How do you choose the right lacrosse gloves for youth players. What factors should you consider when selecting gloves for different positions. How can you ensure proper fit and protection for young athletes.

Key Considerations for Choosing Youth Lacrosse Gloves

Selecting the right lacrosse gloves is crucial for young players’ performance, comfort, and safety on the field. Several factors come into play when making this important decision:

• Player’s age and skill level
• Position-specific requirements
• Proper sizing and fit
• Protection and padding
• Flexibility and dexterity
• Brand reputation and quality

Understanding these elements will help you make an informed choice that enhances your child’s lacrosse experience.

Age and Skill Level: Matching Gloves to Player Development

The appropriate lacrosse gloves vary significantly based on a player’s age and skill level. Younger or novice players may require different features compared to more experienced athletes:

Beginners and Young Children (Under 7)

For new players or those under 7 years old, basic starter gloves with moderate padding often suffice. These gloves prioritize comfort and allow young players to develop fundamental stick skills without being encumbered by excessive bulk.

Intermediate Players (Ages 8-12)

As players progress and participate in more competitive play, they benefit from gloves with enhanced protection and performance features. Look for options that balance protection with flexibility to support skill development.

Advanced Youth Players (13 and up)

Older youth players competing at high levels require gloves that offer maximum protection, durability, and performance-enhancing features. These gloves often incorporate advanced materials and designs to meet the demands of intense competition.

Position-Specific Glove Features: Optimizing Performance

Different positions in lacrosse have unique requirements for gloves, reflecting the specific skills and challenges of each role:

Attackers and Midfielders

Players in these positions prioritize gloves that offer:

• Excellent flexibility for superior ball control
• Lightweight design for quick movements
• Enhanced grip for secure catching and passing
• Balanced protection without sacrificing dexterity

Defenders

Defensive players benefit from gloves that provide:

• Maximum padding for protection against checks and shots
• Reinforced palms and fingers for durability
• Secure wrist closure for stability during physical play
• Slightly heavier construction for added protection

Goalies

Goalie gloves are highly specialized, featuring:

• Extra padding in the palms and fingers to absorb shot impact
• Sticky or tacky palm material for improved ball control
• Extended cuffs for wrist protection
• Reinforced thumb area to prevent hyperextension

Ensuring Proper Fit: The Importance of Accurate Sizing

Proper sizing is crucial for both comfort and performance in lacrosse gloves. Ill-fitting gloves can hinder a player’s ability to control the stick and may even lead to injuries. Here’s how to ensure the right fit:

Measuring for the Perfect Fit

1. Use a soft measuring tape to measure hand length from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger.
2. Measure hand circumference around the widest part of the palm, typically just below the knuckles.
3. Compare these measurements to size charts provided by glove manufacturers.

Is hand growth a concern for youth players? Indeed, it is. Children’s hands grow rapidly, often necessitating new gloves each season. Regular measurements and fittings ensure optimal performance and protection as players develop.

Adjustable Features for a Customized Fit

Many youth lacrosse gloves come with adjustable features to accommodate growth and ensure a secure fit:

• Cinch straps across the wrist allow players to tighten or loosen the glove
• Adjustable cuffs provide a customizable fit around the wrist
• Some models offer removable liners to adjust internal volume

These features not only improve fit but also extend the usable life of the gloves as young players grow.

Protection and Padding: Safeguarding Young Athletes

Adequate protection is paramount in lacrosse gloves, especially for youth players whose hands are still developing. Key areas to focus on include:

Critical Protection Zones

• Fingers: Segmented padding allows flexibility while protecting against checks and ball impacts
• Thumb: Reinforced protection to prevent hyperextension
• Back of hand: Ample padding to absorb impact from checks and errant passes
• Wrist: Extended cuffs with padding protect this vulnerable area
• Palm: Strategic padding for grip and protection without sacrificing feel

Materials for Optimal Protection

High-quality lacrosse gloves utilize a combination of materials to balance protection and performance:

• Foam padding: Provides impact absorption
• Plastic inserts: Offer rigid protection in key areas
• Leather or synthetic leather: Enhances durability in high-wear areas
• Mesh or breathable fabrics: Improve ventilation and comfort

How do these materials contribute to overall glove performance? By working in tandem, they create a protective barrier that absorbs impact while allowing the flexibility and breathability necessary for optimal play.

Flexibility and Dexterity: Enhancing Stick Skills

While protection is crucial, lacrosse gloves must also allow for excellent dexterity to facilitate stick handling, passing, and shooting. Consider the following aspects:

Articulated Fingers

Look for gloves with segmented finger protection that allows natural movement. This design enables players to maintain a secure grip on the stick while executing complex maneuvers.

Flexible Palm Materials

The palm area should be made of materials that offer a good balance of grip and flexibility. Many high-quality gloves use perforated leather or synthetic materials that enhance feel without compromising durability.

Ventilation and Moisture Management

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining dexterity throughout play. Features to look for include:

• Mesh panels for increased airflow
• Moisture-wicking liners to keep hands dry
• Perforated palms for enhanced breathability

How do these features impact a player’s performance? By keeping hands cool and dry, they help maintain grip and prevent fatigue, allowing players to perform at their best throughout the game.

Top Brands and Models: Comparing Quality and Features

Several leading brands offer excellent options for youth lacrosse gloves. Here’s a comparison of some top contenders:

Warrior Burn Next

Offering outstanding value, the Warrior Burn Next gloves provide:

• Excellent protection with ample padding
• Adjustable cuff for a secure fit
• Flexible materials for developing stick skills
• Affordable price point around $50

Maverik M5

The Maverik M5 gloves are known for:

• Advanced heat-moldable foam for custom fit
• Excellent ventilation with AX Suede palm
• Secure closure system
• Durable construction for long-lasting performance

STX Surgeon RZR

STX’s Surgeon RZR gloves feature:

• Innovative ISO-liner for improved fit and feel
• Enhanced flexibility in key areas
• Strategic padding for optimal protection
• Premium materials for durability

How do these brands compare in terms of durability and performance? While all offer high-quality options, individual preferences for fit and feel often guide player choices. It’s beneficial to try on multiple brands to find the best match for your young athlete.

Additional Considerations for Youth Lacrosse Gloves

Beyond the core features, several other factors can influence your choice of youth lacrosse gloves:

Color and Design

While not impacting performance, the aesthetics of lacrosse gloves can boost a player’s confidence and team spirit. Many brands offer a variety of colors and designs to match team uniforms or express individual style.

Break-in Period

New lacrosse gloves often require a break-in period to achieve optimal flexibility and comfort. Some methods to expedite this process include:

• Wearing the gloves during practice sessions
• Gently flexing the gloves by hand
• Using glove conditioners (for leather gloves)

Maintenance and Care

Proper care can extend the life of lacrosse gloves and maintain their performance. Tips for glove maintenance include:

• Air out gloves after each use to prevent odor and bacterial growth
• Clean gloves regularly with mild soap and water
• Avoid machine washing or drying, which can damage padding and materials
• Store gloves in a cool, dry place when not in use

How often should youth lacrosse gloves be replaced? While it varies based on usage and growth, many players find they need new gloves every 1-2 seasons to ensure optimal fit and protection.

Budget Considerations

Lacrosse gloves can vary significantly in price, from budget-friendly options around $30 to high-end models exceeding $100. Consider the following when budgeting for gloves:

• Player’s commitment level and frequency of play
• Expected durability and longevity of the gloves
• Potential for hand growth necessitating replacement
• Available features and technologies at different price points

Is it worth investing in more expensive gloves for youth players? For serious players or those in competitive leagues, higher-end gloves often offer superior protection and performance features that can justify the investment. However, for beginners or recreational players, mid-range options often provide an excellent balance of quality and value.

Seeking Expert Advice: Leveraging Experience for Informed Decisions

When selecting lacrosse gloves for youth players, don’t hesitate to seek advice from those with experience in the sport:

Coaches and Trainers

Lacrosse coaches and trainers can provide valuable insights into:

• Position-specific glove requirements
• Brands and models that perform well in game situations
• Proper fitting techniques
• Balancing protection and performance for different skill levels

Experienced Players

Older or more experienced players can offer practical advice on:

• Comfort and feel of different glove models
• Durability and longevity of various brands
• Features that make a noticeable difference in play
• Tips for breaking in new gloves

Specialty Retailers

Staff at lacrosse specialty stores often have extensive knowledge about:

• Latest glove technologies and innovations
• Proper sizing and fitting techniques
• Comparison of features across different brands and price points
• Upcoming sales or promotions for better value

How can you make the most of these resources? Consider arranging a fitting session with a coach or visiting a specialty store where you can try on multiple glove options and receive personalized advice.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Youth Lacrosse Player

Selecting the perfect lacrosse gloves for a youth player involves careful consideration of various factors, including:

• Player’s age, skill level, and position
• Proper fit and sizing
• Protection and padding requirements
• Flexibility and dexterity needs
• Brand reputation and quality
• Budget considerations

By taking these elements into account and seeking advice from experienced players, coaches, and retailers, you can make an informed decision that enhances your young athlete’s performance and safety on the lacrosse field.

Remember that as players grow and develop, their glove needs may change. Regular reassessment of fit and performance will ensure that your youth player always has the best equipment to support their lacrosse journey.

Investing time in finding the right lacrosse gloves can significantly impact a young player’s comfort, confidence, and ability to perform on the field. With the right pair of gloves, your youth athlete will be well-equipped to enjoy the game and reach their full potential in the exciting sport of lacrosse.

Check Your Kid’s Age and Skill Level Before Choosing Lacrosse Gloves

The right lacrosse gloves depend heavily on your child’s age and skill level on the field or in the box. For example, brand new players under 7 may do fine with basic starter gloves with some padding. However, older kids playing elite travel lacrosse need advanced protection and high-performance features to take their game to the next level.

Know the Difference Between Gloves for Attackers, Middies, and Defenders

Lacrosse gloves differ by position. Attackers and midfielders prioritize comfortable, flexible gloves that aid catching, throwing, and scooping. Defenders need heavyweight gloves with maximum padding and protection to knock down shots. Goalies have specialized gloves with extra padding and stickiness to stop point blank shots.

Size Your Kid’s Gloves Based on Careful Hand Measurements

Ill-fitting gloves hinder performance and can cause injury. When sizing youth lacrosse gloves, carefully measure hand length and circumference with a soft measuring tape. Compare those measurements to size charts from top brands like Warrior, Maverik, and STX to find the best fit.

Look for Adjustable Cinch Straps for a Secure, Customizable Fit

Youth lacrosse gloves with cinch straps across the wrist allow players to tighten or loosen the fit. This adjustable closure provides added security during intense game action. It also accommodates growth spurts and different hand sizes across seasons.

Prioritize Padding and Leather in High Wear Areas

Quality lacrosse gloves have ample padding in the palm, fingers, and thumb to absorb checks and passes. Tough leather resists rips and reinforced stitching prevents blown-out seams. Focus padding around the wrist and hands since beginners tend to check with their hands not their sticks.

Ensure Excellent Dexterity for Catching and Throwing

Stiff, bulky gloves make it hard for young players to handle the ball. Look for flexible, lightweight gloves that contour to the hand. Move the fingers around to ensure full motion for catching, scooping, passing, and shooting on goal.

Pick Youth-Specific Gloves for More Protection

Many brands now offer lacrosse gloves designed for younger players. These provide more padding across the fingers and back of hand. Youth gloves also feature softer, more flexible materials to aid development of stick skills.

Compare All the Top Glove Brands Like Warrior, Maverik, and STX

When buying the first pair of lacrosse gloves, try on different brands to find the best fit. Leading manufacturers like Warrior, Maverik, STX, Brine, and Nike all make excellent youth gloves. As kids advance, they may prefer certain brands over others.

Warrior Burn Next Gloves: Great Protection and Mobility at a Budget Price

Warrior Burn Next gloves offer outstanding value in youth lacrosse gloves. At around $50, they provide stellar protection with ample padding across the fingers and back of hand. The adjustable cuff and flexible materials also allow great dexterity for developing stick skills.

Get Proper Wrist Support to Avoid Injury

Tight cuffs with ample wrist padding keep wrists stable when cradling, passing, and shooting. This minimizes wrist sprains and slashes. Some gloves also feature thumb locks that prevent hyper-extension when checking.

Pick Fun Colors and Patterns for Visibility and Confidence

Youth lacrosse gloves come in vibrant colors and cool graphics so players look and feel like rockstars. Bold designs stand out on the field for better visibility. Matching gloves and helmets also give young athletes a unified, professional look.

Read Reviews and Ask Experienced Players for Recommendations

Before purchasing lacrosse gloves, read reviews and ask experienced youth players for input. They can provide firsthand advice on sizing, durability, and performance of different gloves. Also ask coaches – they know the gear that performs best on the field.

Shop Clearance Sales Before the Season Starts

Find the best deals on lacrosse gloves by shopping clearance sales in the off-season. Retailers like Lacrosse Monkey and Amazon deeply discount gloves in the fall and winter months. This allows you to stock up on quality gear at affordable prices before spring tryouts.

Replace Youth Gloves Annually as Your Player’s Hands Grow

Kids’ hands grow rapidly, so they will likely need new gloves every season. Properly fitted gloves improve ball control and reduce injury risk. Schedule annual glove measurements and budget for new pairs each year to keep your young athlete safe and competitive.

Know the Difference Between Gloves for Attackers, Middies, and Defenders

When selecting the perfect pair of lacrosse gloves for your young athlete, it’s crucial to consider their position on the field or in the box. Attackers and midfielders focus on stickhandling, so they need lightweight, flexible gloves with maximum dexterity. The palms and fingers have less padding to optimize feel while cradling, passing, and shooting. Meanwhile, defenders take a beating with constant checks, so their gloves prioritize maximum protection. Extra thick padding across the back of the hand, fingers, and wrist shield against bruising slashes and cross-checks. Lastly, goalies have their own specialized gloves with added padding across the palm and extended cuffs. Advanced stickiness helps them hug the ball on reaction saves at close range. So consult your player’s coach about their positional needs before choosing lacrosse gloves.

Size Your Kid’s Gloves Based on Careful Hand Measurements

One of the biggest mistakes parents make when buying youth lacrosse gloves is guessing their child’s size. Ill-fitting gloves negatively impact performance and can cause blisters or even fractures. For a perfect fit, carefully measure your kid’s dominant hand length from the tip of the middle finger to the base of the palm. Also wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of the palm to determine hand circumference. Compare these precise measurements to sizing charts from top lacrosse brands like Warrior, Maverik, and STX. This ensures you order gloves with the ideal finger length, palm width, and cuff size to maximize protection, dexterity, and comfort. Allow about a half-inch of growing room in the fingers, but avoid bulky gloves that restrict motion. Dialing in the fit based on measurements, not age or guesswork, gives your young player the tools they need to develop their skills.

Look for Adjustable Cinch Straps for a Secure, Customizable Fit

An excellent feature to look for when selecting youth lacrosse gloves is adjustable cinch straps on the wrists. These straps allow players to tighten or loosen the gloves for a truly customized fit. Snug gloves stay in place better during intense game play, preventing the annoying need to constantly re-adjust. However, they shouldn’t cut off circulation or feel uncomfortable. Cinch straps on the wrist provide the solution. Players can dial in the perfect level of compression. As kids grow and their hands and wrists change shape and size over weeks or months, the straps continue to deliver a secure contoured fit. Without cinch straps, gloves can loosen over time, putting young athletes at risk of getting hit in the fingers. Straps also allow for adjusting to swelling during physical play. Ultimately, adjustable closures lead to better performance and protection for your developing superstar.

Prioritize Padding and Leather in High Wear Areas

When evaluating lacrosse gloves for youth players, inspect the padding and materials in the areas that take the most abuse. The palm, fingers, and thumb see constant wear from scooping, catching, and passing, so ample extra padding there absorbs vibrations and impacts. Tough leather or synthetic leather in the palm resists rips and tears during play. Also check for reinforced stitching across the palms and fingers, as this prevents seam blowouts during intense games. Other high wear zones to scrutinize are the wrists and back of the hand. Beginning players tend to check with their hands instead of their sticks, so extra protection here minimizes bruising. Look for adjustable wrists with a neoprene cuff or extra padding built in. And pick gloves with sufficient foam or inserts across the back of the hand to disperse checks. Prioritizing padding and durability in the highest impact zones ensures gloves withstand the rigors of play.

Ensure Excellent Dexterity for Catching and Throwing

When trying on youth lacrosse gloves, make sure your kid has full range of motion in their fingers and hands for optimum catching and throwing. Bulky, stiff gloves restrict movement and feel. Have your young player flex their fingers, make a fist, and go through throwing motions when testing gloves. The glove palms should feel supple and conform to the natural shape of the hand, without any tight spots or binding. Walk through catching drills like scooping ground balls and receiving passes to check flexibility. Dexterous gloves allow youth athletes to cradle and control the ball better while running. They also maximize throwing velocity, accuracy, and touch on passes. The fingers and palms should not catch or tug during release. Trying out flex and dexterity before buying ensures gloves become an extension of the hand for confident, skilled play.

Pick Youth-Specific Gloves for More Protection

When shopping for your kid’s first lacrosse gloves, seriously consider purchasing a pair designed specifically for youth players rather than scaled-down men’s gloves. Many top brands now offer gloves engineered for young athletes with features that account for their still developing bodies and skills. Youth lacrosse gloves provide extra padding across the fingers, knuckles, wrists, and back of hand for maximum protection. They also utilize softer, more flexible leathers and materials so gloves move naturally with younger hands. The pre-curved shape hugs and protects the hand while allowing excellent stick feel and dexterity. Youth gloves support proper cradling, catching, passing, and shooting technique. And their lightweight feel reduces hand fatigue over long practices and games. While adult gloves work fine for some, youth-specific options optimize safety, performance, and confidence in young players.

Compare Popular Glove Brands Like Warrior, Maverik, and STX

When buying your kid their first pair of lacrosse gloves, it’s smart to try on options from the top brands to find the best fit and feel. Leading manufacturers like Warrior, Maverik, STX, Brine, and Nike all produce excellent youth gloves with slight differences in padding, materials, and styling. Warrior gloves emphasize comprehensive padding for protection while maintaining good dexterity. Maverik optimizes mobility and wrist support for developing stick skills. STX focuses on top-notch leathers and strategic padding zones to reduce sting. There is no definitively superior brand – personal preference rules. Let your young athlete test out different gloves to discover which they naturally gravitate towards based on comfort, grip, and confidence when cradling and throwing. As they improve and preferences evolve, they may switch preferred brands year-to-year. The right gloves bolster skills, so choose quality construction over flashy cosmetics.

Warrior Burn Next Gloves: Great Protection and Mobility at a Budget Price

One excellent youth glove option to consider is the Warrior Burn Next. Retailing around $50, the Burn Next gloves provide stellar protection and mobility at an affordable price point ideal for young players. The back of the hand utilizes multiple padded foam inserts to defend against checks, while ventilation holes prevent sweating. The palms utilize durable synthetic leather with ample padding in the thumb and fingertips to reduce sting during catch and pass. Warrior’s cuff design allows easy adjustability for a secure fit. Meanwhile, the flexible thumb and curved fingers enable natural stick feel and ball control. For the price, the Warrior Burn Next gloves offer outstanding quality and performance to elevate any young athlete’s game this season.

Get Proper Wrist Support to Avoid Injury

When trying youth lacrosse gloves, pay close attention to wrist support and stability. Proper closure and padding here helps avoid potentially serious injuries for young players. First, ensure a snug contoured fit around the wrist with either an adjustable cinch strap or elasticized cuff. Loose gloves shift during play, reducing protection. Next, make sure ample padding circles the wrist to dampen checks. Multi-layer foam inserts or thickened leather provide flexibility while guarding the vulnerable joint. Also look for an integrated plastic thumb lock that prevents over-extension when poking and slapping checks. If the glove’s wrist area doesn’t feel secure and supportive during testing, keep looking. Proper wrist reinforcement, especially in beginners learning correct defensive techniques, ensures gloves protect against sprains, fractures, and slashes this season.

Pick Your Preferred Color and Style for Visibility and Confidence

While protection and fit should drive glove selection, color and style preferences also matter. Youth lacrosse gloves come in vibrant shades and cool graphics so players can express their individuality. Bold colors like neon green, orange, and yellow increase on-field visibility to teammates. Matching gloves and helmets provide a unified, professional look. Interesting prints or team logos boost motivation and confidence. Considering your kid’s favorite hues or patterns makes gloves an extension of their identity. Balance style against proper fit and construction quality. But also allow young athletes to pick lacrosse gloves they find aesthetically inspiring to play their best and have fun competing.

Read Reviews and Ask Experienced Players for Recommendations

Before purchasing your young athlete’s first lacrosse gloves, tap into the wisdom of experienced players. Read online reviews of popular youth gloves to gain insight into sizing, durability, and real-world performance. Lacrosse message boards like laxallstars.com contain detailed user impressions ideal for comparison. You can also directly ask their coach or teammates what gloves they recommend and why. Experienced players understand the protection and dexterity younger kids need. They know which gloves hold up under game conditions and offer confidence boosting style. Consider reviews and recommendations as part of your due diligence, along with properly sizing gloves and assessing key features like padding and adjustability. Insights from those with first-hand knowledge helps ensure you select the right gloves for your developing player’s needs.

Shop Clearance Sales Before the Season Starts

Savvy lacrosse parents can save big on gloves by shopping off-season clearance sales. Retailers like Lacrosse Monkey, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Amazon deeply discount remaining glove stock in the late fall and winter months as they make room for new inventory. While sizing selection becomes limited, you can often grab last year’s $100 gloves for around $50 if you aren’t picky about colors. Clearance gloves are brand new – just prior year models. Setting price drop alerts and jumping on holiday sales allows you to stock up on quality gloves at budget prices before spring tryouts. You’ll have the flexibility to buy multiple pairs for growing hands while keeping more cash for other gear. Some gloves may need re-palming or stitch repair after a season or two, but the savings outweigh that cost. Beat inflation and buy ahead on clearance.

Replace Gloves Annually as Your Player’s Hands Grow

One overlooked aspect of fitting youth lacrosse gloves is anticipating growth spurts. Kids’ hands rapidly change shape and size over months and years. Gloves that fit perfectly during tryouts may become small and restrictive by season’s end. This leads to decreased performance and increased injury risk. Schedule annual glove measurements for your young athlete. Allot budget for new gloves each spring season, even if the old pair still seems durable. Proper fit supersedes maximizing glove lifespan. Prioritize replacing ill-fitting gloves over buying other accessories. An annual glove replacement policy ensures your player always has the safest, most functional pair tailored to their evolving hands and playing style. Their confidence, skills and safety will thank you.

Replace Gloves Annually as Your Player’s Hands Grow

One overlooked aspect of fitting youth lacrosse gloves is anticipating growth spurts. Kids’ hands rapidly change shape and size over months and years. Gloves that fit perfectly during tryouts may become small and restrictive by season’s end. This leads to decreased performance and increased injury risk. Schedule annual glove measurements for your young athlete. Allot budget for new gloves each spring season, even if the old pair still seems durable. Proper fit supersedes maximizing glove lifespan. Prioritize replacing ill-fitting gloves over buying other accessories. An annual glove replacement policy ensures your player always has the safest, most functional pair tailored to their evolving hands and playing style. Their confidence, skills and safety will thank you.