Youth Lacrosse Gear Guide: What First-Time Parents Actually Need

By Fortis Sports | Read Time: 4 Minutes

Welcome to the fastest game on two feet! If your child is starting their first season, you probably need a youth lacrosse gear guide. Walking into a sporting goods store is incredibly overwhelming. Therefore, many parents make a costly mistake. They overspend on varsity equipment for a beginner. Alternatively, they buy cheap gear that ruins the experience.

Specifically, at Fortis Sports, we believe in getting it right. Furthermore, we operate from our historic 1873 shop in Chagrin Falls. Consequently, we see exactly what local players need to succeed.

Fit and Safety Over Flash

When starting out, mobility and safety are your only priorities. A 3rd grader does not need a $200 carbon-fiber shaft. Instead, they need pads that stay put. Therefore, here are the beginner lines we trust most.

The Stick: The Most Important Tool

First, the biggest frustration is a stick that cannot catch. Therefore, avoid big-box store sticks with stiff “tennis racket” mesh. Specifically, we love the Maverik Charger Complete Stick. It features a wider face shape for easy catching. Additionally, it has a narrow throat for better control.

Plus, it comes strung with semi-soft mesh. As a result, shooting accuracy improves instantly. Furthermore, even a beginner stick needs a great pocket. Bring it to us for our Custom Lacrosse Stringing Service. We will adjust the tension so the ball naturally finds the sweet spot.

Protective Padding: Safety and Mobility

Next, youth pads must absorb impact. However, they must also allow free movement. For this reason, the STX Stallion 75 line is phenomenal. Specifically, the shoulder pads meet the strict new NOCSAE ND200 chest protection standard. Consequently, this reduces the risk of impact-related heart injuries.

We also highly recommend the Maverik Charger EKG line. Similarly, it meets strict safety standards. Furthermore, it features a floating sternum plate. Therefore, your child gets maximum protection without feeling trapped in a turtle shell.

The Helmet: Do Not Compromise

Ultimately, a high-quality helmet is non-negotiable. First, the Cascade CS-R is specifically designed for kids under 12. It uses a one-piece shell to disperse collision energy safely.

Alternatively, the STX Rival Jr offers reliable impact absorption. Additionally, it provides incredible ventilation for warm spring games. Therefore, you get elite protection at a budget-friendly price.

The Face-to-Face Advantage

Finally, you can read sizing charts online all day. However, nothing beats an in-person fitting. A loose helmet is incredibly dangerous. Similarly, oversized gloves will ruin your child’s stick skills.

Therefore, skip the guesswork entirely. Visit our family at 5 N. Franklin St. in Chagrin Falls. We will size your player perfectly.

Visit us in Chagrin Falls today to get your beginner safely fitted and ready for the season!