Features to Look For When Buying a Lacrosse Stick
When shopping for a new lacrosse stick, it’s important to consider several key features to find the right one for your position and skill level. The head shape and sidewall design impact handling, while the materials affect durability and performance. For example, a wider, more flexible head promotes better ball control for offensive players, whereas a narrower, stiffer head provides superior checking ability on defense. Offensive heads tend to have more of a scoop shape, while defensive heads have more of a gradual flare. Composite handles offer a lightweight feel, while aluminum handles provide stiffness for efficient passing and shooting. For beginners, a synthetic or mesh pocket allows for simpler stringing and break-in compared to traditional leather. More experienced players may prefer a hand-laced leather pocket for unparalleled customization and ball control. When looking at stick length, longer sticks around 60 inches are common for defense while shorter sticks around 40 inches suit midfielders and attackmen who need quicker footwork and maneuverability. For youth players, the best choice is an appropriately sized stick that gives them room to grow into. No matter your skill level, finding the ideal balance of comfort, durability and performance starts with identifying the right head shape, materials, pocket type and sizing to match your on-field needs and style of play. With so many different sticks on the market today, it pays to understand how subtle variations in these features can impact your handling, passing, catching and shooting. Taking the time to try out sticks in person and get the right fit will ensure you’re equipped with a Lacrosse stick that caters to your strengths as a player.
Finding the Right Lacrosse Gloves for Your Position
When selecting lacrosse gloves, it’s important to consider the specific protection needs of your position on the field. Close-fitting, lightweight gloves work best for offensive players like attackers and midfielders who need maximum dexterity for stick skills. Defensive players benefit from bulkier, heavily-padded gloves that protect the hands and wrists from checks. Goalies have specialized padding in areas like the thumb and palm to handle the ball during rapid-fire shots.
For attackers, midfields and face-off specialists, gloves with abrasion-resistant palms enhance grip on the stick shaft for quicker feeds, fakes and shots on goal. Breathable mesh backs allow ventilation to keep hands cool and dry. Pre-curved fingers follow the natural shape of the hands for uncompromised feel while cradling and passing. Strategically placed padding across the fingers, knuckles and back of the hand provides impact protection without restricting mobility. Gloves sized for a snug fit help transfer energy to the shaft when shooting.
Defensemen choose heavier-duty gloves with maximum cushioning across the fingers, wrists and back of hands to withstand slashing and poke checks. Thicker padding reduces sting and bruising when maneuvering the stick to intercept passes. Abrasion-resistant overlay material in high wear areas enhances durability. For added protection, some gloves feature removable plastic wrist cuffs. Finding the right balance of flexibility and protection is key for defensemen who need stick and body control when covering attackers.
Goalie gloves have specialized features for repeated impact from close-range shots. An external plastic thumb shield and thick foam across the palm and fingers help absorb force and vibration. Dense foam wrist cuffs stabilize the hands and prevent hyperextension. Vent holes in the synthetic leather palms and mesh fingers allow breathability. Unique grip textures on the palms and inside fingers help goalies securely cradle the ball during clears and outlet passes. Considering the demands of the position, finding goalie gloves with maximum padding and dexterity is key.
With the variety of glove styles and protective features now available, be sure to assess your needs on the field before choosing lacrosse gloves. Trying on different options for fit and feel will help you make an informed decision. With the right gloves for your position, you’ll have durable protection and unmatched control as you handle and pass the ball.
Lacrosse Helmet Safety Standards and Protection Levels
When selecting a lacrosse helmet, it’s important to understand the safety standards and protection levels to find the right one for your needs. Lacrosse helmets are designed to prevent traumatic brain injuries from high-impact collisions by dispersing energy and reducing forces transmitted to the head.
In the United States, lacrosse helmets must meet the performance requirements outlined in the NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) standard. NOCSAE conducts scientific research and sets test standards that measure a helmet’s effectiveness at reducing the severity of impacts. Helmets are impact tested at multiple temperatures and impact locations to ensure protection in any playing scenario. The NOCSAE sticker found inside lacrosse helmets confirms they provide a baseline level of protection that meets U.S. standards.
Beyond the NOCSAE standard, higher-end lacrosse helmets offer more advanced features and materials for increased protection. These include MIPS technology designed to reduce rotational forces that cause the brain to move inside the skull during angled impacts. This is in addition to multilayer foam padding and facemask materials that work together to optimize impact absorption from all directions. Some companies also use data from sensors embedded in helmets during on-field collisions to improve future designs.
When shopping for lacrosse helmets, players should always choose an option certified by NOCSAE at minimum. While premium technologies and materials found in elite helmets can further reduce concussion risk, fit and comfort should take priority. Be sure that any helmet fits snugly all around, stays level on the head, and has no pressure points or gaps. Taking time to find the right certified helmet designed for lacrosse that fits properly will provide critical protection during those hard collisions on the field.
Getting the Proper Fit and Protection With Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
Lacrosse shoulder pads are a vital piece of protective gear, safeguarding players from the bruising impacts that occur when jostling for ground balls or throwing checks. To maximize protection, lacrosse shoulder pads must properly fit the individual wearer.
For ideal coverage and mobility, lacrosse shoulder pad sizing is based on chest circumference rather than numerical sizes. Measure across the fullest part of the chest, then refer to manufacturers’ sizing charts to select the pads that will contour to your frame without restricting motion. Pads should have a snug fit around the shoulders without large gaps above the collarbones or under the armpits. Straps across the sternum and back should secure the pads in place.
Lacrosse shoulder pads feature removable bicep guards, shoulder caps, and back plates to customize protection and comfort. Heavier plastic caps on the point and back of the shoulder disperse direct shot impact. Softer foam or padded synthetic leather across the collarbone and deltoid safeguards against bruising checks. Thick foam bicep guards defend the arms from slashes. Lightweight back plates prevent spinal injuries from collisions. For goalies, a chest protector attaches to the pads for extra padding across the heart, lungs and ribs.
While rigid plastic caps provide hard-shell coverage, padded inner lining ensures the caps contour the shoulders without digging in. Ventilated arch padding beneath the caps allows airflow to regulate temperature. Moisture-wicking liner materials draw sweat away from the body. Adjustable straps evenly distribute weight and keep the pads from shifting. For comprehensive protection, players should select shoulder pads with components that work in tandem without hindering mobility.
Taking the time to find properly fitting lacrosse shoulder pads provides a barrier against impact while allowing dynamic play. Combine structured caps and back plates with strategic foam padding to defend against routine collisions as you charge upfield for an attack.
Choosing Lacrosse Arm Pads for Comfort and Protection
Lacrosse arm pads are essential for protecting players from checks, slashes, and point-blank shots. With the variety of styles available, it’s important to select lacrosse arm pads that provide comprehensive coverage without restricting mobility.
Close-fitting, lightweight arm pads work best for offensive players like midfielders and attackers who need maximum range of motion when stick-handling and passing. Low-profile pads made of breathable, moisture-wicking materials allow great flexibility in the elbow and wrist while safeguarding muscles and joints. Targeted padding across the forearms diffuses impact from incidental checks. Abrasion-resistant capped elbows prevent turf burn when diving for possessions.
For defensemen who throw more emphatic checks, bulkier arm pads with hardened plastic caps reduce bruising. Thicker foam padding across the outside of the forearms and biceps cushions impact from elbow and shoulder checks. Full wrist wraps prevent hyperextension when poking away shots. Capped elbows and layered foam bicep plates protect against slashes and point blank shots. Despite their ruggedness, top arm pads utilize lightweight materials and articulated joints for free movement.
Goalie arm pads feature extra coverage from wrist to shoulder for handling high-velocity shots. Dense foam padding across the entire outer arm absorbs and disperses kinetic energy to protect limbs. Plastic elbow caps prevent hyperextension. Finger loops allow quick donning and removal between rapid-fire shots. Ventilated neoprene offers lightweight durability and breathability during intense gameplay.
For comprehensive coverage tailored to your position, take time to find lacrosse arm pads offering maximum protection and dexterity. Ensure pads fit snugly without sliding or gaps that expose the arms to checks and shots. With properly fitted arm pads, you gain impact absorption during physical play while maintaining stick control.
Types of Lacrosse Cleats for Different Field Conditions
Having the right lacrosse cleats provides the traction and support needed for quick cuts, starts and stops during gameplay. With different types designed for various field surfaces, it’s important to choose lacrosse cleats based on the conditions where you’ll be competing.
For hard natural grass fields, cleats with firm molded studs provide grip for pushing off while running routes and dodging defenders. Studs are positioned for multi-directional traction while pivoting and changing pace. A low-profile sole brings feet closer to the terrain for responsive maneuvers. Nylon/synthetic leather uppers are lightweight yet durable. For very slick grass, detachable studs can be customized for extra traction based on weather and field conditions.
On artificial turf fields, shorter rubber or molded cleats prevent slipping on the synthetic fibers while allowing free ankle flexion. A supportive midsole ensures stability when cutting and crossing over at high speeds. The compressed turf rubber outsole provides consistent traction even as turf pellets settle and displace during games. Abrasion-resistant uppers stand up to the continual impact stress of sprinting on a harder artificial surface.
For damp, muddy fields, lacrosse cleats with longer, conical metal studs supply enhanced mud-release and push-off. Removable studs can be adjusted based on the wetness and surface softness as conditions evolve throughout a game. Deeper flex grooves in the sole prevent mud-packing for continuous clean traction. The taller studs combined with an abrasion-resistant upper also prevent tearing on uneven, rutted terrain.
Considering typical field conditions, position-specific cuts and movements will help determine the ideal lacrosse cleats. Trying on different stud configurations and sole types ensures you get responsive traction tailored to each surface you’ll encounter over a season of play.
Essential Goalie Equipment for Lacrosse
Lacrosse goalies require specialized protective gear to withstand point-blank shots from all angles. With attackers routinely firing the ball over 100 mph, goalies must be equipped with equipment providing comprehensive coverage.
A goalie helmet with full face mask protects the head and neck while allowing visibility to track shots. Throat protectors made of high-impact resistant materials shield the vital larynx area from injury. Chest and shoulder pads feature extra thick foam or padded shirts to cushion the core against direct shots to the torso. Arm and shin guards with molded plastic caps absorb and deflect the forces of shots to the limbs.
Goalie gloves have heavy padding across the palms, fingers and back to dissipate ball impact while providing grip security. Unique glove textures on the palms and fingertips improve grip control while throwing outlet passes after saves. Thick foam wrist wraps support against hyperextension on shots targeted to the lower glove side.
When it comes to goalie shoes, quad sole cleats provide traction and stability during rapid side-to-side movement across the crease. Chest protectors sized to give goalies full mobility help align the body square to the ball during shots. Goalie shorts with built-in hip and thigh padding slipped beneath the lower torso pads defend all areas.
From protective cup supporters to shin, knee and ankle guards, goalies require extensive armor against point-blank range shots. Yet mobility remains crucial for reacting quickly. Finding lacrosse goalie gear providing comprehensive protection without hindering agility is key to withstanding the demands of the position.
Lacrosse Bag Features for Carrying Gear
Lacrosse players require bags that can comfortably transport all their protective gear while keeping equipment organized and protected. When selecting a lacrosse bag, key features to consider include storage capacity, compartmental designs, comfort and durability.
Lacrosse gear bags need ample storage space for all equipment – sticks, pads, shoes, uniforms and more. Backpack-style bags in sizes like 42″, 46″ and 50″ suit all positions. Dual over-the-shoulder straps distribute weight. Padded waist belts prevent bag shifting during movement. Vented panels along the back prevent sweaty discomfort against players’ bodies.
Interior compartments keep gear separated and easy to locate. Mesh pockets organize small items like practice pinnies, tape and mouthguards. Zippered sides grant access to shoes, gloves and pads without opening the entire bag. Helmet holders lined with soft material prevent scratches. Stick holders accommodate up to 4 shafts. Padded electronics sleeves protect phones, tablets and music devices.
For rugged durability, lacrosse bags utilize abrasion-resistant fabrics like polyester and vinyl. Reinforced stitching along high-stress seams prevents tearing and ripping during transport. Water-resistant coatings protect gear in wet conditions. Thick padding along the sides, base and carrying straps shields equipment from bumps and impacts.
A thoughtfully designed lacrosse gear bag makes playing and practice days easier. Find a bag offering protection, ventilation and compartments so you can stow all your equipment safely and efficiently.
Lacrosse Head Mesh for Improved Ball Control
Lacrosse head mesh affects key performance factors including ball handling, shot speed and accuracy. With the right lacrosse mesh for your playing style, you gain an edge in possession skills and scoring opportunities.
Traditional nylon mesh provides a nice pocket shape for beginners learning cradling, scooping and passing fundamentals. The economical synthetic material breaks in easily with use. A moderate throwing channel facilitates developing stick skills before advancing to faster setups.
Pre-strung mesh allows quicker stringing for new players. The integrated nylon sidewalls mold the pocket shape. Precision diamond lace patterns improve hold and control once broken in. Wider midfield and faceoff heads paired with pre-strung mesh assist ground ball pickups.
For added ball control and handling, upgraded meshes incorporate materials like wax-infused nylon, polyester and polyethylene. These maintain shape consistency and snappy release across temperature changes. Tighter interwoven pockets increase hold strength for technical players. Water-resistant coatings prevent moisture saturation during wet play.
Optimizing ball control requires matching lacrosse head width, pocket depth and mesh style to your game. Heads with a mid to high pocket pair well with mesh that maintains express pocketing. For quicker releases and tight stringing, mesh with higher hold strength and stiffness suits advanced play.
What to Look For in Lacrosse Shafts and Handles
The lacrosse shaft impacts feel, control and energy transfer during play. With choosing the shaft that suits your position and playing style, you gain an advantage in ball handling, passing and shooting.
For offensive players, lightweight composite shafts made of materials like carbon fiber provide superior maneuverability for quicker stick moves behind the back and around defenders. The strength to stiffness ratio also offers excellent energy transfer for faster, more accurate shots. Offensive handles range from 30 to 40 inches. Rubber grip coatings ensure control despite moisture or gloves.
Shorter shafts between 20 to 30 inches benefit defensive players who need tighter stick control when poke checking and intercepting passes. Stiffer aluminum alloy and titanium shafts give defensemen the durability to absorb checks while maintaining structural integrity at the head. Gripped handles paired with flexible yet strong shafts optimize control.
Goalie shafts offer extended length for maximum ball blocking within the crease. Graphite composite constructions give goalies the combination of lightness for quick reaction saves along with stiffness for stopping high-velocity shots. Angled side grips allow goalies to choke up just below the throat for more leverage and control when extending outside the crease.
Choosing the lacrosse shaft providing the best balance of strength, stiffness, weight and grip feel for your position gives you a noticeable performance edge you’ll feel on every possession.
Lacrosse Head Shapes and Styles for All Positions
Lacrosse heads come in a variety of shapes and sizes designed for specific positions and stick skills. Selecting the optimal head provides an advantage in ball control, passing, scooping and shooting based on your role.
For offensive players, wider heads with more flexible sidewalls offer superior ball control while cradling, dodging and looking to feed. A deeper pocket improves holding and handling for quick stick moves behind the back or through traffic. Scoop shaped heads assist ground ball pickups for midfielders. Offensive heads range from 6 to 10 inches across at the widest point.
Narrower heads from 4 to 6 inches wide suit defensive players who need tighter stick checking and quicker transitions from defense to offense. The pinched head shape provides accuracy for pokes, slaps and outlet passes. Stiff sidewalls give defensemen more power when pressing sticks and contesting possessions.
Goalies tend to use oversized heads up to 15 inches wide for maximum surface area coverage when blocking shots. The flared design stops outside shots along the pipe and inside pick shots across the body. Low pocket placements let goalies choke up for outlet passes after saves.
Considering usual stick moves and field tasks, lacrosse players gain an advantage by matching head width, sidewall flexibility and pocket placement to their position and style. With the optimal head providing control and feel, you boost on-field performance in every category.
Lacrosse Goggles to Protect Eyes and Visibility
Protecting the eyes from damage while maintaining clear visibility is a priority for safe lacrosse play. Lacrosse goggles provide impact-resistant coverage around the eyes along with optical enhancements for tracking the ball in motion.
Lacrosse goggles feature durable polycarbonate or thermoplastic lenses treated to resist scratches and fracture on contact. Ventilated frames constructed from flexible yet strong composites contour the face without limiting sightlines. Wide bridges keep the goggle fit secure despite head movement and contact checks.
Tinted lenses enhance visibility in sunny conditions by filtering glare and sharpening contrast. Mirrored coatings also prevent opponents from seeing where players are looking when scanning the field. Anti-fog treatments on the interior lens surface prevent moisture buildup that obscures vision on hot, humid days. Look for lacrosse goggles treated inside and out for lasting performance in any environment.
Ensuring lacrosse goggles fit snugly around the eyes prevents the goggles from shifting during competition. Adequate ventilation via multiple ports prevents lens fogging while limiting sweat drips that run into the eyes. Adjustable straps secure the goggles comfortably against the face. For comprehensive eye protection and clarity, lacrosse goggles marked ASTM F803 safeguard eyes while improving view of the ball and opponents.
Why Custom Fit Lacrosse Mouthguards Are Recommended
Lacrosse mouthguards play a crucial role in injury prevention by protecting the teeth, jaws, lips and tongue. With custom-fit mouthguards offering the most secure protection and performance benefits, players gain an advantage by opting for a mouthguard molded to their dental imprint.
Custom fit lacrosse mouthguards from your dentist ensure accurate alignment with the teeth for consistent comfort and enabling clear speech. The molding process captures an exact impression of the teeth, gums and jaw using dental impression putty. This high-precision fit disperses impact and prevents the guard from dislodging.
Players also benefit from choosing custom features like flavored bite plates that encourage consistent wear. Extra thick posterior pads minimize jaw soreness from routine collisions. Integrated breathing channels reduce airflow restriction for less breathing resistance during intense gameplay.
Compared to stock “boil-and-bite” guards, custom lacrosse mouthguards offer better shock absorption, fit consistency and airflow due to the contoured molding process. Guards made from medical-grade polymers provide long-lasting dental and mouth protection. Seeing a dentist for a custom fitted mouthguard gives players the best protection possible.
Lacrosse Training Aids for Improving Skills
Lacrosse training aids allow players to refine fundamentals like cradling, scooping, passing and shooting for game-ready confidence. Targeting skill weaknesses with sport-specific training tools accelerates individual development.
Stick cradling trainers attach to shaft ends, requiring players to control the head for a set number of continuous cradles. Agility sticks impede shaft rotation, building wrist strength and head control. Eye-hand coordination improves with toss-back nets that return passed balls to the thrower. Complete passing pillars with targets at varying heights hone accuracy.
Wall-ball improves reaction time by throwing and catching ricocheted passes at game speed. Shooting nets with targets challenge accuracy. Goalie reaction trainers mimic dodging and shooting for faster save reflexes. Resistance bands during shooting and passing build strength. Controlling weighted balls requires extra hand strength and quicker release.
For positioning and instincts, video apps break down game footage to analyze decision-making and spatial awareness. Cleats for traction on agility ladders and plyometric boxes build explosive acceleration. Hydration gear keeps energy and focus steady during extended skill sessions.
Dedicated training with focused drills and tools elevates skills better than scrimmages alone. Utilizing lacrosse training aids identified for your development needs accelerates improvement in specific fundamentals.
Lacrosse Uniform Styles and Trends
Lacrosse uniforms need to perform under intense athletic conditions while representing team identity. Advanced fabrics, vibrant colors and updated cuts define lacrosse uniform style trends that blend form with peak function.
Lightweight, breathable technical fabrics like perforated polyester increase ventilation and cooling. Strategic mesh paneling reduces cling. Antimicrobial treatments prevent odor buildup over long tournaments and seasons. Compression fits support muscles and increase stamina.
Bold hue combos and patterns on practice pinnies aid group identification for positional drills. Fade and gradient techniques add visual depth on jerseys. Sub-limated digital print offers limitless color personalization. Metallic fabric accents reflect light for eye-catching shine.
Updated jersey and short cuts allow freedom of movement for sprints, cuts and checks. Longer shorts with side vents provide leg coverage and mobility. Shoulder and arm panels match shoulder pad placement for streamlined fit. Fitted yet flexible fabrics maintain range of motion.
Today’s lacrosse uniforms fuse rich, vibrant style with technical performance and innovative fabrication. As the game and gear evolve in tandem, uniforms continue driving self-expression and team spirit.