HELPFUL Equipment Suggestions & Retail Options

HELPFUL Equipment Suggestions & Retail Options

( Retail and on-line stores are listed at the bottom of this page )

 LACROSSE STICKS 

General info:

  • For Grades K-1, beginner lacrosse sticks (or starter kits) are available through popular LAX brands include: STX, Under Armour, Warrior, Signature, and Brine. Honestly, there’s not much difference between the starter sticks. Practice is the only thing that makes a difference at this point. (If you do shop online, just be sure to buy a girls’ lacrosse stick.)

  • For Grades 2-4, it is not necessary to buy a top-of-the-line stick, but if you plan to play for a few years, it may be worth investing in at least a mid-range one. 

  • For Grades 5-8, beginner stick kits are less appropriate. The technology and stringing of the advanced sticks is more in line with the full field game. These sticks can carry a player into high school. 

  • Why invest in a top of the line stick in youth lacrosse?  One of the biggest reasons top of the line sticks work well for young players is because of the stringing in the head.  Oftentimes, it makes for an easier catch because the strings are a much higher quality (re:softer) and the head is strung with a ready made legal pocket.  

  • Beginner sticks come with tight, taught strings that take a while to break in which can be frustrating for our youngest players.  Parents and players are allowed to loosen the strings to create a deeper pocket, but by 3rd grade, these "loose pockets" must be tightened up to legal stick standards. 

New players - Kindergarten to 4th Grade:

  • In the end, most sticks are good and we understand that COLOR is important to most young girls. 

  • Note: We prefer NOT to cut the sticks shafts. However, for Grade K-4 players, stick shafts can be too long for optimal cradling and passing and therefore can be cut.  

  • How Long Should My Youth Lacrosse Stick Be?    

New players -  Grade 5-8:

  • If you are new in Grade 5/6 and 7/8 and might be interested in playing in High School, you may want to buy a higher end stick. 

  • Do NOT have your stick cut.  You need the full length for longer passing as you get older.  

Intermediate + Experienced Players:

  • If you have been playing for a few years and are into lacrosse, you may want to investigate the higher models by these manufacturers.  Technology has greatly improved in the past few years.  

  • We do not feel that you need to purchase a top-of-the-line stick.  The technology changes so quickly that it's very likely you will want a new stick in the next 2-3 years.  

    • ​According to one trainer, the 10-degree tilt is advantageous for keeping the ball in the pocket.  Although some players may need to get used to the slight difference in release point.  

    • High end shafts aren't really necessary either.  You can always upgrade the shaft later.  And do NOT have your stick cut.  You need the full length for longer passing as you get older.

 Here’s a list of USA Lacrosse's approved girls youth & women's lacrosse sticks

 GOGGLES 

  • All girls are required to wear protective eye gear that meets ASTM F803 requirements. 
  • Click here for a complete list of approved eyewear.
  • NOTE: Field Hockey & Lacrosse Goggles are NOT the same. 
    • Lacrosse players CAN wear Field Hockey goggles, but the reverse is not true.  If your player plays Field Hockey, she is welcome to use the same goggles for lacrosse season! 
  • If you are buying goggles for the first time, here is some helpful info:
    • Color and exact manufacturer are up to you.  Examples of goggles we have used:
      • Cascade Iris and Iris Mini 
      • deBeer Lucent
      • STX 4sight Plus or Pro
      • Brine Lux

  • Beware that "Mini" or "Youth" goggles might be too small, even for younger girls.  The adjustable strap does not extend far enough to fit larger heads and the cage can be tight/narrow.  Try on goggles to make sure they fit comfortably.  Please think about whether it is comfortable for a 1.5 hour practice!  It should not be tight.

  • If you wear glasses, you may need to try on several kinds of goggles before you find ones that fit over your glasses.  Here’s a helpful link for goggles to use with eyeglasses.

 MOUTHGUARDS 

  • Mouthguards are mandatory for ALL PRACTICES + GAMES (for Grades 1-8):

    • Be colored, i.e. not clear (so they don't blend into the teeth)!
    • Covers the Upper Jaw Teeth
    • Have no straps or tabs protruding from the mouth. 
    • Note: mouthguards cannot be physically tethered to the eyewear.

  • Youth or Adult sizes are available. Some orthodontist’s  supply girls with a special mouth guard for braces. Other girls use the ShockDoctor for braces.

  • Please purchase two or three, as they are frequently lost. 

Additional Equipment

  • FOOTWEAR: Soccer cleats or any molded rubber cleats are great; sneakers are fine when the field is dry.  

  • GLOVES: Lacrosse gloves are not necessary or recommended.  Although some girls opt to wear girls lacrosse gloves during the colder weeks of the early season. 

    • Women’s small sized gloves should fit most girls' hands and this is a good option if needed.

  • We suggest  purchasing 3 or 4 balls for practicing at home. We supply practice and game balls but the players must not take these balls home.

  • Always bring a water bottle to games and practices. Please put your name on the water bottle.

  • A sweatshirt and sweatpants are necessary for outdoor practices in the spring.

 WHERE TO SHOP

You may want to call the sporting goods store before going to make sure the stick, goggles and mouthguard you want are in stock.  Best prices and color selections can often be found on-line. Below are a few suggestions:  

  • Lacrosse Unlimited - Wellesley or Bellingham
  • Natick Outdoor Store 
  • Dicks Sporting Goods - Natick or Northborough

HELPFUL YOUTH GIRLS LACROSSE CHECKLIST FOR PARENTS FROM LAX.com

EQUIPMENT QUESTIONS? Please contact HGYL, your Coach, or Age Group Coordinator for help!