The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Mini Lacrosse Set for Your Kid

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Mini Lacrosse Set for Your Kid

Look for Complete Sets with Goals, Sticks, and Balls

When buying a mini lacrosse set, it’s important to find one that comes with all the essential gear your child will need to start playing right away. Look for sets that include adjustable mini lacrosse sticks, soft lacrosse balls, and a goal with netting. This ensures you get everything in one purchase, rather than having to buy separate pieces.

Consider Size – Mini vs Junior Stick Dimensions

Mini lacrosse sticks are sized for younger kids, usually under age 7 or 8. The shafts are between 30-40 inches long, with small plastic heads around 6 inches wide. Junior lacrosse sticks have longer shafts around 40-48 inches for older kids. Make sure to get the right size stick so your child can handle it comfortably.

Choose Durable yet Lightweight Materials for Gear

Mini lacrosse gear is designed to withstand outdoor play and something being knocked around. Look for sticks, balls, and goals made of solid plastics like Polycarbonate or Polyurethane that won’t crack easily. At the same time, avoid heavy materials that could tire out small hands and arms.

Select Adjustable Goals for Backyard or Driveway Play

For casual mini lacrosse games at home, look for goals with adjustable heights and widths. This allows you to tailor the opening size to match your kid’s skill level, then expand it as they improve. Many feature telescoping poles with pre-set height slots for quick adjustments.

Pick Soft Lacrosse Balls Less Likely to Damage Property

Hard lacrosse balls can dent siding, break windows, and damage other objects around your home. For mini lacrosse, use soft, lightweight balls made of rubber or foam. They reduce the risk of property damage while still letting kids practice catching, cradling, and shooting.

Find Sets with Protective Eyewear for Safety

Even soft mini lacrosse balls can cause eye injuries if direct contact occurs. Many complete sets include lightweight protective goggles to wear during play. This protects eyes and gives parents peace of mind knowing their kids’ vision is safe.

Make Sure Netting is Weather and UV Resistant

Look for mini lacrosse goals with durable netting that won’t degrade from sun exposure or moisture. Polyethylene and nylon netting resist UV rays and retain shape when wet. This ensures the nets stay taut and don’t need frequent replacing.

Choose Easy to Assemble and Disassemble Goals

Mini lacrosse goals designed for home use feature simple click-button or push-pin assembly requiring no tools. This makes setting up and taking down goals quick and hassle-free. Just a few minutes and your mini pitch is game ready.

Compare Brands like Maverik, STX, and Brine

Reputable lacrosse gear brands like Maverik, STX, and Brine all make quality mini lacrosse sets. Compare features between their lineup options to find the right set for your family. Consider sizing, materials, included accessories, and price.

Read Reviews of Mini Lacrosse Sets Before Buying

Check out customer reviews on sites like Amazon to get real parent feedback on mini lacrosse sets. Look for consistent praise on things like durability, ease of assembly, included accessories, and value for money. This helps ensure you choose a set buyers love.

Buy Age Appropriate Gear – Kid vs Youth Sizes

Most brands size mini lacrosse sets by recommended ages like “5-7 years” or “8-10 years.” This tailors stick lengths, head sizes, and ball softness for your child’s current skills. Keep ages in mind when selecting the right starter set.

Consider Budget – Price Ranges for Quality Sets

You can find mini lacrosse sets from around $50 for basic starter sets up to $200+ for those packed with accessories. Set a budget that fits your needs and look for best values. Quality gear with solid reviews doesn’t have to break the bank.

Check for Complete Warranties on All Equipment

Reputable mini lacrosse set brands offer at least 60 to 90 day warranties on gear against defects. Some even warranty sticks for up to a year. If anything breaks prematurely, you can get replacement parts.

Look for Free Shipping or Bundle Discounts

Online lacrosse retailers often offer free shipping on mini lacrosse sets over a certain dollar amount. Buying multiple items together as a bundle can also qualify for percentage discounts, saving you more.

Teach Proper Mini Lacrosse Safety and Rules

Before kids start playing in the backyard, go over mini lacrosse safety basics like no high sticking, no body contact allowed, and wearing protective eyewear. Also teach modified rules to follow and proper technique.

Consider Size – Mini vs Junior Stick Dimensions

When choosing a mini lacrosse set, it’s crucial to select the proper stick size for your child’s age and abilities. Mini sticks are meant for very young players, usually under 8 years old. The shafts run 30-40 inches long, with petite plastic heads about 6 inches wide. These compact dimensions allow little hands to cradle and maneuver the ball more easily.

For older kids with growing skills, look for junior lacrosse sticks. Their shaft lengths increase to 40-48 inches, with head widths around 6.5-10 inches. The extra length improves reach and control as players develop. Just ensure the stick isn’t too large and cumbersome for your kid’s current physique and coordination level.

Compare the labeled age ranges for mini versus junior sticks offered by brands. You want the optimum fit for maximizing your child’s handling, passing, catching and shooting as they build fundamentals. Proper sizing also prevents injury from awkward overextension or uncontrolled follow-throughs. Consult coaches or experienced parents for guidance if unsure what size is best.

With adjustable length shafts or removable extensions, some mini lacrosse sticks can transition with your player over time. This allows the set to grow with them, offering more value for money as skills progress before needing a full junior stick upgrade.

Choose Durable yet Lightweight Materials for Gear

When selecting a mini lacrosse set, pay close attention to the materials used for the sticks, balls, goals and other gear. You want equipment made from plastics and metals that can withstand the rigors of outdoor play, while still being lightweight enough for young players to maneuver.

For sticks, look for shafts and heads constructed from durable engineered plastics like polycarbonate or polyethylene. These dense polymeric materials resist cracking yet flex to absorb checks and impacts. Aircraft grade alloys like aluminum are also used for their strength versus weight ratios.

Lacrosse balls in mini sets should be soft for safety, but still sturdy. Flexible solid rubber balls retain shape after hard shots. Newer foams like EVA are also long-lasting and can better handle water. Avoid any balls with cloth exteriors that soak up moisture and get heavy.

Goals are subjected to the most abuse, so premium sets use weather-resistant metals like powder coated steel for poles and polyethylene for netting. Sturdy brackets and joiners also prevent structural failure. Beware flimsy plastic goals that can easily break when knocked over.

The right balance of durability and light weight protects kids from injury while allowing them to build skills without tiring. Sets promoting “ultra-durable” or “feather-light” gear are trying to achieve this ideal balance for mini lacrosse play.

Select Adjustable Goals for Backyard or Driveway Play

One key feature to look for in a home mini lacrosse set is adjustable goals. Since you’ll likely be playing in your backyard, driveway or other recreational space, you need portable goals that can adapt to the area.

Seek out goals with telescoping poles and multiple preset height settings. This allows you to raise and lower the crossbar to fit your kid’s skill level and the game space. As their shooting improves, simply extend the poles higher to increase the challenge.

Width adjustability is also useful for tailoring the goal mouth size. Start young kids with a narrow opening, then expand it wider as hand-eye coordination develops. Being able to tweak both dimensions prevents buying new goals as skills progress.

Easy click-button or bolt adjustments make it fast to find the ideal goal geometry for mini lacrosse practice. No tools should be required for assembly, disassembly or sizing tweaks. This enables quickly setting up games anywhere with ample room.

Portable goals built for backyard play sacrifice stability for light weight, so prepare for more movement after shots. But the trade-off is worthwhile for the ability to customize goal dimensions on the fly.

Pick Soft Lacrosse Balls Less Likely to Damage Property

A major concern when setting up a home mini lacrosse pitch is wayward shots potentially causing damage. Using rigid regulation balls risks breaking windows or dinging siding when they miss the net.

To reduce this risk, look for mini sets that include soft lacrosse balls. Made of pliable rubber or foam, they compress upon impact to absorb force rather than transfer it. This minimizes potential damage if they hit anything other than the goal.

Soft mini lacrosse balls still bounce and roll well enough for passing, catching, cradling drills. But kids will need to adjust their shooting mechanics to the spongier feel off the stick. Proper form develops by adapting to the softer rebound.

Since safe, controlled play is the priority, the trade-off of soft balls is worthwhile. Kids can take shots without parents cringing about each wild miss. Just remind them no high velocity wind-ups with soft balls!

Regular inspection of soft lacrosse balls is advised as well. Check for tears or irregular wear which reduces their uniform density and performance. Rotating multiple balls extends their useful practice life.

Find Sets with Protective Eyewear for Safety

Even though mini lacrosse gear is designed for youth players, safety should still be a top consideration. Look for sets that include protective eyewear as part of the package.

Mini lacrosse balls, whether rigid or soft, can still cause eye injuries on direct impact. Included goggles help guard young eyes as skills develop. Brands design eyewear specifically for small faces and heads to ensure comfort and protection.

Many goggles feature perforated foam padding around the eyes rather than solid plastic. This improves ventilation and reduces fogging as kids run around. An adjustable elastic strap should fit a range of head sizes too.

While some mini lacrosse sets omit protective eyewear to save cost, it’s an unwise exclusion. Eye safety trumps any small savings, especially with beginners’ uncontrolled throws and shots. Make sure goggles are on hand before play begins.

Instilling the habit of always wearing protective goggles during mini lacrosse practice carries forward as kids advance levels. They’ll intrinsically know to grab their eyewear along with stick and gloves.

Make Sure Netting is Weather and UV Resistant

Mini lacrosse goals designed for home use need durable netting that won’t degrade from the elements. Look for set options using weather and UV resistant polyethylene or nylon netting.

Don’t choose cheaper sets with cotton nets. When exposed to moisture, cotton fibers swell and cause sagging. Over time the material also disintegrates from sun exposure. This leads to droopy netting needing frequent replacement.

Synthetic polyethylene and nylon lacrosse goal netting retains its shape even when wet. The polymeric fibers are also UV stabilized to prevent sun damage. That ensures the netting stays taut in all conditions.

Some premium nets also feature a tighter mesh weave for better ball retention. When shots go in, the ball stays caught in the net rather than bouncing back out. This improves satisfaction for young players when they see goals stay scored.

Since you’ll likely leave the goal erected for days or weeks at a time, make sure the netting can endure exposure without compromising performance. The goal visual should remain crisp to keep kids motivated.

Choose Easy to Assemble and Disassemble Goals

When shopping for mini lacrosse goals, prioritize options that are easy for you or your child to assemble, take down and transport.

Look for goals promoting no-tool assembly with snap-button poles, push-pin net clips and slide-in stabilizing bars. The process should take mere minutes to set up in the yard and take down for storage.

Easy pop-up designs fold down into a compact form factor for off season storage or transportation to a park. Premium foldable goals can pack into a carrying case with wheels to simplify mobility.

Conversely, avoid mini goals requiring complicated assembly with multiple tools and hardware bags. Or heavy unwieldy designs that resist folding down. This leads to leaving the goal up permanently or dreading the chore of adjustments.

Quick and easy assembly enables more practice opportunities in different locations. Kids can even help with setup and takedown to build responsibility. Just ensure the collapsed goal is stored safely out of the way when not in use.

Compare Brands like Maverik, STX, and Brine

When evaluating mini lacrosse sets, you’ll see the big lacrosse gear brands like Maverik, STX, and Brine all offer options. Compare what’s included between their lineup at different price points.

Entry level sets from these brands focus on core sticks and balls. Step up models add in goals, protective gear, training aids and carrying bags. Premium sets pile on accessories and training videos for the full experience.

Materials and construction also improve as you go up tiers. Beginner sets use standard plastics and nylon, while pricier ones tout aircraft metals, competition grade weaving and weather treatments.

Consider how much accessory value you require, but don’t assume more expensive automatically means better quality. Read online reviews to see actual feedback on things like durability and ease of assembly at each brand and price level.

In the end, any beginner set from a leading brand should cover the basics. As skills develop, you can always supplement with premium training gear or upgrades down the road.

Read Reviews of Mini Lacrosse Sets Before Buying

Before deciding on a particular mini lacrosse set, take time to read parent reviews online. This provides helpful insight you can’t glean from the manufacturer’s descriptions.

Check Amazon, big box sporting goods sites, and lacrosse specialty shops to see real customer feedback. Look for consistent praise or complaints around specific aspects like durability, accessory quality, ease of assembly, etc.

Beware suspicious 5 star reviews that seem like marketing fluff. Filter to read more detailed experiences from verified buyers. Watch for recurring themes around things like materials being too flimsy or weak, difficult instructions, missing pieces, and poor value.

You want reassurance the set performs as advertised for most buyers. A few negatives are expected, but look for at least 4 out of 5 stars averaged across numerous ratings. This indicates satisfied customers overall.

Reading mini lacrosse set reviews takes a bit more time upfront, but can prevent disappointment later. You’ll buy with confidence knowing the model has been put to the test by parents just like you.

Buy Age Appropriate Gear – Kid vs Youth Sizes

When browsing mini lacrosse sets, pay attention to the recommended age ranges for the included gear. Brands size equipment for kids vs youth to match different stages of development.

For very young kids under 6 or 7, look for sets with shorter shafts around 30 inches and small plastic heads. Mini lacrosse balls in these sets will be soft and very lightweight.

As kids near 8-10 years old, they’ll need slightly bigger gear. Shafts increase to 40 inches with larger heads. Balls are still soft but add a bit more weight. The goal sizing also expands to challenge shooting skills.

Some brands use labels like “junior” or “intermediate” to denote gear moving into youth sizing. If multiple age ranges are listed, choose sets aligning with your child’s current needs and abilities.

Proper sizing prevents frustration from overly large equipment as well as injury risks from shafts and heads too heavy. Pick developmentally appropriate sets as lacrosse fundamentals build.

Consider Budget – Price Ranges for Quality Sets

Mini lacrosse sets vary widely in pricing based on included gear and accessories. You can find quality options between $50 to $200 to fit different budgets.

Basic starter sets in the $50 range include two mini sticks, a few balls, and a pop-up goal. These cover the essentials for backyard fun without frills.

Stepping up to $100-150 adds extras like improved carry bags, safety goggles, training cones and an instructional DVD. You receive more value for recreational play.

On the higher end, $200+ sets pile on the accessories: cushier bag, pump, agility ladder, wraps, video training access and more. This appeals to those wanting a comprehensive mini lacrosse experience.

Consider how much you’re willing to spend upfront. But also check reviews, as more expensive doesn’t always mean better quality. Solid mid-range options offer good playability often on par with pricier sets.

Check for Complete Warranties on All Equipment

When investing in a mini lacrosse set, make sure the included gear is backed by a strong product warranty. Look for at least 60-90 days of coverage.

Reputable brands stand behind their equipment and offer warranties against defects in materials and workmanship. This protects you if anything breaks prematurely through no fault of your own.

Sets promoting warranties highlight the duration and terms upfront. Check that sticks, balls, goals and other components are included, not just certain parts.

If a warranty seems too short or omitted, that could signal lower quality gear. You want assurances that your purchase is constructed to last through outdoor play and practice.

Don’t forget to register your warranty after purchase using the provided card or online form. This activates coverage and facilitates streamlined support if any issues do arise down the road.

Look for Free Shipping or Bundle Discounts

One way to maximize value when buying a mini lacrosse set is to take advantage of free shipping or bundling discounts commonly offered.

Many online lacrosse retailers provide free standard shipping on purchases over a minimum dollar amount, often $50 or $100. This saves you delivery fees on bigger investments.

Retailers also incentivize bundling multiple items from brands. Add a stick, gloves, and goggles to your cart, for example, and a percentage discount may apply. The more you buy together, the higher your savings.

Before checking out, look for pop-up promotions for email list sign ups or sharing on social media. Providing your information or a quick post can score an extra 5-10% off.

With the right combination of bundled items, stacked discounts and free delivery, you keep more money in your pocket. Just ensure you aren’t overspending solely to hit thresholds or get deals.

Teach Proper Mini Lacrosse Safety and Rules

Before kids start whipping lacrosse balls around your yard, take time to teach proper safety and modified rules.

Review essential protective gear like gloves and eyewear. Demonstrate stick grip and prohibiting high sticking. Explain no body contact is allowed, just stick checks.

Simplify official field rules for the backyard. Show modified goal box and defensive areas. Tell them no advancing past midfield since space is limited.

Run through positioning for offense, defense, goalie. Teach simple plays like picks and dodges appropriate for mini lacrosse ages and skill levels.

Setting expectations upfront prevents uncontrolled, dangerous play. Kids learn fundamentals, gain confidence in skills, and avoid wild behavior leading to injuries.

Print out visual aids or guides to serve as quick references. And refer back to safety protocols regularly before scrimmages to reinforce their importance.