The Best Box Lacrosse Goalie Gear for 2023The Best Box Lacrosse Goalie Gear for 2023
Choose the Right Leg Pads for Optimal Protection
When selecting lacrosse goalie leg pads, comfort and protection should be your top priorities. Leg pads shield the thighs and knees from bruising shots, so ensure yours fit properly. Pads that are too small leave you vulnerable, while oversized pads hinder mobility. Measure from the center of your knee to your pelvis to find your proper thigh rise length. For width, stand with your feet together and measure across both knees. This determines the knee width of your pads.
Other factors to consider are materials, weight, and style. Most leg pads today consist of high-density foams and plastic shields sandwiched between a padded liner and outer shell. Heavier pads offer more protection, but lightweight pads maximize agility. Hybrid pads with both foam and plastic maintain a balance. Standard pads extend down to the ankles, while truncated pads stop above the knee for greater mobility. Make sure any leg pads you select are specifically designed for box lacrosse, not field lacrosse. The right sizing and construction ensures you can react quickly to those blistering point-blank indoor shots.
Properly fitted leg pads give box lacrosse goalies the flexibility and confidence to move laterally across the crease, drop into the butterfly stance on reaction saves, and regain footing quickly after saves. Well-padded thigh rises cushion the impact of high shots. Plastic knee shields deflect stingers away from the joint. Snugly secured knee and calf straps keep the pads from shifting or sliding during action. With leg pads optimized for your body type and style of play, you gain the protection to focus on playing at your peak.
Get Properly Fitting Gloves for Maximum Grip and Protection
Finding well-fitted gloves is one of the most important steps for box lacrosse goalies. The gloves serve the dual purpose of protecting the hands and arms from shots while also providing grip on the stick. To get the right size, measure the circumference around the palm of your hand. Compare this measurement to sizing charts from glove manufacturers to identify your ideal fit. Gloves that are too tight will restrict movement, while oversized gloves will lack control.
For maximum grip, look for gloves made of durable synthetic leathers or mesh fabrics on the palms and fingers. These materials provide friction to grasp the stick handle, even when wet from sweat or rain. Palm padding is crucial for damping vibrations and absorbing impact from catching shots. Fingers saved and pinkie stalls guard against hyperextension. Stretch gussets between the fingers promote flexibility and dexterity. Cuff wraps secure the gloves to prevent shifting.
In terms of protection, gloves cushion against checks to the hands and forearms. Plastic guards shield the wrists and forearms from shots. Some gloves incorporate removable pads for the biceps, wrists, and elbows for additional coverage. For comfort, ventilated backs allow airflow to your hands. Adjustable cuffs and wrist straps enable a customized fit. High-end gloves may even include grip boosters and water-resistant linings for extreme conditions.
With boxing-style gloves designed specifically for the demands of box lacrosse, goalies can take hard shots without pain or injury. Well-constructed palms enable precise stick handling, catches, and outlet passes. Snug-fitting gloves form to your hands like a second skin, allowing you to react instinctively. Whether traditional or hybrid in style, quality gloves give box lacrosse goalies the tools to command the crease with confidence.
Invest in Quality Chest Pads for Core Protection
A sturdy chest pad is essential gear for any box lacrosse goalie seeking to protect their core. Chest pads cushion the sternum, ribs, and upper abdomen from the bruising impact of close-range shots. When shopping for chest pads, focus on finding the right mix of padding, breathability, and mobility for your needs.
Chest pads typically consist of thick foam or soft plastics sandwiched between an inner liner and outer shell. Multi-layered padding absorbs shot impact rather than allowing it to transmit directly to the chest. Look for segmented padding that allows flexibility. The sternum and rib areas should have the thickest padding zones. Make sure to try on chest protectors to gauge comfort and range of motion before purchasing.
Lightweight pads maximize agility at the cost of some protection. Beefier pads offer more cushioning but can restrict quick reactions. Newer chest pad materials strike an optimal balance between low weight and high protection. Some goalies prefer removable belly padding for customized protection levels.
Moisture-wicking inner liners keep you cool and dry during intense game action. Breathable outer shells allow airflow to the pads. Adjustable shoulder caps, straps, and side buckles enable you to dial in the ideal fit. For comprehensive protection, select a chest pad that integrates with your shoulder pads.
With the right chest pad, box lacrosse goalies gain the confidence to square up to blistering outside shots knowing their core is protected. Advanced padding absorbs ball impact, not just transmits it. Lightweight yet rugged pads allow you to track rebounds and move with attackers without hindrance. Combine high-end padding with smart ergonomic design, and your chest pad gives you the security to focus on stopping every shot.
Don’t Forget Shin Guards for Lower Leg Protection
Key Factors in Leg Pad Selection
- Proper sizing for optimal protection and mobility
- Material composition (foam, plastic, or hybrid)
- Weight considerations (protection vs. agility)
- Style preferences (standard or truncated)
- Box lacrosse-specific design
Do properly fitted leg pads really make a difference? Absolutely. They provide goalies with the flexibility and confidence to move laterally across the crease, drop into the butterfly stance for reaction saves, and quickly regain footing after saves. Well-padded thigh rises cushion high shots, while plastic knee shields deflect stingers away from joints. Secure knee and calf straps prevent shifting during intense gameplay.
Maximizing Grip and Protection with the Right Goalie Gloves
Finding well-fitted gloves is paramount for box lacrosse goalies. These essential pieces of equipment serve a dual purpose: protecting hands and arms from shots while providing a secure grip on the stick. To determine the correct size, measure the circumference of your palm and compare it to manufacturer sizing charts.
For optimal grip, look for gloves made from durable synthetic leathers or mesh fabrics on the palms and fingers. These materials offer excellent friction for grasping the stick handle, even in wet conditions. Palm padding is crucial for dampening vibrations and absorbing impact when catching shots.
Essential Features of Quality Goalie Gloves
- Durable, high-friction materials for enhanced grip
- Adequate palm padding for impact absorption
- Finger savers and pinkie stalls to prevent hyperextension
- Stretch gussets between fingers for flexibility
- Secure cuff wraps to prevent shifting
- Plastic guards for wrist and forearm protection
- Ventilated backs for improved airflow
- Adjustable cuffs and wrist straps for a customized fit
How do high-quality gloves benefit box lacrosse goalies? They allow for precise stick handling, catches, and outlet passes while protecting against hard shots and checks. Snug-fitting gloves form to your hands like a second skin, enabling instinctive reactions and boosting overall performance in the crease.
Core Protection: Investing in Top-Notch Chest Pads
A robust chest pad is indispensable for box lacrosse goalies seeking to protect their core. These pads cushion the sternum, ribs, and upper abdomen from the bruising impact of close-range shots. When selecting chest pads, focus on finding the right balance of padding, breathability, and mobility to suit your playing style.
Chest pads typically consist of thick foam or soft plastics sandwiched between an inner liner and outer shell. Multi-layered padding effectively absorbs shot impact, preventing direct transmission to the chest. Look for segmented padding that allows for flexibility, with the thickest padding zones concentrated in the sternum and rib areas.
Key Considerations for Chest Pad Selection
- Padding thickness and distribution
- Material composition (foam, soft plastics, or hybrid)
- Weight and mobility trade-offs
- Breathability and moisture-wicking properties
- Adjustability features for a customized fit
- Optional removable belly padding
Can the right chest pad truly enhance a goalie’s performance? Indeed, it can. By providing superior protection, goalies can focus on their game without fear of injury. Moisture-wicking inner liners keep players cool and dry during intense action, while breathable outer shells promote airflow. Adjustable shoulder caps, straps, and side buckles allow for a personalized fit, ensuring maximum comfort and protection.
Helmet Selection: Safeguarding Your Most Vital Asset
Choosing the right helmet is crucial for box lacrosse goalies, as it protects the most important part of the body – the head. A high-quality helmet not only provides essential safety but also enhances vision and communication on the field.
When selecting a helmet, prioritize models specifically designed for box lacrosse. These helmets typically feature reinforced shells, impact-absorbing liners, and extended throat guards to withstand the unique challenges of the indoor game. Ensure the helmet meets all safety standards set by governing bodies.
Critical Helmet Features for Box Lacrosse Goalies
- Reinforced outer shell for maximum protection
- Impact-absorbing inner liner
- Extended throat guard
- Wide field of vision
- Proper ventilation system
- Adjustable fit mechanisms
- Moisture-wicking padding
- Compatibility with various face masks
How does a well-fitted helmet impact a goalie’s performance? A properly sized and adjusted helmet provides confidence, allowing goalies to focus on the game without worrying about head injuries. It should fit snugly without causing discomfort, with the chin strap secure enough to prevent the helmet from shifting during play.
Optimizing Mobility: Choosing the Right Athletic Supporters and Cups
While often overlooked, athletic supporters and cups play a vital role in a box lacrosse goalie’s gear arsenal. These items provide essential protection for sensitive areas while allowing for unrestricted movement in the crease.
When selecting an athletic supporter, look for models made from moisture-wicking, breathable materials. The supporter should fit snugly without chafing or riding up during play. For cups, consider options specifically designed for lacrosse, which often feature reinforced edges and impact-absorbing materials.
Key Factors in Choosing Athletic Supporters and Cups
- Comfortable, moisture-wicking materials
- Snug fit without restriction
- Reinforced cup design for maximum protection
- Ventilation features to reduce heat buildup
- Flexibility to accommodate various movements
- Durability to withstand repeated impacts
Why is proper lower body protection crucial for goalies? Adequate protection in these areas allows goalies to move confidently and react quickly to shots without fear of injury. This enhanced mobility can significantly improve overall performance and shot-stopping ability.
Footwear Fundamentals: Selecting the Ideal Goalie Cleats
Choosing the right footwear is essential for box lacrosse goalies, as it directly impacts their ability to move quickly and maintain stability in the crease. Unlike field lacrosse, box lacrosse is typically played on artificial turf or indoor surfaces, requiring specific cleat designs.
Look for cleats that offer a balance of traction, support, and comfort. Many goalies prefer low-cut or mid-cut styles for increased ankle mobility. The outsole should feature a pattern designed for quick lateral movements and sudden stops, which are common in box lacrosse.
Essential Features of Box Lacrosse Goalie Cleats
- Turf-specific outsole pattern for optimal traction
- Lightweight, breathable upper materials
- Adequate ankle support without restricting movement
- Cushioned midsole for impact absorption
- Durable construction to withstand frequent use
- Quick-lacing systems for easy on and off
- Moisture-wicking inner lining
How do proper cleats enhance a goalie’s performance? The right footwear provides the foundation for quick reactions and stable positioning. Goalies can make split-second movements with confidence, knowing their feet will grip the surface securely. This improved stability and agility can lead to more saves and better overall play.
Accessories and Add-ons: Enhancing Your Goalie Kit
While the core protective gear is essential, various accessories and add-ons can further enhance a box lacrosse goalie’s kit. These items can provide additional protection, improve comfort, or offer practical benefits during games and practices.
Consider incorporating items such as padded goalie pants or shorts, which offer extra protection for the hips and thighs. Knee and elbow pads can provide additional cushioning for joints during falls or impacts. Some goalies also use specialized throat guards for added neck protection.
Useful Accessories for Box Lacrosse Goalies
- Padded goalie pants or shorts
- Knee and elbow pads
- Specialized throat guards
- Grip-enhancing glove sprays or powders
- Moisture-wicking undershirts and compression gear
- Equipment bags designed for goalie gear
- Stick tape and replacement mesh
- Protective gear maintenance kits
Do these accessories really make a difference? While not all goalies may need every accessory, many find that these add-ons can significantly enhance their comfort, protection, and overall performance. Experimenting with different accessories can help goalies fine-tune their gear setup to match their individual playing style and preferences.
Selecting the right gear is crucial for box lacrosse goalies looking to perform at their best in 2023. From leg pads and gloves to helmets and cleats, each piece of equipment plays a vital role in protection, comfort, and performance. By carefully considering the features and fit of each item, goalies can build a comprehensive kit that allows them to focus on their game and make those game-changing saves.
Remember, while high-quality gear is important, it’s the skill, dedication, and practice of the goalie that truly makes the difference on the field. Use this guide as a starting point to equip yourself with the best tools for success, but never underestimate the value of hard work and continuous improvement in your goaltending journey.
Choose the Right Leg Pads for Optimal Protection
When selecting lacrosse goalie leg pads, comfort and protection should be your top priorities. Leg pads shield the thighs and knees from bruising shots, so ensure yours fit properly. Pads that are too small leave you vulnerable, while oversized pads hinder mobility. Measure from the center of your knee to your pelvis to find your proper thigh rise length. For width, stand with your feet together and measure across both knees. This determines the knee width of your pads.
Other factors to consider are materials, weight, and style. Most leg pads today consist of high-density foams and plastic shields sandwiched between a padded liner and outer shell. Heavier pads offer more protection, but lightweight pads maximize agility. Hybrid pads with both foam and plastic maintain a balance. Standard pads extend down to the ankles, while truncated pads stop above the knee for greater mobility. Make sure any leg pads you select are specifically designed for box lacrosse, not field lacrosse. The right sizing and construction ensures you can react quickly to those blistering point-blank indoor shots.
Properly fitted leg pads give box lacrosse goalies the flexibility and confidence to move laterally across the crease, drop into the butterfly stance on reaction saves, and regain footing quickly after saves. Well-padded thigh rises cushion the impact of high shots. Plastic knee shields deflect stingers away from the joint. Snugly secured knee and calf straps keep the pads from shifting or sliding during action. With leg pads optimized for your body type and style of play, you gain the protection to focus on playing at your peak.
Get Properly Fitting Gloves for Maximum Grip and Protection
Finding well-fitted gloves is one of the most important steps for box lacrosse goalies. The gloves serve the dual purpose of protecting the hands and arms from shots while also providing grip on the stick. To get the right size, measure the circumference around the palm of your hand. Compare this measurement to sizing charts from glove manufacturers to identify your ideal fit. Gloves that are too tight will restrict movement, while oversized gloves will lack control.
For maximum grip, look for gloves made of durable synthetic leathers or mesh fabrics on the palms and fingers. These materials provide friction to grasp the stick handle, even when wet from sweat or rain. Palm padding is crucial for damping vibrations and absorbing impact from catching shots. Fingers saved and pinkie stalls guard against hyperextension. Stretch gussets between the fingers promote flexibility and dexterity. Cuff wraps secure the gloves to prevent shifting.
In terms of protection, gloves cushion against checks to the hands and forearms. Plastic guards shield the wrists and forearms from shots. Some gloves incorporate removable pads for the biceps, wrists, and elbows for additional coverage. For comfort, ventilated backs allow airflow to your hands. Adjustable cuffs and wrist straps enable a customized fit. High-end gloves may even include grip boosters and water-resistant linings for extreme conditions.
With boxing-style gloves designed specifically for the demands of box lacrosse, goalies can take hard shots without pain or injury. Well-constructed palms enable precise stick handling, catches, and outlet passes. Snug-fitting gloves form to your hands like a second skin, allowing you to react instinctively. Whether traditional or hybrid in style, quality gloves give box lacrosse goalies the tools to command the crease with confidence.
Invest in Quality Chest Pads for Core Protection
A sturdy chest pad is essential gear for any box lacrosse goalie seeking to protect their core. Chest pads cushion the sternum, ribs, and upper abdomen from the bruising impact of close-range shots. When shopping for chest pads, focus on finding the right mix of padding, breathability, and mobility for your needs.
Chest pads typically consist of thick foam or soft plastics sandwiched between an inner liner and outer shell. Multi-layered padding absorbs shot impact rather than allowing it to transmit directly to the chest. Look for segmented padding that allows flexibility. The sternum and rib areas should have the thickest padding zones. Make sure to try on chest protectors to gauge comfort and range of motion before purchasing.
Lightweight pads maximize agility at the cost of some protection. Beefier pads offer more cushioning but can restrict quick reactions. Newer chest pad materials strike an optimal balance between low weight and high protection. Some goalies prefer removable belly padding for customized protection levels.
Moisture-wicking inner liners keep you cool and dry during intense game action. Breathable outer shells allow airflow to the pads. Adjustable shoulder caps, straps, and side buckles enable you to dial in the ideal fit. For comprehensive protection, select a chest pad that integrates with your shoulder pads.
With the right chest pad, box lacrosse goalies gain the confidence to square up to blistering outside shots knowing their core is protected. Advanced padding absorbs ball impact, not just transmits it. Lightweight yet rugged pads allow you to track rebounds and move with attackers without hindrance. Combine high-end padding with smart ergonomic design, and your chest pad gives you the security to focus on stopping every shot.
Don’t Forget Shin Guards for Lower Leg Protection
Shin guards are an often overlooked piece of protective gear for box lacrosse goalies. But taking a shot directly on the shins can lead to deep bruising, so quality shin protection is a must. Shin guards cushion the lower legs from ball impact while allowing free movement across the crease.
Look for shin guards that extend from your knee to your skates. Full coverage guards distribute impact forces better than smaller pads. Hard shell plastic on the front diffuses ball energy on direct hits. Cushioned foam or padded lining along the calf and shin absorbs shock.
Ensure your shin guards wrap fully around your lower leg for protection from all angles. Straps across the calves and Velcro closures keep the pads secure during action. Lightweight construction maximizes mobility so you can slide side-to-side without restriction.
While shopping, try on different shin guard models to find ones that form comfortably to your legs. Proper sizing and adjustment ensures the pads stay in place and don’t shift during play. For durability, look for shin guards made from high-grade, water-resistant materials.
Wearing properly fitted shin protection gives box lacrosse goalies added confidence in the crease. You can drop into the butterfly without fear of bruising your shins on the artificial turf. Hard shell deflectors prevent painful stingers from sneaking under your leg pads. With quality shin guards cushioning your lower legs, you can focus solely on reaction saves without distraction.
Pick Breathable Shoulder Pads for Mobility
High-performance shoulder pads are necessary for box lacrosse goalies seeking complete upper body protection. The ideal shoulder pads cushion vital strike zones while enabling flexibility and freedom of movement in the crease.
When shopping for shoulder pads, look for lightweight, breathable construction that won’t weigh you down. Thick, ventilated foam over the collarbone, chest, and back diffuses ball impact. Hard plastic caps add extra shielding on the shoulders. Integrated chest padding connects directly to your chest protector.
Moisture-wicking liners prevent interior overheating so you stay cool during intense game action. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the pad fit for full coverage without restriction. For optimal mobility, choose low-profile shoulder pads contoured to move with your body.
Top-tier shoulder pads designed for box lacrosse offer maximum protection without bulk. High-density foams absorb and disperse energy on shots to the shoulders and upper back. Detachable bicep guards shield the arms from checks and slashes.
With form-fitting, breathable shoulder pads on, box lacrosse goalies gain the flexibility to extend for reaction saves without fear of injury. Advanced padding technology absorbs ball impact while allowing complete freedom of movement. The ideal shoulder protection lets you focus on tracking shots in the crease, not on your gear.
Look for Adjustable Helmets for Secure Protection
Finding a properly fitted box lacrosse goalie helmet is vital for head protection. Helmets shield the face, ears, and head from checks, errant sticks, and blistering shots. An adjustable helmet with customizable padding enables you to dial in the ideal fit.
Look for a helmet with an adjustable chin strap and chin cup so you can tighten it to your exact head size. Removable interior padding allows you to add or remove thickness until the helmet sits securely. Proper helmet fit means no shifting or rocking during rigorous action.
Advanced helmet shells utilize lightweight metals and impact-diffusing outer layers to resist dents. Facemask attachments like chin cups and extended side shields add protection. Some box lacrosse goalie helmets even incorporate face masks with horizontal bar spacing narrow enough to block shots.
Ventilation ports keep helmets from overheating during intense games. Visor shields safeguard eyes while allowing clear vision of shots. For maximum coverage, choose a helmet compatible with draping neck pads.
A customizable box lacrosse goalie helmet enables you to play with confidence knowing your head is protected. Adjustable interior padding suspends the helmet securely. Advanced shells and shields diffuse ball impact from all angles. With a helmet providing unmatched comfort and protection, you can focus on controlling the box crease.
Get a Goalie-Specific Stick for Optimal Control
A lacrosse goalie stick designed specifically for box play is a must-have piece of equipment. Goalie sticks feature oversized heads and specialized stringing to provide superior ball control for stopping shots.
Look for a stick with a head width of up to 12 inches, significantly wider than field sticks. An extra-deep pocket improves ball-trapping ability. Offset heads shift the pocket to favor your strong hand for quicker passes after saves. Larger wooden handles allow for two-handed cradling.
Stringing goalie heads involves wider sidewall knots and strategic shooter lane placement. More transverse strings increase hold and rebound dampening. Customizable stringing configurations suit your catching and outlet passing technique.
Weight is another consideration when selecting a goalie stick. Heavier sticks make hard saves easier by absorbing ball momentum, but lighter sticks improve outlet pass speed and precision.
With an oversized head, customized deep pocket, and specialized stringing, a box lacrosse goalie stick gives you ultimate control in the crease. Extra-wide heads increase your save area for blocking angle shots. Deep pockets securely trap rebounds and allow accurate clearing passes. The right stick provides the confidence to own the box crease.
Sturdy Cleats Prevent Injury and Improve Traction
Supportive and grippy cleats are essential footwear for box lacrosse goalies. The right cleats stabilize the ankles while providing traction for quick lateral movements across the crease.
Look for high-top cleats that lace up past the ankles. Leather or synthetic uppers offer durability and support. Integrated ankle sleeves boost stability. Shock-absorbing midsoles cushion landings from dives and knee drops.
For solid footing, choose cleats with short, rugged molded studs on the soles. Between four and six studs under the balls of the feet supply grip for pushing off during side-to-side slides. Stud placement under the heels aids in bracing during rapid changes of direction.
Proper sizing ensures a snug, immobile fit throughout activity. Lace-locks allow you to achiever an adjustable, customized fit across the foot. Breathable linings wick moisture to keep feet cool and dry.
With the right cleats, box lacrosse goalies gain secure footing and ankle support. Gripping traction prevents slips during quick lateral movements across the crease. Stabilizing high-top construction protects against rolls and sprains. Durable materials stand up to repetitive wear on artificial turf fields.
Wear Proper Undergear for Comfort and Protection
The undergear worn beneath box lacrosse goalie equipment serves important protective and comfort functions. Moisture-wicking underlayers, padded shirts, and athletic supporters make time in the crease more secure and focused.
Compression undergarments keep muscles warm and limbs stabilized during intense activity. Tight-fitting shirts and shorts prevent chafing from equipment. Thin synthetic fabrics wick perspiration off the skin for cooling airflow.
For extra cushioning, padded undershirts protect the chest, ribs, and collarbone from reverberating impact. Shorts or girdles with built-in hip and thigh pads diffuse shots blocking the five-hole. Cups and supporters shield the groin area.
Undergloves worn beneath lacrosse gloves absorb sweat, reducing slippage on sticks. Underarm sleeves guard biceps against rashes and welts. High socks protect shins and calves from abrasion. Ankle braces support joint mobility.
With the proper undergear, box lacrosse goalies gain an essential comfort layer beneath bulky equipment. Formfitting fabrics limit friction and allow cooling airflow. Integrated padding cushions vulnerable areas from glanced shots. The right undergear allows goalies to play freely without distractions.
Practice with Goalie-Specific Training Equipment
Dedicated practice with specialized goalie gear improves reaction time and technique. Goalie-specific training equipment like shot blockers, rebounders, and on-field targets hone critical save skills.
Handheld blockers allow shooting drill practice without a full kit. Blocker targets attach to shoes for angles and close-range shot work. Quick-release systems drop blockers immediately after saves to start fast breaks.
Rebounder nets and angled backboards simulate live shots to practice angles and placement. Training sticks with enlarged heads refine hand-eye coordination. Shooting targets with sensors provide feedback on save percentages and hand speed.
Head and eye tracking gear measure improvment in tracking shots from cradle to release. Slide boards improve lateral movement and crease transitions. Advanced shot simulators recreate game-speed shot sequences and rebounds.
Daily training with such goalie gear ingrains proper save mechanics through focused repetition. Blockers build reaction time, vision discipline, and rebound control. Rebounders develop shot anticipation and ball tracking. The right practice gear hones the lightning-fast reflexes great goalies need.
Choose the Right Goalie Bag for Equipment Transport
A dedicated goalie equipment bag simplifies transporting your full kit to practices and games. Look for bags with ample storage, durable exteriors, and design features catering specifically to goalies.
Bags built for goalie gear have large main compartments and extra end pockets fitting leg pads, chest protectors, and bulky items. Padded divider panels protect gear from dents and damage during transit. Ventilated zones reduce odor buildup.
For heavy loads, choose bags with wheels and retractable handles for easy rolling transport. Backpack straps allow carrying on stairs or grass. Exterior lacrosse stick holders free up interior capacity. Zippered side pouches provide storage for gloves, elbow pads, and other accessories.
Reinforced stitching and ripstop fabrics withstand wear from sticks, skates, and pads. Water-resistant materials protect gear in wet conditions. Bottom roller wheels, skate protectors, and exterior ID panels cater directly to goalies.
A thoughtfully designed lacrosse goalie bag simplifies getting all your bulky gear to the field safely and efficiently. Maximum storage capacity hauls your entire kit. Goalie-specific features like stick holders, venting, and ID panels make pre- and post-game routines easier.
Buy New or Used Gear Depending on Budget
When equipping yourself as a box lacrosse goalie, carefully consider your budget to determine if new or used gear makes more sense. Both routes have advantages depending on your financial means and access to quality equipment.
New gear guarantees the latest protective technologies and materials. Buying new allows you to try on different sizes and models for an ideal fit. Stock goalie gear comes ready to use with no repairs needed. Warranties protect against early defects or damage.
However, new goalie equipment is expensive, especially for growing youth players who need bigger sizes yearly. In these cases, buying quality used gear can provide substantial savings. Check second-hand stores and online listings for discounted pads, helmets, gloves, and other equipment gently used by outgrown players.
When going the used route, carefully inspect gear for cracks, tears or signs of overwear. Replace old straps and hardware for safety. Refurbish chest pads and helmets at shops if damaged. With some reconditioning, pre-owned gear can offer like-new protection at fraction of the cost.
Consider both budgets and access when choosing new or used goalie equipment. Buy the highest quality gear you can reasonably afford to maximize safety and performance. Mixing new and used items also helps optimize value as funds allow.
Compare Prices Online Before Buying In-Store
When shopping for box lacrosse goalie gear, take time to research prices and models online before purchasing equipment in-store. Comparing prices on retailer websites, forums, and review sites can lead to big savings.
All major sporting goods stores now list products and prices on their websites. Browse online catalogs to get a sense of available goalie gear models and normal retail costs. Searching wider gives you a better baseline than just visiting one nearby store.
Check lacrosse forums and review sites for user opinions on specific pads, gloves, helmets, and other goalie equipment. Experienced players often post about quality, fit, and comparative value across brands and models based on firsthand usage.
Online clearance sections can yield discontinued or past-season gear at deep discounts. Sign up for brand email newsletters so you’ll be alerted to limited-time sales and special coupon offers. The research you do will make you a smarter shopper once in the store.
By leveraging the wealth of information available online these days, box lacrosse goalies can hunt down the best gear deals. Comparing retailers, reading reviews, finding sales, and using coupons stretches your equipment dollars further.
Ask Teammates for Gear Recommendations
When shopping for new box lacrosse goalie equipment, leverage the experience of teammates who have already gone through the process. Fellow players can provide personalized recommendations based on your budget, playing style, and protection needs.
Ask teammates what brands, models, and stores they prefer when buying their own gear. Get their input on sizing, fit, comfort, and flexibility of the pads, gloves, and other items they use. They may advise certain items that better suit your height, weight, and physique.
See if teammates have extra equipment you could try on for size and feel. Ask to borrow used gloves or pads for a practice to test out different gear before purchasing. Experienced players can help inspect used items for needed repairs or refurbishing.
Find out where your teammates get the best deals on equipment. They may suggest less obvious options beyond the big sporting goods stores. Take note of specific brands, models, or retailers that fellow players recommend from firsthand positive experiences.
Leveraging personal recommendations from your box lacrosse teammates helps identify goalie gear that best matches your needs and budget. Players who have already gone through the process have insider knowledge to share. Their tips lead you to quality equipment that performs on the floor.
