckles, or other replacement parts from time to time. Before buying, make sure you can obtain replacement parts for that brand if needed. Avoid pads if parts are no longer made or hard to find.

Were the pads properly cared for?

How the previous owner maintained the pads also impacts their usefulness and longevity. Well cared for pads that were cleaned and stored properly will typically be in better shape. Ask questions about how the gear was maintained and stored when not in use.

Do the pads have any odors?

Pads that were not adequately cleaned may have lingering odors from dirt, sweat, and bacteria buildup. A musty smell indicates moisture was not properly removed. Be wary of unclean pads as they could lead to skin irritation or infection.

Have the foams been exposed to extreme temperatures?

Foams and padding materials can become brittle if subjected to very high or low temperatures. Gear stored in hot garages or freezing conditions may not absorb impacts as effectively. Inquire about storage conditions if possible.

Do the pads fit properly?

Trying on used pads before purchasing is ideal if sizing allows. Pads that are too large or too small will leave the player vulnerable. Ask about sizing and be prepared to exchange ill-fitting pads if needed.

Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate pre-owned lacrosse pads will help you score a great set of gear at a fraction of the cost. Carefully examining condition, fit, and brand can lead you to quality used pads that offer protection and value.

Some other tips when shopping for used lacrosse equipment:

• Ask if you can try out sticks before buying to ensure good pocket depth and throwing/scooping performance.
• Replace old helmets – don’t risk safety with a used helmet.
• Look for signs of warping or damage on used lacrosse sticks.
• Buy gloves that still have good grip and allow flexibility.
• Choose goggles with intact lenses and straps.
• Opt for shoes with plenty of traction left on soles.

With a little savvy shopping, you can save big on certified, pre-owned lacrosse balls, shafts, pads, helmets, and other used lax equipment. Take your time, ask questions, and thoroughly inspect gear before purchasing. With the right used equipment, you or your young player can gear up fully without blowing your budget.

How to Sanitize Helmets Bought Second Hand

Getting a good deal on a pre-owned lacrosse helmet can help you stretch your equipment budget. However, used helmets require extra care and sanitizing before use to ensure safety. Here are some tips for deep cleaning and disinfecting secondhand lids.

Remove dirt and debris

Start by removing any accumulated dirt, sweat, and hair inside the helmet. Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush to gently scrub both the interior and exterior of the helmet. Pay close attention to the foam padding inside, as bacteria and odors can collect there. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterwards.

Disinfect surfaces

After a thorough cleaning, it’s critical to disinfect the helmet to kill any lingering germs. Make a sanitizing solution by mixing a few tablespoons of bleach into a quart of water. Use a spray bottle to liberally apply the solution both inside and out. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth.

Replace removable parts

Some helmet components like chin straps and facemasks may be removable. Strongly consider replacing these parts on a used helmet for maximum safety and hygiene. Brand new replacement parts are inexpensive compared to the cost of a helmet.

Inspect for flaws

Carefully examine the helmet for any cracks or damage during cleaning. Even a small fracture compromises safety. Apply light pressure and listen for any crunching or popping sounds that could indicate liner issues. If any flaws are found, replace the helmet.

Let air dry

After thorough sanitizing, let the helmet dry completely before use. Leaving it to air dry overnight ensures no moisture is trapped. Using a helmet before it’s fully dry could lead to bacteria growth.

Freshen with baking soda

For stubborn odors that remain even after disinfecting, baking soda can help. Lightly sprinkle baking soda inside the helmet, focusing on the padding. Let sit overnight before shaking out the excess.

Consider new pads

While the shell of a helmet may be fine, old pads have a limited lifespan. Replacing worn helmet pads enhances comfort and safety. Purchase new replacement pads from the helmet manufacturer if needed.

Get a coach’s opinion

Have a coach inspect the helmet after you’ve cleaned and sanitized it. They may spot issues you missed and can ensure it meets safety standards before use.

Proper sanitizing transforms a used helmet into protective gear that’s almost good as new. Taking the time to deeply clean and disinfect a secondhand helmet helps provide peace of mind and prevent health issues. When paired with routine helmet inspection and replacement when needed, your player can enjoy seasons of safe use.

Looking to score sweet deals on pre-owned lacrosse equipment? Here are some more tips to find quality used gear:

• Shop off-season when selection is best
• Check lacrosse forums and gear swap groups
• Look for team upgrading their equipment
• Ask at local lacrosse camps or youth leagues
• Search for gear bundles to get more value
• Negotiate deals when buying multiple items
• Ask about product trade-in policies
• Comparison shop to find best prices

Protecting your budget doesn’t mean sacrificing performance. With some smart shopping, you can outfit your player with high-quality used pads, sticks, and helmets they’ll be thrilled to use all season long.

Tips for Spotting Counterfeit Lacrosse Balls to Avoid

When shopping for new lacrosse balls, it’s important to look out for counterfeits that could impact performance and safety. Here are some tips to help identify fake lacrosse balls:

Look for inaccurate or missing branding

Authentic lacrosse balls will have clear, accurate logos and branding. Counterfeits often have incorrect or blurry logos. Official certification markings like “NOCSAE” may also be missing or incorrect on fakes.

Feel for differences in texture

Genuine lacrosse balls should have a grippy, tacky feel to the exterior rubber. Fakes tend to have a smooth, slick surface texture instead of grippy pebbled rubber.

Inspect seams and stitching

Quality lacrosse balls have neatly stitched seams with no loose threads. Irregular, crooked or loose stitching can indicate a counterfeit ball.

Check for inferior materials

Fake balls are made from subpar materials that affect performance and durability. Rubber may feel rigid or brittle. Backing texture inside the ball may be rough or porous.

Compare weight and bounce

Authentic balls will have a good balanced heft and responsive bounce. Counterfeits tend to feel too light and have a “dead” bounce when dropped.

Look for bargain pricing

Deeply discounted lacrosse balls, especially in bulk, are a red flag. If a price seems too good to be true, the balls are likely fakes.

Buy from reputable sellers

Only purchase lacrosse balls from authorized retailers and sporting goods stores. Avoid unknown online sellers or websites with mixed reviews.

Inspect packaging

Real lacrosse balls will be sold in official brand packaging. Fake and counterfeit balls may come loose or in plain plastic bags.

Using counterfeit lacrosse balls jeopardizes performance and safety. By carefully inspecting branding, materials, weight and other details, you can avoid fake balls and only buy authentic, high-quality products to take your game to the next level.

Want more tips for choosing the best lacrosse gear? Here are some things to look for:

• Helmets with strong but lightweight shells
• Pads with breathable, moisture-wicking lining
• Sticks with durable yet flexible shafts
• Heads with proper pocket depth and ball control
• Gloves with reinforced palms and flexible fingers
• Cleats with ankle support and good traction

When you invest in high-performing, safety-certified gear from trusted brands, you give yourself or your young athlete the tools they need to elevate their game. Do your research and buy smart to get equipment that lasts across many hard-fought seasons on the field.

Where to Find Lightly Used Cleats and Gloves

Getting top-notch lacrosse cleats and gloves without paying full price is possible if you know where to look. Here are some tips for finding lightly used lacrosse shoes and gloves to help elevate your game on a budget:

Team end-of-season sales

Many youth, high school, and college teams upgrade equipment yearly. Ask coaches about end-of-season team sales to score great deals on gently used cleats and gloves. These are often barely worn by players who outgrew them.

Local lacrosse gear swaps

Gear swap events bring together players and families to buy, sell, and trade equipment. Keep an eye out for swaps advertised on community boards, in lacrosse magazines, or through youth leagues.

Online lacrosse forums

Visit lacrosse forums and community message boards to find classified ads from players and parents selling quality used items. You can often negotiate good bundled deals.

Consignment sporting goods stores

Check consignment and play-it-again sports stores in your area for discounted cleats and gloves. Call ahead to ask what they currently have in stock.

Sideline sellers

Chat with parents and players on sidelines during tournaments and games to spread the word you’re looking for used gear. Networking can lead to great deals.

Team equipment managers

Ask university and college team equipment managers if they have any player-used items they’re looking to sell off after a season of use.

Local lacrosse camps

Off-season lacrosse camps often have lightly used leftover gear they’re looking to sell. Touch base with camps in your area to see what they have available.

With a little effort and networking, you can score quality pre-owned cleats and gloves that offer top performance at a fraction of the retail cost. Get deals on gear that still has plenty of play left in it for your upcoming season.

Want more tips for elevating your lacrosse game? Here are some ideas:

• Master new drills to develop skills
• Analyze game film to improve decision-making
• Focus on strength training for speed and power
• Perfect shooting technique and accuracy
• Work on lacrosse IQ by studying plays
• Dial in your pre-game warm up and stretching
• Keep gear clean and well-maintained

With the right practice, gear, and attitude, you’ll be dominating the field in no time. Go get ’em this season!

Signs of Heavy Wear When Evaluating Used Equipment

Purchasing used lacrosse gear can save money, but it’s important to thoroughly inspect equipment for signs of heavy wear and tear. Here are some red flags to look for when evaluating the condition of pre-owned pads, helmets, sticks, and other gear:

Cracks or dents

Cracked shells, broken clips, or major dents in helmets, pads, and sticks compromise both safety and performance. Avoid gear with these visible flaws.

Frayed straps

Frayed, ripped, or missing straps on pads indicate they may not stay securely in place during play. Replace any damaged straps before use.

Worn grip

Gloves with smooth, shiny palms have lost grip from heavy use. Opt for gloves with tacky grip showing minimal wear.

Loose screws

Helmets and sticks come apart if screws become stripped or fall out from frequent use. Replace any loose or damaged screws before use.

Thin padding

Flattening or compression of pad foams reduce shock absorption. Press down on foams and pass if they feel thin.

Off-balance sticks

Heavily used sticks may feel lighter on one side, indicating potential interior damage. Evenly weighted sticks are best.

Flimsy materials

Low-quality gear wears faster. Avoid equipment made with cheap plastic or flimsy mesh prone to breaking down quickly.

Warped shape

Improper storage can warp helmet shells and stick heads. Opt for gear maintaining its original shape.

Carefully inspecting used lacrosse equipment for excessive wear helps avoid purchasing gear prone to failure. Prioritize safety and performance by only choosing items with plenty of life left in them.

Ready to take your lacrosse game up a notch? Here are some more tips:

• Master cradling, scooping, passing, and catching skills
• Develop speed and stamina with sprint drills
• Improve shooting accuracy with repetitive target practice
• Study game strategy and plays
• Watch lacrosse game film to analyze technique
• Cross-train to build athleticism
• Focus on proper stretching and injury prevention

With hard work and the right gear, you’ll be dominating on the field in no time. Now get out there and start training!

Budgeting for Necessary Reconditioning or Repairs

Purchasing used lacrosse gear can provide big savings, but some equipment may require reconditioning or repairs before use. Factor these potential costs into your budget when evaluating pre-owned items.

Replacing worn parts

Helmets, pads, and gloves likely need new removable parts like straps, palm pads, or chinstraps over time. Check current condition and estimate replacement costs.

Stick restringing

Improper stringing or worn mesh on used sticks will impact performance. Plan $40-60 for professional restringing.

Helmet sanitizing

Used helmets require disinfecting cleaners and solutions costing $15-30 to properly sanitize and eliminate odors.

Patching mesh holes

Gear with small holes can often be repaired with patch kits for $5-10. Larger holes may require full mesh replacement.

Dent removal

Metal tools can pop some helmet and stick dents, but deep dents may need bodywork costing $25 or more.

Replacing screws

A few dollars for replacement screws prevents loose pieces from falling off during games and practices.

Padding refresh

New foam inserts run $15-30 but restore comfort and protection to well-worn pads.

Accounting for potential repair and reconditioning costs helps avoid surprise expenses down the road. Prioritize safety by budgeting to fully refresh used gear before taking the field.

Want more tips for playing your best? Here are some ideas:

• Eat a nutritious, protein-rich diet
• Hydrate properly before, during, and after play
• Treat minor injuries quickly to avoid complications
• Cool down and stretch thoroughly after games
• Get at least 8 hours of sleep nightly for recovery
• Manage schoolwork and activities to reduce stress
• Supplement workout routines to build strength

Mastering the basics like nutrition, injury prevention, and off-field training gives you a complete approach to excelling on the lacrosse field. Bring your A-game this season by taking care of all the details!

Safely Buying Used Lacrosse Gear Online

Searching for pre-owned lacrosse equipment online can help you save big, but you need to take precautions to avoid getting stuck with damaged or counterfeit gear.

Vet sellers thoroughly

Only purchase from reputable online retailers and marketplace sellers with a long history of positive reviews. Avoid any unknown sellers.

Ask about return policies

Make sure the seller has a satisfaction guarantee or return policy in case the gear arrives in worse condition than described.

Read item descriptions closely

Look for detailed condition descriptions, sizing info, and brand specifics. Avoid vague listings lacking key details.

Study all photos

Look for damage or wear and tear in the photos. Zoom in on high-res pictures to inspect items closely.

Compare prices

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Price check against major retailers to spot unrealistic discounts.

Ask questions

Use messaging to ask for more details, sizing confirmation, or additional photos of gear before purchasing.

See if shipping is insured

Opt for sellers who offer insured shipping in case packages are lost or damaged in transit.

Pay with protected methods

Avoid direct bank transfers. Use a credit card or Paypal for purchase protection and fraud prevention.

Using caution when buying lacrosse equipment online helps you score sweet savings without sacrificing safety and performance. Follow these tips to snag the best quality pre-owned gear for your budget.

Ready to raise your lacrosse skills to the next level? Here are some drills to try:

• Agility ladder drills for footwork
• Box drills for stick moves
• Cone dodging to improve agility
• Wall ball for catching and throwing
• Shooting practice on goalies
• Conditioning drills for speed and stamina

Step up your practice game and get ready to dominate on the field. You got this!

Taking Advantage of Team and League Swap Meets

One of the best places to score discounted, pre-owned lacrosse gear is at swap meets organized by teams, leagues, and local communities. Here are some tips for finding and making the most of local swap opportunities:

Check league websites and newsletters

Youth lacrosse leagues and high school athletic associations often list upcoming swap meets. Check their sites routinely for swap announcements.

Look for flyers at sporting goods stores

Local teams will often promote upcoming swaps by hanging flyers in sporting goods stores. Keep an eye out next time you shop.

Search community bulletin boards

Grocery stores, libraries, rec centers and more have boards for local events. Watch for any gear swap posters.

Follow teams and coaches on social media

Teams will promote swap meets on their social pages. Stay in the loop by following your local programs.

Talk to other lacrosse parents

Chat with other lax parents at games and practices to hear about any upcoming swaps they know about.

Bring cash

Vendors may not accept credit cards, so bring small bills to pay and negotiate deals.

Arrive early

The best selection will go fast, so get there as early as possible to have first pick.

Know your budget

Set a spending limit beforehand so you don’t overpay in the heat of the moment.

Gear swaps provide access to discounted equipment you won’t find in big box stores. Tap into these events to get quality lacrosse gear at used prices for a great value.

Ready to play your best this season? Here are some more lacrosse tips:

• Drink lots of water before and during games
• Eat a carbohydrate-rich meal 2-3 hours pre-game
• Get a good night’s sleep before game days
• Tighten your laces to support ankles and feet
• Break in cleats and gloves properly before games
• Clear your schedule on game days to focus

With the right preparation, gear, and mindset, you’ll be dominating the competition in no time. Now get out there and play your heart out!

The Benefits of Vintage Lacrosse Treasures

While the latest and greatest lacrosse gear has its perks, hunting down vintage equipment has a nostalgic charm all its own. Here are some benefits of using old-school lacrosse treasures:

Unique style

Vintage gear like wooden sticks, leather helmets, and retro jerseys give you an iconic, one-of-a-kind look on the field.

Superior craftsmanship

Many vintage lacrosse items were handmade with attention to detail and built to last. The quality is often superior to mass-produced gear today.

Tactile appeal

Materials like vintage leather and wood provide a rich, organic texture missing from modern synthetic gear.

Customizable

Old gear can be restrung, repainted, or otherwise customized to your preferences easier than newer equipment.

Conversation piece

Vintage gear attracts attention and curiosity. Be prepared to share the origins of your classic items.

Link to lacrosse history

Using vintage equipment connects you to the roots of the sport in a way new gear can’t match.

Reasonably priced

Beyond rare collectibles, many vintage lacrosse items can be purchased for less than new gear.

While vintage equipment may require some reconditioning, embracing the old-school look brings classic style to the field. Play with a piece of history!

If you’re just starting out in lacrosse, here is some beginner gear to get:

• Helmet with facemask
• Shoulder pads
• Arm guards
• Gloves with good grip
• Cleats with ankle support
• Field or goalie stick
• Rubber lacrosse ball

Focus on safely covering the basics at first. As your skills improve, you can upgrade to more specialized equipment down the road. The right gear coupled with diligent practice will have you dominating games in no time!

How to Get Top Dollar When Reselling Your Own Used Gear

Ready to sell off your used lacrosse equipment and upgrade to new gear? Follow these tips to help maximize your cash payout:

Clean thoroughly

Deep clean pads, helmet, gloves, etc. Gear that looks and smells fresh will fetch higher prices.

Make minor repairs

Replace broken buckles, screws, or laces so gear functions properly. Fix any small damage.

Recondition if needed

Consider professional reconditioning services to extend life of well-used gear. This boosts value.

Stage photos strategically

Photograph equipment on a clean, solid surface at multiple flattering angles to show condition.

Note important specs

Include size, brand, precise model numbers and other key details in your sales listings.

Be honest about condition

Disclose any flaws or wear to build trust. Surprises lower offers.

Research fair pricing

Price a little above comparable gear that recently sold to leave room to negotiate.

Offer bundles

Bundle related items like sticks, pads, helmets to add value and convenience.

With some prep work and smart selling tactics, you can successfully resell quality used gear for a fair price. Use the cash to fund your next equipment purchase!

For the best deals on new lacrosse gear, remember to:

• Shop end of season clearance sales
• Take advantage of holiday promotions
• Buy last year’s models at discount
• Use coupons and promo codes when available
• Sign up for brand/retailer newsletters for sales alerts

With a little strategic shopping, you can upgrade your equipment affordably season after season. Now get out there and dominate the competition!