When players say a lacrosse ball feels “greasy,” they mean the surface has become slick and slippery. This greasy film causes a noticeable loss of grip, making it harder to catch, pass, or shoot accurately. Whether during a fast-paced game or training session, a greasy ball can reduce control and affect performance.
The slickness usually feels like a thin layer of oil or residue on the ball’s surface. It makes handling unpredictable, especially in wet or sweaty conditions. Players often notice their throws losing precision or catches slipping away, leading to frustration on the field.
Beyond gameplay, greasy balls wear down stick strings faster and reduce overall practice quality. Keeping your balls free of this greasy buildup ensures better consistency and a safer, more enjoyable lacrosse experience.
Lacrosse balls get greasy because the materials they’re made of naturally break down over time. Most game balls use vulcanized rubber, a tough material designed to offer consistent bounce and grip. However, this rubber contains oils that slowly migrate to the ball’s surface. When these oils rise, they create a slick, greasy film that makes handling the ball tricky.
Vulcanized rubber isn’t just a solid block - it has oils and additives mixed in during manufacturing. Over months or years of use, especially with heat and friction, these oils seep out. That oily layer reduces friction, which players describe as the ball feeling “greasy.” Not all brands or ball types age the same way. Some manufacturers use rubber compounds that resist greasing longer, while others might degrade faster depending on the quality and formula used.
How you store and use lacrosse balls impacts how quickly they get greasy. Leaving balls in hot cars, direct sunlight, or damp places speeds up the oil migration. Frequent play on rough surfaces or in wet conditions can also wear down the outer layer, exposing more oils. The more games and practice sessions balls see, the faster this process happens. So, high-usage balls tend to grease up sooner than those stored and used carefully.
Greasy lacrosse balls don’t have to ruin your practice or game. You can restore their grip with simple cleaning methods that won’t damage the rubber. Avoid harsh chemicals - stick to safe, easy fixes anyone can do at home.
Start with the classic soap and water wash. Fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Use a soft scrub brush or sponge to clean each ball thoroughly. Focus on areas that feel slick or oily. After scrubbing, rinse the balls well with clean water. Let them air dry completely - never use a dryer or expose them to direct heat, which can worsen the greasing.
If soap and water don’t fully fix the grip, a gentle abrasive scrub can help. A wire brush or fine-grit sandpaper can roughen the ball’s surface to remove the greasy layer. Work lightly and evenly to avoid creating flat spots or uneven wear. Over-scrubbing can damage the ball’s bounce and feel, so proceed with caution.
For stubborn grease, try a household degreaser like baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on the ball and scrub with a damp cloth or brush. Baking soda absorbs oils without harsh chemicals. If needed, a very light wipe with diluted rubbing alcohol (mix one part alcohol to ten parts water) can help break down residue. Use alcohol sparingly to avoid drying out the rubber.
Keeping your lacrosse balls grippy and game-ready takes a little care. Following simple long-term habits helps avoid greasy buildup and extends the life of your balls.
Store your balls in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat speeds up the breakdown of rubber, causing oils to surface faster. Avoid airtight containers that trap moisture, which can also damage the ball’s surface. Instead, use ventilated mesh bags or breathable totes. These let air circulate and keep balls fresh.
Rotate your lacrosse balls regularly. Switching between older and newer balls spreads out wear and delays grease buildup. Separate “game balls” from “training balls” to preserve the grip on the ones you rely on during matches. This simple step saves money and keeps your equipment ready for action.
Some textured or specialty balls resist greasing longer thanks to different rubber blends or surface designs. These options often maintain grip even after heavy use. Choosing high-quality brands known for slower rubber breakdown can make a big difference. At Lacrosse Ball Store, you’ll find a variety of balls built to last, including those with enhanced durability against grease.
Knowing when to replace a lacrosse ball saves frustration and keeps your game sharp. Sometimes, cleaning won’t bring back the grip or bounce you need. Recognizing worn-out balls helps you stay ready and compliant.
Look out for flat spots or cracks on the surface. These are clear signs of rubber breakdown. If the ball feels overly slick or loses its bounce even after cleaning, it’s probably past its prime. Playing with a worn ball can affect control and safety.
Official games require balls that meet specific standards. NOCSAE-certified balls must maintain grip and rebound qualities to be legal. When grip loss impacts performance or breaks these rules, it’s time to swap in a fresh ball. Keeping game balls in top condition ensures fair play and better performance.
Keeping your lacrosse balls in top shape takes just a few simple habits. Follow this quick checklist to ensure they perform their best every time you hit the field:
Clean lightly every few weeks. Regular washing prevents buildup and keeps grip sharp.
Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid heat and moisture, which speed up greasing and rubber breakdown.
Inspect balls before each use. Check for slickness, cracks, or flat spots to catch problems early.
Separate game and practice balls. Use fresher balls for games and older ones for training to extend overall lifespan.
Sticking to these easy steps will keep your balls reliable and ready when it counts.
