Why are lacrosse gloves essential for player safety. How do glove types differ for attack, midfield, defense, and goalie positions. What key features should you look for when choosing lacrosse gloves. How to ensure proper glove sizing and fit. Which top lacrosse glove brands dominate the market. What are the best budget-friendly options under $100. Which gloves are ideal for each playing position.
The Crucial Role of Lacrosse Gloves in Player Protection
Lacrosse is a high-intensity sport where player safety is paramount. The importance of wearing proper lacrosse gloves cannot be overstated. These specialized gloves serve as a vital barrier between players’ hands and the hard rubber balls traveling at breakneck speeds across the field.
How do lacrosse gloves protect players? They absorb the impact of incoming shots, checks, and collisions, significantly reducing the risk of hand injuries. Without adequate protection, players could suffer bruises, fractures, or even more severe damage to their fingers and palms.
- Cushion against high-velocity ball impacts
- Shield hands from aggressive checks
- Prevent abrasions during ground ball scrums
- Offer wrist support during intense play
Investing in quality lacrosse gloves is an investment in a player’s longevity and performance on the field. The right pair can make the difference between walking away from a hard hit unscathed and potentially missing games due to injury.
Position-Specific Lacrosse Gloves: Tailoring Protection to Your Role
Just as different positions in lacrosse require unique skills, they also demand specialized glove designs. Understanding the nuances of each position’s glove requirements is crucial for optimizing performance and protection.
Attack Gloves: Precision and Agility
Attack players prioritize ball control and quick stick work. Their gloves need to be:
- Lightweight for rapid hand movements
- Form-fitting to enhance stick feel
- Flexible for intricate cradling techniques
Midfield Gloves: Versatility Personified
Midfielders require gloves that can handle both offensive and defensive play:
- Balanced protection for varied responsibilities
- Durable construction for frequent transitions
- Adequate ventilation for extended playtime
Defense Gloves: Fortified Protection
Defenders need robust gloves to withstand aggressive checking and ball interceptions:
- Enhanced padding in key impact areas
- Reinforced palms for stick checks
- Sturdy wrist support for powerful defensive moves
Goalie Gloves: The Last Line of Defense
Goalkeepers require specialized gloves designed to stop high-velocity shots:
- Oversized design for increased shot-stopping surface
- Extra thumb padding to absorb direct impacts
- Enhanced wrist flexibility for quick saves
Essential Features to Consider When Choosing Lacrosse Gloves
Selecting the right lacrosse gloves involves more than just picking a color or brand. Several key features contribute to a glove’s effectiveness on the field:
Padding: The Shield Against Impact
How does padding affect glove performance? More padding offers greater protection but can reduce stick feel and dexterity. Finding the right balance is crucial for your position and playing style.
Palm Material: Grip and Durability
What makes a great glove palm? Look for materials that offer a combination of grip, durability, and feel. Premium options include Nash leather and synthetic alternatives that resist wear and tear while maintaining excellent stick control.
Ventilation: Keeping Cool Under Pressure
Why is glove ventilation important? Proper airflow helps regulate hand temperature and moisture, preventing discomfort and maintaining grip during intense play. Look for gloves with strategically placed mesh panels or perforations.
Fit and Sizing: The Foundation of Performance
How should lacrosse gloves fit? They should feel snug without restricting movement. A proper fit ensures maximum protection and performance, allowing for natural hand movements and secure stick control.
Wrist Straps: Securing Your Defense
What role do wrist straps play? They keep gloves firmly in place during aggressive play, preventing slippage and maintaining consistent protection. Adjustable straps offer customizable security for various wrist sizes.
Mastering Lacrosse Glove Sizing for Optimal Performance
Finding the perfect fit for your lacrosse gloves is crucial for maximizing both protection and performance on the field. How can you ensure you’re selecting the right size?
- Measure your hand from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger
- Compare your measurement to the manufacturer’s sizing chart
- Consider your position-specific needs (e.g., goalies may prefer a looser fit)
- Try on gloves and perform typical lacrosse movements to assess comfort and mobility
Remember, a well-fitted glove should feel snug without restricting blood flow or finger movement. The fingertips should reach near the end of the glove without pushing against the material.
Leading Lacrosse Glove Brands: Quality and Innovation
When it comes to lacrosse equipment, certain brands have established themselves as industry leaders through consistent quality and innovation. Which brands stand out in the lacrosse glove market?
Warrior: Professional-Grade Excellence
Known for their high-end products used by professionals, Warrior offers a range of gloves suitable for all skill levels. Their commitment to innovation has resulted in features like advanced ventilation systems and impact-resistant materials.
STX: Performance-Driven Design
STX has a long-standing reputation for producing gloves that enhance player performance. Their focus on ergonomic design and cutting-edge materials has made them a favorite among collegiate and professional players.
Maverik: Innovative Technology
Maverik has gained popularity through their incorporation of advanced technologies in glove design. Features like moisture-wicking liners and strategically placed flex points set their gloves apart.
Brine: Affordable Quality
Offering a balance of performance and value, Brine produces gloves that cater to a wide range of players, from beginners to advanced. Their products often feature durable construction at a more accessible price point.
Budget-Friendly Lacrosse Gloves: Protection Without Breaking the Bank
Quality lacrosse gloves don’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. For players on a budget or those just starting out, several options offer solid protection and performance under $100:
- Warrior Rabil X Pro ($79): A versatile glove offering pro-level features at a mid-range price
- STX Stallion 100 ($65): Known for its durability and comfortable fit
- Maverik Charger ($59): Offers good protection and flexibility for entry-level players
- Brine King IV ($49): A budget-friendly option with reliable protection
These gloves prove that effective hand protection doesn’t necessarily require a significant investment. They offer a balance of quality and affordability, making them excellent choices for recreational players or those new to the sport.
Position-Specific Glove Recommendations: Maximizing Your On-Field Potential
Choosing the right gloves for your specific position can significantly enhance your performance and protection on the lacrosse field. Let’s explore some top recommendations for each position:
Attack Player Gloves: Agility and Control
Attack players require gloves that offer a perfect balance of protection and dexterity. Some top choices include:
- Maverik Rome: Exceptionally lightweight and flexible for superior ball control
- Nike Vapor: Features a low-profile design for enhanced stick feel
- Warrior Burn Pro: Offers excellent tactile sensation without compromising protection
- STX Cell 4: A tried-and-true option known for its durability and performance
These gloves prioritize mobility and stick feel, allowing attack players to execute precise movements and maintain control during fast-paced offensive plays.
Midfield Gloves: Versatility in Action
Midfielders need gloves that can handle the demands of both offense and defense. Consider these options:
- Brine Clutch 3: Offers a robust design for all-around protection
- Warrior Regulator: Balances lightweight construction with sturdy protection
- Maverik M4: Provides premium protection without sacrificing mobility
- STX Shield: Delivers excellent value with a focus on versatility
These gloves are designed to withstand the varied challenges midfielders face, from faceoffs to transition play and everything in between.
Defender Gloves: Built for Battle
Defensive players require gloves that can absorb hard checks and provide maximum protection. Top choices include:
- Warrior Regulator Max: Offers tank-like protection for aggressive defensive play
- STX Cell 5: Features extensive padding for superior impact absorption
- Maverik Rome NXT: Combines serious protection with flexibility
- Brine King 5: Built to withstand the rigors of defensive play
These gloves prioritize robust protection, allowing defenders to play aggressively without fear of hand injuries.
Goalie Gloves: Specialized for Shot-Stopping
Goalkeepers need gloves designed specifically for blocking high-velocity shots. Consider these options:
- Warrior Nemesis 2: Features extensive padding for maximum shot protection
- Brine King 6: A classic design offering reliable protection at a reasonable price
- STX Shield Goalie: Excellent value for youth goalies looking for specialized protection
- Maverik Rome Goalie: Provides premium protection with enhanced flexibility
These goalie-specific gloves offer the extra padding and design features necessary to stop powerful shots and protect against the unique challenges faced by lacrosse goalkeepers.
When selecting position-specific gloves, consider your playing style, level of competition, and personal preferences. Try on multiple options if possible to find the perfect balance of protection, comfort, and performance for your needs.
Maintenance and Care: Extending the Life of Your Lacrosse Gloves
Proper maintenance of your lacrosse gloves not only extends their lifespan but also ensures consistent performance and protection. How can you keep your gloves in top condition?
Cleaning Your Gloves
Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of bacteria and odors:
- Wipe down gloves with a damp cloth after each use
- For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and lukewarm water
- Avoid machine washing, as it can damage padding and stitching
- Air dry gloves thoroughly before next use
Storage Best Practices
Proper storage prevents unnecessary wear and tear:
- Store gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Use a breathable gear bag to allow air circulation
- Avoid compressing gloves under heavy equipment
Addressing Wear and Tear
How can you extend the life of your gloves?
- Reinforce palm areas with grip tape if they start to wear thin
- Replace loose or broken laces promptly
- Consider professional repair for significant damage to padding or stitching
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your lacrosse gloves remain in optimal condition, providing consistent protection and performance throughout their lifespan.
The Future of Lacrosse Glove Technology: Innovations on the Horizon
As lacrosse continues to evolve, so does the technology behind the equipment. What advancements can players expect in future glove designs?
Smart Glove Integration
Emerging technologies may soon allow for the integration of sensors in lacrosse gloves, providing players and coaches with data on grip strength, impact force, and hand positioning during play.
Advanced Materials
Research into new synthetic materials could lead to gloves that offer even greater protection while maintaining or improving flexibility and breathability.
Customization and 3D Printing
The future may bring more personalized glove options, with 3D printing technology allowing for custom-fit padding and palm designs tailored to individual player needs.
Enhanced Ventilation Systems
Innovations in airflow design could result in gloves that regulate temperature more effectively, reducing hand fatigue and improving overall comfort during extended play.
As these technologies develop, players can look forward to lacrosse gloves that not only protect better but also enhance performance in ways we’re only beginning to imagine.
Importance of Wearing Lacrosse Gloves
Lacrosse can be a rough and tumble sport. Those hard rubber balls hurled at lighting fast speeds can do some serious damage to your hands. That’s why lacrosse gloves are an essential piece of equipment for every player. Wearing gloves helps absorb the impact of the ball and protect your hands from bruises, broken bones, and other injuries. Trust me, you’ll be glad you wore them after taking a 90 mph shot to the fingers!
Types of Lacrosse Gloves (Attack, Midfield, Defense, Goalie)
Not all lacrosse gloves are created equal. The position you play determines the type of glove you need. Like a chef choosing the right knife for the task, you have to pick the right glove for your role on the field.
Attack players need lightweight, form-fitting gloves with maximum dexterity to cradle and handle the ball. Midfielders need a balance of protection and performance for all-around play. Defenders need robust padding to absorb checks. And goalies need oversized gloves with extra padding on the thumbs to stop blistering shots.
Key Features to Look for in Lacrosse Gloves
When shopping for new lacrosse gloves, keep an eye out for these key features:
- Padding – More padding equals more protection, but can reduce feel
- Palm – Look for durable, grippy palms that won’t wear out
- Ventilation – Your hands will get hot and sweaty, look for breathability
- Fit – Get the right size glove for your hand size and position
- Wrist straps – Keep the gloves secure on your hands during play
Lacrosse Glove Sizing and Fit
Like Goldilocks testing out the bears’ chairs, you need lacrosse gloves that are “just right.” A proper fit is key for maximum performance. Gloves that are too big will be clumsy, while too small can restrict movement.
Most gloves come in small, medium, large, and extra large sizes. Measure your hand size and match it up to sizing charts from the manufacturer. Trying them on in person is ideal to test the fit.
Your gloves should fit snug, but not restrictive. Make fists and flex your fingers to ensure full range of motion. Straps should keep them secure, but not cut off circulation.
Top Lacrosse Glove Brands on the Market
When it comes to lacrosse gear, these brands rule the field:
- Warrior – The 800-lb gorilla, trusted by pros
- STX – Known for high-performance gloves
- Maverik – Offers innovative features and technology
- Brine – An affordable option with great protection
You can’t go wrong with gloves from any of these manufacturers. Try some on to see which brand’s style, fit, and feel you like best.
Best Budget Lacrosse Gloves Under $100
Don’t break the bank for new lax gloves. These budget-friendly options deliver good protection without crushing your wallet:
- Warrior Rabil X Pro – $79
- STX Stallion 100 – $65
- Maverik Charger – $59
- Brine King IV – $49
While cheaper gloves may not have all the bells and whistles, they’ll get the job done. And you can spend the savings on a new stick or hitting the post-game pizza joint.
Best Lacrosse Gloves for Attack Players
Agile leopards of the lacrosse world, attack players rely on their cat-like quickness and ball handling skills. For them, gloves need maximum dexterity without sacrificing protection.
Great attack glove options include:
- Maverik Rome – Super lightweight and flexible
- Nike Vapor – Tight, low-profile fit
- Warrior Burn Pro – Excellent feel and touch
- STX Cell 4 – A gloves industry veteran
Best Lacrosse Gloves for Midfielders
Like decathletes of the lax field, midfielders need to do it all – play offense, defense, win faceoffs, and transition up and down the field. Their gloves must offer versatility and durability to match.
Top midfield glove picks:
- Brine Clutch 3 – Rugged and protective
- Warrior Regulator – Lightweight but sturdy
- Maverik M4 – Premium protection and performance
- STX Shield – Great overall value
Best Lacrosse Gloves for Defenders
The punishing enforcers of lacrosse, defenders need gloves ready for battle. Maximum protection is key to absorb crushing checks while picking off passes.
Defenders should consider these gloves:
- Warrior Regulator Max – A true tank
- STX Cell 5 – Padding galore
- Maverik Rome NXT – Serious protection
- Brine King 5 – Built like a fortress
With these gloves, you’ll be ready to lay down the lumber and keep the other team’s attack at bay.
Best Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
The key to any defensive stronghold is the last line of defense – the goalie. A netminder’s gloves take more abuse than any other position, so ample padding and durability are must-haves.
Goalies should check out these gloves:
- Warrior Nemesis 2 – Padding for days
- Brine King 6 – A budget-friendly classic
- STX Shield – Great value for youth goalies
- Maverik Rome – Premium protection
With the right goalie gloves, you’ll be swatting shots left and right like a Jedi master.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Gloves
Make your gloves uniquely yours with custom graphics, colors, and other personal touches. Many manufacturers offer custom gloves directly through their websites. You can also bring gloves to specialty shops for custom dyeing. Custom gloves allow you to stand out on the field and express your style.
Properly Breaking In New Lacrosse Gloves
Like breaking in a new baseball mitt, you need to properly break in new lacrosse gloves so they are game-ready. Here are some tips:
- Wear them around the house to soften up the materials
- Grip a ball for extended periods to shape to your hands
- Hit a wall with them to flex the padding
- Consider an aftermarket break-in formula to soften
Take the time to break in gloves so they feel natural on game day. Don’t make the rookie mistake of wearing stiff, restrictive new gloves in a game.
Lacrosse Glove Maintenance and Care
Show some TLC for your trusty gloves with proper maintenance:
- Check for rips and re-stitch if needed
- Spot clean sweat and dirt after games
- Sanitize regularly to prevent odor
- Use conditioner to keep leather supple
- Avoid storing in extreme heat or cold
- Replace worn out palm liner
Well-cared for gloves can last seasons upon seasons. A little love goes a long way!
When to Replace Your Lacrosse Gloves
Eventually, all gloves reach the end of their playing days. Signs it’s time to shop for new ones include:
- Pads that are mashed down and no longer absorb impact
- Palms with holes worn through
- Fraying stitches or seams
- Brittle, cracked leather
- Compromised protection and padding
Don’t risk injury with gear past its prime. Retire those old tattered gloves with honor and start fresh.
Where to Buy Lacrosse Gloves (Online vs In Stores)
When it’s time for new lacrosse gloves, you can shop online or in person. Online retailers like Amazon, Lacrosse Unlimited, and Lax.com offer convenience and wholesale pricing. Local sporting goods stores allow you to try before you buy. Evaluate options for pricing, selection, return policy, coupons/promos, and more to make the optimal choice for your needs.
Types of Lacrosse Gloves (Attack, Midfield, Defense, Goalie)
Lacrosse players come in all shapes and sizes, but their gloves certainly don’t! From diminutive attackmen to bruising defenders, manufacturers offer specific gloves tailored to each position’s needs.
For attack players, it’s all about finesse and feel. Their gloves have flexible, contoured palms and minimal padding to cradle and handle the ball with cat-like precision. Delicate Picasso-like maneuvers require gloves that act like a second skin.
Midfielders are the decathletes of lacrosse, needing well-rounded gloves that transition from offense to defense. The palms must grip ground balls from the faceoff X, while the backs need protective padding for wary offensive dodging. Like a Swiss Army Knife, the midfielder’s gloves must perform any task asked of them.
The gladiators of the lacrosse world, defenders use gloves as suits of armor, tough as nails and padded like a boxing heavyweight prepping for a bout. When bodies collide like crash test dummies, defender’s gloves absorb the brunt of checks and slashes without flinching. More padding means less pain for these tough customers.
Lastly, we come to the Jedi Masters of goaltending. Their gloves deflect blistering shots like swatting flies. With oversized padding on the thumbs and palms, goalie gloves provide a wall against the nonstop barrage. The extra real estate gives netminders more surface area for highlight reel saves.
So whether you juke like Allen Iverson or lay lumber like Lawrence Taylor, lacrosse gloves come equipped for your position’s specific needs.
Key Features to Look for in Lacrosse Gloves
With so many lacrosse gloves on the market, it can get overwhelming sorting through all the options. To make the right choice for your position and playing style, be sure to evaluate these key features during your search:
Padding – More padding means more protection, but it can come at the expense of feel and dexterity. Find the right balance based on your position.
Palm – Look for a durable palm material that provides grip and won’t wear out. Premium leathers offer the best performance.
Ventilation – Your hands will get hot and sweaty during intense play. Seek gloves with mesh panels or perforations to allow airflow.
Fit – Get professionally fitted for proper glove sizing. A good fit ensures maximum comfort and protection.
Wrist straps – Many gloves feature adjustable wrist straps to customize fit. Ensure they are snug but not too tight.
Comfort – Try on different glove brands to assess comfort. Consider weight, flexibility, and how they feel handling a stick.
Durability – Premium gloves can withstand years of play through abuse and weather. Cheaper gloves may need replacing sooner.
By evaluating padding, palm, ventilation, fit, straps, comfort and durability, you can zero in on the ideal gloves for conquering the competition.
Lacrosse Glove Sizing and Fit
Like a custom tailored Italian suit, your lacrosse gloves should fit your hands like a glove. A dialed-in fit enhances performance and protection compared to gloves that are too tight or loose.
Most lacrosse gloves come in small, medium, large and extra large sizes. Measure the length and circumference of your hand and match it to sizing charts from manufacturers. Trying on gloves in person is ideal to assess fit and comfort.
A proper fitting glove should hug your hand snugly without restricting movement. Make fists and flex your fingers to ensure full mobility. Straps should secure the glove firmly but not cut off circulation.
Ill-fitting gloves lead to blisters, slipping, and reduced feel and protection. Getting professionally sized at a lacrosse store or trying on multiple brands is recommended to find your just-right match.
With dialed-in lacrosse gloves fitted to your hands, you’ll have the tools to maximize performance and dominate the competition.
Top Lacrosse Glove Brands on the Market
In the competitive world of lacrosse gear, a handful of athletic brands dominate the gloves market. These major players consistently deliver high-performance, durable gloves tested by the top players in the game.
Warrior reigns supreme as the heavy hitter, outfitting college stars and pros. They offer a deep selection across price points. STX is another trusted name, focusing on innovative features and materials. Maverik builds gloves tailored for each position’s needs. Brine provides affordable, protective options great for beginners.
Other brands like Nike, Under Armour, Paul Rabil’s Rabil, and upstarts like Epoch are also making their mark. Premium Japanese brands like Harrow and Tackla offer top-shelf craftsmanship.
While personal preference rules, you can be confident investing in market-leading gloves from any of these industry stalwarts. Try on different models to find your perfect brand based on fit, feel, protection and playing style.
With lacrosse gloves, you get what you pay for. Cheaper gloves may sacrifice durability and performance. For hardcore players committed to excelling, premium gloves from trusted brands are worth the investment.
Best Budget Lacrosse Gloves Under $100
You don’t need to empty your wallet for quality lacrosse gloves. Several budget-friendly options provide ample protection and performance without crushing your bank account.
The Warrior Rabil X Pro offers pro-level features at just $79. STX’s Stallion 100 model provides great value at only $65. Maverik’s Charger gloves punch above their $59 price point. For only $49, the classic Brine King IV gloves get the job done without extra frills.
While cheaper gloves may lack some premium bells and whistles, they offer an affordable entry point to try out the sport. The money saved can be used for a new head or tournament fees instead.
Consider buying cheaper gloves for younger players still growing into the sport. Their gear gets beat up quicker as skills develop.
For adult league players on a budget, cheaper gloves allow investing more money into your stick for improved performance. Protect those hands without emptying your wallet using these quality budget options.
Best Lacrosse Gloves for Attack Players
The artful dodgers of the lacrosse world, attack players rely on quickness, agility, and ball handling skills. Their gloves need to provide dexterity without limiting feel and touch.
Ideal attack gloves include the featherlight Maverik Rome gloves, allowing nimble cradling and precision passing. Nike Vapor gloves offer a second-skin fit for effortless stick skills. The Warrior Burn Pro gloves optimize feel without sacrificing protection. And the classic STX Cell gloves keep attackmen armed for offensive firepower.
Ground balls scooped cleanly. Lightning quick releases. Pinpoint accuracy. Attack gloves must enhance, not hinder, an attackman’s greatest assets. Mesh palms and flexible padding balance protection and high-performance.
Like a star wide receiver’s gloves, lacrosse attack gloves help execute jaw-dropping goals. With the right attacking gloves, you’ll leave defenses shaking their heads in awe after each score.
Best Lacrosse Gloves for Midfielders
Like a trusty Swiss Army knife, a midfielder’s gloves must adapt on the fly, transitioning from offense to defense in the blink of an eye. Their gloves require versatility and durability to match their do-it-all role.
Rugged Brine Clutch gloves withstand midfield punishment. The lightweight yet sturdy Warrior Regulator gloves offer great mobility. Maverik’s M4 gloves optimize protection and performance. STX Shield gloves provide stellar bang for your buck.
Midfield gloves must hustle like a defensive back on kick coverage – fast, fierce and durable. Palms and padding need to hold up against endless ground balls, faceoffs and pressure defense.
With the right midfield gloves, you’ll collect loose balls like a golden retriever, clear like a star running back, and shoot like a sniper. Midfielders, consider these gloves up to your versatile, workhorse challenges.
Best Lacrosse Gloves for Defenders
The punishing enforcers of the lacrosse world, defenders need gloves ready for the trenches. Maximum protection takes priority to absorb crushing checks while intercepting passes.
Defensive juggernauts should look to the Warrior Regulator Max gloves, providing a protective battering ram against attackers. STX Cell 5 gloves are packed with extra padding to maintain physical dominance. Maverik Rome NXT gloves offer next-level protection for shutdown defenders. And Brine King 5 gloves provide a fortress of padding.
Superior padding across the fingers, backhand, and wrists acts like a suit of armor against the offensive onslaught. Materials must withstand seemingly endless abuse from sticks, elbows and bodies.
With the right defensive gloves, you’ll lower the boom on dodging attackmen and stand tall against blistering outside shots. Clear the crease and control the chaos with gloves made for punishing physicality.
Best Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
The key to any defensively fortress is a stronghold in the net. A goalie’s gloves take constant abuse stopping blistering shots, so ample padding and maximum durability are must-have traits.
Goalies should investigate the padded protection of Warrior Nemesis 2 gloves, built like a brick wall. The budget-friendly Brine King 6 gloves offer classic quality. STX Shield gloves provide stellar value for youth netminders. And Maverik Rome gloves deliver high-end performance.
Extra padding on the palms, fingers, wrists and thumbs provide an impenetrable barrier against screaming shots. Materials must withstand rigorous wear-and-tear season after season.
With properly padded goalie gloves, you’ll react like a cat and stop shots with superior hand-eye coordination. No holes in your armored gloves means no holes in the net.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Gloves
Personalize your lacrosse gloves with custom graphics, colors and designs to showcase your unique style. Many manufacturers offer custom gloves directly through their website. Choose colors for the palms, cuffs, bindings and more based on the brand’s customization options.
Alternatively, take gloves to a specialty lacrosse store for custom stringing and dyeing services. Use bold colors and patterns to make your gloves stand out. Add your name or number so your teammates know whose highlight reel catch that was!
Custom gloves also make great holiday gifts. Surprise a young player with their name or number embroidered on their new gloves this season.
Custom lacrosse gloves allow self-expression on the field. Design your gloves however you like – stars and stripes, team colors, crazy graphics or a simple clean design.
Properly Breaking In New Lacrosse Gloves
Like a baseball glove, lacrosse gloves need proper break-in to maximize performance. Brand new stiff gloves feel clumsy until broken-in and shaped to your hand.
Tips for breaking in gloves:
- Wear gloves around the house to soften materials
- Squeeze a ball repeatedly to mold shape
- Pound gloves on a wall to flex padding
- Use leather conditioners to soften material
- Play catch to enhance feel and flexibility
Rushing into games with stiff, restrictive gloves leads to fumbling catches and limited feel. Take time working in gloves until the materials soften up.
Properly broken-in gloves move naturally with your hands, enhancing performance. Don’t take shortcuts – break in gloves properly before stepping on the field.
Lacrosse Glove Maintenance and Care
Take care of your lacrosse gloves and they’ll take care of you. Basic maintenance will extend your gloves’ life and performance.
Maintenance tips:
- Inspect for rips and re-stitch
- Wipe away dirt and debris after use
- Sanitize regularly to prevent odor
- Use leather conditioner to prevent cracking
- Replace worn out palm liners
- Don’t store in extreme heat or cold
Well-cared for lacrosse gloves can last seasons upon seasons. A little TLC goes a long way – treat your gloves with respect.
Replace worn out parts like palm liners to restore grip and comfort. Spot clean messes before they set in. And keep gloves away from extreme temperatures that can damage materials.
With proper care, your trusty gloves will maintain peak performance and stand the test of time.
When to Replace Your Lacrosse Gloves
All good things must come to an end, including your trusty lacrosse gloves. Signs that it’s time to shop for replacements include:
- Padding matted down, no longer absorbing impacts
- Palm wearing out with holes
- Fraying seams and stitching
- Cracking or brittling of materials
- Reduced protection and support
Much like replacing worn out tires on a car, don’t risk injury by using damaged lacrosse gloves past their prime. Retire those tattered gloves with honor after years of loyal service.
For youth players quickly outgrowing gloves, budget options make replacing gear annually affordable. Adult league players should expect a few seasons out of quality gloves with proper care.
While sad to part with beloved gloves, keeping up with necessary replacement ensures peak performance and safety. Don’t jeopardize your hands – know when to say goodbye to used up gear.
Where to Buy Lacrosse Gloves (Online vs In Stores)
When it’s time to purchase new lacrosse gloves, you can find a wide selection both online and in physical stores. Consider the pros and cons of each option:
Online retailers like Amazon, Lacrosse Unlimited and Lax.com provide convenience and wholesale pricing. Huge inventories and filters make finding the perfect glove easy. Shipping may take a few days.
Local sporting goods stores allow trying on gloves for fit and feel. Instant gratification taking home gloves same day. Limited inventory compared to online. Price matching may be available.
Evaluate options based on pricing, promotions, return policy, brand selection, sizing availability and customer service when deciding where to buy.
For goalies benefiting from trying many brands, in-store may be best. For players knowing their brand and size already, online provides values.
With the right research, gloves can be purchased successfully through either online or in-store retailers based on your needs and preferences.