For boys entering youth lacrosse, the right gear matters, not just for safety, but for confidence and development on the field. Here's a complete checklist of mandatory equipment, with guidance on what to look for when buying each piece.
Let's review the essentials of lacrosse for young and beginner players.
A properly fitted helmet is the most important item in a young player’s gear bag. It must be NOCSAE certified, which confirms it meets national safety standards. Youth helmets are designed with smaller shells and liners for a snug, secure fit on developing heads. Make sure the face mask provides clear vision and full coverage without pinching or slipping. Adjustability is key, look for models with an easy-to-use rear strap or dial system.
As of 2022, all youth shoulder pads must meet new NOCSAE ND200 standards, which include heart protection against commotio cordis. Look for pads that sit flush against the collarbone without riding up or limiting arm mobility. Lightweight designs are ideal for younger players, but they should still offer chest and back protection that doesn’t shift during contact.
Youth arm pads should strike a balance between mobility and protection. They need to stay in place without slipping but shouldn’t restrict passing or shooting. Many younger players prefer soft, full-coverage styles for added protection during physical play, especially in the midfield. Always test the range of motion before committing to a pair.
A good pair of gloves protects the hands without making the stick feel bulky. Youth gloves should offer flexible thumb protection and reinforced palms for a strong grip, even in wet conditions. Fit matters: the cuff should sit just at the wrist without exposing skin or bunching up during play. Poorly sized gloves can make cradling and shooting much harder.
A mouthguard isn’t optional, it must be worn at all times during play and practice. Most leagues also require it to be a visible color (not clear), so officials can confirm it’s in. Custom-molded or boil-and-bite versions both work, but younger players often prefer softer models that don’t interfere with breathing or speaking.
While not always listed as “required,” many leagues strongly recommend boys wear a protective cup. For goalies or aggressive midfielders, it’s often mandatory. Choose one that fits securely in a compression short or jock system to avoid shifting during movement.
Beginners should start with a complete stick (head + shaft) that works across all field positions unless they’re playing goalie. Youth sticks are often shorter and lighter, making it easier to learn fundamentals like catching, cradling, and passing. Mesh pockets that hold their shape well help reduce frustration early on.
Traction can make a real difference in youth games. On grass, soccer or lacrosse cleats work well, just make sure metal spikes aren't used, as they’re banned in youth leagues. For turf or hard surfaces, lightweight turf shoes offer better grip and agility. Always check with the league or coach for surface-specific recommendations.
Equipping a young player correctly from the start lays the groundwork for skill growth and game-day confidence. In the next section, we’ll cover how the gear list changes for girls’ youth lacrosse, and what safety essentials still apply across both formats.
While girls’ youth lacrosse involves far less contact than the boys’ game, safety and comfort are still essential. The rules limit protective gear, but that makes proper fit and quality even more important. Here’s what girls need to play confidently and comply with league regulations.
Goggles are mandatory for all field players and must meet ASTM F3077 standards for women’s lacrosse. The frame should sit snugly against the face without pinching or slipping, and the strap should keep them secure during cuts and sprints. Visibility matters, choose a pair that doesn’t obstruct peripheral vision. Some newer designs offer flexible frames that mold to different head shapes more comfortably.
Mouthguards must be worn at all times during play. Most leagues require them to be a visible color (not clear or white) so referees can verify compliance. Look for models that are easy to mold and don’t interfere with breathing or communication. While custom guards offer the best fit, many younger players do well with boil-and-bite options made for smaller mouths.
Girls’ sticks differ significantly from boys’ in both shape and pocket depth. The head is typically narrower, with a shallower pocket designed for quick passing and precise ball placement. Mesh pockets are often restricted or regulated, so beginners benefit from complete sticks that come pre-strung for league play. Brands often offer lightweight shafts and softer materials tailored to youth players learning stick skills.
Footwear must match the field surface. On grass, molded cleats work well for grip without being too aggressive. On artificial turf, shorter turf shoes provide better balance and reduce the risk of slipping. Avoid metal spikes entirely, as they’re banned in most youth leagues. Whatever the type, the shoe should support lateral movement and allow for full-foot contact while running.
Important Note: Girls do not wear helmets, shoulder pads, or arm pads in traditional field lacrosse, unless they play goalie. This reflects the non-contact rules of the girls’ game but makes proper technique and situational awareness even more critical for safety.
Next, we’ll explore optional gear and smart add-ons that can make youth practices and game days more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable.
While not mandatory, some extra gear can make a noticeable difference in your child’s comfort, organization, and skill development. Whether you're prepping for a full season or just weekend games, these items can help kids stay safer, play smarter, and enjoy the sport more.
Equipment Bag
A spacious lacrosse bag helps players keep everything in one place. Look for one with ventilated compartments to separate wet gear and padded straps for easy carrying. Bags with stick holders and name tags also come in handy for young players navigating busy sidelines.
Rib Pads (Boys)
While not required by most leagues, rib pads offer added protection—especially for middies or kids who play more physically. They're designed to absorb contact during checks and loose-ball scrambles without restricting movement.
Practice Pinnies
Some programs require reversible pinnies for drills and scrimmages. Even when not required, having one in your bag is smart. It makes team-based training easier and helps coaches run split-squad practices.
Water Bottle with Holder
Staying hydrated is essential, especially during warm-weather practices. A durable water bottle with a carabiner or pouch keeps it accessible. Choose one that’s easy to open and close between drills, without slowing your player down.
Rebounder or Wall Ball Trainer
One of the most effective ways to build stick skills is through regular wall ball sessions. A portable rebounder lets kids pass, catch, and shoot independently in the backyard. It’s especially helpful for improving hand speed, accuracy, and off-hand confidence.
Next, we’ll break down the gear needed for youth lacrosse goalies, where safety and proper fit are even more critical.
Goalies need specialized gear that’s built for impact, mobility, and compliance with strict safety standards. Because they face fast shots at close range, their equipment isn’t just different, it’s essential. Here's what young goalies need to play safely and confidently.
A goalie helmet must be NOCSAE-certified and specifically designed for lacrosse, not adapted from other sports. Look for models that include or allow attachment of a throat guard, which protects against low or deflected shots. The helmet should fit snugly, with no shifting during play, and offer full visibility through a reinforced cage.
As of 2021, all goalie chest protectors must meet the NOCSAE ND200 standard, which is designed to reduce the risk of commotio cordis, a rare but serious heart impact condition. Make sure the protector has a floating heart plate, full rib coverage, and doesn't restrict upper-body mobility.
Goalie gloves differ from standard field gloves in two ways: more padding and a reinforced thumb. The extra protection helps reduce injury risk during direct shots to the hands while still allowing players to maintain grip and control on saves and clears. Proper sizing matters—gloves should be snug but allow full hand movement.
The goalie stick has a noticeably larger head and a longer shaft than a field stick. The wider surface helps with shot blocking, but the size can be tricky for younger players to handle. Beginners may prefer lightweight heads to develop hand speed before moving to stiffer, pro-style options. Some sticks come pre-strung, which is ideal for first-time goalies.
While not required at all levels, many youth leagues mandate shin guards for goalies. Even when not enforced, they're strongly recommended for protection against low shots and crease scrambles. Look for lacrosse-specific models or lightweight soccer-style guards with ankle padding.
Getting the right gear is only half the job, making sure it fits correctly is just as important. Ill-fitting equipment can reduce protection, restrict movement, and increase injury risk. Sizing youth lacrosse equipment isn’t just about age or height—it requires hands-on measuring and careful adjustment.
Lacrosse helmets are measured by head circumference. Use a soft measuring tape just above the eyebrows and around the widest part of the head. Compare the number to the brand’s size chart, each manufacturer varies slightly. A properly sized helmet should feel snug, not tight, with no shifting during quick movements.
For shoulder pads, focus on coverage and mobility. They should cover the collarbone and upper ribs while leaving enough room to raise and rotate the arms fully. Look for adjustable straps to fine-tune the fit, especially if your child is between sizes. The pad edges should sit flat without digging into the neck or armpits.
Arm pads should extend from just above the elbow to a few inches below the bicep. They need to stay in place during active play but shouldn't restrict wrist movement. Gloves should allow full finger motion and a firm grip on the stick. A quick check: your child should be able to flex their wrist backward while wearing the glove.
Buying slightly larger gear might seem smart for growing kids, but it comes with real risks. Oversized helmets can tilt during play, blocking vision or shifting out of position. Loose pads slide on impact, reducing protection in critical zones. Even gloves that are too big can slip, affecting stick control.
Instead, choose gear that fits correctly now, with some room for minor adjustment—like gloves with velcro cuffs or pads with extendable straps. If your child grows quickly, consider mid-season reevaluation rather than compromising fit upfront.
With so many gear options, brands, and sizes on the market, it’s easy for parents to feel overwhelmed. But buying the right youth lacrosse equipment doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Here’s how to make smart choices that protect your child, support their development, and keep you within budget.
If your child is brand new to lacrosse, a complete starter set is the most cost-effective and practical option. Many sets include all the basic gear—helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, arm pads, and a stick—pre-matched for age and size. Buying everything together not only saves money, but it also ensures consistency in fit and safety standards across items.
General sporting goods stores may carry some basic gear, but they often lack lacrosse-specific options, especially for youth players. Specialty retailers are more likely to stock equipment that complies with current safety rules and is designed for age-appropriate play. They also tend to offer better advice and product knowledge—especially important when sizing or selecting gear by position.
Before buying anything, ask your coach or league for their recommendations. Some programs have specific gear requirements—like brand-approved shoulder pads or color rules for mouthguards. Getting clarification upfront avoids returns, mismatches, or disqualification due to non-compliant gear.
While it’s tempting to save money with hand-me-downs, used helmets are a risk. Helmets degrade over time, and safety standards change. A helmet that passed inspection five years ago may no longer be legal or protective today. The same goes for shoulder pads, especially with new NOCSAE rules requiring specific heart protection. Always check certification labels and expiration dates before considering used gear.
Youth lacrosse continues to grow rapidly, with over 400,000 boys and girls participating across the U.S. according to US Lacrosse’s 2023 participation report. But numbers only tell part of the story, having the right gear from day one makes the difference between a player who struggles and one who builds confidence, skill, and a love for the game.
The right lacrosse equipment protects your child, supports healthy development, and helps them focus on learning the sport—not worrying about discomfort or safety. Whether you’re outfitting a brand-new player or upgrading for a returning season, gear that fits properly and meets league standards is non-negotiable.
At LacrosseBallStore.com, you’ll find beginner-friendly youth lacrosse gear that’s built for real play, not one-size-fits-all compromises. Browse curated starter sets, position-specific equipment, and trusted brands that understand what young athletes need most. Getting your child lacrosse-ready starts with smart gear, and you’re already on the right track.
