The Top Youth Lacrosse Equipment for BeginnersThe Top Youth Lacrosse Equipment for Beginners
Choose the Right Lacrosse Stick for Your Child’s Age
When starting out in youth lacrosse, one of the most important pieces of equipment to get right is the lacrosse stick. Choosing the properly sized stick based on your child’s age and skill level will allow them to develop good fundamentals and stick handling abilities from the beginning.
The general rule of thumb is the younger the player, the shorter the stick should be. For example, for players ages 7-9 just entering the sport, a short 35-40 inch attack stick is ideal. This shorter length allows younger kids to more easily cradle, scoop up ground balls, and pass and catch. Longer sticks at this age will be unwieldy and frustrate kids just learning the game.
Once players reach ages 10-13, they can start using a longer 47-54 inch midfield stick to allow for greater reach on passes, shots, and checks. For youth players ages 14 and older, they can progress to a 52-72 inch defense stick for maximum range when poke checking and intercepting passes. Goalies also use longer sticks with wider heads to help block more of the net.
Within these age-based guidelines, it’s also important to consider your child’s height and skill level. Taller kids may be able to manage a longer stick, while beginners still developing fundamentals do best with a shorter stick for better control. Consult with coaches to find the right lacrosse stick length to match your child’s physical size and ability. With the proper stick, their skills and love for the sport will grow rapidly.
When shopping for that first lacrosse stick, avoid very cheap sticks that won’t withstand practice and games. Seek out sticks specifically designed for youth players, with durable yet lightweight shafts and heads designed for optimal ball control. A correctly sized, quality lacrosse stick will equip your young player with the tools they need to hone their skills and enjoy learning the fastest game on two feet!
Get a Helmet That Fits Comfortably and Securely
After selecting the right lacrosse stick, the next vital piece of protective gear to get is a properly fitted helmet. In the fast-paced, physical sport of lacrosse, a helmet is an absolute necessity to prevent head injuries from errant sticks, balls, and contact with other players. Taking the time to find a helmet that fits your child correctly will provide crucial protection as they develop their skills.
When trying on lacrosse helmets, the helmet should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight. There should be no gaps between the pads and the player’s head. The helmet should sit level on the head and low on the forehead to protect the temples and jawline. For an additional fit test, have your child shake their head – the helmet should not shift or rock excessively. The chin strap should also be snug enough to keep the helmet stable but loose enough for comfort.
Helmet sizes run small, medium, and large but it is best to have your child try them on in person for the ideal fit. Work with coaches or sporting goods staff to evaluate proper helmet sizing and positioning. Break in a new helmet before the season starts by wearing it around the house to allow the pads to conform to your player’s head.
Beyond comfort and stability, also look for youth lacrosse helmets engineered with premium protective foam padding and durable polycarbonate or ABS plastic shell construction. Advanced helmet designs include moisture-wicking liner systems to keep players cool and face mask elements that efficiently direct impact forces away from the face.
Lastly, make sure your young athlete takes good care of their helmet by not dropping it, leaving it out in extreme temperatures, or attempting to modify it in any way. A properly fitted lacrosse helmet in good condition minimizes concussion risks and lets your child play with confidence.
Lacrosse Gloves Help Develop Stick Skills
Once the lacrosse stick and helmet are selected, the next key piece of gear for any young player are lacrosse gloves. While optional for some positions, gloves provide important protection for young hands while also enhancing stick control and feel.
Lacrosse gloves shield the hands from inevitable checks and slashes from opponents’ sticks. Padded gloves prevent bruises, blisters, and more serious injuries like broken fingers. Protection is focused on the back of the hand and base of the thumb which are the most vulnerable areas.
Beyond protection, lacrosse gloves also give players better command over their stick. Leather or synthetic palms improve grip, helping young players securely hold their stick through cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting motions. Finger sidewalls preserve dexterity for grabbing ground balls and handling the stick.
When shopping for youth lacrosse gloves, ensure a snug fit for maximum maneuverability. Measure your child’s hand size against sizing charts and read online reviews to select well-constructed gloves with ample padding and ventilation. Avoid bulky gloves that restrict movement.
For practice, cheaper gloves around $25-40 provide sufficient protection and feel. For games, invest in higher end gloves $50-100+ with enhanced durability, grip, and moisture wicking technology to keep hands dry and comfortable. Goalies require specialized thicker gloves for blocking shots.
With practice, gloves will conform to your player’s hand and stick for optimal control. Take care of gloves by avoiding machine drying and use leather conditioner to maintain suppleness. Proper lacrosse gloves equip young players with safer hands and superior stick skills.
Shoulder Pads Prevent Injuries During Checks
Quality Matters: Investing in the Right Stick
When purchasing a lacrosse stick for a young player, it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option. However, investing in a quality stick designed specifically for youth players can make a significant difference in their learning experience and enjoyment of the sport.
What features should you look for in a youth lacrosse stick?
- Durable yet lightweight shaft
- Head design optimized for ball control
- Appropriate flex for the player’s strength and skill level
Ensuring Proper Helmet Fit and Protection
A well-fitting helmet is essential for safety in youth lacrosse. It protects against head injuries from sticks, balls, and player contact.
Key Factors in Helmet Fit
How can you tell if a lacrosse helmet fits correctly?
- The helmet should feel snug but not uncomfortable
- No gaps between pads and the player’s head
- Sits level on the head and low on the forehead
- Minimal shifting when the head is shaken
- Chin strap should be secure but not overly tight
It’s best to have your child try on helmets in person to ensure the best fit. Work with coaches or knowledgeable sporting goods staff to evaluate proper sizing and positioning.
Advanced Helmet Features to Consider
Modern youth lacrosse helmets offer more than just basic protection. Look for these advanced features when selecting a helmet:
- Premium protective foam padding
- Durable polycarbonate or ABS plastic shell
- Moisture-wicking liner systems
- Face mask designs that redirect impact forces
The Importance of Lacrosse Gloves in Skill Development
Lacrosse gloves are more than just protective gear; they play a crucial role in developing stick skills and enhancing overall performance.
Protective Benefits of Lacrosse Gloves
How do lacrosse gloves protect young players?
- Shield hands from checks and slashes
- Prevent bruises, blisters, and more serious injuries
- Focus protection on vulnerable areas like the back of the hand and base of the thumb
Enhancing Stick Control and Feel
Beyond protection, lacrosse gloves contribute significantly to a player’s stick skills:
- Improve grip for secure stick handling
- Enhance control during cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting
- Preserve finger dexterity for ground ball pickup and fine stick movements
When selecting youth lacrosse gloves, ensure a snug fit for maximum maneuverability. Measure your child’s hand size and consult sizing charts to find the right fit.
Essential Protective Gear for Youth Lacrosse Players
While sticks, helmets, and gloves are crucial, there are several other pieces of protective equipment that young lacrosse players need.
Shoulder Pads and Chest Protectors
Shoulder pads and chest protectors are essential for absorbing impacts and preventing injuries to the upper body. Youth models are designed to provide protection without restricting movement.
What features should you look for in youth lacrosse shoulder pads?
- Lightweight, flexible materials
- Adequate coverage of shoulders, chest, and upper back
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
- Ventilation to prevent overheating
Arm Pads and Elbow Guards
Arm pads and elbow guards protect against slashes and checks to the arms. They should cover from the elbow to the wrist, providing protection without limiting flexibility.
Athletic Cups and Supporters
Male players should wear an athletic cup and supporter for protection against low blows. Ensure a proper fit for comfort and maximum protection.
Choosing the Right Lacrosse Shoes for Young Players
Proper footwear is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in a player’s performance and injury prevention.
Cleats vs. Turf Shoes
The choice between cleats and turf shoes depends on the playing surface:
- Cleats: Best for natural grass fields, providing excellent traction
- Turf shoes: Ideal for artificial turf, offering better stability and less stress on joints
For young players who play on various surfaces, consider investing in both types of shoes.
Key Features in Youth Lacrosse Shoes
What should you look for when selecting lacrosse shoes for young players?
- Proper ankle support to prevent sprains
- Lightweight materials for agility
- Durable construction to withstand frequent use
- Adequate cushioning for comfort during long practices and games
Maintaining and Caring for Youth Lacrosse Equipment
Proper maintenance of lacrosse equipment not only extends its lifespan but also ensures optimal performance and safety.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Gear
Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of bacteria and odors. Here’s a basic cleaning routine:
- Wipe down equipment after each use
- Use mild soap and water for thorough cleaning
- Allow gear to air dry completely before storing
- Periodically disinfect with sports equipment cleaner
Proper Storage and Transportation
How you store and transport lacrosse equipment can significantly impact its longevity:
- Store gear in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew
- Use a ventilated bag for transportation to allow moisture to escape
- Avoid leaving equipment in extreme temperatures, especially in a hot car
Enhancing Performance with Additional Lacrosse Accessories
While not essential, certain accessories can help young players improve their skills and enjoy the game more.
Training Aids
Various training aids can help young players develop their skills outside of team practices:
- Rebounder nets for solo practice
- Agility ladders for footwork drills
- Weighted training balls for strength development
Comfort and Performance Accessories
These items can enhance comfort and performance during practices and games:
- Moisture-wicking undergarments
- Grip enhancers for better stick control
- Mouth guards for additional protection
By investing in quality equipment and accessories, maintaining them properly, and choosing gear appropriate for your child’s age and skill level, you can help ensure a positive and safe lacrosse experience for young players.
Choose the Right Lacrosse Stick for Your Child’s Age
When starting out in youth lacrosse, one of the most important pieces of equipment to get right is the lacrosse stick. Choosing the properly sized stick based on your child’s age and skill level will allow them to develop good fundamentals and stick handling abilities from the beginning.
The general rule of thumb is the younger the player, the shorter the stick should be. For example, for players ages 7-9 just entering the sport, a short 35-40 inch attack stick is ideal. This shorter length allows younger kids to more easily cradle, scoop up ground balls, and pass and catch. Longer sticks at this age will be unwieldy and frustrate kids just learning the game.
Once players reach ages 10-13, they can start using a longer 47-54 inch midfield stick to allow for greater reach on passes, shots, and checks. For youth players ages 14 and older, they can progress to a 52-72 inch defense stick for maximum range when poke checking and intercepting passes. Goalies also use longer sticks with wider heads to help block more of the net.
Within these age-based guidelines, it’s also important to consider your child’s height and skill level. Taller kids may be able to manage a longer stick, while beginners still developing fundamentals do best with a shorter stick for better control. Consult with coaches to find the right lacrosse stick length to match your child’s physical size and ability. With the proper stick, their skills and love for the sport will grow rapidly.
When shopping for that first lacrosse stick, avoid very cheap sticks that won’t withstand practice and games. Seek out sticks specifically designed for youth players, with durable yet lightweight shafts and heads designed for optimal ball control. A correctly sized, quality lacrosse stick will equip your young player with the tools they need to hone their skills and enjoy learning the fastest game on two feet!
Get a Helmet That Fits Comfortably and Securely
After selecting the right lacrosse stick, the next vital piece of protective gear to get is a properly fitted helmet. In the fast-paced, physical sport of lacrosse, a helmet is an absolute necessity to prevent head injuries from errant sticks, balls, and contact with other players. Taking the time to find a helmet that fits your child correctly will provide crucial protection as they develop their skills.
When trying on lacrosse helmets, the helmet should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight. There should be no gaps between the pads and the player’s head. The helmet should sit level on the head and low on the forehead to protect the temples and jawline. For an additional fit test, have your child shake their head – the helmet should not shift or rock excessively. The chin strap should also be snug enough to keep the helmet stable but loose enough for comfort.
Helmet sizes run small, medium, and large but it is best to have your child try them on in person for the ideal fit. Work with coaches or sporting goods staff to evaluate proper helmet sizing and positioning. Break in a new helmet before the season starts by wearing it around the house to allow the pads to conform to your player’s head.
Beyond comfort and stability, also look for youth lacrosse helmets engineered with premium protective foam padding and durable polycarbonate or ABS plastic shell construction. Advanced helmet designs include moisture-wicking liner systems to keep players cool and face mask elements that efficiently direct impact forces away from the face.
Lastly, make sure your young athlete takes good care of their helmet by not dropping it, leaving it out in extreme temperatures, or attempting to modify it in any way. A properly fitted lacrosse helmet in good condition minimizes concussion risks and lets your child play with confidence.
Lacrosse Gloves Help Develop Stick Skills
Once the lacrosse stick and helmet are selected, the next key piece of gear for any young player are lacrosse gloves. While optional for some positions, gloves provide important protection for young hands while also enhancing stick control and feel.
Lacrosse gloves shield the hands from inevitable checks and slashes from opponents’ sticks. Padded gloves prevent bruises, blisters, and more serious injuries like broken fingers. Protection is focused on the back of the hand and base of the thumb which are the most vulnerable areas.
Beyond protection, lacrosse gloves also give players better command over their stick. Leather or synthetic palms improve grip, helping young players securely hold their stick through cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting motions. Finger sidewalls preserve dexterity for grabbing ground balls and handling the stick.
When shopping for youth lacrosse gloves, ensure a snug fit for maximum maneuverability. Measure your child’s hand size against sizing charts and read online reviews to select well-constructed gloves with ample padding and ventilation. Avoid bulky gloves that restrict movement.
For practice, cheaper gloves around $25-40 provide sufficient protection and feel. For games, invest in higher end gloves $50-100+ with enhanced durability, grip, and moisture wicking technology to keep hands dry and comfortable. Goalies require specialized thicker gloves for blocking shots.
With practice, gloves will conform to your player’s hand and stick for optimal control. Take care of gloves by avoiding machine drying and use leather conditioner to maintain suppleness. Proper lacrosse gloves equip young players with safer hands and superior stick skills.
Shoulder Pads Prevent Injuries During Checks
An essential piece of protective lacrosse gear, especially for youth players, are shoulder pads. Young athletes’ bodies are still developing, making them vulnerable to shoulder and collarbone injuries from the inevitable checks, collisions, and falls that are part of lacrosse gameplay.
Proper shoulder pad fit is vital – they should be snug to prevent shifting but not impede arm movement. Pads curve over the shoulders with extensions protecting the collarbones and upper back. Lightweight, breathable materials like EVA foam allow freedom of motion. For goalies, maximum protection is essential.
When shopping for youth lacrosse shoulder pads, look for adjustable features like removable pads and straps to dial in the fit as your child grows. Prioritize brands engineered specifically for lacrosse over football pads, which restrict mobility. Pay more for quality construction for extended durability.
Before the season begins, break in shoulder pads so they contour to your young athlete’s body. Ensure the chest protector, arm pads, and gloves work together with the shoulder pads without gaps so gear moves smoothly and nothing rubs or chafes.
Correct shoulder pad sizing and positioning enables free arm movement for quick stick handling while shielding vulnerable joints from injury. Inspect gear before each game and speak up about discomfort. Properly outfitted shoulders elevate performance and safety.
With preparation and the right protective equipment, young lacrosse players can develop their athletic talents in the fast-paced sport while avoiding serious injuries. Shoulder pads are a vital element in the lacrosse gear protecting youths as they grow into talented competitors.
Find a Molded or Composite Lacrosse Chest Protector
Adding a chest protector is a must to complete the protective padding for youth lacrosse players. Chest pads shield the ribs, heart, and sternum from blunt force trauma caused by checks, errant sticks, and ball impact.
Lacrosse specific chest protectors are molded for contoured fit and constructed from lightweight, breathable materials. High density foam or plastic over padding absorbs shock. Some parents prefer rigid composite plastic chest plates for max protection.
When fitting a chest protector, ensure it wraps around the torso without gaps. Straps should secure it firmly but allow full shoulder movement. For goalies, maximal padding coverage is key. Female chest pads are angled and shaped for proper fit.
Chest pads generally run $30-60. More expensive does not always mean better protection – focus on comfort, adjustability and durability. Some shoulder pad models include an integrated chest protector for simplified sizing and fewer fitting issues.
Before games, double check the chest protector is aligned properly with other pads and doesn’t ride up. Teach kids to speak up if straps loosen so gear can be tightened. Well-fitted chest protectors give young players confidence to play aggressively with reduced injury fears.
Lacrosse is an exhilarating, fast-action sport yet also entails physical contact and blows from sticks and balls. Parents invest significant time and money shuttling kids to practices and games. Protecting your child with a molded chest pad reduces pain and injury risk so they can keep progressing in the sport they love.
With the proper helmet, gloves, shoulder and chest protection, young lacrosse athletes can hone their athletic talents and gain skills for life such as teamwork, leadership and discipline. Complete protective gear gives parents peace of mind as kids reap lacrosse’s benefits.
Lacrosse Rib Pads for Vital Core Protection
An often overlooked piece of protective lacrosse gear are rib pads. Rib pads provide an extra layer of protection for young athletes’ vulnerable core area against checks, collisions, and stray balls. Preventing rib injuries allows youth players to compete confidently.
Lacrosse rib pads wrap around the torso under the shoulders pads, shielding the ribs and oblique muscles. Lightweight foam or plastic pads are ventilated for breathability. Some chest pads integrate rib protection, but separate rib pads provide maximal coverage.
Proper rib pad fit is snug to the body without restricting movement or impeding other gear. Measure your child’s chest circumference and match to sizing charts for the right fit. Adjustable elastic straps allow rib pads to conform closely.
For goalies or high injury risk players, hard shell rib plates provide the ultimate protection. Look for rib pads with moisture wicking liner fabric to limit sweating. Expect to spend $30-60 for quality youth lacrosse rib pads.
Before games, check pads are aligned correctly and velcro straps are fastened securely so padding stays in place. Ensure rib pads integrate smoothly with other gear for optimal protection. Taking these precautions reduces injury risks and boosts performance.
The fast pace and physicality of lacrosse makes injuries around the torso common. Adding rib pads to a child’s protective gear kit is a wise investment that gives young players confidence to play their best by protecting vulnerable core muscles and bones from harm.
Lacrosse Elbow Pads Protect From Checks and Falls
When outfitting your young lacrosse player, lacrosse elbow pads are an important addition to protect vulnerable joints from injury. The fast paced, physical nature of lacrosse makes elbow pads a necessity to prevent harm to growing bones and muscles.
Lacrosse elbow pads wrap around the elbow joint, shielding the humerus and ulnar bones as well as brachial muscles and tendons. Lightweight padding absorbs impact from checks while allowing flexibility. Moisture-wicking fabric prevents overheating.
When fitting elbow pads, ensure a compressive fit without restricting circulation or movement. Measure your child’s arm length and diameter for sizing. Adjustable straps permit customization as young athletes grow. Expect to pay $20-50 for durable pads.
Before games, check elbow pad alignment, stability and overlap with shoulder and arm pads. Refasten loose straps for a secure fit. Some players wear protective shooter sleeves underneath for extra coverage. Proper elbow pads give young players confidence when scooping ground balls and absorbing checks.
Lacrosse delivers fast paced excitement yet also leads to elbow injuries when players hit the turf. Protecting your child with properly fitted elbow pads reduces pain and injury risk so they can develop skills and strength across seasons of play.
With the right lacrosse protective gear package, parents can enable kids to enjoy lacrosse’s thrills and learn invaluable life lessons about teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship. Elbow pads are integral to keeping young athletes safe on the field.
Invest in Good Quality Cleats for Traction and Support
An essential but often overlooked piece of lacrosse gear are proper cleats. With the sport’s quick cuts, pivots, and sprints, high performance cleats optimize traction and support for youth players to avoid injury and dominate on the field.
For midfield and attack positions, choose lightweight cleats with fewer studs for speed. Opt for screw-in studs over molded for replaceable traction. For defenders, high top cleats add ankle stability. Goalies need lateral support and toe protection.
When fitting lacrosse cleats, ensure a snug midfoot and heel lockdown for stability when changing direction. Allow a thumb’s width in the toes for expansion. Consider going up 1/2 size to accommodate growing feet. Expect to spend $60-140+ on quality cleats.
Prior to games, check cleat stud condition and replace if worn down. Ensure proper break-in to minimize blisters. Many players prefer baseball or football cleats for comfort but lacrosse-specific cleats optimize performance and safety.
With pivots, cuts, and sprints integral to lacrosse, cleats must provide reliable traction and foot support. Investing in high quality, properly fitted cleats elevates young athletes’ speed, quickness and durability through long seasons of competition.
Complete lacrosse protective gear enables youth players to perform their best while avoiding injury. Proper cleats complete young athletes’ equipment package, empowering dominating play that captures lacrosse’s thrills and excitement.
Carry Gear in a Lacrosse Bag with Room to Grow
An important accessory for any young lacrosse player is a high-quality lacrosse bag to transport their gear. With all the protective equipment, having a bag designed for lacrosse saves hassle and prevents gear damage.
Look for bags with a vented compartment to store cleats separately from other items. Padded shoulder straps make carrying comfortable. Durable synthetics withstand moisture and abuse. Hard base protects sticks.
When selecting a lacrosse bag, choose a size allowing ample room for growth. Features like expandable sides, removable shelves and adjustable compartments extend utility. Expect to spend $50-150+ for maximum quality and versatility.
Help organize gear in the bag’s pockets and dividers. Check bag contents before leaving for games in case items shift. Periodically wash bags to control odors. Proper lacrosse bags protect expensive gear for the long haul.
Hauling a mishmash of equipment in a makeshift bag leads to lost or damaged items. Investing in a spacious, protective lacrosse bag with smart storage eases the demands of shuttling gear so young athletes can focus on improving their game.
A dedicated lacrosse bag is a worthwhile investment for any serious young player. Keeping gear safe, secure, and organized in an appropriate bag enhances performance and convenience for athletes, parents, and coaches alike.
Prioritize Safety and Comfort As Your Child Develops
When equipping your young athlete for lacrosse, making smart investments in high-quality protective gear should be the top priority. Children’s bodies are still growing, making them vulnerable to injuries that could discourage them from the sport.
Carefully evaluate sizing when selecting each piece of equipment. Gear that is too large can shift and expose them to blows. Gear too small can restrict movement and cause discomfort. Take the time to properly outfit them each season.
Beyond protection, also consider comfort factors like breathability, weight, and adjustability in lacrosse gear. The more comfortable kids feel on the field, the more focused they will be on improving their skills and enjoying the sport.
Expect to invest $200-500+ for a complete protective gear package, but don’t merely shop by price. Higher cost does not always equate to higher quality or fit. Prioritize safety certifications, brand reputation, and design features like segmented padding and moisture-wicking liners to maximize value.
With the proper helmet, pads, gloves, and cleats tailored to your child’s age and size, you equip them to develop their talent and discover a lifelong passion for lacrosse. Their safety and enjoyment should be the ultimate considerations as their game progresses.
