Dressed to Play: Lacrosse

Lacrosse has some specialized equipment unique to the sport. Before you fully commit to buying new equipment, try borrowing a friend’s gear or seeing if your club has equipment you can borrow or rent.

Here’s what is required for your child to get started.
 

Stick (Crosse)

Stick sizes depend on age, level and position. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines for your child’s league and ask a lacrosse gear professional to find the right equipment.

Shoulder and arm pads

Shoulder pads protect the shoulder, collarbone and sternum. They should fit snug, but not restrict movement. Arm pads should completely cover the elbow and be tight enough to stay in place, without restricting movement.

Gloves

Lacrosse gloves are similar to hockey gloves and provide padding for the fingers and wrist. They should cover the entire hand and 2-3 inches above the wrist.

Cup

Lacrosse balls are very dense and can cause injury, so wearing a cup for players of all ages is very important.

Helmet

Lacrosse helmets, like hockey helmets, are made of hard plastic and have a wire facemask. Look for guidelines on the package for sizing and fitting instructions.

Mouthguard

Mouthguards are one of the most important pieces of equipment and prevent concussions in young athletes. Make sure to get a color other than white or clear and follow the fitting directions on the package.

Cleats

Lacrosse-specific cleats are shorter, wider and lighter than soccer cleats. While lacrosse cleats are recommended, it is OK to start with soccer cleats if the spikes are rubber and not metal.

Balls

8U and under uses a soft ball tennis ball, while 10U and up uses a certified lacrosse ball which is white, yellow, orange, lime green, or pink.