Sizing a Youth Lacrosse Stick. 9 Essential Tips for Sizing Youth Lacrosse Sticks: Find the Perfect Fit

How to choose the right lacrosse stick length for your child. What factors influence youth lacrosse stick sizing. How position affects lacrosse stick length selection. Why skill level matters when sizing a youth lacrosse stick. How to ensure compliance with regulation stick lengths.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Importance of Proper Lacrosse Stick Sizing

Selecting the right lacrosse stick size for young athletes is crucial for their on-field performance and skill development. A properly sized stick enhances control, improves technique, and boosts confidence. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when sizing a youth lacrosse stick.

Age-Based Guidelines for Lacrosse Stick Sizing

Manufacturers often provide age-specific recommendations for lacrosse stick sizes. For instance:

Mini sticks: Ages 4-8
Junior sticks: Ages 9-13
Senior sticks: Ages 14 and up

However, these guidelines serve as a starting point. Individual factors such as height, skill level, and playing position should also be taken into account.

The Role of Height in Stick Selection

A common rule of thumb for lacrosse stick sizing is that the stick should reach between the player’s nose and chin when standing flat-footed. This ensures a comfortable grip and optimal control. How can you accurately measure your child for a lacrosse stick? Stand them against a wall, ensuring their heels touch the baseboard, and mark their height. Then, compare this measurement to stick lengths to find an appropriate match.

Position-Specific Considerations for Lacrosse Stick Length

Different positions on the lacrosse field require varying stick lengths to maximize performance. Understanding these position-specific needs is crucial when selecting a youth lacrosse stick.

Attack Players: Prioritizing Control and Agility

Attack players typically prefer shorter sticks, ranging from 40 to 42 inches. Why do attackers benefit from shorter sticks? Shorter sticks provide better ball control, enable quicker passes, and allow for more precise shooting in tight spaces near the goal.

Midfielders: Balancing Versatility and Reach

Midfielders often opt for medium-length sticks, usually between 40 and 42 inches for offensive middies and up to 72 inches for defensive specialists. This length range offers a balance between the control needed for offense and the reach required for defense.

Defenders: Maximizing Reach and Checking Ability

Defensive players benefit from longer sticks, typically ranging from 52 to 72 inches. Why do defenders use longer sticks? The extended reach allows them to disrupt passes, perform effective poke checks, and cover more ground when defending against opponents.

How Skill Level Influences Lacrosse Stick Selection

A player’s skill level is a critical factor in determining the appropriate lacrosse stick length. Adapting stick length to skill level can significantly impact a young player’s development and enjoyment of the game.

Beginners: Focusing on Control and Fundamentals

Novice players often benefit from shorter sticks, which are easier to control and manipulate. A stick length of 37 to 40 inches is typically suitable for beginners. Why are shorter sticks recommended for new players? They allow for better ball control, easier cradling, and help develop proper throwing and catching techniques without the added challenge of managing a longer stick.

Intermediate Players: Transitioning to Longer Sticks

As players progress and develop their skills, they can gradually transition to longer sticks. Intermediate players may use sticks ranging from 40 to 42 inches, depending on their position and physical growth. This length provides a balance between control and reach, allowing players to expand their skillset.

Advanced Players: Maximizing Reach and Versatility

Experienced youth players can handle longer sticks, which offer advantages in terms of reach and versatility on the field. Advanced players might use sticks up to the maximum length allowed for their age group, typically around 42 to 72 inches, depending on their position.

Navigating Age Cutoff Dates and Regulation Stick Lengths

Understanding age division rules and regulation stick lengths is crucial when selecting a youth lacrosse stick. These factors ensure fair play and compliance with league standards.

Age Division Considerations

Lacrosse leagues often use calendar cutoff dates to determine age divisions. How do these cutoff dates affect stick selection? A player with a late birthdate might play in an older age group, potentially requiring a longer stick to compete effectively with their peers.

Regulation Stick Length Requirements

Different age groups have specific maximum stick length regulations. For example, players in the 10U category may be limited to sticks no longer than 47.5 inches. It’s essential to review your league’s rules to ensure compliance while still selecting a stick that offers developmental advantages.

Practical Tips for Finding the Right Lacrosse Stick Fit

Beyond guidelines and measurements, practical testing and consideration of individual factors play a crucial role in finding the perfect lacrosse stick for your young athlete.

Hands-On Testing of Different Stick Lengths

Encourage your child to try out sticks of various lengths. Have them practice cradling, passing, and catching with different stick sizes while maintaining consistent hand positions. This hands-on approach helps identify which length provides the best control and comfort.

Accounting for Growth Potential

When selecting a stick, it’s important to consider your child’s growth potential. How much growth room should you allow? Generally, allowing 1-2 inches of extra length can accommodate near-future growth without compromising current performance. However, avoid buying significantly oversized sticks with the idea that your child will “grow into” them, as this can hinder skill development.

Evaluating Stick Weight

Longer sticks naturally weigh more, which can lead to fatigue, especially for younger or smaller players. Consider your child’s strength and endurance when selecting stick length. If opting for a longer stick, look for lightweight shaft materials to mitigate the additional weight.

Customizing Stick Length for Individual Needs

While general guidelines provide a solid starting point, the ideal lacrosse stick length ultimately depends on your child’s unique combination of factors. Consider their age, size, skills, position, and personal preference when making a final decision.

Balancing Multiple Factors

How can you balance all these factors when choosing a stick? Start with age and height guidelines, then adjust based on position and skill level. Finally, let your child’s comfort and control be the deciding factors. A well-fitted stick will boost their confidence and performance on the field.

Seeking Expert Advice

If you’re still unsure about the best stick length for your child, consider consulting with a knowledgeable coach or visiting a specialized lacrosse equipment store. These experts can provide personalized advice based on your child’s individual needs and playing style.

The Impact of Proper Stick Sizing on Player Development

Selecting the right lacrosse stick size is more than just a matter of comfort – it significantly influences a young player’s skill development and overall enjoyment of the game.

Enhancing Skill Acquisition

A properly sized stick allows young players to develop correct techniques from the start. How does stick length affect skill development? The right length enables proper cradling mechanics, accurate passing, and effective shooting, laying a strong foundation for advanced skills.

Boosting Confidence and Performance

When players feel comfortable with their equipment, their confidence on the field naturally increases. A well-fitted stick becomes an extension of the player, allowing them to focus on strategy and gameplay rather than struggling with an unwieldy tool.

By carefully considering all aspects of lacrosse stick sizing, you can ensure your young athlete has the best possible equipment to support their growth in the sport. Remember, the goal is to find a stick that enhances their natural abilities and encourages a love for the game.

Length Matters – Follow Guidelines for Stick Length

Finding the perfect lacrosse stick length for your young athlete is crucial for their success on the field. With sticks coming in a range of sizes, it can be tricky to know which size is right for your player’s height, position, and skill level. Following key sizing guidelines can help ensure your kid gets a stick length that maximizes their abilities.

Many parents simply guess at lacrosse stick size or go by height alone. But the optimal length depends on more factors. Here are 9 tips to find the ideal youth stick length:

1. Know Age Guidelines

As a starting point, consult manufacturer age recommendations. For example, STX suggests mini sticks for ages 4-8, junior sticks for ages 9-13, and senior sticks for ages 14 and up. Age is a rough guide, but since kids grow at different rates, consider other size factors too.

2. Factor In Height

A general sizing rule is the stick should come up to between the child’s nose and chin when standing flat-footed. Standing on toes or slouching can distort height, so measure accurately. Arm span can also determine range if unsure between sizes.

3. Consider Position

Attack players tend to prefer shorter sticks for better ball control. Defenders need longer sticks to poke check. Midfielders are in between. Evaluate your child’s position and playing style – longer sticks allow wider passing lanes but shorter sticks enable quicker cradling.

4. Think About Skill Level

Beginners do better controlling shorter sticks as they develop mechanics. Intermediate players gain advantage from mid-length sticks optimizing play. Advanced kids can handle longer sticks for expanded reach. Match stick length to your kid’s mastery of stick skills.

5. Mind the Age Cutoff Dates

Since age divisions are determined by calendar cutoff dates, some kids may fall in between groups. A child with a late birthdate may play “up” a level and need a longer stick to compete. Check league age rules and size up if your player is younger than peers.

6. Check Regulation Stick Lengths

Youth game rules limit maximum stick lengths by age group. For example, sticks for 10U players can’t exceed 47.5″. Review age bracket requirements – don’t exceed regulated sizes, but consider the upper range for a developmental advantage.

7. Let Your Kid Test Different Lengths

Have your young player try out sticks in different lengths to find what gives them the best feel and control. Keeping hands in exactly the same positions, have them cradle and pass to sense what length works best. Comfort trumps size charts.

8. Mind How Long to Allow Growth

When sizing up don’t go too long or the stick will be quickly outgrown. Allow 1-2 inches of growth room depending on your child’s age and growth patterns. But resist the urge to buy bigger for them to “grow into.”

9. Evaluate Weight of Longer Sticks

Longer sticks add weight, which can fatigue smaller players’ hands and arms. Make sure kids have strength for the stick length without tiring. Consider more lightweight shafts if going for longer lengths.

Sizing a lacrosse stick ultimately comes down to your individual child. The “right” length depends on their unique blend of age, size, skills, position, and personal preference. While general guidelines provide a starting point, evaluating their needs and stick handling provides the final verdict.

With an optimally sized stick, your youth player will gain confidence controlling the ball and navigating the field. Take time to consider all factors in lacrosse stick length. Dialing in the right size gives your kid their best shot at success.

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Position Size – Attack vs. Defense Stick Lengths

When sizing up your young lacrosse player’s stick, their position on the field is a key factor. Attack players tend to favor shorter sticks for control, while defenders need longer sticks for reach. Understanding optimal lengths for each position will ensure your kid gets the right size stick for their role.

Attack players are all about ball handling – quick passes, tight cradling, and pinpoint shots on goal. Their priority is precision, not power or range. Shorter sticks in the 42-48 inch range give them the tight command they need in traffic around the crease.

In contrast, defenders use their sticks largely for poking and intercepting passes. Their top task is disrupting the opposing attack. Extending their poke check reach and widening passing lanes requires longer sticks in the 52-72 inch range depending on age level.

Midfielders split time between offense and defense, so middie stick lengths land somewhere in the middle. Youth midfielders often play with sticks around 46-54 inches to balance both ball handling and defensive skills.

Here are some tips for dialing in ideal lengths by position:

Attack Sticks

Err shorter – 42-48 inches maximizes control
Enables quicker passing, tighter cradling
Ideal for playing behind cage, around crease
Best forplayers 5’0″ to 5’6″ tall depending on age
Allows working in traffic without losing command of ball

Defender Sticks

Err longer – 52-72 inches for maximum reach
Poke checking, intercepting requires extended range
Covers more ground for looser defensive positioning
Best for players 5’6″ and taller depending on age
Gives width to passing lanes to disrupt plays

Midfielder Sticks

Balance of length – 46-54 inches
Enables switching between offense and defense
Compromise of ball control and extended reach
Best for average height players around 5’2″-5’6″
Allows middies to play both ends without equipment change

Keep in mind stick length regulations require defenders’ sticks to be 6 inches longer than attack sticks at each age level. So adjust lengths relative to those rules. It’s illegal for a defender to use an attack-length stick.

Consider testing out different stick lengths to find the optimum fit for your player’s position. Within regulation size, let your athlete handle sticks at different lengths to find what gives them the best performance for their specific role on the field.

Attackers should ensure their stick length enables quick cuts, tight passing lanes, and total ball control. Defenders need maximum poking reach without sacrificing accuracy. And middies need versatility to play both ends without hesitating on transition.

Choosing the right lacrosse stick length by position gives your young athlete the best shot at excelling in their role on the field. Dialing in the perfect length tailored to their position will build skills, confidence and love of the game.

Age Appropriateness – Stick Size by Age Bracket

Lacrosse stick sizing depends heavily on age appropriateness. Youth players of different ages require sticks tailored to their developmental levels. Understanding key length guidelines by age bracket helps ensure your kid gets a stick that matches their skills.

Many parents simply guess at lacrosse stick size based on their child’s height. But physical maturity doesn’t always align with skill level. Follow official stick length guidelines per age divisions to find the optimum size.

10U Sticks

Ages 7-9
Up to 47.5 inch maximum legal length
Lightweight shafts easier for small hands
Shorter facilitates learning proper mechanics
Attack sticks typically 36-42 inches
Defense sticks 42-47 inches

12U Sticks

Ages 9-11
Up to 52.5 inch maximum legal length
Attack sticks typically 40-46 inches
Defense sticks 46-52 inches
Longer sticks as skills progress
Heavier shafts strengthen developing hands/arms

14U Sticks

Ages 11-13
Up to 60 inch maximum legal length
Attack sticks 42-48 inches
Defense sticks 48-60 inches
Length for fuller poke checks, wider passes
Focus shifts from mechanics to strategy

High School Sticks

Ages 13-18
No maximum length restrictions
Attack sticks 46-52 inches
Defense sticks 52-72+ inches
College-level sticks hone advanced skills
Length enables specialized position strategy

Keep in mind defenders’ sticks must be at least 6 inches longer than attack sticks per age group. Goalie sticks are measured differently as well.

The key is matching stick length to your player’s skill level within their age bracket. Avoid going too short or long relative to guidelines. Consider testing different legal sizes to find the best fit based on ability.

While height charts provide starting estimates, evaluating coordination, strength and mastery of fundamentals helps pinpoint ideal stick specs by age. Advance length gradually as kids develop. Mastering size-appropriate sticks builds confidence and ability at each stage.

With proper sizing by age, your young athlete will gain skills and excel competitively versus peers. Understanding length guidelines per age bracket ensures your child gets a stick tailored to their current abilities, maximizing potential.

Height Counts – Use Height to Guide Stick Size

When sizing up the right lacrosse stick for your young player, height is a key input – but not the only factor. While age-based size charts provide ranges, a kid’s specific height should fine-tune stick length within those guidelines.

Stick manufacturers typically give rough height recommendations: mini sticks for under 4′ tall, junior sticks for 4′ to 5′ tall, and senior sticks for 5’+. But kids grow at varied paces, so consider nuances within those ranges.

Nose to Chin Test

A common stick fitting tip is to hold the head under your child’s chin. The end should come to around their nose or mouth area. This gives a ballpark height-to-length estimate.

The chin method can get thrown off if your kid tilts their head up or down though. For best results, have them stand straight with head level. Also do the nose/chin test barefoot – shoes can skew height perception.

Factor In Arm Span

Arm span is another way to gauge appropriate stick length relative to your player’s height. Have them extend their arms fully perpendicular to assess wingspan. Cross-check this against stick size charts for their height range.

Wingspan helps validate if uncertain between two sizes. If arm span exceeds average for their height, size up to the longer stick length.

Consider Height Fluctuations

Kids have growth spurts and lulls. If your player is mid-spurt with a height bump, consider sizing up and allowing extra length for imminent growth. Conversely, someone lagging peers in height may fit better sizing down.

Also account for age/height mismatches. A tall 8 year old may need a junior stick over a mini. And a shorter 11 year old may handle a mini stick better than junior size.

Factor In Weight and Strength

Longer stick lengths add weight, which can be unwieldy for smaller players. Make sure your child has ample arm and hand strength for their size stick to avoid fatigue.

Consider more lightweight shafts if sizing up stick length for a shorter player. More height warrants more heft to maintain control and endurance.

Let Your Kid Test Different Lengths

Have your player hold sticks of different legal lengths to assess feel. Keeping hands anchored in same grip positions, have them cradle and move the stick to determine optimum size based on comfort.

Height alone doesn’t dictate fit – your child’s preferences based on handling different sizes trumps charts. Validate length, but let personal testing finalize size.

While age-based size ranges provide a starting point, fine tuning lacrosse stick length using your young athlete’s exact height gives a more customized fit. Ensure the size complements their strength and coordination as well for best performance.

With stick length dialed to dimensions, your child will build skills and confidence each time they step on the lacrosse field.

Weight Influence – Consider Player Weight and Strength

When dialing in lacrosse stick size for your young athlete, their weight and strength are key inputs. Heavier and longer sticks require more muscle to wield effectively. Matching stick specs to a player’s physical abilities is crucial.

Many parents simply use height charts for sizing and ignore weight capacity. But a stick too heavy for a child to handle properly hinders performance. Optimizing length and weight together ensures success.

Longer Means Heavier

As sticks grow longer, they get heavier. Extra shaft length increases overall mass. Ensure your child has the wrist, arm, shoulder and back strength to maneuver their sized stick efficiently.

Defenders with longer poking sticks especially need power to swing effectively. But small attack players can also struggle with lengthy sticks weighting down hands and tiring arms.

Consider Lightweight Shafts

If sizing up length for a shorter or slighter player, look into more lightweight shaft materials. Alloys like Scandium-Titanium allow longer sticks without excess weight burden.

Also ensure the head balances the shaft length. Overly large heads on extended poles are unwieldy. Right-fit the head size and style for shaft length.

Develop Strength Over Time

Kids can build stick handling strength over time as they grow. Start with manageable stick weights and graduate to heavier specs as fitness improves.

Consider off-season strength training to develop muscles for manipulating longer sticks during seasons. Target arms, shoulders, chest, abs, and back to wield sticks powerfully.

Check for Drooping and Fatigue

When stick shopping, check for drooping, shaking, or dragging – signs of size imbalance. Also ask your player after practices if heavier sticks are tiring joints or muscles.

Switch to lighter materials or shorter lengths if fitness lags current stick specs. It’s crucial not to risk overuse injuries from equipment with too much heft.

Input From Coaches

Consult youth coaches to see if your child fatigues more quickly than teammates. If so, their stick may be too heavy for current abilities. Coaches can advise appropriate lengths and weights.

With the right lacrosse stick size matched to strength and stamina, your young athlete will shine on the field. Taking weight and fitness into account ensures they have equipment tailored to physical capabilities at each stage.

Skill Level – Advanced Players May Use Longer Sticks

When sizing a lacrosse stick for youth players, skill level impacts ideal length. While age guidelines provide size ranges, kids with more advanced abilities can often handle longer sticks within regulations.

Less experienced players need shorter sticks to develop skills. But talented, seasoned athletes gain advantages from maxing out length for their age bracket and position.

Longer Reach for Experienced Defenders

Skilled defenders who read plays quickly can control their poke checks with longer sticks. Maximum legal size for age expands passing lane reach.

Less adept defenders may get tangled with lengthy sticks. But veterans strategically utilize their expanded poke and disrupt range.

Expanded Passing for Advanced Attackers

Talented attackers with precision passing thrive with maximum size sticks. Full legal length broadens their passing outlets and shooting lanes around the crease.

Less seasoned attackers need shortened sticks for tighter control. But weapons with pinpoint aim leverage length to thread narrow passing windows.

Midfield Control Across Longer Range

Middies with advanced stick skills can transition from defense to offense with fewer fumbles using longer poles. Control across an expanded area aids versatility.

Less practiced midfielders may need shortened middie sticks to limit mishandling between ends. But elite middies control length for flexibility.

Goalies Cover More Net

Highly skilled goalies can maneuver fuller wingspans to protect more net without openings. Maximizing legal size for age expands their save coverage.

Backup goalies may need shortened sticks that are less unwieldy until skills progress. But starting goalies thrive off maximal length.

Input From Coaches

Consult coaches to determine if your player has the experience and capability to use top-end legal stick lengths. Coaches assess skill levels daily.

For advanced youth players, optimizing every inch of permissible stick length gives a strategic edge. But less seasoned kids need controlled lengths to develop lacrosse fundamentals.

With the right length matched to your young athlete’s skill set, they’ll dominate the field during play. Maximize size as abilities grow for peak performance.

Stick Materials – How Shaft and Head Materials Affect Sizing

When selecting an optimally sized lacrosse stick for your young athlete, the materials used in shaft and head construction impact weight, durability and control. Materials guide fit beyond just length measurements.

Shaft and head composition affect how sticks handle for youth players. Lighter metals enable longer lengths without excessive weight. More rigid plastics maintain pocket structure and ball control. Materials matter.

Shaft Materials

Common shaft materials include:

Aluminum – Budget choice, but dents easily. Only for mini sticks.
Alloy – Lightweight for extended handles. Popular alloys are Scandium, Titanium, Carbon Fiber.
Composite – Blends like fiberglass, kevlar, and carbon fiber. Mixes strength, flex, and lightweight.
Wood – Traditional feel but heavy. Harder to consistently manufacture.

Lighter alloys allow longer stick lengths without fatiguing young players. Composites blend durability and handling. Avoid heavy materials for youth.

Head Materials

Common head materials are:

Plastic – Durable but can be rigid/brittle. ABS and polycarbonate plastics used.
Resin – Soft, flexible feel. Less shape retention in rain or humidity.
Metal – Strong but illegal for youth sticks due to safety.

Hard plastics retain shape and accuracy. Softer resins need to be tightened more frequently. Ensure the head matches shaft material flex.

Mesh, Leathers, Strings

Pocket materials also affect ball control. Variables are:

Shooter Strings – Nylon cords that form main pocket.
Mesh – Woven nylon, polyester, or polyethylene strands.
Leather – Gives grip but needs frequent replacement.

Advanced leathers assist handling but aren’t necessary for beginners. Focus on optimal head shape and stringing for age level.

Along with length measurements, optimizing lacrosse stick shaft and head compositions improves fit and performance. Materials enable lighter, stronger, more controlled sticks sized for your athlete.

Stick Flexibility – More Flexible Shafts Suit Smaller Players

When sizing up lacrosse sticks for your young athlete, the amount of shaft flexibility should match player height and strength. More flexible shafts are better suited for smaller, less powerful players.

Stiff, rigid shafts require more strength to maneuver quickly during play. Newer flexible shaft materials benefit developing players with less muscle mass.

What Makes Shafts More Flexible

Shaft flex comes from:

Thinner diameter
Specialized alloys like Titanium, Scandium
Layered composite materials
“Flex” ratings from manufacturers

Higher flex ratings indicate more “give” when bending side to side. Lower ratings are stiffer and rigid.

Benefits for Younger Players

Added flex aids lighter kids by:

Absorbing impact on poke checks
Whipping sticks faster with less effort
Enabling quicker cuts and direction changes
Flicking quicker wrist shots

Stiff shafts fatigue smaller muscles while flex enhances speed and control.

Match Flex Level to Skills

Beginners need the most flexibility as they learn proper mechanics and angles. Intermediate players benefit from moderate flex ratings.

As game sense and strength develop, reduced flex adds precision on passes, wind-ups and pokes. Find the sweet spot based on current ability.

Consider More Flex During Growth Years

Kids going through growth spurts and hand size changes often appreciate flex during transition times. More “give” reduces injury risk as young bodies morph.

With the right flex matched to size and skill level, smaller players unlock optimized stick handling. Shaft flex enhances performance as youth athletes develop.

Stick Brands Vary – Each Brand Offers Different Sizing

When selecting an optimally fitted lacrosse stick for your young athlete, keep in mind that sizing varies across brand. Each manufacturer uses their own specifications and terminology.

While materials and features differ across brand, the key is translating branded sizing into the right length, flex, and balance for your player based on age, height, position, and skill level.

Major Lacrosse Stick Brands

Popular youth brands include:

Warrior
STX
Maverik
Brine
Nike
Under Armour
Epoch

Each brand offers their own sizing charts and metrics. Measure your child against multiple systems to get a range.

Length, Weight, Flex, and Balance

Key sizing factors are:

Total length
Shaft diameter and weight
Shaft flex rating
Head size, shape, and weight
Overall balance point

Compare these specs across brand models to select the right composite features.

Grip Specs Matter Too

Elements like grip tape, shape, and thickness affect overall fit. Consider:

Pre-fit grips vs. do-it-yourself tape
Octagonal, hexagonal, or round grips
Grip thickness for hand size
Grip material tackiness and cushion

Hand placement, comfort, and control start with the grip – a key brand differentiator.

While categorical sizing differs across companies, the ultimate fit comes down to your player’s physical attributes. Use brand variety to expand options and customize the ideal specs.

Test Before You Buy – Let Your Player Test Sticks

Finding the ideal lacrosse stick size and fit for your young athlete is best determined by having them test out sticks before purchasing. No sizing chart beats actual handling of different lengths and brands.

Rather than guessing based on age norms, have your child wield demo sticks at stores, tournaments, or from teammates to findpreferences. Testing matters most.

Demo Stick Availability

Places to test sticks include:

Lacrosse specialty stores – Call ahead and ask what demo inventory they have across brands and sizes.
Tournaments – Manufacturers often showcase products.
Teammates – Ask to borrow sticks for practice comparisons.
Coaches – May have demo sticks or team spares.

Don’t limit options to just what’s easily purchased locally. Explore all demo access channels.

Focus the Testing

Zero in on:

Total length – Inches, arm span
Head shape and size – Affects ball control
Shaft weight and flex – Maneuverability
Grip – Crucial for comfort, sweat, hand placement

Keep their current stick on hand for length and feel comparisons.

Replicate Game Situations

Have your player mimic game movements with each demo:

Cradling, passing, shooting
Poke checking, scooping ground balls
Cutting side to side, changing directions

Focus on comfort, control, precision, not just novelty features.

Consult Coaches

Ask coaches to observe testing and provide sizing input based on skill levels. Their expertise and objectivity are invaluable.

Test-driving lacrosse sticks before buying is the ultimate way to optimize sizing. Hands-on selection based on game simulations yields ideal fit and performance.

Comfort and Control – Balance and Feel Are Critical

When dialing in the optimum lacrosse stick size and fit for your young player, subjective elements like comfort, control and feel are critical factors. The measurements must match the child’s “gut” experience wielding the stick.

Beyond technical sizing specs, the stick needs to feel like an extension of their hands and body. Balance, grip, and maneuverability must align with comfort and intuition.

Test Weight and Balance

Have your athlete hold sticks level to test balance. Shafts way too light or heavy throw off control. The head needs to counterbalance the handle.

Also check balance point by loosely gripping the shaft middle. It should balance flat on a finger, not dip forward or back.

Assess Grip Comfort

Grip comfort makes a big difference in feel and performance. Elements are:

Diameter – Match hand size
Shape – Oval, octagonal, or round
Tape – Pre-fit vs self-taping
Tackiness – Grip friction aids control
Cushion – Reduces hand fatigue

Test a variety of grip styles, textures, and placements to find the optimum match.

Maneuverability Matters Most

Beyond specs, the stick needs to feel responsive and precise based on skills. Focus on:

Quick cuts and direction changes
Cradling fluidity
Passing and shooting accuracy
Poke check control

Tune size for peak performance – not just measurements.

Consult Coaches

Ask coaches to observe stick testing for fit, comfort, and maneuverability. They see where gear helps or hinders play.

Blending technical specs with comfort, control, and responsiveness optimizes lacrosse stick fit for ultimate game play.

Consider Growth Spurts – Buy a Stick With Room to Grow

When selecting an optimally fitted lacrosse stick for your young athlete, it’s wise to buy a size with extra room for growth. Kids sprout rapidly, and you want to maximize use before replacing sticks.

While perfectly sized for today, sticks that are too short become quickly outgrown. Plan ahead by factoring in growth trends when stick shopping.

Consult Growth Charts

Compare your child’s height percentile to standard growth charts for their age and gender. This estimates projected size patterns ahead.

If your player is outpacing peers, consider sizing up stick length more generously. Buy time before resizing as they shoot up.

Go Longer Within Guidelines

When deciding between two close sizes, opt for the longer stick if within regulation size limits for age brackets.

Extra length allows room before hitting maximum regulations. No harm going longer if they have the strength and skills to control it.

Consider Hitting Growth Spurts

Has your player recently had rapid growth? They may be primed for another spurt soon. Buy a size with some kicker room.

Conversely, kids pausing in growth can comfortably buy shorter sticks if the fit is better for today’s height.

Stick Too Short Signs

Replace sticks if you notice:

Standing on toes to test length
Irritable adjusting hand positions
Less control cradling and passing
New grip discomfort

Resell Value

Since sticks hold resale value, oversizing by an inch or two minimizes waste if quickly outgrown. Recoup costs reselling.

Allowing room for near-term growth when sizing lacrosse sticks saves repetitive purchases. Spot growth trends early for ideal fit both now and in the future.

Shop With Your Player – Involve Them in the Buying Process

Selecting the perfect lacrosse stick requires input from your young athlete. While you handle logistics, engage them in test driving different options before purchasing to get their feedback.

Take them stick shopping and let them be hands-on in selecting their gear. The more involved they are in the process, the more invested they’ll be in using it.

Have Them Demo Sticks

At stores, have your child hold and move with sticks rather than just observing. Let them cradle, pass, and take shots to feel out options.

Narrow down top choices, then do a second round of testing for final data points before deciding.

Get Input on Length and Weight

Ask targeted questions as they evaluate sticks:

Which length feels best suited to your skills?
Which weight can you maneuver accurately?
Where exactly do you grip the shaft when cradling?

Take notes on their feedback for sizing, grip style, and balance preferences.

Have Them Compare Multiple Brands

Within budget, have your player handle sticks from different brands to detect personal pros and cons.

For example, they may love a Maverik head but prefer an STX shaft. Mix and match for the optimal setup.

Let Them Select Aesthetic Details

Allow input on colors, patterns, and other visual customizations. Added personalization boosts pride and connection.

Giving your child agency in stick selection gets them invested in using it frequently and caring for it diligently.

While you steer overall sizing, engage your young athlete in hands-on testing and choices to dial in lacrosse stick fit. Shared participation builds engagement.

Don’t Oversize – Oversized Sticks Will Hinder Development

When sizing a lacrosse stick, it’s tempting to buy a stick longer than needed assuming your young athlete will “grow into it.” But oversized sticks actually hinder skill development.

Oversized lacrosse sticks are harder to control, slower to maneuver, and sap strength needed to build proper mechanics. Buy sticks suited for current ability, not hoped-for future height.

Too Long Limits Control

Extra length makes sticks unwieldy. Cradling, scooping, passing, and poking require more effort with oversized poles. Precise play is tougher.

Forcing young players to manage too much stick jeopardizes confidence. Keep lengths scaled to current coordination and strength.

Added Weight Fatigues

Longer shafts and bigger heads add weight. Smaller muscles tire trying to wield heavier sticks for extended periods.

Fatigue leads to lack of focus, sloppy technique, and injury risk. Choose reasonable stick weights kids can handle without wearing down.

Slows Development

Oversized sticks distract from proper mechanics as kids compensate with bad techniques like improper cradling grip or off-balance poke checks.

Frustration with oversized sticks can diminish enjoyment. Right-sized specs build skills faster and more rewardingly.

Prioritizes Possible Over Actual

Buying for theoretical future use rather than practical today’s play is misguided. Optimize for current reality, not abstract potential.

Adjustable sticks allowing length changes over time are one solution. But don’t start players too long.

Rather than guessing about growth, size lacrosse sticks for your young athlete’s current height and ability. Perfect fit maximizes progress today without impediments.

When in Doubt Size Down – Shorter Sticks Are Safer for Beginners

When deciding on lacrosse stick sizing for your young athlete, err on the shorter side if uncertain. Shorter sticks optimize control and safety while kids develop skills.

Advanced players use maximum length for reach. But beginners do best starting shorter and gradually sizing up as coordination improves.

Enables Controlled Learning

Shorter sticks are easier for young hands to grip, cradle, pass, and scoop. Tight command builds confidence and mechanics.

Less stick to manage allows concentrating on proper form – not overextension. Set kids up for success starting short.

Prevents Injuries

Oversized sticks risk new player injuries like wrist sprains, shoulder hyperextension, and back strains from torque.

Excess length also increases risk of stick-related injuries to teammates during close play. Shorter is safer.

Matches Developmental Abilities

Big sticks overmatch new kids physically and cognitively as they figure out hand-eye coordination.

Meeting beginners’ capabilities rather than overstriving prevents frustration and disengagement.

Allows Gradual Progression

Start short for command, then scale up stick length over time as skills progress. Small controlled steps prevent setbacks.

Periodically test longer sticks as preparedness improves until finding optimal game length.

When unsure, opt shorter for lacrosse sticks sizes rather than longer for youth players. Dialing back length builds competency until ready to expand reach.