How to select the perfect lacrosse helmet for optimal protection and comfort. What are the top lacrosse helmet brands and their key features. How to ensure proper fit and sizing for maximum safety on the field.
The Importance of Proper Lacrosse Helmet Sizing and Fit
Selecting the right lacrosse helmet size is crucial for player safety and comfort. A properly fitted helmet provides optimal protection against impacts and minimizes the risk of head injuries during play. Here’s how to ensure you choose the correct size:
- Measure your head circumference accurately using a soft measuring tape
- Compare your measurement to the manufacturer’s sizing chart
- Try on helmets in person whenever possible
- Ensure the helmet fits snugly without painful pressure points
- Check that the helmet covers your entire head and temples
- Position the helmet correctly with the brim one finger width above your eyebrows
Is a snug fit essential for lacrosse helmets. Yes, a snug fit is critical for maximum protection. The inner padding should compress around your head without gaps, preventing the helmet from shifting during play. However, it shouldn’t be so tight that it causes discomfort or leaves marks on your skin.
Top Lacrosse Helmet Brands and Their Standout Features
When choosing a lacrosse helmet, it’s important to consider the reputation and specializations of different brands. Here’s an overview of some leading manufacturers and their key features:
Cascade
Known for innovative impact-absorbing technologies like the Seven Technology liner system. Popular models include:
- R helmet: Customizable fit with excellent ventilation and vision
- S helmet: Maximum protection with Polymer Energy Management technology
Warrior
Focuses on anatomical fit and durability using high-grade polycarbonate. Notable helmets include:
- Regulator and Regulator Max: Favored by elite collegiate and professional players
- Burn: Optimized for field vision with angled side venting
STX
Specializes in advanced moisture-wicking technologies for player comfort. Key models:
- Stallion: Features carbon steel facemask and injected molded foam
- Shield: Utilizes a floating liner system for enhanced impact absorption
Under Armour
Employs 3D scanning for customized fit and high-tech protection. Standout helmet:
- Renegade: Incorporates compression resistance technology and flex panels
Bauer
Applies ice hockey expertise to lacrosse helmet design. Notable model:
- Re-Akt: Offers pro-level protection with enhanced vision features
Advanced Protection Technologies in Modern Lacrosse Helmets
Lacrosse helmet manufacturers continually innovate to improve player safety. Some cutting-edge technologies include:
- Multi-layered impact absorption systems
- Customizable padding for personalized fit
- Lightweight yet durable materials like reinforced polymers
- Ventilation systems to regulate temperature and moisture
- Adjustable tension systems for secure fit
Do these advanced technologies significantly improve helmet safety. Yes, these innovations have led to substantial improvements in impact protection, comfort, and overall helmet performance. However, proper fit and regular maintenance remain crucial for maximizing the benefits of these technologies.
Evaluating Lacrosse Helmet Ventilation and Comfort Features
Effective ventilation is essential for player comfort and performance during intense gameplay. When assessing lacrosse helmets, consider the following ventilation and comfort features:
- Number and placement of ventilation holes
- Moisture-wicking interior padding materials
- Adjustable chin straps and occipital locks for a secure fit
- Weight distribution to prevent neck fatigue
- Soft touch points around ears and jaw for extended wear comfort
Can improved ventilation affect a player’s performance. Absolutely. Enhanced airflow helps regulate body temperature, reduce sweat accumulation, and maintain clear vision, all of which contribute to better focus and endurance during play.
Understanding Lacrosse Helmet Safety Certifications and Standards
When purchasing a lacrosse helmet, it’s crucial to ensure it meets established safety standards. The primary certification to look for is:
- NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) certification
NOCSAE certification indicates that the helmet has passed rigorous testing for impact protection and structural integrity. Additionally, some leagues may have their own specific requirements or approved helmet lists.
Is NOCSAE certification mandatory for all lacrosse helmets. Yes, NOCSAE certification is required for helmets used in most organized lacrosse leagues and tournaments. Always verify that a helmet meets current NOCSAE standards before purchasing.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Lacrosse Helmet
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your lacrosse helmet continues to provide optimal protection throughout its lifespan. Follow these care tips:
- Regularly inspect the helmet for cracks, dents, or loose parts
- Clean the helmet after each use with mild soap and water
- Allow the helmet to air dry completely before storing
- Avoid exposing the helmet to extreme temperatures
- Replace any damaged components immediately
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for reconditioning or replacement
How often should a lacrosse helmet be replaced. Most manufacturers recommend replacing lacrosse helmets every 2-3 years, even if there’s no visible damage. However, helmets should be replaced immediately if they sustain a significant impact or show signs of wear that could compromise protection.
Customization Options for Lacrosse Helmets
Many players enjoy personalizing their lacrosse helmets to reflect their individual style or team identity. Common customization options include:
- Custom paint jobs and decals
- Interchangeable visors and face masks
- Colored chin straps and padding
- Team logo applications
- Personalized name or number decals
While customization can enhance the look of your helmet, it’s important to ensure that any modifications don’t compromise the helmet’s structural integrity or safety features.
Are there restrictions on helmet customization in official play. Many leagues have specific rules regarding helmet customization, particularly concerning colors, logos, and decals. Always check with your league or organization before making any significant alterations to your helmet.
Choosing the Right Lacrosse Helmet for Your Position and Playing Style
Different lacrosse positions may benefit from specific helmet features. Consider these factors when selecting a helmet based on your role:
Attackmen and Midfielders
- Enhanced peripheral vision for better field awareness
- Lightweight design for quick movements
- Excellent ventilation for high-intensity play
Defensemen
- Reinforced protection in high-impact areas
- Durable construction to withstand physical play
- Wide field of vision for tracking opponents
Goalies
- Maximum protection against high-velocity shots
- Unobstructed vision for tracking the ball
- Comfortable fit for extended wear during practice and games
Should players invest in position-specific helmets. While not absolutely necessary, position-specific helmets can provide advantages tailored to your role on the field. However, a high-quality, well-fitted helmet is suitable for any position if it meets safety standards and provides comfort during play.
Selecting the right lacrosse helmet is a crucial decision that impacts both safety and performance on the field. By considering factors such as proper sizing, brand reputation, advanced protection technologies, ventilation, and position-specific features, players can find a helmet that offers optimal protection, comfort, and functionality. Remember to prioritize safety certifications, maintain your helmet properly, and replace it as recommended to ensure continued protection throughout your lacrosse career.
Choosing The Right Lacrosse Helmet Size For Optimal Protection and Comfort
When selecting your lacrosse helmet, one of the most important considerations is getting the right size. Having a properly fitted helmet is crucial for maximizing protection and minimizing injury risk on the field. Here’s a detailed look at how to determine your ideal lacrosse helmet size:
The first step is measuring your head circumference accurately. Wrap a soft measuring tape snugly around the widest part of your head, about 1 inch above the eyebrows and ears. Note down the measurement in inches or centimeters. Compare your head circumference to the manufacturer’s sizing chart to identify the correct helmet size for you.
Most lacrosse helmets come in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. Smaller fittings are also available for youth players. The inner pads of the helmet should compress snugly around your head without being painfully tight. There should be no gaps between the padding and your head.
It’s important to try on helmets in person whenever possible, rather than relying solely on the stated size. Helmet shapes and interior padding can vary across brands, so the fit may be slightly different. When worn properly, the helmet should feel secure and not shift around easily.
Position the front, back and side straps so the helmet fits squarely on top of your head. Avoid wearing it tilted back on your forehead or pushed too low over your eyes. The brim of the helmet should sit one finger width above the eyebrows when properly fitted.
For maximum protection, the helmet must cover your entire head and temples. Opt for a size with additional cushioning and extended rear coverage if you have a longer or wider head shape. Rotate the helmet from side to side and up and down to double check that your head remains stabilized.
A correct fitting lacrosse helmet will feel snug when new but should not pinch painfully or leave red marks on your skin. The fit will relax slightly as the foam padding breaks in over time. Still, it’s vital to begin with a securely fitted helmet so it stays firmly in place during intense lacrosse game action. An ill-fitting helmet offers compromised protection and increases your chances of suffering a head or facial injury. Take the time to find your ideal lacrosse helmet size for the best safety and comfort on the field.
Top Lacrosse Helmet Brands: Key Features of Cascade, Warrior, STX & More
When selecting a new lacrosse helmet, one of the first decisions is choosing between the major helmet brands on the market. Understanding the reputations and specialized features of brands like Cascade, Warrior, STX and others can help guide you towards the best helmet for your needs and budget.
Here is an overview of some of the top lacrosse helmet brands to consider and what sets them apart:
Cascade is one of the leading lacrosse helmet companies, known for pioneering innovative technologies like the Seven Technology liner system designed to absorb impact. Their R helmet model is a popular choice, providing a customizable lightweight fit with exceptional ventilation and vision. The Cascade S helmet prioritizes maximum protection and patented technologies like Polymer Energy Management for premium youth and high school players.
Warrior helmets are engineered for an anatomical fit and durability, making extensive use of high-grade polycarbonate. Their Regulator and Regulator Max helmets offer sturdy protection appreciated by elite collegiate and professional athletes. For attacking players, the Burn helmet optimizes field vision and passing angles with its angled side venting system.
STX specializes in helmets with advanced moisture wicking technologies to keep players cool and dry in heated game situations. The Stallion helmet includes premium components like a carbon steel facemask and injected molded foam for elite protection. The Shield helmet has a unique floating liner system to maximize impact absorption and diffusion for youth athletes.
Under Armour takes a high-tech approach to lacrosse helmets, leveraging 3D scanning for unparalleled customized fit. The Renegade helmet uses compression resistance technology and flex panels to divert hard impacts. The appearance can also be fully customized with different visor, face mask and decal options.
Bauer lacrosse helmets incorporate similar expertise from ice hockey equipment, with high-density foams and tool-free adjustments for ease of fit. The Re-Akt helmet offers pro-level protection and vision enhanced by a large eye opening and aggressive side profile cut.
These are just a few of the main brands to know in lacrosse helmets. Evaluating protection technologies, ventilation, customizable features and overall fit and feel can help you pick the right helmet for your playing style and preferences.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Lacrosse Helmet
With many lacrosse helmet options on the market, it can be tricky evaluating the most important factors to focus on when selecting your new helmet. Beyond finding the right size, here are some of the key considerations to weigh when shopping for lacrosse helmet models:
Vision – A lacrosse helmet that provides optimal vision can enhance your on-field awareness and ability to track the ball. Look for helmets with a curved brim shape or enlarged eye opening for expanded downward and sideline vision. Visors can also improve vision while protecting from glare. Test different helmets to ensure your line of sight is not obstructed.
Comfort – Wearing an uncomfortable lacrosse helmet can be distracting during play. Seek out helmets with thick yet lightweight multi-layer foam liners and adjustment systems to customize the fit. Strategic padding around the jawline and chin delivers comfort. Breathable moisture-wicking materials and proper ventilation will keep you cool and dry even during intense game action.
Style – Most lacrosse helmets today offer options to personalize the look with different visors, facemasks and decal designs. Consider colors and graphics that fit your preferences along with matching your team uniforms. Lacrosse is a game heavy on protective gear, so customized style allows you to put your own stamp on equipment. Having a helmet you find aesthetically appealing can boost motivation and confidence.
Safety Certifications – All lacrosse helmets should meet performance and safety standards for the appropriate governing bodies, like the NOCSAE stamp of approval. Multi-stage foams, optimized energy transfer structures and additional padding provide better protection. Look for advanced technologies that the brand uses to enhance impact absorption and structural integrity.
Weight – Modern lacrosse helmets keep getting lighter while maintaining rigorous protection. Lighter materials put less strain on the neck muscles during play. For speedy positions like attack or midfield, an exceptionally lightweight yet tough helmet improves mobility and agility.
Durability – Lacrosse is a high-contact sport, so helmets must stand up to stick checks, ball impacts and being knocked around. Durable outer shells and sturdy components ensure reliable protection over repeated use. Check warranties as an indicator of expected longevity and coverage.
Keeping these key factors in mind while evaluating lacrosse helmet options will help you select high-quality protective gear tailored to your needs as an athlete.
Top Budget-Friendly Lacrosse Helmets Under $100
The cost of lacrosse gear can quickly add up, especially for youth and high school players needing to purchase all their equipment. Fortunately, there are now many budget-friendly lacrosse helmet options available for under $100. These affordable helmets still provide good protection without breaking the bank.
Here are some of the top value lacrosse helmets to consider if you’re shopping on a tighter budget:
Cascade CS Junior – Cascade uses advanced production techniques to offer the streamlined CS helmet for under $50. It has a sleek, lightweight polycarbonate shell with essential safety features like EPS foam liners for solid protection at this low price point.
Cascade CL – A bargain around $60, the CL model still carries Cascade’s expertise in impact-diffusing designs. The integrated ventilation and moisture management technologies make it suitable for youth or new players seeking a comfortable, vented helmet.
Warrior Regulator Max Youth – Warrior applies the advanced protection technologies of its premium helmets to the scaled-down Regulator Max model for younger athletes. Usually priced around $80, it’s built for taking hard impacts and fast play.
STX Stallion 100 – As their entry-level design, the Stallion 100 provides the padded comfort STX is known for at under $100. Security comes from the wrapped chin strap and an integrated facemask ideal for high school and youth leagues on a budget.
Under Armour Renegade 2.0 – With strategic foam reinforcements and robust polycarbonate shell construction, the Renegade 2.0 delivers reliable protection starting around $90. It includes great ventilation and the brand’s HD Lens technology for clear downward sight lines.
While cheaper helmets naturally compromise on some premium features, these models allow athletes to acquire high-quality lacrosse gear without overspending. With regular inspection and care, value-priced helmets can be a practical choice for safely developing skills and enjoying the sport.
Top Mid-Range Lacrosse Helmets from $100 to $200
Once you move beyond entry-level budget lacrosse helmets, there are a range of excellent mid-priced options in the $100 to $200 range. These helmets incorporate more advanced technologies and materials for athletes seeking improved protection, comfort and customization.
Here are some of the top lacrosse helmets to consider in the mid-range price tier:
Cascade S – Right around $130, the S model incorporates Cascade’s Seven Technology with a variable-thickness liner for strategic impact absorption. The lightweight Tri-Liner padding adds comfort while meeting high NOCSAE standards.
Warrior Regulator Max – The workhorse Regulator Max in the $140 range has Warrior’s high-end protection components at a friendly price. The moisture-wicking Viconic liner keeps you cool through intense play and games.
STX Shield – With a dual-density float liner optimized for youth and small athletes, the Shield costs about $150 for advanced protection. The injected rubber molded shell resists impacts from all directions during quick lacrosse action.
Cascade R – As Cascade’s flagship helmet, the R uses PoronXR foam and pivoting Stratego shields for premium protection just under $200. There is ample customization potential with the R thanks to multiple liner and facemask choices.
Under Armour Command – Great for midfielders, the Command around $180 maximizes visibility and ventilation cutouts. The integrated jaw pad promotes comfort and fit security when taking checks or hits during play.
For lacrosse players seeking to step up their helmet game, investing $150 to $200 supplies elite technologies and custom materials without overspending. Mid-range helmets present an appealing intersection of value, quality construction and advanced protective capabilities.
Premium Lacrosse Helmets Over $200 for Maximum Protection
At the top end of the price range, lacrosse helmets over $200 incorporate the latest protective technologies and premium construction. These helmets are an investment aimed at elite high school, collegiate and professional players who need uncompromising safety and performance.
Some of the standout premium lacrosse helmets include:
Cascade R – The fully loaded R can retail over $300 with all the bells and whistles like exotic liner materials and a chrome facemask. You get Cascade’s pinnacle SevenTech with Tri-Liner padding and adjustable straps for locked-in security during intense game action.
Warrior Regulator Max – Used by pros and college teams, the Regulator Max retails around $325 with a carbon steel facemask option. The high-grade polycarbonate shell reinforced with integrated shock disks provides rugged protection able to withstand big collisions.
STX Stallion 500 – Optimized for elite players, the Stallion 500 sells for $300+ with Kevlar shell construction for battle-ready toughness. STX’s Liner Drive Pods manage force transfer during impacts to minimize injury risks.
Under Armour CEO – Under Armour’s most advanced helmet utilizes Rotational Energy Transfer protection for premium defense against twists and hits. With carbon fiber components and a lithium-polymer energy cell, the CEO sits around $325.
Bauer Re-Akt 150 – Bauer’s top technology like Suspend-Tech 2.0 to reduce rotational acceleration and Poron XRD foam comes at a premium $300+ price. The anatomical shell shape and free-floating liner deliver pro-level protection.
For athletes who need peak safety given the physicality of the sport, investing over $200 in a lacrosse helmet brings elite construction and often customizable options. Maximum protection does come at a price, but can be worthwhile for competitors facing high-speed shots and checks.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Helmet with Visors, Facemasks & Decals
Beyond finding the right size and protection technologies, one of the exciting parts of selecting a new lacrosse helmet is customizing the look. Helmet accessories like visors, facemasks and decals allow you to put your own stylish stamp on your protective gear.
Here are some customization options to consider for personalizing your lacrosse helmet:
Visors – Tinted polycarbonate visors attach to the helmet brim to shade your eyes from sun glare. Visors also protect against errant sticks, elbows and balls approaching your face. Mirrored chrome or colored visors with UV protection help you look intimidating too.
Facemasks – Swapping out the facemask lets you choose from different color schemes and materials like chrome steel for added attitude. Cage-style masks offer an aggressive look while still allowing clear vision and breathing room.
Decals – Lacrosse helmet shells tend to come in basic colors, so decals allow you to embellish your helmet with team logos, custom graphics, your number or nameplate. Decals are easy to apply and remove for updating your style.
Helmet Wrap – For full customization, go beyond decals by wrapping your entire helmet in a printed graphic skin. Use eye-catching patterns, digital camo or flashy colors to differentiate your helmet on the field.
Chin Straps – Even functional chin straps secure your helmet and protect your face can make a style statement with padded sleeves in team colors or designs.
The options for personalizing your lacrosse helmet are nearly endless if you want to express your identity. A colorful helmet and facemask help motivate young players too. Customization also allows easy coordination with team uniforms. A personalized helmet lets you play in gear that matches your passion for lacrosse.
Proper Fitting and Sizing Your Lacrosse Helmet for Safety
A properly fitted lacrosse helmet is essential for getting the maximum protection against potential head and face injuries. Taking the time to find your correct helmet size and adjust the straps for a secure fit will ensure safety on the field.
Here are some tips for properly sizing and fitting your new lacrosse helmet:
Measure your head – Use a soft measuring tape to determine the circumference of your head around 1 inch above your eyebrows and ears. This gives the baseline for your helmet size.
Refer to sizing charts – Lacrosse helmet brands provide detailed sizing charts. Compare your measurement to the ranges for small, medium, large or extra-large to pick your starting size.
Try it on – It’s ideal to physically try on helmets in person before purchasing to assess fit and comfort. The helmet should feel snug without painful pressure points.
Test fitting – Shake your head around while wearing the helmet. It should remain stable without shifting excessively in any direction. Do a vision check as well to ensure it doesn’t obstruct peripheral sightlines.
Adjust straps – Use the adjustable chin strap, side straps and rear Velcro attachments so the helmet sits evenly centered on your head without tilting.
Check padding – Ensure the interior padding applies firm, uniform pressure around your head. There shouldn’t be any gaps where it lifts away from your skin surface.
Break it in – Brand new lacrosse helmets may feel tighter at first. After a break-in period of practices and games, the fit will relax slightly while maintaining a good fit.
Avoid helmet reuse – Don’t use a hand-me-down lacrosse helmet, as the inner padding breaks down over time. Always get properly fitted for a new helmet yourself.
Taking the time to find your personal lacrosse helmet size and adjusting it correctly promotes safety. A helmet worn too loose won’t properly protect your head from impacts.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Lacrosse Helmet After Use
To keep your lacrosse helmet in peak protective condition, it’s important to properly maintain and clean it after practices and games. Sweat, dirt and impacts can degrade the materials over time if not cared for.
Here are some tips for properly maintaining your lacrosse helmet:
Inspect regularly – Before and after each use, inspect your helmet for any cracks in the shell or damage to the facemask. Check that the foam liners are not compacted or deteriorating. Replace immediately if any concerning areas are found.
Clean frequently – Use mild soap and water to clean the helmet shell and exposed foam padding periodically to prevent buildup of dirt, sweat and grime. This helps control odor as well. Avoid submerging the helmet in water.
Sanitize interior – Since the helmet is worn against your head, sanitize the interior periodically by spraying with an alcohol-based sanitizing solution. Let it fully dry afterward before wearing again.
Loosen straps – Keep straps loosened when in storage or transit to prevent compression that can damage the chin strap and lining.
Avoid heat – Don’t leave your helmet in a hot car or other areas with high heat, which can warp the shape and degrade the protectiveness.
Replace parts – Swap out worn parts like chin straps or deteriorating lining and padding as needed to keep protection optimal.
Storage – Keep your helmet stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid piling other gear on top that could dent the shell.
Proper maintenance and cleaning extends the life of your lacrosse helmet. Any helmet that receives a significant impact should be reconditioned or replaced, as the protective qualities become compromised. With regular care, a quality helmet can safely last several seasons of play.
Most Protective Lacrosse Helmets for Attack and Defense
Lacrosse positions like attack and defense often involve the most physical contact and high-speed shots, making protection a priority. Some helmet models offer specialized features and construction to provide maximum protection for these positions.
Here are some of the most protective lacrosse helmets ideal for attack and defense players:
Cascade R – With advanced Poron XRD foam and a pivoting liner system, the R helmet offers full coverage and impact absorption for crowded attack plays around the crease.
Warrior Regulator Max – Warrior reinforces this helmet with high-grade polycarbonate and integrated Polyshock disks for added durability during checks. Ideal for close defense.
STX Stallion 500 – The Stallion 500 uses premium materials like Kevlar and rubber molded padding for ruggedness when battling for ground balls. STX’s Liner Drive Pods manage force displacement.
Under Armour CEO – Under Armour’s high-tech carbon fiber and Rotational Energy Transfer technologies make the CEO helmet ideal for relentless defenders fending off dodges and shots.
Cascade CPV – For midfield transition players, the CPV has extra padding down low in the rear for protecting the vulnerable back of the head when picking up ground balls.
Warrior Burn Flare – With its angled side vision design, the Burn Flare maximizes visibility for tracking rolls, cuts and passes as an attackman while protecting from checks.
For field players needing to contend with constant physicality, these lacrosse helmets use robust yet lightweight materials and strategic reinforcement against glancing blows and direct shots. Maximum protection reduces your risk of head injuries during intense play.
Top Lacrosse Helmets for Goalies Offer Enhanced Throat Protection
Due to their unique positioning directly in the line of fire, goalies require lacrosse helmets engineered specifically with their needs in mind. To protect the vulnerable throat from high-speed shots, the best goalie helmets integrate extended chin and throat padding.
Some of the top goalie lacrosse helmets include:
Cascade R – The R goalie helmet uses flexible extended density foam to protect the Adams apple and throat. The throat protector secures with adjustable chin straps for customized coverage.
Warrior Nemesis – Warrior outfits the Nemesis goalie helmet with floating chin and extended sternum protectors to shield from point blank shots. Large ventilation cutouts enhance breathability.
STX Shield – With its small shell design, the Shield goalie helmet fits snugly while the Pro-Style chin pad protects the entire jaw and throat region when squatting down in goal.
Under Armour Unstoppable – Under Armour leverages dense foam protectors engineered to absorb shots hitting the collarbone and throat. The compressive jaw flap boosts flex and movement.
Bauer Re-Akt – Bauer takes cues from ice hockey masks for the Re-Akt goalie helmet. The floating sternum pad overlaps the chin for complete protection when reacting down low.
For goalies, lacrosse helmet safety means going beyond standard head protection. Integrated throat padding is crucial to prevent injuries from shots targeting the top corners of the goal. With enhanced coverage, goalies can play more aggressively knowing vulnerabilities are defended.
Best Lacrosse Helmets for Youth and High School Players
As young athletes develop their skills, having properly fitted protective lacrosse gear is vital for keeping them safe on the field. Several brands now offer excellent youth and high school specific lacrosse helmets.
Some top options to consider include:
Cascade CS Junior – With rugged ABS plastic shell construction, the budget-friendly CS Junior helmet provides solid protection for younger players first learning the sport.
Warrior Regulator Max Youth – The lightweight scaled-down Regulator Max uses advanced materials like Viconic foam to manage impacts while allowing youth to build confidence.
STX Shield – Engineered for players with smaller head sizes, the Shield has a dual-density liner and injected rubber padding optimized to protect youth athletes.
Under Armour Renegade Jr – Strategic polycarbonate reinforcement gives the Renegade Jr. reliable protection. The AirTium foam liner increases comfort and cooling airflow.
Cascade Pro7 – Offering a more compact profile, the Pro7 sits lower on the head for superior vision and protection coverage on younger lacrosse players.
Warrior Burn Junior – With its aggressively angled side vision design, the Burn Junior enhances field awareness for youth players learning proper technique.
Getting youth introduced to lacrosse safely means using age-appropriate helmets engineered for smaller heads and developing bodies. Brands now offer excellent junior models so young athletes can build skills with confidence.
Unique and Bold Lacrosse Helmet Designs and Styles
Beyond just protection, part of the fun of lacrosse is expressing your personal playing style through equipment. Helmet options today offer more ways than ever to customize the look with unique colors, graphics and designs.
Some helmet style elements to consider include:
Custom colors – Bold metallic flake, neon or two-tone finishes replace standard team colors for flash. Special edition colors directly from brands keep things fresh.
Matte vs. gloss – A flat matte shell provides an aggressive, stealthy look compared to high-gloss. Matte finishes won’t reflect sun glare either.
Chrome accents – Chrome facemasks, chin straps and visors add stylish attitude. New chrome hydrographic graphic wraps achieve eye-catching results.
Reversible shells – Choose between two color/graphic options on one helmet with interchangeable shells. Provides versatility for coordinating with different uniforms.
Retro designs – Classic retro colorways and throwback logo decals recall the roots of lacrosse for vintage style. Distressed shell textures enhance the retro vibe.
Alternate decals – Replace the usual brand logo decal with custom designs, nicknames or your own number in team fonts for unique personalization.
Today’s lacrosse helmets make it easy to showcase creativity and stand out on the field. With so many colors, finishes and graphics to mix and match, you can assemble a truly one-of-a-kind helmet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lacrosse Helmets
When shopping for a new lacrosse helmet, you probably have lots of questions about finding the right fit, proper use, maintenance and more. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about lacrosse helmets:
How often should I replace my lacrosse helmet?
Lacrosse helmets should be replaced every 2-3 years at minimum as the foams and materials degrade over time. Replace immediately if any cracks, damage or deterioration occurs.
What are lacrosse helmets made out of?
Most lacrosse helmets have a polycarbonate composite outer shell for durability. Inner liners use multi-stage vinyl nitrile foams and various padding for customized fit and impact absorption.
How do I know if a lacrosse helmet fits properly?
A properly fitted lacrosse helmet will feel snug all around your head with no gaps in padding contact. It shouldn’t shift excessively when you shake your head and stays centered on top.
Can lacrosse helmets be used for other sports?
No, lacrosse helmets are designed specifically to protect from the impacts of lacrosse balls and stick checks. Use only a lacrosse-specific helmet certified for the sport.
Do lacrosse helmets come with facemasks?
Most lacrosse helmets come with an integrated facemask. However, the mask can usually be swapped for other styles to customize the look if desired.
Getting the right lacrosse helmet starts with understanding the key considerations. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask a coach or sporting goods retailer for guidance before purchasing.