The Complete Lacrosse Ball Guide For All Players

The Complete Lacrosse Ball Guide For All Players

NCAA Regulation Lacrosse Balls – Must be NOCSAE Certified for Safety

When shopping for lacrosse balls, one of the most important factors to consider is whether the ball meets NCAA regulations. All game balls used in NCAA lacrosse must be NOCSAE certified. NOCSAE, which stands for National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment, sets safety standards for balls and other sports equipment to help reduce injuries.

To receive NOCSAE certification, lacrosse balls must undergo rigorous laboratory testing. Balls are shot out of an air cannon at high velocities to simulate the forces exerted during gameplay. Tests evaluate the ball’s weight, circumference, stiffness, and impact absorption. Only balls that meet precise size, weight, flexibility, and durability benchmarks pass certification.

So why is NOCSAE certification so crucial? Using lacrosse balls that do not meet NOCSAE standards puts players at higher risk of hand, head, and facial injuries from ball impact. NOCSAE conducts ongoing research and frequently updates test protocols as more data emerges on injury biomechanics. Their standards help ensure balls used in NCAA play have uniform performance across different environmental conditions and withstand aggressive play.

When you see the distinctive NOCSAE logo printed on a lacrosse ball, you can be confident it has passed rigorous safety tests. For youth leagues, high school teams, and college club programs, NOCSAE balls are strongly recommended though not always required. But when playing in NCAA contests, only NOCSAE-approved lacrosse balls may be used on the field.

Coaches, players, and officials must be diligent about using regulation balls in games and practices to promote safety. Supplying substandard equipment contradicts the NCAA commitment to player wellbeing. Supporting athletes includes providing gear engineered and tested to minimize preventable harm. So when stocking your team’s equipment bag, always reach for NOCSAE-certified lacrosse balls.

Different Lacrosse Ball Colors & Uses

Lacrosse balls come in a variety of colors, with each shade serving a particular purpose. White lacrosse balls are the standard used in men’s field lacrosse at high school, college, and pro levels. Their bright white color stands out against grass and dirt, making the balls easy to see. Goalies rely on the high visibility to track shots. For field players, white lacrosse balls are ideal for fast, accurate passing and catching.

For women’s lacrosse, yellow balls are used. Yellow balls provide good visibility on natural grass playing surfaces. Since women’s lacrosse rules limit stick contact, the softer yellow balls help ensure a gentler, more controlled game. Yellow balls are also common in box lacrosse, played indoors on artificial turf.

Orange and red lacrosse balls serve a specialty purpose in training. Their vibrant color helps players focus visually on ball handling. During passing, catching, and cradling drills, orange lacrosse balls stimulate hand-eye coordination. Goalies use orange and red balls for reaction training, as the bold color improves tracking and reflex responses.

Pink lacrosse balls support breast cancer awareness and fundraising efforts. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and many teams use pink balls for games played during that timeframe. Sales of pink balls help raise money for breast cancer research and support programs.

For night lacrosse games, glow-in-the-dark neon lacrosse balls enhance playability. Under stadium lights, the phosphorescent lime green, orange, pink, and yellow balls shine brightly so athletes can follow ball movement. For cost reasons, glow balls are primarily used for night games rather than practices.

While standard ball colors are specified for NCAA and professional play, recreational leagues can be more flexible. Multi-colored sets allow teams to alternate looks for fun. For clinic and camp participants new to lacrosse, softer balls in vivid hues help build confidence catching, throwing, and carrying the ball.

Lacrosse ball color variety adds visual interest, safety, and versatility for different light conditions, play levels, and fundraising initiatives. Next time you need lacrosse balls, considering choosing a color suited to your specific needs and goals.

Buying Lacrosse Balls in Bulk For Savings

For lacrosse players and teams, buying balls in bulk quantities can provide big savings compared to purchasing individual balls at retail pricing. Bulk lacrosse ball packages are available in handy options like bucket sets, bags with carry straps, and boxes. Typical quantities are sets of 12, 36, 60, 100 or even 120 balls.

The more balls you buy in a bulk package, the lower the per ball cost. Buying 100 lacrosse balls at once saves around 30% versus buying 10 balls individually. Purchasing 120 balls can save over 50% per ball. With high school, college, and youth teams going through lots of balls for practices and games, bulk buying makes economic sense.

Bulk lacrosse balls packages are available from major sporting goods brands like Brine, Warrior, Maverik, and STX. Large online retailers often offer discounts when ordering cases and buckets versus individual balls. Or shop specialty lacrosse equipment sites for bundle deals. If your program needs a very high quantity like 500 balls for a tournament, contact manufacturers directly for quotes.

Opt for NOCSAE approved balls in regulation colors like white and yellow for optimal safety and playability. Be sure any printed team logos, lettering, or designs are applied using ink that does not rub off onto player’s gear or hands. Request free shipping or look for free shipping promotions when available.

Before placing a large lacrosse ball order, arrange proper storage space. Keep balls in a cool, dry area safe from direct sunlight and temperature extremes. Let pressure out of new balls until ready for use.

With hundreds of balls whizzing around in practices and games, durability is a must. Quality bulk balls maintain shape and responsiveness even when subject to rough play. Replacing individual damaged balls from time to time will keep the training supply fresh.

Investing in new balls periodically is part of keeping athletes safe and developing their skills. Bulk buying makes this essential expenditure more affordable. Do some comparisons and order balls for the whole team to enjoy big savings.

Used and Discount Lacrosse Balls – Gently Used Can Save Money

Purchasing used lacrosse balls can help stretch your equipment budget. Pre-owned balls that still have good life left offer big savings over new regulation balls. Used balls are ideal for practices rather than games.

Check local listings on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and garage sales for bargain opportunities. Teams or players who’ve upgraded to new balls sometimes sell large used sets cheaply just to clear them out. Inspect balls carefully before purchasing to ensure no major cuts, embedded dirt, or smooth worn areas. Avoid balls missing significant chunks or those with very deflated shape.

Quality used balls should still have good grip and moderate bounce. Take a bucket of used balls to practice and try them out with passing drills and shots on goal before buying more. While not suitable for games, used balls with moderate scuffing and discoloration can work perfectly fine for drills. Just avoid ones worn to a slick sheen that are slippery and won’t catch well.

Established resellers like Play It Again Sports also carry discounted used balls. Their inventory is tested for retained playability versus rejects with issues. Some lacrosse retailers sell new factory second balls with minor cosmetic defects at a discount. These will perform like new but have minor print flaws or inconsistent dye color.

For casual practice by small youth teams or individuals, whiffle balls can be an extremely affordable option. The lightweight plastic with holes allows young players to build handling skills and take shots without hurting hands or damaging property. Tennis balls are another dirt-cheap alternative for wall ball practice.

While regulation lacrosse balls must be pristine for game use, gently used balls still have a purpose. Supplementing good used balls into high volume drills saves money to invest in other gear. Just be selective about quality and condition to ensure a safe, positive practice experience.

Proper Inflation For Lacrosse Ball Performance

Inflating lacrosse balls to the proper air pressure is vital for optimal handling, shooting, and safety. Underinflated balls are too soft, while overinflated balls get excessively hard and bouncy. The recommended inflation range specified by manufacturers and leagues keeps balls within ideal stiffness parameters.

For male athletes playing field lacrosse, balls should be inflated to 7.5-15.9 pounds per square inch. Youth and high school players will fare best on the lower end around 8 psi, while college and pro players handled firmer balls near the upper limit.

Women’s lacrosse balls have a lower recommended range of 12-13 psi. The slightly softer ball helps encourage proper catching technique and tempers impact forces during stick checks. Box lacrosse balls are also less inflated, usually 10-12 psi to limit bounce off hard arena surfaces.

Use a pressure gauge designed for sport balls when inflating lacrosse balls. Don’t just estimate based on squeezing the ball in your hand. Over or under inflation even by a couple psi makes a noticeable play difference. Ensure your ball pump needle is the right size for the ball valve hole.

Brand new lacrosse balls may feel a bit slick and hard at maximum inflation pressure. Break them in during a few practices to improve grip and responsiveness. But do continue checking inflation levels regularly.

Weather conditions affect ball pressure too. The same ball can feel drastically softer on a hot day versus a frigid night game. Adjust inflation accordingly. Storing balls properly maintains pressure too. Keep out of direct sunlight and avoid letting balls freeze.

Proper inflation ensures balls fly straight from passes, retain handling ease, and provide cushioning upon impact. Players perform best when equipment like balls match expectations. So invest in a quality gauge and adopt consistent inflation habits for reliable lacrosse ball performance.

Lacrosse Ball Drills For Handling and Catching

Mastering lacrosse ball handling and catching skills requires diligent practice. Various individual and partner drills using lacrosse balls help engrain proper technique. Here are some top training activities to incorporate using balls alone or with a teammate:

Wall ball challenges hand-eye coordination, quick reaction time, and stick movement. Throw the ball against a solid wall from varying distances and work on cleanly catching the rebound with the lacrosse stick pocket. Move around to receive balls left, right, high, and low.

The ladder drill develops precise footwork and handling. Place lacrosse balls 1-2 feet apart in a straight line or zig-zag pattern. Then rapidly maneuver down the “ladder” scooping up balls and weaving as you go. Race against partners or the clock.

Add obstacle cones for an agility and ground ball drill. Scatter cones on the field and place lacrosse balls around them. Sprint through the obstacles, quickly scooping up ground balls and cradling past cones. Vary ball placement to prevent memorizing patterns.

For catching skill work, take 10-15 yard shots on a partner who tries to snag the ball in their stick. Emphasize proper form receiving catches with the lead hand above the head. Increase distance for a challenge.

To rehearse game-like scenarios, run 2-on-1 or 3-on-2 fast break drills. The offense sprints downfield passing while defenders attempt intercepts and outlet passes back the other way if gaining possession.

Repetition with weighted balls also builds strength. Heavier balls challenge hands and arms to work harder, improving quickness too.

Drilling with lacrosse balls engrains muscle memory for fluid handling. Work individually to sharpen weaknesses, then apply skills under pressure in competitive team scenarios.

Goalie Lacrosse Ball Training Equipment

In addition to standard lacrosse balls, goalies require specialty training equipment to hone their reaction time, footwork, hand-eye coordination, and shot stopping abilities. Various weighted balls, oversized balls, rebounder targets, and other gear help goalies develop lightning quick reflexes.

Reaction balls such as the Mongo Goalie Trainer are weighted lacrosse balls with an unstable internal wobble. When thrown against a wall or by a teammate, the erratic bounces improve reaction time by forcing goalies to adapt to each unique trajectory.

For tracking drills, oversized lacrosse balls approximately 50% larger than regulation balls challenge goalies to follow and stop shots with longer hang time. Oversized balls thrown from close range also help condition blocking.

Lacrosse rebounder targets return balls to the goalie at high speeds. Some rebounder models randomly alter trajectories to mimic deceptive shots. Others have various targets that require specific save techniques when hit.

Wax or plastic infused training lacrosse balls help strengthen goalie’s hands for catching harder shots. The slick surface forces a tight grip and secure cradle to control the ball.

Attaching thick resistance bands between the goalie stick head and crossbar provides weighted training as goalies move through blocking, passing, and clearing motions. Bands challenge grip strength to handle harder shots.

For footwork, flick weighted agility balls rapid fire at a goalie’s feet as they shuffle and step-out quickly from post to post. This sharpens lateral speed and explosiveness pushing off.

With the right mix of specialized training equipment, goalies build the lightning reflexes, solid fundamentals, and mental stamina required to dominate the crease.

Alternatives To Regulation Lacrosse Balls

For new lacrosse players, regulation balls made of solid rubber can be difficult to control initially. Alternative ball options help build confidence and stick skills before advancing to standard lacrosse balls. Trainers, coaches, and parents can choose developmentally appropriate balls based on age and ability level.

Indoor practice balls made of soft, lightweight foam are ideal for beginners. With a larger, softer profile compared to outdoor lacrosse balls, foam balls are easy to scoop up, catch, and pass back and forth. They help new players get comfortable maneuvering with a stick before adding harder balls.

Whiffle lacrosse balls have holes throughout to slow down flight speed. The plastic construction with a hollow interior prevents injury from errant shots indoors or when playing wall ball by yourself. Whiffle balls guide proper throwing, catching, and cradling motions.

For casual backyard play, many opt for simple tennis balls. They fit reasonably well in lacrosse stick pockets. Tennis balls are extremely inexpensive for high volume drills. However, they lack rebound of regulation lacrosse balls.

Pick-up soft lacrosse balls fabricated of spongy materials absorb impact. They provide a safety buffer for 3-on-3 informal games with family and friends. Gentler soft balls build players’ confidence too.

Lightweight training lacrosse balls help develop stick skills and handling. Initially focusing on technique rather than catching harder thrown regulation balls removes fear.

Lacrosse sticks outfitted with deeper pockets and wider heads may also assist new players initially. But ultimately, advancing to standard gear ensures proper skill development.

The right starter lacrosse balls pave the way for picking up the nuances of handling, cradling, scooping, catching, and passing. Developing touch early encourages enthusiasm for the sport.

How to Clean Lacrosse Balls Properly

Regularly cleaning lacrosse balls helps maintain performance and extends usable life. Dirt, grass, mud, and grime on the ball’s surface can impact handling and flight trajectory. Balls used frequently in practices and games require periodic cleaning to keep them in top playing condition. Follow these steps to properly clean lacrosse balls:

Rinse balls immediately after use to remove loose dirt and debris. Use a hose or dunk in a bucket of clean water. For thorough cleaning, use mild dish soap and a soft brush to lift off caked on mud or turf rubber pellets. Avoid harsh detergents.

Sanitize balls periodically with a sports equipment disinfectant solution to kill bacteria, mold, and viruses. Spray balls lightly and let sit 5-10 minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth. This helps prevent spread of contagious skin infections like MRSA.

Remove stubborn stains with a lacrosse ball specific cleaner containing USDA certified biodegradable ingredients. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub stained areas. Avoid harsh abrasives that could damage the ball.

For balls with textured surfaces to enhance grip, use a fingernail brush to extract dirt lodged in crevices. Check for embedded pebbles too and pick them out.

After thorough cleaning, allow balls to air dry fully before storage or reinflation. Playing with damp balls alters weight and performance. Rotate use of different ball sets to allow drying time.

Avoid soaking balls in harsh cleaners for prolonged periods, microwaving to dry, or washing in washing machines. These techniques risk damaging the balls.

Regular ball maintenance improves safety, playability, and product lifespan. Develop a ball cleaning routine and supplies to keep equipment in game-ready condition.

Storing Lacrosse Balls to Maintain Quality

Proper storage keeps lacrosse balls in prime playable condition and extends their useful life. Ideal storage conditions minimize temperature fluctuations, avoid direct sunlight exposure, and control humidity levels. Follow these tips for lacrosse ball storage:

Keep balls out of excessive heat like hot car trunks or storage sheds. Heat causes balls to lose pressure and panels to break down. Storing over 100°F damages balls over time.

Avoid freezing temperatures that can crack balls and permanently deform shape. Don’t leave balls outside in below freezing weather. Allow frozen balls to warm gradually indoors.

Shield balls from direct sunlight whenever possible. UV rays and ozone cause exterior materials to break down faster. Store in an opaque container.

Let some air out of balls after use and reinflate right before the next outing. Keeping balls fully inflated when not in use weakens panels.

Control humidity in storage areas. High humidity causes ball surfaces to become sticky and layers to separate. Use moisture absorbing packs if needed.

Clean balls before storage to prevent mold growth. Check periodically for condensation or musty odor, signs of excess moisture.

Store balls away from sharp objects that could cut panels. Don’t place under heavy objects causing compression.

Set balls on shelving, in mesh bags or perforated buckets for air circulation. Avoid sealing in non-breathable containers.

Rotate stock to use older balls first. Label storage bins by age. Replace balls showing significant wear.

Proper storage allows lacrosse balls to maintain perfect spherical shape, consistent rebound, and ideal grip throughout the season and for multiple years of use.

How to Ship Lacrosse Balls Safely

When ordering lacrosse balls online or transporting balls to games, proper packaging helps ensure balls arrive undamaged. Follow these tips for safely shipping lacrosse balls:

Place balls in a sturdy corrugated cardboard box with at least 2 inches of packing material on all sides. Foam peanuts, crumpled paper, or bubble wrap cushions balls from impacts.

Wrap each ball individually in tissue paper or plastic wrap to prevent rubbing together that damages surfaces. The wrap also contains balls if a seam split occurs.

Use a box size only slightly larger than the ball quantity for a snug fit. Loose balls bang against sides causing dents and cracks. Double box for extra protection.

Tape box seams securely and reinforce corners. Shake box gently to listen for balls moving – if so, add more packing material. Avoid overstuffing.

Write “FRAGILE” clearly on the exterior and use arrow labels to indicate proper upright orientation. Remind shipping handlers to be careful.

Declare full value for lacrosse ball shipments and purchase appropriate insurance. Uninsured boxes are more likely to receive rough handling.

For large bulk orders, consider expedited 1-3 day shipping to minimize transit time. Schedule deliveries to your location to prevent sitting unattended for long periods.

Upon arrival, inspect packaging and balls thoroughly. Note any damage immediately and file insurance claims promptly. Retain all packaging materials.

Order well in advance of need to allow time for replacements if needed. Have backup used balls on hand just in case.

With mindful packing and shipping methods, lacrosse balls can arrive without suffering cracks, dents, or other damage that renders them unplayable.

How to Ship Lacrosse Balls Safely

Shipping lacrosse balls requires careful packaging and handling to prevent damage during transit. Follow these tips to safely send lacrosse balls whether for a team equipment order or returning defective balls:

• Choose a sturdy shipping box with corrugated cardboard thick enough to resist crushing. The box should be just large enough to fit balls snugly with 2-3 inches of packing material on all sides.
• Wrap each ball individually in tissue paper or plastic to isolate it. This prevents balls rubbing together and contain balls if a seam splits open.
• Fill voids firmly with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or bubble wrap so balls cannot shift and bang against the sides during handling.
• Tape box seams extensively for durability. Shake box gently listening for ball movement; if so, add more packing material. Reinforce corners for added strength.
• Clearly label box “Fragile” and indicate proper upright orientation with arrow labels. Remind shipping handlers to be careful.
• Insure shipment for full value of lacrosse balls. Uninsured boxes often receive rougher handling leading to damage.
• For large orders, choose expedited 1-3 day shipping so balls spend minimal time in transit. Schedule deliveries so you’re present upon arrival.
• Upon receipt, thoroughly inspect packaging and balls for any cracks, dents or other damage. Note issues immediately and file claims promptly.
• Order well in advance and have backup balls on hand in case replacements are needed.

With proper packaging and handling, lacrosse balls can ship safely without damage rendering them unusable. Take steps to protect your investment in quality balls.

Boys vs Girls Lacrosse Ball Regulations

There are some key differences between boys and girls lacrosse ball specifications and regulations. Balls used in boys high school and college lacrosse competitions must meet precise size, weight, material, and other stringent standards. Girls game balls have slightly softer properties better suited to their non-contact style of play.

For boys field lacrosse, game balls must be white, made of solid rubber, and measure 7.75 – 8 inches in circumference. Balls must weigh 5 – 5.25 ounces and have a bounce of 53 – 55 inches when dropped from 60 inches per NOCSAE tests. The ball surface must be smooth with a compatible friction coefficient to facilitate handling.

In contrast, balls used in girls lacrosse games have a larger 8.5 – 8.82 inch circumference measurement and 4.5 – 5 ounce weight. The rubber is slightly softer and more pliable. The firmer, smaller boys ball travels faster and farther when thrown, appropriate for their full contact format.

Girls balls must also meet NOCSAE standards and pass impact absorption tests. However, the specifications result in a less dense feel. The larger, softer girls ball enhances control for catching and gentle checking motions allowed in women’s lacrosse. A firmer ball could cause greater injury with accidental contact.

While boys teams often favor brighter white or yellow balls for visibility, girls lacrosse balls typically feature bold colors like red, green and pink. This allows female players to more easily track and follow the ball in motion. Vibrant colors also showcase the fast, skillful play.

The different balls suit each gender’s version of lacrosse. But women can still hone their skills in the off-season using regulation men’s balls. Just as youth players develop with softer balls before advancing to high school equipment. Handling a variety of ball types ultimately improves versatility across the sport.

When to Replace Old and Worn Lacrosse Balls

With frequent high-intensity use, lacrosse balls deteriorate over time. Knowing when to take balls out of rotation and replace with new ones optimizes safety and maintains proper play characteristics. Here are signs lacrosse balls need replacing:

Cracks or holes in the rubber allow air leakage affecting performance. Check ball seams carefully for fissures or gaps. Even small cuts grow over time. Balls showing any exterior damage should be discarded.

Significant scuffing results in a slick, worn sheen on the balls’ surface. This causes slippery hands and errant passes and shots. Light scuffing is normal, but heavy abrasion hampers handling.

Permanent dents or lumps alter the ball’s uniform spherical shape, impacting flight consistency. Even if otherwise intact, irregularities affect play. Flatten spots indicate interior breakdown.

Loss of exterior grip and tackiness makes balls harder to control, especially with humid hands or damp weather. Brand new balls have the ideal friction coating.

Weight deviations away from regulation specifications change how balls perform when thrown or shot. Weigh used balls periodically to check.

Exposure to extreme heat or cold can damage internal structural integrity not visible externally right away. But temperature stresses will impact durability over time.

Balls more than 2-3 years old likely need replacing, even without noticeable issues. Performance properties gradually decline with use, exposure, and age.

Rotating new balls into practices and games helps ensure balls meet specifications for safe play. Players perform their best with equipment in optimal condition.

Choosing Lacrosse Ball Brands and Manufacturers

When purchasing lacrosse balls, popular athletic brands offer quality and performance you can rely on. Top manufacturers like STX, Maverik, Warrior, Brine, and Nike produce balls used at elite high school and college levels. Other brands like Champion and PowerShaft also make durable, affordable balls ideal for practice.

STX balls with MaximumGrip technology provide superior control with a tactile pebbled surface. The rubber compound withstands hardcore usage. STX balls meet all NOCSAE standards for safe play across youth to pro leagues.

Maverik balls feature premium RubberTec covering for optimal stick feel. Their Optic color options like electric green, pink, and orange stand out on the field. Maverik Lacrosse, a division of Bauer Hockey, brings innovation to their engineering.

Warrior lacrosse balls offer sleek Thermo Plastic Rubber exteriors in vivid hues. Their durable one-piece molded construction maintains shape and rebound. Warrior balls provide excellent grip even in wet conditions.

Brine balls are trusted for official NCAA tournaments and championships. The BallTracker system allows custom logo tracking to monitor usage and product testing. Brine balls offer optimal visibility and handling.

Champion Sports produces affordable, quality balls ideal for high volume practice sessions and physical education classes. Their bright colors resist staining and they ship deflated to extend life.

For casual play and beginners, brands like PowerShaft, GoSports, and Silverback offer less expensive balls with good durability. Check reviews to find the right value and performance combination for your needs and budget.