Lacrosse Equipment
Lacrosse players need a lacrosse stick, lacrosse gloves, a helmet with a face guard, mouthpiece, shoulder pads, rib pads, lacrosse ball and cleats.
First, the lacrosse stick is a necessary piece of equipment for any lacrosse player. The type of stick needed depends on several factors including player gender, skill level, and position. The crosse, or the lacrosse stick, can be made of wood, laminated wood or synthetic material and it has a structured net pocket at the one end of the stick. Men’s sticks typically have an aluminum handle because it is more lightweight than wood sticks. Women’s sticks usually have either a wood or aluminum handle. The length of the lacrosse stick depends on the player’s position. For example, for attacker and midfielder positions the stick is usually shorter than the stick used by defensemen. Attackers should use a stick that is shorter in length to allow for control in maneuverability. Midfielders should use a slightly longer stick that allows them to play offense and defense. Defenders should use the longest stick because it allows for greater reach. Men’s sticks range from 30 to 60 inches while women’s sticks usually range from 36 to 44 inches.
Second, Lacrosse gloves have ample padding on the top of the glove to protect the player’s fingers and wrists from being hit by an opponents lacrosse stick. The palm of the glove is usually made of leather so that the player can easily handle the stick.
Third, both men and women are required to wear a protective helmet equipped with a face mask. Although players might not be required to wear a mouth piece is recommended. The mouth piece has a plastic strap that attaches to the helmet’s face mask for convenience.
Fourth, men’s lacrosse is a contact sport and requires specific equipment, including padding, to protect the player from injury. Most lacrosse leagues, whether recreational, collegiate, or professional, require protective gear to be worn. There are a number of pads that need to be worn during a lacrosse game. All field players must wear shoulder pads. Arm and rib pads are recommended for added safety. Rib pads protect the rib area and can wrap around the lower back as well. Should pads protect the shoulder and upper chest from injury.
Lastly, lacrosse player might want to buy their own ball and a pair of cleats. The lacrosse ball is made of solid rubber. It is has an 8 inch circumference and weighs 5 ounces. It is a good idea for any lacrosse to buy a pair of cleats, with rubber spikes, that allow for traction on the lacrosse field.