U9
U11-13
U9
Helmets: Cascade CS helmets are designed for players under 12 years of age. Lighter weight is easier on weak necks and smaller sizes ensure a good, tight fit. At this age the helmet is used primarily for protection from swinging sticks.
- Cascade CS, CS-R
- STX Stallion
Gloves: One of the most important pieces of equipment for beginners. Look for extra protection for those small hands and wrists. An extended cuff to protect the wrists from swinging sticks is valuable at this age. Also look for additional thumb protection if available. Don't go overboard though! Gloves can be expensive. You will get one to two seasons out of the first pair. Most beginner level gloves should work fine.
Shoulder Pads: Body checks and stick checks are not allowed at the U9 level so protection is primarily needed from wayward sticks that can hit the upper arms, and chest protection from missed balls when catching. Also look for a good fit up around the neck to prevent sticks and balls from getting in between the helmet and shoulder pads. Again, don't go overboard. Entry level pair of pads will probably work just fine.
Elbow Pads: Look for extra protection at this age. Longer "attack" style arm pads are recommended.
Protective Cup: Look for comfort while running. Think soccer type running. We have seen boys slide them in their underwear but this almost always fails. Compression undershorts with pocket to hold the cup in place is recommended. Some boys use baseball ‘sliding’ shorts.
Mouthguard: Be sure to purchase one that will tether on to the mask of the helmet. Keep extras in your gear bag. Cannot play without one. It's the law!
Shoes: Most games will be played on natural grass. Cleats are highly recommended. Comfort not style is the most important feature at the U9 level.
Stick: There are many different schools of thought on stick heads and no one is right for every player. At the beginner level cradling is going to be the hardest skill to master and for that reason we recommend a tight neck and a deep pocket, yet with a flatter, wider mouth for easier scooping. Stick length - includes head and handle, suggest cutting stick down to 37.5" if Under 11 yrs old; if over 11 keep at 40".
U11-13
Helmets: At this age we are looking for additional impact protection and protective features and custom sizing. The following manufacturers are best:
Gloves: Once we get to U11, players are starting to get their stick control so protection of wrists and shorter cuffs become a player preference. Hits do become firmer so additional protection to the top of hands and fingers may be desired for protection from stick checks as players age.
Shoulder Pads: Body checks are phased in at the U11 level and the amount of body contact will increase up to the U15 level. Shoulder protection becomes more important than protection from missed passes as we increase in age and ability. Again, don't go overboard, most pads work just fine and the amount of protection is entirely dependent upon the player wearing the pads.
Elbow Pads: As players specialize in positions shorter defensive player arm pads may be desired for defensive players and longer pads for attacks and midfielders a.k.a."middies".
Rib Pads: Recommended for some players. A used set works fine. Stick checks to the gut and side can hurt and a little extra protection here makes playing lacrosse much more fun.
Protective Cup: Look for comfort while running. Think soccer type running. We have seen boys slide them in their underwear but this almost always fails. A jock or undershorts with pocket to hold the cup in place is recommended.
Mouthguard: Be sure to purchase one that will tether on to the mask of the helmet. Keep extras in your gear bag. Cannot play without one. It's the law!
Shoes: Most games will be played on natural grass. Cleats are required for players to keep their footing.
Stick: There are many different schools of thought on stick heads and no one is right for every player. At this age, for experienced players we recommend consulting a coach or visiting a local lacrosse specialty store for advice to help you choose a stick/head/pocket combination that best suits your needs.