Lacrosse Glove Size Guide

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Lacrosse Glove Size Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Lacrosse is one of the fastest and most physically demanding sports, and having the right gear is essential for safety and performance. Among the most critical pieces of equipment for any player is a good pair of lacrosse gloves. These gloves protect your hands, wrists, and forearms while allowing for flexibility and control on the field.

Finding the perfect fit can be tricky, especially with so many options available. This guide will help you understand how to measure your hand for the perfect lacrosse glove fit, the different glove sizes available, and how to choose the best pair for your needs.

Why Proper Lacrosse Glove Fit Matters

Before diving into sizing, it’s important to understand why the right glove fit is so crucial. Lacrosse gloves are designed to protect your hands and provide the necessary grip and flexibility. If your gloves are too tight, you may experience discomfort, poor circulation, and reduced dexterity. On the other hand, gloves that are too loose can affect your performance, as they may restrict your movements and increase the risk of injury.

Properly fitted lacrosse gloves will:

Provide protection from impacts and abrasions
Enhance comfort, allowing you to focus on the game
Improve your grip and control of the stick
Increase overall mobility in your hands and wrists

Types of Lacrosse Gloves

There are several types of lacrosse gloves to choose from, depending on your playing position and personal preferences. Some gloves offer more protection, while others emphasize flexibility and mobility.

Youth Lacrosse Gloves: These gloves are designed for younger players, typically aged 8-12. They offer a snug fit to ensure protection while still allowing for comfort and flexibility as young players learn the game.
Men’s Lacrosse Gloves: These gloves are made for adult male players and come in various sizes, from small to extra-large. They offer a balance between protection and mobility and are often designed for more experienced players.
Women’s Lacrosse Gloves: Women’s gloves differ slightly from men’s gloves in terms of fit and design. They are typically lighter and less bulky, as women’s lacrosse rules require less contact. These gloves also come in a range of sizes and colors.
Goalie Gloves: Goalie gloves are heavier and bulkier than player gloves, offering added protection for the hands and wrists, as goalies face more high-speed impacts.

How to Measure Your Hand for Lacrosse Gloves

The most important step in finding the right lacrosse glove size is measuring your hand. Here’s a simple guide to help you measure your hand correctly:

Step 1: Measure Your Hand Length

Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your palm.
Keep your hand relaxed and straight while measuring.
The measurement in inches will correspond to the glove size.

Step 2: Measure Your Hand Width (Optional)

You may also want to measure the circumference of your hand. To do this, wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of your hand (usually around the knuckles) and note the measurement.

These measurements will help you determine the right size glove. For reference, a table with typical sizing ranges is provided below.

Lacrosse Glove Size Chart

To help you choose the right lacrosse glove size, here’s a general sizing guide based on hand measurements:

Size (Inches)	Hand Length (Inches)	Glove Size (Men’s)	Glove Size (Youth)	Glove Size (Women’s)
Small	6.5” – 7”	12” – 13”	9” – 10”	10” – 11”
Medium	7” – 7.5”	13” – 14”	10” – 11”	11” – 12”
Large	7.5” – 8”	14” – 15”	11” – 12”	12” – 13”
X-Large	8” – 8.5”	15” – 16”	N/A	13” – 14”
XX-Large	8.5” – 9”	16” – 17”	N/A	N/A

Explanation of the Table:

Hand Length: The length of your hand from the base of your palm (at the wrist) to the tip of your middle finger.
Glove Size: This is the corresponding glove size based on your hand length. For example, if your hand measures 7 inches from base to tip, you would typically wear a medium-sized glove.
Youth and Women’s Sizes: These sizes are generally smaller and more streamlined than men’s gloves to accommodate younger and female players.

Note: Always refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart for the most accurate fit, as sizing can vary slightly across different brands.

How to Choose the Best Lacrosse Gloves for Your Needs

Once you’ve measured your hand and identified your glove size, it’s time to consider other factors to make sure you pick the best lacrosse gloves for your needs.

1. Flexibility and Mobility

If you prioritize mobility and flexibility, look for gloves with more open designs and lightweight materials.
Advanced players often opt for gloves with fewer layers of padding to maintain dexterity while handling the stick.

2. Protection

For players who need more protection, such as defensemen or goalies, choose gloves with extra padding, particularly around the fingers, palms, and wrists.
These gloves often feature a more rigid structure to protect against stick checks and impacts.

3. Ventilation and Comfort

Look for gloves with breathable materials like mesh or perforated panels. These features will help to keep your hands cool and dry during play, especially in hot conditions.
Some gloves also come with moisture-wicking linings that prevent sweat buildup inside the glove.

4. Durability

Lacrosse gloves experience a lot of wear and tear, so it’s essential to consider durability. Gloves with synthetic leather or reinforced palms will last longer and withstand the harsh conditions of the game.
High-quality gloves often come with a warranty or satisfaction guarantee.

5. Grip and Fit

A good lacrosse glove will allow you to maintain a firm grip on your stick without sacrificing comfort. Look for gloves with a textured palm or silicone grip to improve stick control.

How to Break In New Lacrosse Gloves

New lacrosse gloves can feel stiff and uncomfortable initially. To break them in:

Wear them at home: Before your first game, wear your new gloves around the house or during practice sessions. This will help the material loosen up and form to the shape of your hands.
Flex your fingers: Gently bend and stretch the fingers to speed up the breaking-in process.
Use leather conditioner: If your gloves are made of leather, you can apply a small amount of leather conditioner to soften them and improve flexibility.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lacrosse gloves is essential for comfort, performance, and protection. Whether you’re a beginner, an experienced player, or a goalie, selecting the correct glove size and style will enhance your overall gameplay. Always measure your hand properly, refer to the sizing chart, and consider your specific needs, such as mobility, protection, and grip.

By following this guide, you can confidently pick the perfect lacrosse gloves and be ready to hit the field with full protection and control. Stay safe, play hard, and enjoy the game!