The physical nature of lacrosse makes it necessary for all players to wear protective gear during a game. When you play lacrosse, opposing players with slash you with their sticks, and you always have the chance of being hit by the ball. By finding approved equipment before you play, you can minimize your chance of getting hurt while playing the game.
Gloves
Lacrosse gloves protect your hands against slashes from your opponent's stick. These gloves come in a variety of different styles and sizes, so you should shop around and find a pair with which you feel comfortable. Because you cradle the ball with your lacrosse stick, which requires wrist movement, lacrosse gloves provide more flexibility than hockey gloves.
Arm and Elbow Pads
The arm and elbow pads that you choose protect your upper arm all the way down to your wrist. Find pads with a lightweight construction, which provides protection without weighing you down. Many players prefer arm pads that come with an anti-slip sleeve because this minimizes the chance of the pad slipping down your arm and leaving you exposed.
Shoulder Pads
The physical nature of lacrosse makes shoulder pads necessary. These pads protect your shoulders, chest and upper back without making it impossible for you to move. High-end shoulder pads come with a ventilation system that cools you down as you play. This is especially important during field lacrosse games in the summer, when the temperature can increase quickly.
Rib Pads
Rib pads remain important because they protect your ribs, hips and spine. Find pads that wrap around your body to protect you from both slashes and body contact. Look for a set that does not weigh you down and allows flexibility. Most come with elastic straps, which allow you to adjust the fit throughout the game.
Helmet
Helmets come in different sizes, although you can usually adjust the size to meet your needs. Players use lightweight helmets that provide protection for the head and face. Find a helmet that does not prevent you from seeing the entire field because vision remains extremely important in the sport. This includes upward vision; you do not want the cage to get in the way as you attempt to track a ball down the field.
References
- "Lacrosse for Dummies"; James Hinkson, et al.; 2010
- "Lacrosse: Technique and Tradition"; David Pietramala, et al.; 2006
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