Are you looking for the perfect gear to protect yourself as a box lacrosse goalie? If so, you've come to the right place!
Box lacrosse offers an exciting and intense way to play, but it also comes with safety requirements that every goaltender must adhere to stay safe while playing.
Getting the right box lacrosse goalie gear –box lacrosse helmet, chest guards, throat guards, leg box lacrosse pads, and more – is vital for protecting yourself as a new or experienced goalie.
In this blog post, we will explore what kind of goalie equipment is essential for box lacrosse box goalies at various levels of play and how each piece helps keep them protected on the field.
Whether you're just beginning your career as a goalie or are considering upgrading your current setup, don't worry - we'll cover it all here! So grab your sticks, and let's jump in!
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Take Away Key Points:
Essential Box Lacrosse Goalie Gear
1. Goalie stick
What is it?
A box lacrosse goalie stick is typically longer and wider than a regular lacrosse stick. As a result, the shaft will be wider to allow more control over the ball, while the head has extra depth to cradle it better.
The pockets on the head of these sticks are also deeper and wider to hold onto the ball better. Some have soft mesh built into them, which adds cushioning and limits their effectiveness when playing outdoors.
How to select it?
When choosing your box lacrosse goalie stick, ensure you get one that fits your body type and playing style.
Sticks are made from various materials, including wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and composite materials. Evaluate the power or accuracy you want from each shot before deciding what material best suits your needs.
Another thing to consider is the length of the shaft. A slightly longer shaft gives you an increased reach for blocking shots - but don't go too long, or it will become unwieldy during quick movements.
2. Goalie helmet
What is it?
As a box lacrosse goalie, you need a helmet that will protect your head and allow you to perform optimally.
Here's what to look for when choosing the right box lacrosse goalie helmet.
How to select it?
First and foremost, make sure your helmet fits properly. An ill-fitting helmet can be uncomfortable or dangerous if it shifts during play. Choose one with adjustable plastic clips on the back and side straps that allow you to create the perfect fit for your head.
Additionally, look for helmets with plenty of ventilation holes, so your head stays cool during intense games.
Next, think about the style of helmet you are after; some prefer traditional full-coverage helmets, while others may want something more lightweight with only partial coverage, as hockey goalies wear.
Finally, make sure whatever kind of box lacrosse goalie helmet you choose meets all safety requirements before purchasing it.
3. Goalie chest & arm protector
What is it?
As a box lacrosse goalie, you need the right protective pro goalie equipment to stay safe during games. One essential item is a high-quality chest and arm guard that protects your torso and arms from potential harm.
Here are some things to think about when looking to purchase one.
How to select it?
First, consider the material the guard is made from. You'll most commonly see chest guards made from either plastic or foam padding with hard shells on the outside. Both materials offer decent protection, but ensure the one you choose can handle multiple impacts without breaking or cracking.
Also, keep in mind that you'll be wearing it for long periods, so look for something comfortable as well!
Next, ensure your chest and arm guard fits properly; it should cover your entire torso from the neck to the waist and arms.
You don't want too much space between your body and the guard, or else an opposing player's stick could slip through during play and injure you.
4. Goalie leg guards
What is it?
Box lacrosse goalie leg guards are protective goalie equipment designed to cover the lower body of a box lacrosse goalie.
The leg guards typically consist of two pieces; lacrosse shin guards and a calf guard, which are usually made from a durable yet flexible material such as leather or synthetic leather. The player mustn't wear the guards low! The shins and legs need to be adequately covered so you can avoid painful shots.
The goal is to provide maximum protection while allowing freedom of movement.
Leg guards should fit snugly but not too tight to ensure they stay in place and do not restrict movement or breathing during play.
How to select it?
First, assess the material of the leg guards; they should be made from a durable yet flexible material such as leather or synthetic leather. This will ensure your legs are well protected while allowing you to move freely and quickly during play.
Next, ensure your leg guards fit properly; they should cover your entire calf area and part of your thighs and shin if possible. You don't want too much space between your body and the guard, or else an opposing player's stick could slip through during play and injure you.
Additionally, it should fit snugly, staying in place throughout the game but not too tight to restrict movements or breathing.
Finally, think about how much money you want to spend on good quality leg guards; they can range anywhere from budget models up to top-of-the-line specialty pieces.
5. Goalie pants
What is it?
Box lacrosse goalie pants are specially designed protective goalie equipment worn by box lacrosse goalies. These pants are typically made of lightweight and durable materials such as synthetic or mesh fabric and have padding in the areas that are most prone to impact during play, such as the hips and knees.
The pants should fit snugly while still allowing you enough freedom of movement so you can stay agile between the pipes.
How to select it?
First, assess the material; it should be light yet durable enough to withstand impacts and provide protection against sticks and other equipment. Next, opt for something made of either synthetic or mesh materials, as they are lightweight yet strong.
Second, make sure you get a good fit; they should be long enough to protect your lower body while allowing you plenty of freedom of movement. Additionally, consider how tight or loose it will be around your waist- too tight and won't move with you that well; too loose, and it could slip down constantly if not held in place.
Third, assess the amount of padding on the pants; this should be sufficient to keep you protected without compromising mobility or speed during play.
Finally, select a pair that meets safety standards while providing maximum protection for your legs!
Field Lacrosse Goalie vs. Box Lacrosse Goalie
Field lacrosse and box lacrosse have many similarities, but there are also some distinct differences between the positions of a field lacrosse goalie and a box lacrosse goalie.
Here are some of the major differences:
- Size of goal area: The goal area for a field lacrosse goalie is much larger than that of a box lacrosse goalie, who typically has to guard an area only slightly bigger than an individual goal post.
- Movements allowed: Field lacrosse allows goalies to leave their crease and pursue the ball carrier, while in box lacrosse, this is not permitted, as goaltenders must remain inside the crease at all times.
- Equipment: While both NLL goalies wear similar equipment, such as protective pants, goalie gloves, and chest pads, box lacrosse goalies generally require more padding on their upper bodies due to the larger sticks used by opposing players. It's best to look for gloves with reinforced thumb protection for maximum grip. The FatBoy glove is the fattest glove in the lacrosse box which checks out all the boxes!
- Rebound control: Box lacrosse requires more agility from its goaltenders due to its smaller playing surface, with quick reaction times needed for greater rebound control.
Final Words
In conclusion, having the proper box lacrosse goalie gear products can be an excellent investment for any pro goaltender. It protects against impacts from sticks and balls and can help with mobility as goaltenders maneuver around the crease.
With the right goalie equipment products, any goaltender will be more confident in their ability to play safely and effectively.
Freddy is the heart and soul of Lacrosse Runner. As a former athlete, Freddy is very passionate about Lacrosse. He keeps up with the sport’s changes and innovations and often tests the new equipment released by the leading manufacturers. Read more here