Compare Different Types of Lacrosse Rebounders
When looking for the best lacrosse rebounder, it’s important to understand the different types available. The main categories are wall-mounted, curved, and flat rebounders. Wall-mounted rebounders attach to a sturdy surface and angle the ball back to you after it’s thrown. They take up less space but require installation. Curved rebounders have a slight arc shape to vary the ball return. Flat rebounders have a flat surface and return the ball in a direct line back to the shooter.
Within these types, you’ll also find differences in materials, size, adjustability features, and more. Harder rebounder surfaces like wood or aluminum alloy will play a faster, more unpredictable ball. Softer surfaces like nylon mesh slow the ball down for beginner practice. Larger rebounders up to 6 ft across provide a bigger sweet spot while mini rebounders are more portable. Adjustable slopes allow you to practice different angle shots. Some rebounders have multiple settings to change ball speed and trajectories.
Brands like Wolf Athletics, Gladiator and OneGoal offer all the main rebounder types. Checking lacrosse gear review sites lets you compare specs and user reviews. Videos on YouTube can give you a sense of rebounder ball action. For example, the Wolf Athletics Skills Flex angled rebounder has a 3-position arc and numbered shooting zones while the Gladiator CR10 Wall Rebounder has adjustable side wings to widen the rebound area.
Considering the pros and cons of wall mounts vs freestanding designs, soft vs hard rebounding surfaces, and fixed vs adjustable options will help select the right model for your skill level, budget and practice space. Testing different types of rebounders yourself is the best way to determine what works for improving your shooting, passing and catching skills.
Consider Size and Adjustability For All Skill Levels
When shopping for a lacrosse rebounder, it’s important to consider size and adjustability features to match your skill level and needs. Larger rebounders up to 6 ft wide give you a bigger target area for passing and shooting practice. The increased surface area provides more margin for error and a greater chance the ball will rebound back to you. This makes an oversized rebounder ideal for beginners still working on aim and catching skills.
For more advanced players who need to practice accurate shots on goal, a smaller 3′ x 3′ rebounder focuses practice on precision. Portable and mini rebounders around 2 x 2 ft are even more compact for easy transport and storage. While you’ll get less rebounding surface, it improves quick reactions and hand-eye coordination at close range.
Many full-size rebounders also allow you to adjust sizing down for a training challenge. For example, the Gladiator LAX Wall boasts a massive 7 x 7 ft rebounding surface that can telescope down to just 3 x 3 ft. The adjustable side wings let you widen the rebound area as skills improve.
Besides adjustable sizing, look for rebounders that offer tilt and arc adjustments. Being able to set different angle positions allows you to practice shots from up close or further away and work on picking corners. Rebounders like the OneGoal Trainer offer up to 5 adjustable arc settings to vary ball return speed and trajectories.
Consider how much space you have at home or for transport when looking at rebounder size options. But don’t sacrifice too much size and adjustability if you want a rebounder to grow with you. Oversized and adjustable rebounders accommodate all skill levels and types of practice as you improve.
Look at Durability and Construction Materials
When evaluating different lacrosse rebounders, be sure to consider durability and construction. The rebounder needs to withstand constant ball impacts and outdoor weather exposure if not stored between uses. Cheaper designs with plastic or nylon skin can degrade over time, causing balls to rebound unpredictably.
Look for commercial-grade rebounders constructed from solid materials like powder-coated steel frames, aluminum alloy sidewalls, and UV-resistant polyethylene skins. Wolf Athletics designs pro rebounders with aircraft-grade aluminum and reinforced corners able to handle high-velocity shots from short sticks or long crosses.
Wooden rebounder frames like those used on the OneGoal Trainer provide a classic lacrosse look and natural feel. Though wood requires more maintenance to keep it crack-free over years of play. Some rebounders combine wood or aluminum frames with weatherproof nylon or polycarbonate skins for durability.
The surface material affects ball response – wood, aluminum alloy or acrylic plastic will make balls rebound faster for quick reflex training. Softer materials like Oxford cloth or mesh pockets provide more control for beginners. Replaceable shooting surfaces are also useful once sides wear down after months of use.
Look at frame stability and support struts or bases on freestanding rebounders. Models with wide-set legs or T-bases resist tipping even when balls strike the edges. Speaking of legs, choose designs with tough powder-coated steel or aluminum supports. Wheeled rebounders like Gladiator’s LAX Wall allow easy repositioning.
For longevity through all seasons, select a rebounder rated for outdoor use. Waterproof designs hold up to rain and snow if left uncovered. And ensure the netting won’t degrade or sag when exposed to UV rays and typical weather fluctuations.
Evaluate Ball Return Mechanisms and Consistency
A top-quality lacrosse rebounder should provide consistent and predictable ball returns to hone your catching, scooping, and passing technique. When comparing different models, look closely at the ball return mechanisms and hardware.
Wall-mounted rebounders will angle balls back by reflecting them off the angled surface. Curved rebounders use a slight arc shape to vary trajectories. Flat rebounders return the ball in a straight line back to the shooter.
Some rebounders feature one or more mesh pockets to capture balls and return them gently with reduced speed. This allows closer shooting practice and gentler catches. Others use bungee cords, tensioned nets or harps to control ball ejection speed and angle.
Wolf Athletics’ Skills Flex rebounders provide three trajectory settings by adjusting bungee cord tensions. The Gladiator LAX Wall has removable bungees so players can practice ground balls off a flat surface. OneGoal designs its pocketed net to absorb force and replays the ball instantly.
No matter the return mechanism, you want consistency to build muscle memory. Poorly constructed designs will become loose or saggy allowing erratic rebounds. Look for taut netting and robust springs, bungees and hardware that retain tension through seasons of use. Replaceable components are a plus for maintenance.
Consistent returns also require a smooth, flat rebounding surface without dents, cracks or bumps that can defect shots. Wood and aluminum surfaces may naturally wear over time and need refreshing. For portable rebounders, check that folded designs lock securely in place without sagging once set up.
Test ball returns yourself when possible to evaluate speed, angles and consistency. Check reviews to see if owners report issues with unreliable returns requiring tweaks or adjustments over time. Premium lacrosse rebounders provide predictable ball action for honing skills.
Check Trajectory Variability and Ball Speed Options
The best lacrosse rebounders allow you to practice a mix of shots – high or low trajectories, straight lines or angled corners, fast feeds or soft lobs. When comparing different models, look for options to vary ball trajectories and speed.
Many rebounders adjust the launch angle and ball speed by changing the tension settings on bungee cords or interior netting. Wolf Athletics’ Gladiator line provides adjustable bungees so you can practice scooping ground balls or work on quick reflex returns.
Multi-slot designs allow you to reposition bungees or interior harps at different heights to create lower or upper-body biased ball returns. The OneGoal Trainer offers five distinct trajectory settings for practicing different pass and shot types.
Curved and wall-mounted rebounders naturally vary trajectories by reflecting shots at different angles off the sloped surface. Some curved models like the Gladiator LAX Wall provide several tilt positions to further adjust ball ejection height and speed.
Wing panels or side nets on some rebounders give you more rebounding surface area for angled corner shots. The Gladiator LAX Wall has adjustable side wings extending up to 7 feet across for practicing wide shots.
For training quick reactions, look for rebounders that offer very fast returns either through tightly-tensioned fixed nets or interchangeable elastic cords. Rebounders with flat or minimally curved faces will return balls to the shooter faster than pocketed nets.
Ideally, your rebounder lets you set up both soft lobs and hard driven feeds. Interchangeable bungees, multiple trajectory settings and adjustable angles or panels provide the most options for diversified lacrosse training. Before buying, check user reviews and videos to confirm the machine provides a wide range of ball speeds and trajectories.
Research Popular Brands Like Wolf Athletics, Gladiator, OneGoal
When researching lacrosse rebounders, you’ll find popular options from brands like Wolf Athletics, Gladiator and OneGoal. Each provides high-quality designs tailored for solo lacrosse training.
Wolf Athletics makes a range of freestanding lacrosse rebounders featuring aircraft-grade aluminum frames and UV-resistant polyethylene facings. Their adjustable Skills Flex model provides three arc settings to vary ball trajectories. It also folds down for storage or transport to practice.
Gladiator Sports manufactures the LAX Wall series – curved rebounders on wheels for easy mobility. The LAX Wall has adjustable wings extending up to 7 feet wide and allows tilt adjustments for angled shots. Gladiator also makes wall-mounted rebounders with side pockets.
OneGoal focuses on developing intelligent sports equipment. Their pocketed lacrosse Trainer provides five distinct trajectory settings. The adjustable arc system absorbs ball impact, reducing strain on arms and hands during repetitive practice.
Both Wolf and Gladiator offer budget-friendly options under $200 for home use as well as high-end models used by pro teams. OneGoal aims for the premium segment with its innovative smart Trainer design. All three brands engineer their rebounders from quality materials for longevity and weather resistance.
Checking lacrosse forums and reviews helps compare durability feedback and user impressions across these top brands. Rebounder setup and ease of use are other considerations. Wolf Athletics scores well for uncomplicated tool-free assembly. Gladiator’s wheeled designs provide maximum positioning flexibility. OneGoal claims simplest trajectory adjustments.
When debating between top lacrosse rebounder brands, focus on the specific design strengths that align with your practice goals. Key factors include adjustability, construction, ball return consistency and any smart features that make solo training more engaging and productive.
Read Customer Reviews on Amazon, Lacrosse Forums, YouTube
One of the best ways to evaluate different lacrosse rebounders is to read through customer reviews on sites like Amazon, lacrosse forums and YouTube. Hands-on owners provide helpful insights you can’t find in product specs alone.
Amazon listings for popular rebounders like the Wolf Athletics Gladiator and OneGoal Trainer include hundreds of buyer reviews. Sort by recent and critical reviews to spot any emerging quality complaints. Check the percentage of 5-star ratings as a high-level gauge of satisfaction.
Drill into reviews that note issues like flimsy construction, sagging nets, unreliable returns or bad customer service. But also read the positive reviews to understand benefits like smooth ball ejection, easy assembly or performance that improves skills.
Beyond Amazon, visit lacrosse sites like LaxAllStars.com to read gear forums discussing the latest rebounders. Experienced players offer nuanced assessments based on using different models in real training scenarios. They’ll call out shortcomings as well as rebounders that excel at developing specific techniques.
YouTube reviews are hugely helpful to actually see rebounders in action. Watching video illustrates the ball movement, speed and trajectory for different drills. You can hear how loudly balls rebound off different materials. Also look for user tips on optimal setup positions, tweaks and repairs.
Checking multiple review sites lets you triangulate opinions and identify any recurring issues with particular rebounders. Detail-oriented user reviews provide insights on true performance, build quality and ease of use missing from sales brochures. They help you buy with confidence, knowing the model has proven itself with real lacrosse players.
Compare Prices – Look for Deals on Used Rebounders
Lacrosse rebounders can be a big investment, especially for top training models. Comparing prices and looking for deals helps you get excellent value improving your game.
Budget-priced rebounders under $200 like the Wolf Athletics Shoot Again or Gladiator LAX Wall Lite offer entry-level options with basic features. Expect more limited size, materials, adjustments and durability at this price point.
Mid-range rebounders from $200 to $500 include best sellers like the Gladiator LAX Wall and Wolf Skills Flex. They deliver better construction, strength, weather-resistance and accessory options. The OneGoal Trainer lands at the premium end nearing $600.
Used rebounders can provide big savings if you’re willing to accept some wear and tear. Check local listings on Craigslist, SidelineSwap and lacrosse forums. Look for minor scratches or scuffs – replaced bungees and netting are inexpensive fixes.
Compare online prices across major retailers like Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sports Unlimited and Lacrosse Unlimited. Sign up for email alerts and check holiday sales for periodic deals. Wolf Athletics, Gladiator and OneGoal don’t allow online direct sales, so shop authorized dealers.
Consider bundled packages that include balls, training cones and other accessories for better overall value. Packages tailored for beginners or goalies provide equipment tailored to practice type. Just ensure the rebounder itself meets your needs.
Allocating more of your budget will get you a rebounder that outlasts cheaper designs. But patient shopping, buying used and watching for sales help land premium lacrosse rebounders for less. Prioritize quality construction and features over saving a few dollars upfront.
Consider Noise Levels for Backyard Setups
When setting up a lacrosse rebounder in your backyard, noise is a practical consideration, especially if you have close neighbors. Hard surface materials like wood or metal alloy can create loud rebounds that carry.
Softer rebounder materials like Oxford fabric, nylon or mesh absorb more noise on ball impact. Padded facings and pocketed net designs also reduce noise levels for backyard practice. The OneGoal Trainer nets minimize vibration and sound.
Wall-mounted rebounders generally offer quieter operation than freestanding models since the ball rebounds downwards. They don’t create the same slapping noise on a flat vertical surface.
For freestanding rebounders, look for noise-dampening features like rubber feet or padded base frames. Avoid metal-on-metal contact that amplifies vibrations. urethane wheels like those on the Gladiator LAX Wall allow smoother rolling that reduces rumbling sounds.
Taut but not overly tight netting also lessens noise on ball return. End caps, grommets and tension springs should be well-sealed so they don’t rattle with the repetitive impacts. Replace any loose or worn components causing extra sound.
Use surface brushes, wax or lubricant sprays to maintain slick rebounding surfaces. This minimizes the slapping and reverberation from ball contact. Keep netting taut and free of debris or sagging.
Positioning also impacts perceived noise. Elevating wall mounts off the fencing helps direct sound downwards. For freestanders, orient the rebounder to avoid aiming balls at nearby homes. Moving further from shared property lines reduces the disturbance.
With smart setup choices and noise-reducing construction, lacrosse players can enjoy rebounder practice at home without disturbing the neighbors. But it’s still best to use rebounders during daytime hours whenever possible.
Make Sure It’s Weather Resistant if Leaving Outside
Serious lacrosse players use their rebounders year-round, which means they’re often left outside exposed to the elements. It’s critical to choose a rebounder designed for all-weather use if you won’t be storing it in a garage or shed between practice sessions.
Look for powder-coated steel or anodized aluminum frames that resist rusting and corrosion. Aircraft-grade aluminum like Wolf Athletics uses is ideal for preventing deterioration.
Rebounder skins also need all-weather durability. Polyethylene and UV-resistant nylon hold up better than unreinforced fabrics when exposed to sun, snow and moisture. The OneGoal Trainer uses weatherproof polycarbonate facings.
Wooden rebounders require extra maintenance like occasional sealing to prevent warping, mold growth and outright rotting with outdoor exposure over multiple seasons. Some lacrosse players cover wood frames between uses for protection.
Outdoor rebounders need taut netting that won’t stretch or sag when wet. Synthetic all-weather netting lasts longer than cotton or traditional nylon. Wolf Athletics treats its netting to resist UV damage and mildew.
Look for well-sealed grommets, connection points and bungee housings so rain doesn’t penetrate into the interior. Check that legs, base frames and wheels are also corrosion-resistant for ground contact.
Regularly cleaning your rebounder keeps surfaces clear of mold and debris buildup. Wipe down frames and netting to prevent stubborn grime. Drain or evaporate any collected standing water after storms.
With frequent usage and no storage cover, an outdoor rebounder requires maximum weatherproofing. Carefully inspect materials and components before purchase to ensure years of performance through all the seasons.
Check Warranty Coverage and Customer Service Reputation
Given the investment in a quality lacrosse rebounder, it’s wise to consider warranty coverage and brand reputation for customer service. Top manufacturers stand behind their products if issues arise.
Wolf Athletics provides a 1-year limited warranty on rebounders covering defects in materials and workmanship. Gladiator offers a 90-day warranty. OneGoal provides a 1-year warranty for parts, hardware and workmanship.
These warranties require original proof of purchase and don’t cover normal wear-and-tear or improper use. But reputable brands like these often provide support beyond stated policies for good customer relationships.
Check online feedback to see if the company readily honors claims for frame damage, netting failures or mechanical issues. Quick responses and replacement parts show they value product quality and buyer satisfaction.
Brands like Wolf, Gladiator and OneGoal also provide helpful customer resources like online manuals, instructional videos, and live support contacts. This assists with proper rebounder setup, use and maintenance.
Consider where you’re purchasing from as well. Major retailers like Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods have generous return policies in case issues arise after purchase. Buying directly from lacrosse sites also provides specialized expertise.
While you hope to never need repairs, reliable warranty coverage and responsive customer service provide peace of mind. Be sure to register your purchase right away to activate warranty terms. Then you can confidently use your lacrosse rebounder intensively knowing support is there if needed down the road.
Determine if You Need a Rebounder with Multi-Sport Capabilities
While dedicated lacrosse rebounders aim to provide optimized ball trajectories and speeds for stick practice, some multi-sport models can also deliver versatile training.
Rebounders with padded facings like the Wolf Athletics Throwback let you practice tennis, pickleball or backyard baseball pitching and batting. The Gladiator LAX Wall Lite also works for all-around family fun. Just remove lacrosse sticks to avoid damage.
Folding adjustable designs with open faces like the Wolf Skills Flex further expand Cross-training options. Use creative angled settings for soccer kicks, field hockey drives, or to practice boxing and martial arts footwork.
Consider whether you want to conserve space and budget with just a solo lacrosse rebounder. Or if you’d benefit from a versatile trainer to hone eye-hand coordination across different sports and activities.
Just keep realistic expectations. While multi-sport rebounders improve general skills, their fixed flat faces won’t match the ball control of curved or pocketed lacrosse-specific models. Tradeoffs in trajectory types, angles and speed control impact advanced stick-handling practice.
However, alternating between lacrosse and other sports helps avoid overuse injuries from repetitive-motion strain. It also maintains training engagement through activity variety. Multi-sport designs make ideal starter rebounders at home before investing in specialized gear.
Consider add-on accessories like side nets to expand a lacrosse rebounder’s versatility. But also look at crossover potential if you want one durable trainer for both lacrosse practice and recreational family fun.
Look for Options to Elevate Rebounder or Angle Downward
Having the ability to adjust your lacrosse rebounder’s height and angle expands training capabilities for different techniques.
Some rebounders like the Gladiator LAX Wall offer multiple tilt settings to practice shots arriving from below or above. Adjusting the downward angle lets you work on scooping up ground balls and tight passes.
Alternatively, tilting a rebounder upward forces you to practice higher throws and mid-air catches. This builds crucial coordination for errant passes sailing too high.
Freestanding rebounders should provide height settings between about 4 to 7 feet to accommodate players of all ages and abilities. Lower heights allow beginners to work within their limited reach and strength.
Consider accessory mounts or stands to raise a rebounder higher off the ground. Wolf Athletics offers an adjustable mounting kit providing up to 10 feet of added height for wall-mounted units. OneGoal sells a portable folding stand raising its Trainer model over 7 feet.
Raising a rebounder forces you to practice longer passes and high shots like overhand sticks or bounce shots. This builds upper body power while improving accuracy.
Just ensure raised rebounders are firmly stabilized for safety, especially if installed permanently on a wall. For portable stands, select wide heavy bases that resist tipping when balls strike the edge.
The ability to practice both high and low balls by angling your rebounder up or down boosts reaction skills. Seek out height and tilt adjustments or accessories to become a complete all-around player.
Choose a Design That’s Easy to Move and Store
Consider portability and storage when selecting a lacrosse rebounder for home use. Models requiring permanent mounting limit placement flexibility. Freestanding portable designs allow use anywhere in your yard and easy storage between sessions.
Wheeled rebounders like the Gladiator LAX Wall provide unmatched mobility for moving your practice spot as needed. Wide-set rubber wheels roll smoothly across grass or blacktop.
Folding rebounders like the Wolf Skills Flex and OneGoal Trainer collapse down for compact storage against a wall or behind equipment. Unfolding and locking joints should be quick and secure.
Some rebounders disassemble into multiple sections for transport in a car trunk to games or team events. Quick-release latches and numbered parts simplify taking down and reassembly.
If opting for a wall-mounted rebounder, choose an easily movable and removable design rather than permanent installation. Wolf Athletics offers a mounting panel allowing rebounders to be positioned anywhere along a fence line.
Storage mobility also depends on rebounder size and weight. Youth and mini rebounders have an advantage for compact storage and light carrying. But don’t sacrifice too much size just for portability.
Maneuverable designs with folding frames, wheels or disassembly features help use your backyard space more flexibly. Easy breakdown optimizes off-season storage to protect rebounders from the elements when not in use.
Pick a Lacrosse Rebounder That Will Make Practice Fun & Efficient
With key factors like adjustability, build quality and versatility covered, the final step is choosing a lacrosse rebounder that will make your practice sessions engaging and productive.
The best motivator is seeing and feeling yourself improve each time you practice. Look for ball handling drills that challenge your skills to the next level.
Mixing up speeds and trajectories keeps the brain engaged while developing coordination. Set varying angles to work on different shot and pass techniques.
Quality rebounders provide a rhythm to training, with fluid predictable returns that build muscle memory with sticks and reactions.
Portable and multi-sport designs add fun variety when you need a change of pace. Garage basketball, field lacrosse, or working the heavy bag mixes up training.
Sync your music to the rhythm of the rebounder to make solo practice as energetic as team games and drills.
Smart goal notifications on electronic trainers provide motivation through measurable progress over time.
Customizing and mastering your own rebounder workout leaves you fulfilled after a session. The right gear makes practice as immersive as gameplay.
Doing drills by yourself requires more self-direction than team practices. The best rebounders create positive feedback loops where progress fuels your passion. Choose a design that helps drive your personal best.