The Best Lacrosse Pads

Buying Guide

Lacrosse can be a rough sport, with its combination of full-body contact and flying balls and sticks. Safety is vital for anyone planning to participate in the sport, starting with the first practice.

But not all players need the same level of protection. Beginners may be able to get away with a lower-tier, more affordable option. Younger players also may find their games aren’t quite as aggressive. As those younger players grow, though, an upgrade can easily become necessary.

As you choose protective gear, it can help to look at the most common injuries seen on the lacrosse field. Most injuries come from players running into each other or being hit with a stick or a ball. Strains and sprains are seen often, as are concussions. On the less serious end of things are bruises. Frequent players can also experience overuse injuries like tendonitis and stress fractures.

Although there’s never a way to eliminate the risk of a sports injury for an athlete completely, protective gear can make a big difference. Male players are required to wear the following, at a minimum:

• Helmet
• Shoulder pads
• Elbow pads
• Rib pads
• Gloves
• Mouthguard

Since girls’ lacrosse doesn’t involve as much physical contact, girls can get away with just a mouthguard and goggles. That said, individual teams and districts can set their own regulations for players.

For players, the issue becomes remaining protected without sacrificing mobility. Players need to be able to freely move their bodies in order to be at their best in a game. Lacrosse players need more mobility than hockey players in the shoulders and upper arms, so the shoulder pads will be lighter weight. But at the same time, they need to be built with a material that deflects impact to keep the player safe.

• Lacrosse is a high-impact game. It’s important that parents be aware of that. In addition to purchasing the right safety equipment, make sure adults are on hand and always have a first aid kit nearby.
• To minimize the risk of injury, lacrosse players should stretch before each game. No matter what sport your players are engaged in, a physical can make a big difference. If the team doesn’t provide or require a physical, it’s always a good idea to schedule one anyway.
• Even with pads that have adjustable straps, fit can be limited to a certain build. Measure your player and pay close attention to the size charts provided by the manufacturer.
• Finding pads that protect while also being lightweight enough for comfort can be challenging. It’s all in the material. Look for one that’s designed to combine both.
• Lacrosse requires extreme physical exertion, often in hot temperatures. A liner that helps absorb or wick moisture will help keep your player dry if he starts to sweat.
• Male lacrosse players and female lacrosse players have different requirements. But also look into any regulations issued by your player’s team. You may find your team has specific equipment types that you need to look for while you’re shopping.
• If you’re buying lacrosse pads for a younger player, make sure you choose one built for youth. The sizes provided could be adult sizes, leading you to make the wrong purchase.
• Beginner players have different needs than those who are more experienced. You may be able to save on a basic set that includes arm pads, shoulder pads and gloves, then upgrade the items as your player advances and grows.
• Injury isn’t the only risk young athletes face. It’s important that all players remain hydrated. Have plenty of water on hand and make sure players drink as often as possible throughout gameplay.