Breathable Fabrics
Since lacrosse is played primarily during warm weather, you’ll want to choose shorts made of lightweight, breathable fabrics. Synthetic blends that wick moisture will keep kids cooler and prevent overheating. Mesh paneling can also allow for better airflow.
Perfect Fit
The right fit is crucial – not too loose but not compressive. Look for shorts with an elastic waistband and adjustable inner drawcord so they stay put without restricting movement during play. A gusseted crotch also allows a full range of motion.
Protective Padding
Integrated padding in the hips, thighs and tailbone region provides extra protection. Shorts with built-in pads reduce the need to wear bulky protective gear underneath.
Fun Colors & Designs
Let your kids express their personal style by choosing shorts in their favorite colors and cool prints. Bold plaids, camo and neon brights keep them looking sharp on the field.
Moisture-Wicking
Moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric keeps players comfortable and prevents weighed down soggy shorts. Material engineered to wick sweat off the body and promote rapid evaporation is ideal.
Stretch Fabric
The best lacrosse shorts contain stretchy athletic material like spandex to allow unrestricted mobility during gameplay. Flexible fabrics move with kids’ bodies for a full range of motion.
Comfortable Waistband
A flexible waistband that provides a secure fit without digging in is key. Wide waistbands with a drawcord or partial elastic help customize the fit.
Ventilation
Look for mesh ventilation zones, side vents and other cooling features that promote airflow to keep players dry. Strategic vent placement lets hot air escape.
Compression
Some shorts offer built-in compression to provide muscle stability and support during rigorous gameplay. Compression promotes strength and endurance.
Pocket Designs
Options like side slits, cargo and zippered pockets let kids securely store essentials. Convenient pockets keep mouthguards, phones and other small items readily accessible.
Antimicrobial Protection
Antimicrobial technology prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria in the fabric. Shorts stay fresher longer with antimicrobial properties.
Quick-Drying
Look for lightweight, moisture-wicking material engineered to dry quickly. Shorts that dry fast keep kids feeling cool and comfortable all game long.
Optimal Length
The ideal lacrosse short length allows for full mobility without impediment. Lengths between 6-10 inches give adequate coverage and range.
Perfect Fit
Ill-fitting shorts can make it tough for young lacrosse players to move freely on the field. When trying on lacrosse shorts, parents should check that they are not too loose or too compressive. The ideal fit allows full mobility without restriction. Look for shorts with some stretch and an elastic waistband that provides a secure yet comfortable fit. An inner drawcord is useful for adjusting the waist size. How do the shorts fit while running and twisting? Make sure there is no pulling at the seams or gaping at the waist. A gusseted crotch aids free range of motion by eliminating binding and discomfort in the critical thigh and groin region. Try squatting and lunging to ensure the shorts allow natural movement without limitation. Proper fit means the shorts move with your kid’s body, not against it.
Questions like “Do these shorts pinch or pull anywhere?” and “Can you crouch and run comfortably in these shorts?” can help assess fit. Well-fitted shorts will allow kids to play their best game without discomfort or distraction from poor fit. Take the time to get the sizing right so lacrosse shorts support play rather than hinder it.
Protective Padding
Given the physical demands of lacrosse, protective padding is an important feature to consider when selecting youth shorts. Integrated padding in key contact zones helps minimize bruising and abrasions from routine gameplay collisions and falls. Look for shorts with padded hip and tailbone sections, as these areas often take the brunt of impacts when players hit the ground. Thigh padding is also useful for added protection during checks and blocks. Built-in padding reduces the need for separate padded girdles or sliders underneath the shorts. The padding should be lightweight and breathable so it doesn’t hinder mobility or overheat players. One tip is to have your kid wear the padded shorts and run, cut and scoop balls to test if the padding restricts movement or bunches up. If the shorts pass the mobility test, the padding will safeguard your young athlete without impeding their agility on the field.
As lacrosse is a high-intensity sport, durable padding is a must. Check that the protective padding is firmly secured in the shorts and offers sufficient shock absorption. High-density foam or flexible plastic pads hold up better to repeated impacts. Well-designed protective shorts will be ready to take a beating game after game.
Fun Colors & Designs
Allowing kids to pick lacrosse shorts in their favorite colors and prints gives them a chance to showcase their personal style. Bold, bright colors like neon orange, lime green or hot pink make players stand out on the field. Cool camo prints and tie-dye swirls also make a fashion statement. Let your young athlete choose plaids or stripes in their preferred color combos. Plus, studies show wearing a favorite color can boost mood and performance. Vibrant colors and fun designs let kids put their own stamp on required gear.
While style matters, don’t sacrifice fit and function. Prioritize shorts made with high-tech athletic fabrics first, then look for colors and patterns that will make your kid excited to suit up. Breathable, quick-drying materials keep them comfortable even in loud prints or dark shades that absorb heat. Focus on proper fit and protective padding before color preferences. The range of colors, prints and styling like contrasting side panels or piping available today allows lacrosse players to coordinate their gear and still look sharp on the field.
Stretch Fabric
The best youth lacrosse shorts contain some spandex or elastic fiber to create stretch in the fabric. The stretchiness allows the shorts to move freely with the athlete’s body during pivots, dodges and directional changes on the field. Stretch fabric prevents any binding or constriction of movement so players can cut and run without restriction. Look for shorts made with at least 15-20% spandex blended into polyester or nylon. The stretch also allows the shorts to hold their shape after repeated wear and washing.
Make sure to test the stretch and flexibility by having your kid perform lunges, squats and sprints while trying on lacrosse shorts. If the fabric pulls tight across the thighs or the shorts ride up, keep looking for a style with greater stretch. Proper stretch allows unimpeded motion in all directions. Quick bursts of speed require fabric with ample stretch and recovery. Active kids will appreciate the freedom of movement stretchy athletic shorts provide.
Comfortable Waistband
An elastic and adjustable waistband is a key feature when selecting lacrosse shorts for youth players. The waistband should fit snugly without pinching or binding. Look for a wide waistband, around 2 inches, that distributes pressure evenly and stays put. Partial elastic combined with a drawcord allows kids to customize the fit. The drawcord should be smooth and flat to avoid digging in. Make sure any hardware like metal grommets or cord locks are padded so they don’t irritate the skin. The waistband also needs to withstand stretch and resist sagging or rolling during active play. Quick sprints, sharp cuts and constant motion put stress on the waistband construction.
When trying on lacrosse shorts, test the waistband by having your athlete twist, bend and run to ensure it stays comfortable. Adjust the waist tie and move around to verify the shorts don’t loosen or ride up. Well-fitted waistbands will move with the body without chafing or bouncing around. Taking the time to ensure the waistband is secure but not constrictive is worth it for all-game comfort.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for youth lacrosse shorts to keep players cool, dry and comfortable during games. Look for shorts designed with cooling features that allow airflow to the skin. Mesh paneling in moisture-prone areas like the inner thighs, rear and side seams lets hot air circulate out. Side vents and gussets provide additional breathability. Some shorts also incorporate mesh pockets or a partially-open leg design for enhanced ventilation.
Test for adequate airflow by having your athlete wear the shorts for an extended period. Encourage them to run, jump and squat as if in a game. See if any areas feel overheated or damp. Quality lacrosse shorts will be equipped with strategically placed ventilation zones to prevent overheating and sweat buildup. Well-ventilated shorts help young players stay energized and focused on the game, not on being uncomfortably hot and bothered.
Compression
Compression shorts are a popular choice for youth lacrosse players. The snug fit offers stability and support for muscles during the rigors of gameplay. Compression aids performance by improving circulation, which reduces fatigue and speeds recovery. Look for shorts with built-in compression panels placed strategically in the quads, hamstrings and glutes. Some offer adjustable compression using Velcro or drawcords. Light, even compression allows a full range of motion while reducing muscle vibration and risk of injury.
Test compression shorts by having your young athlete do squats, sprints and cuts to ensure the compression stays put and provides muscle support without restriction. Compression should never feel too tight or cut off circulation. Well-designed compression lacrosse shorts will boost stamina and protect muscles without sacrificing mobility.
Pocket Designs
Functional pockets are key features to look for when selecting lacrosse shorts. Storage options allow young players to keep essentials close at hand on the field. Side slit pockets, cargo pockets and rear pockets provide easy access to mouthguards, phones or snacks. Look for at least two decent-sized, deep pockets to hold larger items securely. Zippered pockets are ideal for protecting valuables like phones and wallets. Some shorts incorporate mesh pockets for added ventilation and drainage.
When trying shorts, have your athlete load up the pockets and run around to test pocket security. Items should stay firmly in place without bouncing around or slowing them down. Useful pockets eliminate the need to return to the sidelines to retrieve an item. Convenient storage keeps hydration, mouthguards and other necessities within quick reach to keep young lacrosse players at their best.
Antimicrobial Protection
Antimicrobial technology is an excellent feature to look for when choosing youth lacrosse shorts. The antimicrobial additive prevents odor-causing bacteria from growing in the fabric. This keeps the shorts fresher for longer, minimizing after-game stench. Silver ions are commonly used as the antimicrobial agent and are bonded at the fiber level. The ions continue working wash after wash without degrading. Compared to shorts without antimicrobial properties, the treated ones maintain their protective ability even after repeated wearing and laundering.
When researching lacrosse shorts, look for explicit mention of antimicrobial technology or fabric treatments. This indicates a durable, lasting application rather than a temporary topical finish. Antimicrobial shorts extend the wearability between washes and make all-day tournaments more comfortable for young athletes. The antimicrobial layer is combined with moisture wicking fabric to keep shorts dry and odor-free all game long.
Quick-Drying
Ideal lacrosse shorts for youth players are made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric. Getting soaked with sweat or water is inevitable during intense games. Quick-drying shorts keep kids feeling comfortable even when wet by rapidly drawing moisture away from the skin and evaporating it. The hydrophobic fabric fibers literally expel water rather than absorb it. Synthetic blends like polyester or nylon combined with some spandex for stretch deliver the best quick-dry performance. Shorts made with certain quick-dry materials can transition from drenched to damp in as little as 10-15 minutes of wear.
To test for quick-dry capabilities, have your kid wear the shorts in the shower or submerge a swatch of fabric in water for 15 minutes, then check how quickly it dries. Quality lacrosse shorts will wick moisture fast and feel merely damp, not dripping, shortly after getting wet. Quick-drying shorts lead to quick, energized kids ready to get back in the game.
Optimal Length
Finding lacrosse shorts with the right length is key for unrestricted mobility. The length should provide adequate coverage without impairing running and dodging. Standard lengths are between 6-10 inches but considering your child’s height is helpful. Shorter inseams around 5-7 inches allow taller players complete freedom of movement when scooping, throwing and pivoting. Average height kids do well with inseams of 7-9 inches. Try different lengths to determine what suits your athlete best. The leg hem should fall just above the knee crease so it doesn’t constrict the thigh or ride up. Shorts that are too long can feel cumbersome.
When trying on lacrosse shorts, have your young player run through drills like dodging, scooping and shooting to test range of motion. If the shorts ride up, constrict leg motion or cause discomfort, keep looking. Proper length means kids can play all out without restriction from their lacrosse shorts. Focus on fit and function over a particular length when selecting the optimal shorts.
Mobility and Coverage
When selecting the right lacrosse shorts for youth players, focusing on fit for mobility and coverage is key. The ideal shorts allow full freedom of movement without impediment during pivots, dodges and direction changes. Look for an athletic cut contoured to the body and gusseted crotch so the shorts don’t pull or restrict. Lightweight, stretchy fabric maintains range of motion. Proper length provides sufficient coverage without compromising mobility. Test different styles with sprints and agility drills. If the shorts ride up, chafe or limit motion, try a different pair.
Well-fitted shorts are snug but not compression-tight and offer just the right amount of coverage. Length around mid-thigh prevents chafing while allowing quick footwork and strides. Try different inseams to find the length optimal for your athlete’s build and playing style. The focus should be function over fashion. Lacrosse requires shorts optimized for agile movement, not for style points. When kids can move, run and play freely without distraction, you’ve found the right lacrosse shorts.