Choose a Lacrosse Backpack Size Based on Your Gear Needs
When shopping for a new lacrosse backpack, one of the most important factors to consider is size. You’ll want to think about everything you need to carry to and from practices and games so you can select a bag that will fit it all. How much space you need really depends on your position and gear requirements.
For example, goalies tend to have the most bulky and abundant equipment. You’ll need room for pads, a helmet, cleats, gloves, multiple sticks, towels, water bottles, and other accessories. Since you have so much to lug around, look for an extra roomy backpack option around 30 inches or larger. Goalie bags are specifically designed to hold all this gear.
Midfielders and attackmen can often get away with a slightly smaller bag in the 25- to 27-inch range. You’ll need to carry at least one stick, pads, helmet, cleats, gloves and other essentials. Make sure to get a bag with some extra room for more comfort. Duffel-style lacrosse bags are a popular choice for these positions.
Defenders typically need to haul around two sticks plus their gear, so a medium to large sized backpack around 28 inches may be ideal. Just don’t go too small or you won’t have room for all your equipment. Padded stick holders are a great feature to secure your sticks.
No matter what position you play, also think about what else you’ll carry on game days. Some players pack extra food, tape, towels, balls and other items that can take up space. Measure your gear and add a few extra inches just to be safe. The right backpack size will keep you prepared without excess bulk.
Opt for a Lacrosse Backpack with Ventilated Shoe Storage
One handy feature to look for in a new lacrosse backpack is ventilated shoe storage. After sweaty practices and games, your cleats can get quite smelly! A ventilated shoe compartment keeps the rest of your gear from taking on that stench while allowing air to circulate.
Many lacrosse backpacks now come with a separate ventilated pocket, often located on the bottom of the bag. This section is specially designed to house your shoes and keep them isolated. The ventilation prevents moisture build-up so your shoes can dry out faster. Look for mesh materials or small holes that allow air flow.
Some bags feature removable mesh shoe bags inside this compartment. These make it easy to take your shoes in and out of the backpack as needed. The mesh construction airs out the shoes while containing smells and dirt inside the bag.
If you can’t find a bag with a specialized ventilated pocket, another option is to look for exterior side pockets. You can use these open pockets to stow shoes on the outside of the backpack. This prevents smells from getting inside the main gear compartment. Just be sure the pockets are made of breathable mesh.
A shoe compartment also helps keep the rest of your gear clean and dry. No more getting your clothes muddy or having your stick covered in dirt after a rainy game. Storing shoes separately ensures everything else stays in better condition while eliminating odors.
Consider your shoe storage needs when shopping for a new lacrosse backpack. Ventilated compartments make packing footwear much more pleasant. Just don’t forget to air out your shoes as soon as you can after each use!
Choose a Lacrosse Backpack with Plenty of Exterior Pockets
When carrying all your lacrosse gear in a backpack, it helps to have sufficient exterior storage options. Look for a bag with multiple zippered pockets and compartments on the outside that provide easy access to the items you need most.
Exterior pockets allow you to stash essentials that you’ll want to grab quickly during practices or games. For example, you could store your phone, wallet, snacks, extra balls, tape, mouthguard case, towel or water bottle in an outside compartment. Then you don’t have to unpack everything to reach the stuff you use frequently.
Side mesh pockets are ideal for holding water bottles or your stick. Front zippered pockets work well for smaller loose items. Some bags also have specialized pockets for gloves, goggles, keys or other gear you access regularly. The more exterior pockets the better to keep you organized.
With exterior storage, you can also separate out dirty, damp or smelly gear after a tough game. For instance, toss your muddy cleats, sweaty pads and dirty practice jersey into side compartments to keep them away from the rest of your equipment inside. This helps keep the main bag interior cleaner.
Look for a lacrosse backpack with several zippered pockets of varying sizes all around the exterior. The bag should have options like side mesh sleeves, front stash pockets, padded valuables pockets and side compartments for maximum utility. Then you can customize where you store your gear based on how often you need it.
Backpacks with limited external pockets end up becoming a disorganized mess. Exterior compartments help you neatly separate and access your gear. Find a bag with plenty of zippered pockets outside to suit your organizational style and needs.
Opt for a Water-Resistant Lacrosse Backpack to Keep Gear Dry
When carrying expensive lacrosse equipment like sticks, pads and cleats, you want to keep it all protected from the elements. Look for a lacrosse backpack made of water-resistant materials to avoid damage from rain, mud and spills.
Many lacrosse bags feature a durable polyester shell that naturally repels moisture. Polyester coated with a water-resistant finish offers even better protection from wetness. These materials prevent water from soaking into the fabric.
You can also look for bags made of vinyl, nylon, canvas or microfiber, as these fabrics tend to be water-resistant. Just check product details to confirm the backpack offers water protection and is not just basic canvas or nylon.
Some backpacks also come with a proprietary waterproof coating like StormGuard or AquaGuard. These special coatings provide an extra moisture barrier by sealing the fabric and sealing seams. Just be aware this coating can wear off over time with heavy use.
Before purchasing a new lacrosse backpack, read reviews to confirm it keeps contents dry. Real world testing from other players is the best way to determine water resistance. Also, choose a bag with covered zippers rather than exposed ones, as this prevents leaks.
A water-resistant lacrosse backpack gives you valuable peace of mind that your gear will stay dry in wet conditions. You don’t want to damage expensive pads, warp wooden sticks or get your clothes soaked because of a leaky bag. Proper backpack materials can prevent losses.
Pick a Comfortable Lacrosse Backpack Style for Long Games
Lacrosse games often last for hours, so wearing a comfortable backpack is key. When evaluating lacrosse bags, look for styles designed for ergonomic carrying during prolonged wear.
Backpack straps are one of the most important comfort factors. Seek out wide, well-padded shoulder straps to distribute weight and prevent digging into your shoulders. Cushioned straps with mesh covering or breathable foam provide ventilation as well.
Also check that the back panel aligns properly with your torso for a custom fit. Contoured or curved panels allow for a more natural shape. Ventilated padding here prevents sweating and overheating on hot days.
Sternum and waist straps further stabilize the backpack when running on the field. This takes pressure off the shoulders. Look for adjustable, padded straps that lock the bag securely in place as you move.
The overall weight of the empty backpack itself is another consideration for comfort. Heavier-duty bags provide strength and protection but weigh more. Find the right balance of low weight and durability for your needs.
Backpack suspension systems with compression straps, trekking poles or an internal frame distribute weight more evenly. This enhances carrying comfort with a heavy load. Not all lacrosse bags offer these features however.
Trying on a lacrosse backpack in person is the best way to assess comfort. Make sure it fits right and feels great when loaded up before purchasing. A comfortable backpack prevents pain and discomfort so you can focus on the game.
Look for Wide, Padded Backpack Straps for Comfort
One of the most important features that determines the comfort of a lacrosse backpack is the shoulder strap design. Seek out bags with wide, well-padded straps to ease the burden of carrying all your heavy gear.
Narrow straps made of thin material can dig painfully into your shoulders during wear. This causes discomfort and fatigue over time. Wide, cushioned straps more evenly distribute weight across your shoulders for a more comfortable carry.
The ideal strap width is around 3 inches or greater. This gives ample surface area contact to bear loads. Straps should also be fully adjustable to dial in the perfect customized fit.
Look for plush padding made of mesh, foam or other breathable materials. The cushier the better to add comfort and prevent irritation. Vented padding also reduces sweat buildup in hot weather.
Some lacrosse bags feature S-curved shoulder straps for an ergonomic fit. This contours to your body’s natural shape rather than cutting in. Curved, tapered designs allow freer arm movement as well.
Before buying any new lacrosse backpack, try it on with weight inside to test strap comfort and feel. Wide, well-padded shoulder straps are crucial for relieving pressure during wear. Your shoulders will thank you after a long day on the field.
Look for a Lacrosse Backpack with Luggage Pass-Through
A convenient feature to look for when shopping for a lacrosse backpack is a luggage pass-through strap. This allows you to stack the bag securely atop rolling luggage for easy transport.
Pass-through straps are essentially openings on the backside of the backpack designed to thread over upright suitcase handles. You can then wear the backpack on your shoulders while wheeling your luggage.
This prevents having to carry both the backpack and suitcase separately. It also keeps your hands free to steer the luggage cart without struggling to manage multiple bags.
Luggage pass-throughs are tremendously useful when traveling to away games and tournaments. You can neatly secure your lacrosse backpack to your roller bag as you navigate crowded airports and parking lots.
Look for a luggage strap with a wide opening to accommodate various handle sizes and types. Make sure it is reinforced well so it won’t tear under the backpack’s weight. Proper placement aligned with the back panel also enhances comfort and balance.
Backpacks without a pass-through require awkwardly hand carrying both pieces. This strains your hands, shoulders and back. A luggage strap offers much easier transport of all your gear in one consolidated stack.
Choose a Bright Lacrosse Backpack for Visibility
When selecting a new lacrosse backpack, consider getting a brightly colored bag or one with reflective details to enhance visibility. This helps you stay noticeable on the field and stay safe in low light conditions.
Bright hues like orange, yellow, green, pink or purple make your backpack pop against grass or turf. This high visibility aids teammates in seeing you during play. Reflective accents add visibility for night games or dark mornings/evenings.
Reflective strips are commonly added to shoulder straps, grab handles and logos for 360-degree reflectivity. Contrasting piping is another subtle reflective detail to look for. Glow-in-the-dark elements also help illuminate your bag at night.
In addition to color, storage location impacts visibility. Backpacks worn on the front of your body or to the side are more visible than traditional back carries. Sling bags and duffel backpacks allow front/side wearing options.
Make sure to check league requirements regarding bag colors. Certain tournaments may prohibit certain hues to avoid mimicking game ball colors. Safety should come first but stay compliant with rules.
Being visible on the field can prevent collisions or injuries, so choose a lacrosse backpack in bright, eye-catching colors. Reflective details add visibility in low light for enhanced safety during early morning or night games.
Consider Backpack Weight When Empty and Full
When selecting a lacrosse backpack, take into account how much the empty bag weighs by itself as well as the full weight when packed. The lighter the better for easy carrying, but not at the expense of durability.
Heavier vinyl or leather bags provide more protection for your gear but add extra pounds on your back. Lighter polyester or nylon bags cut down on weight while still offering decent strength.
Think about your existing gear when estimating packed weight. Goalies need room for bulky pads and sticks that add substantial weight. Other positions may get away with a lighter pack.
Compartments like shoe tunnels and exterior pockets help distribute weight more evenly across the bag. Hip belts and sternum straps transfer weight off shoulders too.
Try packing the bag at home first with your regular gear. Make sure you can comfortably lift and carry the full weight for extended periods. Walk around the house with it on to test.
Ideally opt for the most lightweight yet durable lacrosse backpack you can find. Just ensure it has sufficient paddings and straps to bear the load of all your equipment for hours of comfortable wear during games.
Ensure Your Lacrosse Backpack Securely Holds Your Stick
A key function of any lacrosse backpack is safely transporting sticks to and from the field. Look for bags with specialized features to keep them protected and secured.
Many lacrosse backpacks include external stick holders on the sides or front. These elasticized sleeves securely contain the stick in place and prevent shifting around. Some have extra padding or Velcro straps for added protection.
For holding multiple sticks, find a bag with dividers or designated stick storage zones inside the main compartment. Well-padded slots keep sticks separated and avoid damage from knocking together.
Make sure the stick pocket is properly sized for your particular stick’s dimensions. Measure the head width and account for the shaft length so it fits snugly with no excess room to slide.
Before buying a lacrosse backpack, read reviews to confirm sticks fit as intended without falling out. Try to pack your stick at home first to test security. Proper stick storage helps avoid breakage or loss.
Since sticks are expensive investments, transporting them safely is critical. Take the time to find a lacrosse bag engineered with smart stick-carrying features to keep them protected during transit to games or practice.
Select a Lacrosse Backpack That’s Easy to Clean
Lacrosse is a tough, gritty sport, so your gear likely gets muddy and dirty frequently. Look for a backpack made of stain-resistant materials that are easy to clean after messy games.
Smooth polyester or synthetic leather bags simply wipe down with a damp cloth to clean. You can also spot treat stains without harming the material. Letting the bag air dry prevents mildew buildup.
Canvas bags are machine washable on gentle cycles in cold water. Use mild detergent and air dry as well. Washing removes odors that build up over time too.
Bags with water-resistant coatings help repel mud so it doesn’t soak in as quickly. Just be sure to reapply DWR treatments periodically as they wear off.
Don’t machine wash backpacks with electronic components like charging ports or LED lights. Check care instructions to be sure. Hand washing is safest for delicate electronics.
Before buying a new lacrosse backpack, research the care and cleaning requirements. Opt for durable, stain-resistant fabrics that easily wipe down. Keeping your gear bag fresh means you can focus on the game instead.
Find the Lacrosse Backpack Style That Suits You
Lacrosse backpacks come in a variety of designs like duffels, slings, rollers and traditional backpacks. Consider your needs and preferences to select the right style for you.
Backpacks distribute weight across both shoulders for comfort during all-day wear. Padded back panels and straps prevent digging. Use these for carrying lots of gear.
Slings and messenger bags allow quick side access to gear. Single strap designs are better for moderate loads. Enhanced mobility makes these good for active players.
Wheeled duffels or rollers optimize storage with less carrying strain. Built-in wheels and telescoping handles provide easy transport of heavy gear.
Duffel backpacks offer duffel-style packing with backpack straps for versatility. Front loading allows easy access to contents unlike top-loading packs.
Think about your equipment needs, desired accessibility, and carrying comfort. Try different styles when loaded to determine fit. There’s a lacrosse backpack for every player’s preferences and body type.
Choose a Spacious Lacrosse Backpack Main Compartment
The main compartment of your lacrosse backpack needs ample storage space to haul all your gear to the field. Look for large-capacity bags around 30 inches or bigger.
Goalies require the most room for oversized pads, bulky helmets, and multiple sticks. Midfielders and attackers can get away with slightly smaller bags around 25 inches.
Make sure the main compartment opens wide for easy loading and access to contents. Dual zippers help the bag open fully without straining the fabric.
Interior organization helps you pack more efficiently. Some bags have mesh pockets or specialized slots for gear like shoes or helmets. Dividers keep items separated.
Before buying a lacrosse backpack, measure your equipment and simulate packing everything at home. Make sure it all fits inside the main compartment without issue.
Trying to squeeze too much gear into a small bag results in damaged equipment and frustration. Invest in a spacious main compartment designed specifically for lacrosse players’ needs. Then you can head to the field prepared for every game.
Opt for Lacrosse Backpack Laptop Padding
Many lacrosse players need to tote along a laptop for school or work when traveling for games. Look for a lacrosse backpack with a padded laptop sleeve to protect it.
Laptop sleeves are built into the main interior compartment, with thick foam or padding on all sides. Some have additional Velcro straps to secure the device snugly inside.
Make sure to get a bag where the laptop pocket aligns properly with your torso when worn. Otherwise the uneven weight distribution can throw off your balance.
Look for laptop sleeves designed for 15-inch laptops or larger. Measure your device’s dimensions to ensure a perfect fit with room to spare. A tight squeeze can damage your tech.
Before purchasing a lacrosse backpack, read reviews to confirm the laptop sleeve provides sufficient padding. Try packing your computer at home first to test it out.
The right laptop padding prevents damage from tosses, drops or crushing when running down the field. Then you can focus on the game without worrying about your expensive tech getting wrecked inside a poorly designed backpack.
Look for Durable Zippers on Your Lacrosse Backpack
To get the most longevity out of your lacrosse backpack, look for one made with high-quality, durable zippers that can withstand frequent use and abuse.
Nylon coil zippers are a good standard option found on many bags. They glide smoothly and resist snagging. Upgrading to metal or plastic zipper teeth enhances strength.
Exposed zippers on the exterior and underside are more vulnerable to breakage. Look for backpacks with zipper flaps or garages to protect them.
Make sure zipper pulls are large enough to easily grasp with gloves on. Cord zipper pulls should have plastic tips to prevent fraying.
Before buying, read reviews on zipper durability, check for manufacturer warranties, and inspect stitching. Try manually stress testing zippers in the store for smooth operation.
Replacing broken lacrosse bag zippers can be a headache. Investing in superior quality, snag-free zippers from the start saves you from dealing with busted bags and inaccessible gear down the road.