Are you that player who always wants to have the freshest cleats each lacrosse season, or maybe you’re looking to replace your favorite cleats you’ve used for the last four years that finally blew out on you? No matter what the reason may be for why you need a new pair of lacrosse cleats, I have you covered with some of the hottest releases to up your game and style.

Before we jump in, let’s sort a few qualifications out for what will be eligible for this list in the first place. Throughout recent years, we’ve seen a rise in lacrosse-specific cleats, but even with the increased options, there still really aren’t a ton of cleats out there that are specific to our sport.

Lacrosse players will often opt to go for lighter football cleats that allow them to dodge, cut, and move well. Some players even find soccer cleats that work well for them. Much like the rest of the gear in lacrosse, it’s totally up to the player’s preference. This list will primarily feature lacrosse-specific cleats, but I will also mix in several football cleats that often cross over into lacrosse.

Lacrosse Cleats Buyers Guide 2021-22

Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Elite Cleats

Nike, the sneaker king, has been making turf shoes and cleats for quite a while. With each of its releases in the Huarache line, I have noticed improved quality and construction every year. The simple fact is Nike knows sports, and it knows how to design products to help players perform at their highest level.

These new Huarache cleats surely accomplish that. From the high-knit cuff keeping your ankles secure to the flywire lacing system, these cleats impress. These are a great option for any player looking for a pair of cleats to rely on!

Nike Vapor Edge Pro

Much like the Huaraches, Nike didn’t cut any corners with these Vapor Edge Pro cleats. From what I’ve seen, these have been very popular recently across all levels, and I’m personally a big fan of not only the look of these cleats but also the design features. Despite being a lower-styled cleat, they do feature an upper sock to increase ankle stability. Likely the most attractive and innovative feature of these cleats is the ghost lacing system that sits below the top layer allowing for extra security, locking your foot into the cleat and a very clean look. Again, these are a great option for any player looking for a new pair of cleats!

New Balance Freeze LX 3.0

Likely the most well-known of lacrosse cleats manufacturers, New Balance has always brought some incredible lacrosse-specific options. I even came across a football player wearing New Balance lacrosse cleats once because of their optimal amount of traction.

This newest version of the Freeze cleats brings many great features that we’ve grown to love in past versions, along with many new ones and a very new look. Being a mid-to-high-style cleat, these will offer quite a bit of needed ankle support, plus a fully-knit upper for a very comfortable, snug fit. Much like the last versions of the Freeze cleats, these bring quite a bit of lacrosse technology to the molded plate along the bottom that was designed specifically for lacrosse movements. These are all-around well-built cleats that won’t let you down on the field!

Under Armour Spotlight Cleats

I have always personally been a fan of Under Armour cleats on the lacrosse field. While they have only ever produced a few cleats for lacrosse, I do see a huge amount of their football styles crossing into the lacrosse game.

The Spotlight cleats are a great low-cut option for anyone looking for a nicely built and designed cleat. I can tell you from personal experience that these hug the foot perfectly to allow stability while dodging and cutting. These also feature some great insoles for foot comfort while playing. Make sure to give these a look when it comes down to buying your new cleats!

Under Armour Highlight Cleats

While they can be harder to find nowadays, the UA Highlight cleats have been a constant the past several years across a lot of the game. Whether you’re looking for the most amount of ankle support and stability or wanting something that truly locks the foot in, the Highlight cleats are always a great option.

Keep in mind while looking for these that there have been several releases and variations since the original, so make sure you find what you want. I will also add that in my opinion, these have some of the best durability I have seen out of any cleat I’ve used. I’m going on three years of college ball with my current pair. If you’re willing to do some digging, I highly suggest looking into these cleats if you haven’t already!

Fit & Feel Are King

While this isn’t a long or extensive list of all the cleat options out there, I hope it helped guide you in the right direction. Keep in mind that lacrosse cleats are all about preference, feel, and fit. I highly suggest trying a pair on in person if you can, even if you aren’t purchasing from that particular store. Shop around and find a pair that fits and feels best for you! Comfort goes a long way in lacrosse cleats.

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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Are you looking to get a new lacrosse shaft for your gamer or maybe just looking to add to the collection?

Are there too many good choices to choose from on the market today?

No matter your situation, I have you covered with more information on many of the latest handle releases. Because of how many handles are released each year, I have decided to focus on the top and most popular releases from each company without going down the rabbit hole of never-ending lacrosse shafts.

Lacrosse Shafts Buyers Guide 2021-22

ECD Lacrosse

Carbon 3.0

The Carbon 3.0 brings all the great features of the previous ECD Carbon generation and a whole lot of new ones to an all-around, well-rounded handle. Most notable is the ECD’s Impact+ system, which has been increased in key areas to make this their strongest carbon handle to date.

Another important feature to note about this new handle is the sliding end cap to allow for a custom end cap configuration. This handle is also a Flex5 level, meaning it will flex to offer a bit of extra strength for your shot but won’t overflex, affecting your game in negative ways. You really can’t go wrong with a good ECD Carbon handle.

Carbon MTX

Are you a physical player who needs a shaft to match your lacrosse game and strength? The Carbon MTX is essentially a bulked-up version of the other Carbons with some added features at a more premium price point. This handle features reinforced TeXtreme in the right areas to make it an even more durable handle. Unlike the Carbon 3.0, this handle is a Flex1, meaning it won’t have as much give or flex, allowing it to be a bit stronger when checking or taking checks. It’s a great option for more aggressive playing styles!

True Temper Lacrosse

Smoke

Weighing in at just 156 grams, the Smoke handle is not only lightweight and durable but also offers a level of uniqueness most other lacrosse shafts don’t have. Each smoke handle has a different look to its design, meaning that each handle is a one-of-one in its appearance.

This handle is reinforced through up to 25 carbon fiber layers to ensure it can hold up to any checks thrown its way. It is a SmartFLX level 6, meaning it’s among True’s medium flex handles but just below the PowerFLX highest durability level. If you’re looking to mix it up with a very unique and durable handle, this might be the one for you!

ZeroLyte

Weighing in at just 136 grams, the ZeroLyte handle might just be the lightest carbon fiber handle I have ever used. It reminds me a lot of the old Gait Ices in a carbon fiber format. Despite the weight, this handle still packs quite a punch from its durability end.

Another aspect of this handle that must be mentioned is its rougher texture that gives it a bit of a sandpaper feel in the gloves. This handle sits at the PowerFLX level 8, meaning that it is one of True’s most flexible handles while still offering optimal durability. For all you light handle lovers out there, this is very much worth checking out!

HZRDUS Heavy

Are you a box lacrosse enthusiast or just want a shaft that can hold up to any checks? The HZRDUS Heavy is a box lacrosse player’s dream with its strong feel and crazy durability.

Made out of HD Heavy Composite, this piece sets a new standard for durability in lacrosse handles. I can tell you from personal experience that it is one mean handle both for laying cross checks and taking the occasional monster check. While you lose a bit of the light weight feature of other handles, it’s well worth it when it comes to durability. I suggest any box check this out when looking to make their next purchase.

Maverik

Hyperdrive

This updated and stronger version of the beloved Hyperlite brings both lightweight and durability to a dodging attackman or speedy midfielder. This new addition to the Maverik handle lineup promises to fit any elite level player with its design and bead-blasted grip for added handle feel. If you loved the Hyperlite and are ready for a great upgrade, this is undoubtedly the handle for you.

Wonderboy

A common name for any lacrosse player, the updated Wonderboy shaft brings you all the needed features at a great price point. While this may not be the newest release on the list, I felt like it couldn’t be excluded – it really brings one of the best values to the lacrosse handle market.

This newest edition of the Wonderboy brings a new design and reduced weight while still offering its classic durability and grip shape. Despite only being a 9000 alloy handle, I would suggest anyone who hasn’t used a Wonderboy grab one to add to their collection or maybe even use as their gamer.

STX

Sci-Ti X+

I can still remember using my first STX Sci-Ti handle and immediately falling in love with the thing. If you play attack or midfield, this updated Sci-Ti handle is something you just have to check out.

This handle features double-wall thickness to ensure you can take any check that comes your way while still remaining extremely light weight for dodging and shooting. The X-Grip of this handle is designed for the handle to create added control to your game and put you at a bit of an advantage simply through it’s intelligent design.

Fiber X

From PLL players to the college level, this handle has made quite the impact quickly. This composite offering from STX brings the desired durability and weight for an elite level. Without any flex, this handle is able to offer a consistent release and added level of strength similar to how a well-built metal handle would typically perform. However, the most desirable features about this handle are likely its weight and design elements, like targeted grip zones to bring you just enough added grip in crucial areas. This is a great composite handle for a player looking to push their game to the next level.

Warrior

Burn Carbon XP

Xtreme power? You betcha. Warrior claims that this handle brings a new level of power to your shot through a composite design with increased levels of flex in the right areas. This handle also features Warrior’s Dot Matrix grip system for added shot and passing control. The Speed Die shape is also present for a softer and more comfortable-feeling handle that won’t cut into your hands when putting all your power behind a shot. This lacrosse shaft brings a lot of new and desirable features to the Warrior lineup! Surely a quality handle very worth giving a look.

Evo Krypto Pro

Looking for a more classic metal handle with all the features you need in your game? This updated version of the all-time classic Kryptolyte handle brings you everything you could need in a well-priced lacrosse shaft. While it might not be the most technology-packed or flashiest handle on the market, you can trust it to get the job done and then some. Durability and its competitive weight make this handle a classic and great option!

Evo Carbon QX

At only 130 grams, you will be hard-pressed to find another handle at this weight that won’t sacrifice durability. Much like the Carbon XP, Warrior has brought its stiffness to this handle as well ensuring your passes are accurate and your release point stays the same each time. With this handle, you won’t have to worry about what head will and won’t fit like a lot of other carbon handles – this one is completely hollow, ensuring any head will fit perfectly. Last but not least, this beauty was designed and developed in North America, which you gotta love! Add this to your lacrosse wish list as you won’t want to miss out on this great shaft.

Nike

Vapor Composite

The Vapor Composite is Nike’s lightweight composite handle that will fit the needs of any player. Weighing in at five ounces, this shaft brings the lightweight and sleek Nike design we all know and love. From youth players looking for a new handle to the expert players looking to add to their collection, Nike has created a great composite offering.

Epoch

Dragonfly Elite II

From the first Dragonfly release hitting the lacrosse market to the latest technology innovations from Epoch, they never disappoint. The Elite II handle is their most elite handle to date, ranking in at the highest technology level they currently offer.

With the New Reactive Technology of this handle, it brings a great amount of feel and durability to a very clean-looking handle. If you’re an elite-level player looking into trying something new, this is very much worth your attention.

Dragonfly Pro II

Coming in just behind the Elite II handle, the Pro II shaft brings over a lot of the great features of the Elite at a slightly lower price point and different design. This handle comes in at a 4 on Epoch’s technology level. No matter your playing level, this is a great option for any player looking to pick up a new handle!

Dragonfly Select II

Lastly, the Dragonfly Select II is Epoch’s most affordable option for players looking to see what Epoch is all about. Despite the lower price point, this handle still brings a lot of Epoch’s great technology and design features. I highly suggest this handle for younger players looking to grab a durability and technologically-advanced handle.

StringKing

Composite Pro

StringKing’s composite option brings a great level of player preference into each handle. This handle comes in 4 weigh options based on suggested age and playing level to ensure each player is getting the right handle for their game. This is also a great option as it comes in their specific faceoff option and in defensive length as well. You also have to love the simplicity of StringKing’s solid color designs.

Metal 3 Pro

StringKing also has you covered with the Metal 3 Pro shaft for all you metal handle lovers out there. Much like the rest of StringKing’s handles, this option comes in four weight options to tailor to your game and playing level. It’s an all-around, well-rounded lightweight and durable handle you can rely on!

A Series

Last but not least, StringKing’s value option brings the same reliability of all their other options at three different weight options to choose from. Much like the other two choices, this one is a great, well-designed handle that puts an emphasis on quality and simplistic aesthetic design elements.

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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While this may not be the longest or most product-packed buyers guide, shoulder pads are the most important piece of gear for your safety this upcoming lacrosse season.

Under the new shoulder pad ruling, players across levels (including college lacrosse) will be required to wear shoulder pads with the new NOCSAE ND200 approval in order to play. This move comes in order to increase the safety of players and create additional needed protection for the chest and heart.

Therefore, it’s time to ditch those cut-down shoulder pad liners you’ve been using for the past five seasons and maybe even got from your older cousin who played. It’s time to invest in a piece of equipment that will keep you safer and healthier in order to play the game we all love for longer.

While there aren’t too many offerings out there that fit this standard yet, I’m here to break down a few of the top offerings from your favorite trusted brands.

Lacrosse shoulder pads Buyers Guide 2021-22

Maverik Max EKG Speed Shoulder Pad

Maverik has made trusted protective gear for many, many years, but its latest additions to the shoulder pad world make an even bigger protective impact. The Maverik Max EKG Speed Shoulder pads feature several safety attributes, including EKG (External Kardic Guard) technology as visible on the front of the shoulder pad. Despite having added protection, these shoulder pads are still quite streamline to fit any player’s playing style.

Another awesome feature in these pads is the ANAFORM padding to protect both the spine and chest from any checks or shots that may come your way. These are a great option as you enter the shoulder pad buying market as they are ND200 certified.

Looking for something with a bit more protection and size? Here are a few other shoulder pads from Maverik that are also ND200 certified:

• Maverik M5 EKG Shoulder Pads
• Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pads
• Maverik M5 EKG Speed Pad

True Temper Lacrosse Zerolyte Shoulder Pad Liner

While True Temper is still a new contender in the protection game, it put together a great new option with the Zerolyte Shoulder Pad Liner that meets the new NOCSAE ND200 standard. I personally have used these pads for several months now and really like the weight and flexibility of the pad. I personally prefer the liner style as it offers me the most flexibility in my game.

The front of this pad features advanced ZRB technology to offer you the most protection to the chest area. The Zerolyte shoulder pad liner is yet another great option when shopping for your new pickup this season.

STX Cell V Shoulder Pad Liner

Looking for something really low profile that won’t slow you down? These Cell V Shoulder Pad Liners from STX might just be the option for you. Meeting the new NOCSAE standard and remaining lightweight and extremely mobile seems like a great mix to me, not to mention they are an updated version of the always-loved Cell protection line. With the GeoFlex II protection in these pads, you’re sure to be safe in the hands of STX.

These even feature a seven-point stretch zone system to allow you to customize and move these pads to your ultimate comfort. There’s not much to dislike about these pads at all. Give these a look when making your next lacrosse safety purchase!

Looking for an STX pad with even more added protection? Check out the STX Cell Shoulder Pads or the Stx Shadow Pro Shoulder Pads.

Warrior Evo Shoulder Pad

Chances are, no matter how long you’ve played, you have used a pair of Warrior shoulder pads at one point or another. Maybe they were your favorites? Maybe they are your go to brand? The good news for you is that Warrior brings a great new offering to the table in the Evo Shoulder Pad that meets the NOCSAE ND200 certification. From the sleek design to the impact sternum protection, these will suit almost any player this season.

These pads also feature Wartech liner to keep you extra cool and ventilated while playing. I personally love the design of these pads simply because of how customizable they are with multiple removable padding sections. Surely another great option to add to your list!

Nike Vapor Shoulder Pad Liner

Nike has you covered with protection and style in their new Nike Vapor Liners. From the solid color design of these to the Nike swoosh front and center, these things look mean.

Style points for sure, but that’s not why we’re here. These Liners are NOCSAE ND200 certified and feature a sternum protection system that won’t restrict the player at all to encourage comfort while playing. We all know how annoying it can be to wear a pair of uncomfortable shoulder pads, but with these you won’t even have to worry about that.

Their minimalistic safety design offers the right protection in the right areas without any added fluff to get in your way. Big thumbs up to Nike on these Shoulder Pad Liners! Bonus points for all you Nike buffs as well.

Again I know there aren’t many options out there at the moment for the new ND200 certification, but don’t let that drive you away from some of these great options listed above. Unlike a lot of our other gear, a new pair of certified shoulder pads this season is an absolute must in order to stay safe and keep playing the game. I suggest trying several different shoulder pads on before buying if you can as each person will have their own fit preferences when it comes to shoulder pads. Get a pair you feel comfortable and safe in. Good luck, and happy shoulder pad hunting!

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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Lacrosse gear is constantly changing. However, the one piece of gear that seems to change and develop the fastest is heads, with their newest releases and versions dropping yearly if not more often. This can be hard to keep up with or stay in tune with what head will be best for your game. Lucky for you I’m here to break down several of the latest and hottest releases for your 2021-22 lacrosse heads buyers guide.

Lacrosse Heads Buyers Guide 2021-22

STX Hyper Power

STX has always made some of the best and most well-designed heads on the market. The Hyper Power is no exception from that trend with several key attributes to like.

Updated from the STX Ultra Power, the Hyper Power features a reinforced power ramp to increase a shooter’s speed and accuracy. Along with that impactful update, the Hyper Power also has quite a few well-placed sidewall holes to ensure that stringing this head is a dream.

Whatever your favorite feature may be in the new Hyper Power, I can assure you that this will be a quality head for you on the offensive end.

Warrior Burn XP-O or D

If you’ve been around the game the last several years, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ve seen or used a Warrior Burn before. The good news is the Burn just got so much better.

The Warrior XP-O for offense or XP-D for defense brings a new specific head in the Burn line for the demands of each position. Both versions feature several updates to the Burn line, from a redesigned and reinforced throat to Sym-Flex added throughout the head for reinforcement when picking up ground balls and shooting.

Whether you’re a hard hitting defender or maybe a quick, shifty attackman, I suggest giving the new Burn XP heads a try!

ECD Mirage 2.0

ECD has done it again with another great release. This time it comes in the form of an updated Mirage head.

The Mirage 2.0 has been around now for a bit and has swept the lacrosse world by storm since its release. I’ve seen Mirage 2.0s being used in both field and box over the past several months with glowing reviews from their users. This head is truly a shooters dream, as they say in their marketing. If you haven’t checked one of these beauties out yet, I would very much suggest you do!

Maverik Tank 2

This new version of the Tank from Maverik brings one big thing to the table: strength.

I recently got my hands on one of these heads, and let’s just say that from an offensive perspective, I was scared to be on a field with one of these things. Just by looking at the sidewall structure of this head, you can get an idea of how reinforced it is with strength and durability. Along with the desirable durability, the Tank 2 has a face shape that you can’t not like. I have no doubt this will be a defensive monster for years to come.

True Temper HZRDUS

The True Temper HZRDUS brings a lot to love to the table, from its familiar face shape to a massive number of sidewall holes and stringing options. Along with these key features, the head weighs in at just 4.9 ounces even with its beefed up throat to guarantee strength.

I’ve been using this head now for several months and can promise that like many other heads on this list, you just simply can’t go wrong with it. If you’re an attackman or midfielder looking to become even more of an offensive threat, I highly encourage giving this one a try.

Nike L3

The Nike L3 is the newest addition in the well-known Nike Lakota line. From its sharp design to tighter face shape, this head brings several major desirable updates that will make your game that much better. The L3 also features the exclusive PowerForm for ideal stiffness and increased durability in key areas.

This head is sure to be a major weapon for any midfielder out there looking to score or defend on the opposite side. The Lakota has been trusted for years, and this latest addition is no different. A solid choice all around!

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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Welcome to quite possibly the most important buyers guide of them all: the lacrosse helmet buyers guide.

One thing we all need is a good, reliable helmet. This is more than a requirement to play our lacrosse and to do so safely. From concussion and head injury prevention to overall comfort, there are so many important factors when choosing your next brain protector. There are helmets we’ve loved, such as the Pro7, and helmets that we’ve hated, but I think everyone will be happy with the modern options below. 

No matter what helmet you decide on this upcoming season, always put comfort and safety first. I always suggest finding a place to try on the helmet you want, or even ask your teammate to test theirs out to ensure comfort and fit first.

Yes, I will even get into aesthetic design elements that are pushing the style of lacrosse forward. After all, “Look good, play good, feel good.” 

Lacrosse Helmet Buyers Guide 2021-22

Cascade S

The now second-newest offering from the helmet legends does more than impress. The Cascade S helmet not only pushed Cascade into the modern game but solidified it even more so as the helmet leader in the lacrosse industry. I have personally used this helmet during the college season for two years and have nothing bad to say.

From a protection standpoint, this helmet is cutting edge with it’s GEN4 EPP protection strategically placed in the upper front of the helmet. On top of GEN4 EPP tech, the S helmet also offers NV3 foam placed throughout the helmet to reduce impact to the head. Finally, this helmet clearly wins style points with its aggressive front-leaning design that will cater to anyone’s helmet tilt preferences.

You can’t go wrong with this one or any of the other Cascade helmets, for that matter. 

Cascade xrS

The very recently-released Cascade XRS is quickly taking the game by storm. From PLL games this summer to major DI fall ball, we are seeing this brand-new piece of protection technology pop up all over the place. The most noticeable update featured in this helmet is the exterior double jawbone. This is the outside jaw piece that wraps both high and low on the XRS. This one feature alone will make the game that much safer.

Along with many other updates, the 360 fit covers all areas of the head, making the helmet more comfortable and also reduces any impact points that existed in prior helmets. Needless to say, this is the most technologically-advanced helmet to ever break into the lacrosse world – an option you can’t go wrong with when choosing your next helmet. 

warrior burn

Over the past years, Warrior has released many different lacrosse helmets, but the Warrior Burn is by far their best without any question. This is another helmet popping up all over the college game from major DI schools to the smaller schools that prefer Warrior gear and want to keep a consistent look.

My personal favorite feature of this helmet is the AdaptFit270 system that allows players a truly custom fit helmet by simply adjusting a small area on the back of the helmet. Along with a unique fit system, the Burn helmet also brings many incredible protection features such as JAWS protection, preventing any injuries to the jaw area and the Vionic protection system placed throughout the helmet to reduce possibility of head injuries. I will also add that this helmet wins some major design points in my mind with its clean and streamline look. Again, this is another great option on this buyers guide as you look to purchase your next helmet. 

stx rival

Last but not least, STX Rival’s offering brings together the design of STX and the protection and knowledge of football helmet giant Schutt. This helmet was made popular last season on the college level with teams like Ohio State and North Carolina sporting this flashy new STX bucket.

I should also add North Carolina won major style points with their chrome and Carolina blue Rival last season. Style aside, this helmet is a monster when it comes to protection, with features like Schutt TPU cushioning which offers elite protection that has been designed to make a difference. Another great option for both safety and style! 

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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Whether you’re a stringer like me or would just like to know what type of mesh to buy when getting your head strung for this lacrosse season, I have you covered in this buyers guide.

For as long as I can remember, I have been stringing my own heads and the heads of many other players. I have come across mesh I love and mesh I, well, really don’t love. I can confidently say this list is composed of some of the best types of mesh to hit the market.

What qualifies as a good mesh, you may ask?

For me, there are several main factors that make a mesh good. The first, and one I feel gets overlooked a lot, is durability. Good meshes will last months and even several seasons in some cases. However, I will always suggest re-stringing a mesh that is showing signs of wear at the end of each season to ensure you don’t run into any mid-game mesh blowouts. Durability in mesh can come from a tight weave within the mesh or even just quality materials. This was an important factor in my decisions for this lacrosse mesh buyers guide.

The second qualification for a good mesh, and likely the most important to me, is consistency. I want mesh that won’t bag out because the material loosens up, and I surely don’t want mesh that will just give up at the first sign of bad weather. We all know lacrosse is a sport that encounters a good amount of bad weather early in the season. Make sure to choose a mesh that will hold up well in all conditions.

The last qualification is string-ability. This is one I think all avid stringers can agree on. A well-built mesh should never start to fray or come apart just from stringing. I personally love to pull my knots down tight when stringing, and I can sadly tell you there have been meshes that start to come apart just from stringing. Luckily, this buyers guide will ensure you steer clear of issues like this with your lacrosse mesh!

Now that we have our criteria out of the way, let’s get into the buyers guide and the top mesh for the 2021-22 lacrosse season.

Lacrosse Mesh Buyers Guide 2021-22

ECD Hero Mesh 3.0 Semi-Soft

I can remember when ECD dropped its first Hero Mesh – it was amazing. Lucky for you, this 3.0 version of Hero Mesh is even better. I can confidently say that this mesh checks off all my boxes for a good mesh and then some.

My favorite elements of this mesh are the weight and durability. While being insanely light and easy to break in, it’s also extremely durable. ECD also makes the claim that this mesh is 10 times more water repellent than the 2.0. That alone is pretty incredible. Needless to say, this is a mesh you can trust.

StringKing Type 4S

StringKing has become synonymous with quality and elite products since taking over a good chunk of the mesh game years back. It’s one of my favorite choices when looking for a mesh that will last all season starting with that snowy February weather. Through my three years of college lacrosse so far, I can tell you that StringKing mesh has always been in at least one of my sticks at all times and in the sticks of many other college players.

Not much more needs to be explained here aside from that StringKing is always a quality choice that is sure to impress. I will also add that 4S and other generations of StringKing mesh come in “X” and “S” versions. X is more of a semi-hard, while S is more semi-soft. The choice is yours!

Warrior Iso Warp Mesh

The newcomer to this list, the Warp Mesh introduces many new mesh elements in the lacrosse game. The Iso Warp mesh is an 8-Diamond mesh through most of the mesh but also features wider diamonds for more feel and control along the channel area of the mesh.

This is essentially an adaptation of Warrior’s Warp series of heads but in mesh form to allow for far more customization and stringing options. This mesh also features added durability and weather to ensure the player won’t have to worry about their pocket. I am very excited to see this mesh used this coming season!

Jimalax Prime Semi-Soft Mesh

The stringing supplies giant brings an affordable and quality offering to the market with Prime Mesh. Much like the other meshes on this list, this is a weatherproof quality mesh.

What separates this mesh from others? Price point. Coming in at roughly 10 bucks less, this is an affordable and quality choice whether you’re learning to string or throwing it in your college game stick.

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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I love buying lacrosse gear (a lot), and I’m a fan of lacrosse-based guides. This week, I took a look at some of the best lacrosse gloves on the market for the 2021-22 season and put them together in this buyers guide.

I’ve broken down five gloves to consider this year when making your next big purchase. What qualifies for this list, you may ask? I focused on recently-released gloves that have become available in the past year or so and are commonly offered across major lacrosse retailers. I also focused on gloves with a competitive price point when compared to other gloves on the market. While I love the elite gloves that can cost $150+, I left those off this list to appeal to a larger audience.

Let’s take a look at some of the top lacrosse gloves for buyers in 2021-22.

Lacrosse Gloves Buyers Guide for 2021-22

Warrior Burn Pro Gloves

The Warrior Burn Pro gloves offer many great reasons to choose them for your upcoming season. The ImpaxLT molded foam along the back of the glove offers elite protection from any checks that may come your way while still staying lightweight.

Along with protection, these gloves feature optimal ventilation with the TruventTM system placed throughout them. These gloves also win style points with a very streamline design that honestly just looks pretty sweet.

Maverik M5 Gloves

From the PLL to college lacrosse, these were a hot commodity this past season. Maverik has always been known to make some great gloves but really stepped it up with these, utilizing several key features.

The Flowcool vent on the back allows for increased airflow, the all-time class AxSuede palms give the best feel, and the adjustable cuff allows the player a sense of customization when choosing how to rock their cuffs. These are just several of the key features that make these M5 gloves from Maverik a great option.

STX Cell 5 Gloves

Let’s be honest; we’ve all owned a pair of STX Cell gloves at one point or another. The Cell 5 gloves offer many of the same features we have all loved, while also upgrading several areas to advance the Cell glove line. The Power Fit system built into the glove creates added space in key areas for comfort and crucial movement while playing. These also feature GeoFlex II padding for increased protection in areas you need i t most. The bonus feature in these is the Guard Lock, which allows you to store your mouthguard safely with your gloves.

From the new features to the most classic features of the Cell line of gloves, these Cell 5 gloves seem to be a very solid option.

True Temper Zerolyte Gloves 

While True Temper is still somewhat new to the lacrosse protection world, I think these Zerolyte gloves will attract anyone’s attention. From the low profile fit that grips to your hand to the insanely lightweight and protective design, these are very worth considering this season when looking to purchase your next pair of gloves. They also feature the favorite AXSuede Quattro palms that offer the most feel while playing.

Gait Field Glove

Gait’s newest glove offering in the Gait Field Glove impresses from the design and protection to the three-piece cuff system. On the protection side of these gloves, they feature hard plastic placed around high-impact areas to ensure hard slap checks won’t result in injured hands. I personally see these playing a big role in the box lacrosse world, particularly due to the style and design that reminds most of older, classic gloves.

Looking to Spend More or Buy Older?

Perhaps you’re able and willing to drop a bit more cash on your new lacrosse gloves for the 2021-22 campaign. If you’re open to spending $150+ on gloves this season, I’d recommend looking into the STX Surgeon RZR gloves, Maverik Max gloves, and Warrior Evo QX gloves.

If you’re looking for slightly-older gloves and want some advice on what to check out, I wrote about what I consider to be the five-best modern lacrosse gloves last month.

How Should I Maintain My Gloves?

Lacrosse gloves can pretty quickly become disgusting, and it’s important to take care of them so they can last longer and give you more bang for your buck. But you have to be careful. How dirty they are affects how you should clean them, plus what they’re made out of. Don’t enter the situation blindly.

Then comes a big question in the modern game: should I cut the palms out of my gloves? That’s a personal choice (although some leagues and levels don’t allow it), and you need to weigh the pros and cons before taking the scissors to your precious piece of equipment.

Need More Help with Your 2021-22 Gear?

We have specialized buyers guides for the 2021-22 season coming your way the next few weeks, from mesh to helmets and more. Everything you need will be covered in our guides. Take a look at what we have prepared for you!

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