Whether you're dodging defenders or locking down an opponent, stick length isn't just a technical spec, it’s a game-changer. According to the NCAA Lacrosse Rulebook, men's field players must use sticks ranging from 40 to 72 inches depending on position, while women's sticks are generally 35.5 to 43.25 inches long. These ranges aren't arbitrary, they're directly tied to how well a player performs on the field.
Shorter sticks give players quicker handling and tighter control. That’s why offensive players, especially attackers, prefer sticks at the lower end of the length spectrum. A compact stick allows for faster movement in tight spaces, quick passes, and sharper dodges. It’s all about maneuverability when every second counts near the crease.
Defensive players benefit from the opposite. Longer sticks extend reach, allowing defenders to poke check, block passes, and disrupt shots from further away. The added length also helps cover more ground, especially useful in transitional play and when defending fast breaks.
Stick length isn’t just about preference, it’s regulated. If a player’s stick is too long or too short for their position, it can lead to penalties or disqualification. For example, high school defenders can use sticks up to 72 inches, but midfielders must stay within the 40–42 inch range. Staying within legal limits ensures fair play and avoids costly rule infractions.
The right stick length leads to better passing lanes, cleaner catches, and more accurate shots. A stick that’s too long can feel unwieldy, dragging down reaction time. One that’s too short might limit reach, especially on ground balls. Optimal stick sizing enhances overall efficiency on the field, whether you're shooting, passing, or checking.
Choosing the correct stick length begins with knowing your position. Different roles on the field require different tools, not just for compliance with rules, but to match how you play. Here’s a clear breakdown of what each player needs, and why the right fit makes a real difference.
Attackers and midfielders need speed, quick handling, and precision. That’s why the recommended lacrosse stick length for offensive players falls between 40 and 42 inches, as defined by USA Lacrosse and NCAA regulations.
Shorter sticks allow for:
Faster ball movement
Tighter cradling in congested areas
Improved agility during dodges and cuts
Attack players often carry the ball into scoring areas. Midfielders, who play both offense and defense, rely on a stick that helps them move fluidly across the field while maintaining solid passing and shooting control. For both, the shorter shaft enhances responsiveness in high-pressure plays.
Defensive players—and long stick midfielders—use much longer sticks, typically ranging from 52 to 72 inches. This extended reach is critical for controlling space and disrupting offensive plays.
Longer sticks offer:
Increased range for poke checks and interceptions
Wider coverage on clears and ground balls
A physical presence that forces attackers to create more distance
While some defenders prefer maximum length (near 72 inches), others may choose a slightly shorter shaft for better control in close-quarters. For LSMs, who defend and also transition the ball upfield, the ideal length often sits in the mid-60s, offering a balanced blend of reach and handling.
Goalie sticks follow different guidelines, with lengths allowed anywhere between 40 and 72 inches. That wide range lets players tailor the stick to their specific stance and comfort level.
Key factors for goalies include:
Hand positioning relative to the head
Personal style—whether they stay deep in the crease or challenge shooters
Balance between control and coverage
Some goalies prefer shorter sticks for quicker reactions and tighter movement inside the crease. Others opt for longer shafts to help with outlet passes or better leverage during clears.
Youth lacrosse follows a different playbook when it comes to sizing. Sticks for younger players are often shorter, lighter, and easier to control. According to USA Lacrosse guidelines, sticks should be proportional to the player’s size and age, not just their position.
Here’s a quick guideline:
Ages 6–10: 37 to 40 inches
Ages 11–13: 40 to 42 inches
Ages 14+: Start matching regulation sizes based on position
Shorter sticks help kids learn fundamentals—passing, catching, and ball protection—without being weighed down by gear that’s too large or awkward. Coaches and parents should measure carefully, prioritizing comfort and confidence over strict regulation size.
Now that you know how stick length ties directly to performance, it’s time to look at the specifics. The chart below breaks down ideal stick lengths based on player position, age group, and stick type. Whether you're buying your first stick or adjusting one for a new level of play, use this as a quick reference.
|
Position |
Age Group |
Complete Stick Length |
Shaft Length (Without Head) |
|
Attack / Midfield |
Youth (6–13) |
37–42 inches |
26–30 inches |
|
Attack / Midfield |
High School+ |
40–42 inches |
30 inches |
|
Defense / LSM |
Youth (6–13) |
37–60 inches (age-adjusted) |
26–50 inches |
|
Defense / LSM |
High School+ |
52–72 inches |
42–60 inches |
|
Goalie |
Youth (6–13) |
37–54 inches |
26–40 inches |
|
Goalie |
High School+ |
40–72 inches |
30–60 inches |
Complete Stick Length: This measures the entire stick from the end of the shaft to the top of the head’s scoop.
Shaft Length: This excludes the head and is what many players swap or modify based on personal preference.
Attack and Midfield: No matter the age, offensive players should keep sticks on the shorter end to favor speed and ball control. Most adult-level sticks cap at 42 inches.
Defense and LSM: Younger players might use sticks on the shorter end of the legal range to help with control and strength. As they grow, longer sticks help expand their reach and disrupt plays more effectively.
Goalies: They have the most flexibility. While younger goalies benefit from shorter sticks for quicker reactions, more experienced players might prefer added length for clearances and balance in goal.
When evaluating stock options, always check if you're buying a complete stick or just the shaft. Many advanced players buy shafts and heads separately to create a custom setup that fits their size, style, and role.
A lacrosse stick that’s just a few inches too short—or too long—can throw off a player’s balance, handling, and even eligibility. Whether you're checking if a current stick meets regulations or buying a new one for a growing athlete, accurate measurement matters. Here's how to do both the right way.
To confirm if a stick meets legal size or position-specific requirements, you’ll need a simple measuring tool and a flat surface.
What you’ll need:
Standard tape measure (in inches)
Flat floor or table for alignment
Step-by-step process:
Lay the stick flat: Place the stick on a hard, even surface. Ensure the shaft isn’t curved or angled.
Start from the bottom of the shaft: Align your tape measure with the very end of the stick’s butt end (not the handle grip).
Measure to the top of the head: Extend the tape along the shaft, all the way to the tip of the head’s scoop. That tip marks the final measurement.
Record the full length: Round to the nearest quarter inch and check against league or position-specific guidelines.
Tip: Don’t measure just the shaft—some models have removable heads. You need the full assembled length to determine compliance.
For players who don’t yet have a stick, or who might be upgrading, it’s best to base sizing on body proportions, not guesswork.
Here’s how to size a stick for a player:
Have the player stand upright (shoes on) with arms relaxed at their sides.
Hold a stick vertically next to them, with the butt end on the ground.
Use hip and chest height as reference points:
For attackers and midfielders, the top of the head should reach just under the armpit.
For defenders or LSMs, the head can reach chest level or even higher, depending on control vs. reach preferences.
Use a tape measure if you're not testing with a stick, and record total length based on those reference points.
For parents sizing youth players, focus on control first. A stick that’s easier to cradle and pass with helps build skills and confidence faster—even if it means trimming down a shaft slightly (as long as it stays within legal bounds).
Once you know the rules and measurements, it’s time to focus on what actually feels right. For beginners, finding the perfect lacrosse stick is less about hitting exact numbers and more about how it performs in your hands. A stick that matches your skill level, size, and position helps you build confidence, especially in the early stages of learning the game.
Sizing charts are useful, but they don’t replace hands-on experience. The best approach? Try several sticks in person if possible.
Here’s what to pay attention to:
Grip: You should feel full control over the stick with both hands. It shouldn’t feel top-heavy or awkward.
Balance: A well-balanced stick won’t tip forward when you cradle or pass.
Handling: Make sure you can pass, catch, and scoop ground balls without overcompensating with arm movement.
Coaches can offer position-specific guidance that fits your league and skill level. They’ll often spot things you might miss—like a stick being too stiff or too long for effective cradling. Parents sizing for kids should always ask for team recommendations before buying a stick blindly.
Many beginner-level sticks are sold as complete setups. But some allow for adjustments, which is especially helpful for growing youth players.
Cutting the shaft: Composite or metal shafts can be trimmed to a shorter length for youth athletes. Just make sure the stick still meets legal minimums.
Swapping heads or shafts: As players develop, they might upgrade one component at a time. Buying a shaft and head separately offers long-term flexibility.
If you're buying for a child and can’t test the stick in-store:
Choose a stick that reaches from the ground to just under their armpit.
If it’s too long, consider cutting down the shaft—but confirm it still meets your league’s rules.
Avoid buying a stick they’ll “grow into”, comfort matters more than saving an inch or two.
Finding the right lacrosse stick isn't about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding one that fits your game. Whether you're a midfielder who thrives on speed or a defender who needs maximum reach, sizing your stick correctly makes a real difference in how you pass, shoot, defend, and control the ball.
Here’s a quick recap of what matters most:
Stick length directly affects performance, from handling to field coverage
Each position follows different rules and ranges, so always match your stick to your role
sizing is flexible, focus on control and confidence over strict regulation sizing
Use the correct measurement method to avoid ineligible gear and guarantee a proper fit
Beginners should prioritize comfort, not just technical specs, especially when learning fundamentals
Before your next game or practice, take a minute to check your stick’s length against league requirements and your position’s needs. It’s a small step that can prevent penalties—and give you a sharper edge on the field.
Looking for sticks built for every position and age group? Explore the full range of lacrosse sticks, heads, and shafts now available at LacrosseBallStore.com. Find your fit and gear up with confidence.
