The 10 Best Youth Lacrosse Starter Sets for Beginners in 2023

The 10 Best Youth Lacrosse Starter Sets for Beginners in 2023

Choosing the Right Protective Lacrosse Helmet and Pads

When starting out in lacrosse, one of the most important purchases is protective gear like helmets and pads. Lacrosse is a full contact sport, so having proper protection is essential for beginners learning the game. The helmet is arguably the most critical piece of protective gear in lacrosse. Helmets shield the head from checks, errant sticks, and hard rubber lacrosse balls traveling at high speeds. The best lacrosse helmets have strong shells made from durable polymers with inner padding that absorbs impact. Many helmets today also have face masks integrated into the design for extra protection.

Beginners should look for helmets with adjustable interior padding so the fit can be customized as needed. The helmet should sit snugly on the head without impairing vision or comfort. Most youth lacrosse helmet sizes range from extra-small for toddlers up to large adult sizes. Popular helmet brands like Cascade and STX offer great beginner helmet options.

In addition to helmets, lacrosse players need protective pads for the shoulders, arms, hands, and ribs. Shoulder pads cushion the brunt of checks and collisions, while elbow and arm pads shield from slashes and pokes. Rib pads add extra torso protection. Finally, thick padded lacrosse gloves help absorb vibrations from catching and throwing, protecting the hands. Full sets that include all pads are the easiest way for beginners to get all the basic protection needed when first starting out.

Getting the right sizing for lacrosse protective gear is key for both safety and performance. Taking the time to find well-fitting helmets, pads, and gloves will allow youth players to focus on developing their skills, not worrying about discomfort or injury. With the foundations of great protection and fit established, young athletes can accelerate their growth as lacrosse players.

Lacrosse Sticks for Improving Ball Control and Cradling

Once young athletes have the right protective lacrosse gear, the next key piece of equipment to consider is the lacrosse stick. Also known as crosses, lacrosse sticks have a shaft and head designed for handling the ball. Sticks come in different sizes, weights, and designs for various positions and skill levels.

For beginners, lacrosse sticks with wider plastic heads are recommended for improving ball control. Wider heads have more surface area and deeper pockets to make catching, scooping, and cradling easier when first starting out. A good starter stick will also be lightweight and balanced, allowing young players to focus on developing proper throwing, catching and cradling technique without straining. The shaft material and length should fit the player’s height and strength. Common shaft materials include metal alloys and composites like titanium and scandium. Youth shafts typically range from 30 to 60 inches. Most packs and complete sets will include size appropriate sticks for starters.

Once beginners master the basics, they can upgrade to sticks with narrower heads and tighter weaves for retaining possession during checks and developing more precise passing and shooting. Control is key, so youth players should use lacrosse sticks sized to their age and skill level as they progress. With the right stick in hand, young athletes will be cradling and maneuvering the ball like the pros in no time.

While many parts of lacrosse gear are highly customizable for each player, the lacrosse stick is one piece of equipment that requires adhering to strict regulations. There are rules governing the allowable dimensions and construction for heads and pockets, so stick choices must align with league guidelines. Knowing the regulations before buying helps ensure beginners get sticks optimized for learning that will still be legal on the field as skills advance.

Gloves for Improved Grip and Passes

After getting the right protective gear and lacrosse stick, the next key piece of equipment for beginners to consider are lacrosse gloves. Also known as mitts, gloves help players securely handle the ball and their stick during play. A good pair of gloves improves performance and protects the hands from injury.

Lacrosse gloves have thick padded palms to absorb vibrations and impact when catching hard passes or checking opponents’ sticks. Additional padding on the back of the hand and fingers shields from incidental hits and slashes too. The padding helps prevent bruising and stingers when first learning to catch passes or when players make mistakes with poor technique.

Gloves also make holding the stick and ball easier, even when hands get sweaty during intense play. Leather or synthetic leather palm materials along with grip textures on fingers provide excellent traction and control. Strategic venting in the form of mesh panels or perforations air out hands as well, reducing sweat buildup.

When shopping for their first pair of gloves, beginners should look for versatile all-purpose options with maximum padding and grip features. Adjustable wrist straps and velcro closures ensure a secure fit. Size the gloves to leave a little growing room for young hands, but not so big that gripping is hindered.

Advanced players may opt for more specialized gloves for different positions or weather conditions later on. But for youth just starting out, focus on finding lacrosse gloves with padding to protect developing hands and excellent grip to build ball control confidence.

With the right gloves, young players won’t have to worry about the ball slipping or stinging hands. Instead they can focus on developing the hand-eye coordination and technique needed to scoop, catch, pass, and shoot like a lacrosse pro.

Arm Pads and Shoulder Pads for Protection from Checks

As a full contact sport, lacrosse requires padding on the arms and shoulders to protect players from checks, pokes, and collisions. Arm pads and shoulder pads absorb the impact from contact, reducing the risk of injury for beginners learning proper checking technique and stick handling.

Lacrosse arm pads shield the elbow, forearm, and bicep area from slashes and pokes. They are made from rigid protective plastic plates lined with foam padding for comfort and impact absorption. Pads secured with adjustable straps keep them from shifting during play. Goalies require extra arm protection given their frequent contact with the ball.

Shoulder pads are essential for cushioning body checks. They have a hard shell covering the shoulder with extended padding down the chest, back, and bicep. Youth sizes are cut less bulky for better mobility. For starters, focus on adjustable and flexible shoulder pad options that allow a full range of motion during cradling, passing, and shooting practice.

Ensuring arm pads and shoulder pads fit snugly is key, as improper fit can hinder performance and leave gaps in protection. Young players getting checked for the first time will appreciate the extra coverage and confidence boost these pads provide. With the basics of gear sizing and adjustment mastered early on, players can focus on proper body positioning and technique to avoid dangerous checks as they improve.

Some advanced players may opt for minimal pads for maximum maneuverability later on. But for youth lacrosse beginners, having complete protection from routine contact and accidental checks will allow them to progress quicker by staying injury-free.

Cleats for Speed and Traction on the Field

Proper footwear is a key consideration when suiting up for lacrosse. Cleats provide traction for quick cuts, acceleration, and change of direction on the field. The best lacrosse cleats allow players to move swiftly while remaining safely grounded.

Most lacrosse cleats have a high cut above the ankles for added stability and support. Synthetic leather or mesh uppers resist stretching while integrating breathability features. Youth sizes are often mid-cut for better mobility. Lacrosse cleats should fit snugly after lacing up to prevent slippage.

The outsole and stud pattern are engineered for optimal traction for the sport’s dynamic moves. Brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Warrior offer lacrosse-specific cleats versus soccer or football designs. Plastic molded or detachable rubber studs provide grip for sprinting while allowing quick pivots and cuts.

Goalies require cleats with extra lateral support and ankle stability to react quickly in the crease. For field players, focus on cleats offering flexibility, responsiveness, and durability to accelerate development. Replace cleats once the studs show significant wear for maintained performance.

With the right cleats, beginners can improve confidence performing lacrosse footwork and skills with reduced risk of injury. Developing agility and speed from a young age will serve well in competitive play. Lacrosse cleats designed for versatility enable youth players to elevate their game.

Mesh Lacrosse Bags to Carry Gear

Between all the protective equipment, pads, helmet, gloves, cleats, and stick, lacrosse requires hauling a lot of gear. Investing in a high-quality lacrosse bag simplifies transporting equipment to and from the field.

Bags with a long stick or equipment bag design easily accommodate sticks up to 60” long. Wide openings allow players to pack in all their pads, shoes, and other accessories. Durable synthetics like polyester or vinyl resist tears and moisture while mesh panels help air circulation.

For youth players, compact roller bags with inline wheels streamline travel between home, practice, and games. Some bags convert between duffel and roller configurations for versatility. Backpack straps on equipment bags help lighten the load when needed.

Additional handy features include zippered side pockets for keeping smaller items easily accessible, vented laundry compartments, and removable mesh pockets for wet/dry separation. Bright lacrosse designs and color options allow quick gear identification.

A quality lacrosse bag protects sticks and gear for the long haul while reducing stress on young players’ shoulders and backs. With all equipment neatly packed in one place, beginners can focus on game play versus logistics. A great lacrosse bag is a worthwhile investment for any committed young athlete.

Goalie Gear for Blocking Shots

Beyond the standard field player gear, goalies require specialized equipment to protect them as the last line of defense. Goalie gear takes the brunt of high velocity shots from short range, making protection a priority.

Goalie helmets offer expanded coverage with extra neck padding and full face masks. Chest protectors compress like shock absorbers to absorb the impacts of an 80-90 mph shot to the torso. Arm and shin guards bulge bigger than field players’ versions to block more surface area.

Goalies also wear thickly padded gloves with maximum palm padding for knocking down shots. Specialized cleats provide lateral support for explosive lateral movements across the crease. Athletic style shorts with built-in thigh padding are popular for range of motion.

For young goalies starting out, focus on equipment offering maximum coverage area without impairing mobility. Fitting goalie gear takes time to find the right balance of protection and comfort as skills develop. Staying protected boosts goalies’ confidence facing the ball as their technique improves.

While pricier than field gear, goalie equipment is a worthwhile investment given the heavy wear items like gloves and chest protectors endure. With quality goalie gear, young netminders can hone their shot blocking skills to anchor their team’s defense.

Complete Starter Sets with All Equipment

Rather than piecing together gear item by item, lacrosse starter sets offer a convenient all-in-one solution for new players. These lacrosse packages include all the basic protective equipment, pads, gloves, balls, and a stick to hit the field running.

Sets are available in youth sizes for both boys and girls. Bundles focused on a particular position like goalie, defender, midfielder, or attackman allow some customization too. Sets with a stick, helmet, pads, and ball offer an affordable way to get started.

More comprehensive packages add extras like bags, practice balls, coaches’ whistles, water bottles, and accessories for a ready to play bundle. Premium sets may include higher end sticks and gear bags for longer term use.

For parents looking to buy everything their new lacrosse athlete needs, starter set packages simplify the process. Sets with coordinating team color options make it convenient to match team uniforms right from the start.

Complete starter lacrosse sets eliminate the guesswork so young athletes can hit the field sooner. Turnkey bundles help parents ensure nothing gets left behind while introducing kids to this fast-paced, exciting sport.

Sets for Boys vs Girls Beginner Gear

When shopping for starter lacrosse sets, it’s important to note key differences between boys’ and girls’ gear. While both provide full-contact protection, girls’ equipment allows a better range of motion for their style of play.

Girls’ lacrosse sticks have shallower pockets for quicker ball release during passing and shooting. Their protective gear is contoured for a woman’s shape, like chest plates curved to fit over the bust. Girls’ goggles integrate well with mandatory eyewear headbands too.

Boy’s gear emphasizes maximum coverage for hard hits at all positions. Their sticks and pads run bulkier to withstand physical midfield battles and aggressive checks. Goalie sets cater to the male physique as well.

When selecting starter packages, consider if unisex sizing will suffice or if gender-specific gear is preferred. The distinction matters more for protective equipment versus accessories and training aids. Check sizing charts to ensure the right fit.

With girls’ participation in lacrosse growing rapidly, manufacturers offer an expanding selection of starter sets catered to females. Investing in the right introductory gear will keep any new youth player in the game longer.

Buying Quality Gear that will Last vs Cheap Sets

When shopping for youth lacrosse starter equipment, parents face an investment decision – buy quality gear that will last versus cheap sets to test interest. There are pros and cons to both approaches when introducing kids to the sport.

Lower cost sets from brands like STX and Brine get new players on the field affordably. But cheap pads may need replacing sooner and low-end sticks won’t perform as sticks priced $100+. Lower cost helmets also raise safety concerns.

Investing more upfront in brands like Maverik, Warrior, and Cascade buys gear that will stand up to years of use. More expensive pads withstand wear and tear better while pro-level sticks enhance skills development.

To balance cost and value, some parents buy used higher-end gear in good shape. Others do a mix of both – quality helmet and gloves paired with cheaper pads and starter sticks in a set.

Ultimately, players who stick with lacrosse long-term will maximize return from premium gear. Yet budget equipment still allows newbies to experience the fast pace and fun of lacrosse without a huge upfront investment.

Choosing the Right Lacrosse Helmet and Pads for Protection

When starting out in lacrosse, having proper protective gear like helmets and pads is essential for safety. Lacrosse is a full contact sport, so choosing equipment that provides adequate coverage for beginners is key.

The helmet is the most vital protective piece. Helmets shield the head from checks, errant sticks, and rubber lacrosse balls traveling at high speeds. Quality helmets have durable outer shells with inner foam padding that absorbs impacts. Integrated face masks provide extra facial protection.

Beginners should look for helmets with adjustable interior padding for a customized, snug fit. The helmet should sit securely without limiting visibility or comfort. Youth lacrosse helmet sizes typically range from toddler to large adult.

Lacrosse players also need shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, and rib protectors. Shoulder pads cushion hits to the upper body. Arm pads protect against slashes and pokes. Rib pads add torso protection. Gloves help handle balls and absorb vibrations when catching.

Taking time to find properly fitting gear allows beginners to focus on developing skills versus discomfort or injury concerns. With the right helmet and pads, young athletes can accelerate growth as lacrosse players in a safer way.

Lacrosse Sticks for Ball Control and Cradling

After getting protective gear, lacrosse sticks are the next key equipment piece for beginners. Also called crosses, lacrosse sticks have a shaft and head designed for handling the ball during play.

For starters, lacrosse sticks with wider plastic heads are recommended. Wider heads provide more surface area and deeper pockets, making catching, scooping, and cradling easier initially. Lightweight, balanced sticks allow focus on developing proper throwing and cradling technique.

Once beginners master basics, they can advance to sticks with tighter weaves and narrower heads. These retain possession better against checks while enabling more precise passing and shooting. But control is key early on, so ideal starter sticks are sized appropriately for age and skill level.

Stick regulations govern dimensions and construction. Knowing the rules ensures beginners get optimized, legal sticks that align with league guidelines. With the right stick, young players can cradle and maneuver the ball like the pros.

Lacrosse Gloves for Improved Grip and Passing

Lacrosse gloves, also called mitts, are important for helping players securely handle balls and sticks during play. A quality pair improves performance and protects hands from injury.

Gloves have thick padded palms to absorb vibrations and impacts when catching passes. Padding on the fingers and back of hand provides protection as well. This helps prevent bruising and stingers when first learning catching technique.

Gloves also enhance grip on sticks, even when hands sweat during intense play. Leather or synthetic leather palms combined with textured fingers supply excellent traction and control. Strategic ventilation reduces sweat buildup too.

Beginners should look for adjustable, all-purpose gloves with maximum padding and grip. Proper sizing leaves a little growing room without sacrificing dexterity and function.

With the right gloves, young players can build confidence controlling balls without worrying about slippage or hand pain. Quality mitts will help elevate their catching, throwing, and passing skills.

Arm Pads and Shoulder Pads for Protection from Checks

As a contact sport, lacrosse requires padded protection on the arms and shoulders to shield players from pokes, slashes, and collisions during play. Arm pads and shoulder pads absorb the brunt of impacts, reducing injury risk.

Lacrosse arm pads protect the elbow, forearm, and bicep areas against incidental hits and checks. Hard plastic plates lined with foam padding cushion blows while adjustable straps prevent slipping. Goalies need extra arm coverage given constant ball contact.

Shoulder pads with broad protective shells and extended padding safeguard the upper body. Flexible youth sizes allow full range of motion for developing skills. Proper pad fit eliminates gaps while enabling free movement.

Getting checked initially can be intimidating. Beginners outfitted in well-fitting arm and shoulder pads can play with confidence knowing they have necessary protection during this learning phase.

Lacrosse Cleats for Speed and Traction

Proper lacrosse footwear provides traction for quick cuts, acceleration, and change of direction during play. Quality cleats allow swift movement while remaining safely grounded on the field surface.

Most lacrosse cleats have a high ankle cut for stability. Durable synthetic uppers resist stretching while integrating ventilation. Youth sizes feature mid-cut designs for mobility. Cleats should fit snugly after tightening for a secure feel.

Lacrosse cleats are engineered with grippy outsoles and studs that provide excellent traction for sprinting and pivoting. Brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Warrior offer options tailored for the sport versus soccer or football.

For goalies, focus on cleats with ample lateral support and ankle stability. For field players, responsiveness and durability help elevate developing skills. Replace cleats once studs show significant wear.

The right lacrosse cleats instill confidence in footwork while reducing injury risk. Developing speed and agility early on serves youth players well. Versatile designs support take their game to the next level.