What Equipment Do You Need For Lacrosse?

Lacrosse started as a tribal game between Native Americans, and was transformed by settlers from Europe after relations between the two cultures introduced them to the game. Today lacrosse is played by men and women in the high school and college levels. The game is overseen by organizations such as U.S. Lacrosse, which determine the game rules, as well as the rules of the equipment necessary to play.

Crosse

The crosse stick is highly regulated for design and specifications by organizations like the USLA and NCAA to ensure fairness in the game. For men, in general the short crosse must be between 40 and 42 inches and the long crosse must be between 52 and 72 inches. The goalie crosse must be between 40 and 72 inches long. For women the crosse length must be between 35.5 and 43.25 inches, with the goalie being allowed a crosse up to 48 inches. The handle of a lacrosse stick can be made from a composite metal alloy, but all other parts of the crosse must be made of wood, laminated wood or a synthetic material such as plastic or fiberglass.

Ball

The NCAA and USLA have set out specific rules on what type of ball should be used for lacrosse. Lacrosse balls must be solid rubber with a slight texture. The ball must be between 7 3/4 and 8 inches in total circumference and between 5 and 5-1/4 ounces in weight. The ball should bounce between 43 and 51 inches when dropped from 72 inches onto a concrete floor. Ball colors are also limited to white, orange, yellow or lime green.

Protection

Protection also plays a role in equipment for lacrosse. Different equipment may be needed depending on the gender of the players. In general, men and women will need a mouth-guard to protect the teeth, tongue and tissue of the mouth, and a helmet for protection against impacts and scrapes. For men, additional equipment includes an athletic supporter or Under Armour complete with a protective cup to protect the genitals. Women may also be required to wear protective eye wear. Shoulder and chest pads may be optional depending on your specific team.

Footwear

Footwear is also important when playing lacrosse due to the need for traction on the playing field. Lacrosse shoes are typically cleats which have soft plastic, leather or rubber spikes on the bottom of the shoe, which dig into the field to help grab traction when running or stopping. Lacrosse shoes come in men's and women's styles and sizes.