Lacrosse blends speed, skill, and physical contact, making the right gear essential for safety and performance. Whether you’re a youth just starting out or a high school beginner, having the proper equipment sets the foundation for a confident, enjoyable experience.
This checklist covers all the must-have items, from helmets to sticks, pads, and more. Each piece plays a role in protecting you and helping you play your best. Use this guide to make smart, informed gear choices as you step onto the field.
The lacrosse stick stands at the heart of the game. Choosing the right one shapes a beginner’s experience, improving control, passing, and shooting.
For beginners, a complete stick offers the easiest start. These come ready to play with pre-assembled heads and shafts. This removes the guesswork and helps new players focus on skill-building instead of gear setup.
Custom sticks allow more personalization by mixing and matching heads and shafts. As players grow, upgrading to a custom setup can enhance performance and fit specific playing styles. But starting with a complete stick keeps things simple and affordable.
Lacrosse sticks vary by position to optimize reach and control. Attackers and midfielders typically use sticks between 40 and 42 inches for agility and ball handling. Defenders favor longer sticks, usually 52 to 72 inches, to increase reach and poke-check ability. Goalies use the longest sticks, around 40 to 72 inches, depending on preference and league rules.
Beginners should start with a complete stick sized for their position to develop skills comfortably.
A proper helmet protects players from serious injuries. For beginners, safety isn’t optional, it's the foundation of every practice and game.
Always choose helmets certified by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). These meet rigorous impact and safety standards specifically for lacrosse. Avoid used helmets or those past their expiration date, since worn padding and outdated technology can reduce protection.
A helmet must fit snugly without causing discomfort. Look for adjustable fit systems, such as dial locks or chin straps, to customize the fit. The helmet should sit level on the head, covering the forehead and not rocking back and forth. Proper fit ensures the helmet stays in place during fast-paced play, offering maximum protection.
Upper body protection plays a vital role in keeping players safe on the field. Since 2022, shoulder pads must meet updated safety standards designed to reduce commotio cordis — a rare but serious heart injury caused by a sudden impact.
Look for shoulder pads labeled “meets ND200” to ensure they comply with the latest NOCSAE commotio cordis standards. These pads offer improved impact absorption and protection, especially important for parents choosing gear for young players.
Pads should fully cover the collarbone, chest, and shoulders without restricting movement. A well-fitted pad stays secure during gameplay, allowing players to stay agile while staying protected. Comfort is key, so look for adjustable straps and breathable materials to keep players focused on the game.
Elbow protection ranks high on the list for beginners, especially offensive players like midfielders and attackmen. These positions face frequent checks and collisions, making durable arm pads a must-have.
Midfielders and attack players require more coverage to shield against hits during fast breaks and dodges. Defenders generally face less contact on the arms, so lighter protection might suffice.
For youth players, full coverage pads provide extra safety without sacrificing mobility. It's better to prioritize solid protection early to build confidence and reduce injury risks as skills develop.
Gloves play a crucial role in both safety and performance for new lacrosse players. They protect hands from checks while providing the grip needed to control the stick and handle the ball smoothly.
Gloves that are too tight can restrict movement, while bulky gloves reduce the ability to feel the stick properly. Look for gloves that balance protection with flexibility, ensuring the player can move fingers freely and maintain a solid grip.
Choosing the right size depends on age and hand size. Youth players need smaller, more flexible gloves, while older beginners require more durable options designed for bigger hands. Proper fit helps prevent injuries and improves overall gameplay.
Proper footwear plays a vital role in lacrosse, where quick cuts, sudden stops, and rapid direction changes are constant. Wearing sport-specific lacrosse cleats helps prevent injuries and provides the traction players need on various field types.
While football cleats might seem like an easy substitute, lacrosse cleats offer better ankle support and flexibility. Lacrosse demands lateral movement and speed, so cleats designed specifically for the sport reduce the risk of rolling an ankle or slipping.
Choosing cleats depends on the playing surface. Turf cleats have shorter, rubber studs for artificial fields, offering grip without damaging turf. Molded cleats feature permanent studs ideal for natural grass, balancing traction and comfort. Detachable cleats allow players to swap studs based on field conditions, providing versatile performance for varying surfaces.
While not mandatory, several pieces of gear can make playing lacrosse safer and more convenient for beginners.
Mouthguards protect teeth and reduce concussion risks. Boil-and-bite options offer a quick fit, while custom-fit mouthguards provide the best comfort and protection. Make sure the mouthguard is a visible color, as required by NFHS rules.
Rib pads aren’t required but offer extra protection for younger players or those in offensive roles who face more contact. They absorb hits without restricting movement.
A durable equipment bag keeps all gear organized and clean. Look for bags with multiple compartments and water-resistant materials to handle sweaty pads and cleats.
Many recreational leagues require practice jerseys. Reversible jerseys provide two color options, making scrimmages easier to organize and adding versatility to your practice sessions.
Choosing the right gear can feel overwhelming. These expert tips help beginners avoid common pitfalls.
Whenever possible, try gear on before buying. If that’s not an option, consult brand-specific sizing charts carefully. Ordering a size run for the whole team ensures everyone gets the right fit.
Buying oversized gear might seem like a good idea, but ill-fitting equipment can cause injury or bad habits. Always buy gear that fits the player’s current size, not what they might grow into later.
Some leagues have specific rules about approved gear brands or certifications, especially for helmets and pads. Checking in with your coach before purchasing saves time and avoids ordering unusable equipment.
Starter kits offer great value and convenience, especially for first-time players and parents. These kits bundle all the essential gear in one package, saving time and often money.
Typically, a starter kit includes a lacrosse stick, helmet, gloves, and pads. Some kits also come with a gear bag for easy transport and storage. These all-in-one sets suit youth players and those joining recreational leagues, making it easier to get fully equipped without the hassle of buying each item separately.
Choosing a starter kit helps ensure gear compatibility and proper fit, offering beginners a smoother start to the game.
