Choosing The Right Lacrosse Arm Protection And Sizing Guide

There are many different variations of lacrosse arm protection. The options include: arm guards, arm pads and elbow pads/caps. Although the differences seem subtle, choosing the right type of lacrosse arm protection can take your game to the next level. From a defender's complete mobility to an attackman's comfort and protection, being confident in your protection cannot be undervalued. In this video, Brandon Butler, Product Manager, Lax.com will describe the differences between each type of pad.

Lacrosse Arm Guards

Constructed with protection in mind. Typically these types of guards offer padding underneath a protective plastic shell, which protects most of the arm and can deflect heavier blows. Arm guards tend to be a bit bulkier, but most manufacturers design them to offer a full range of motion and flexibility, but they do have a bit of a bulk. Attack-men can feel confident as they dodge against the defense, and find the glory of scoring a goal. Arm guards are primarily worn by offensive attackman. They offer the most protection and generally offer coverage from mid-bicep to mid forearm. Arm guards offer the most protection possible for offensive players that are taking checks from long stick defensive poles. Your arm guards should cover the top of the triceps all the way down to your forearm. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND ARM GUARDS FOR ALL YOUTH PLAYERS AS SOON AS THEY GRADUATE OUT OF THEIR STARTER SETS. This will offer the most protection as the players learn the game, and younger players can start to specialize their padding towards the end of middle school.

Lacrosse Arm Pads

Constructed primarily of foam padding. Generally these pads cover the top of forearm to mid bicep. Usually very light weight, but will still take the brunt of any checks thrown in your direction. These pads are worn by both mid-fielders and defense men. Arm pads are primarily worn by middies who want a bit more mobility and less protection. The biggest reason that middies covet the extra freedom is the ability to shoot on the run as they dodge from up top. Arm pads are usually a bit softer, have a smaller elbow cap, or no cap at all, depending on the model. The key with arm pads is to make sure they are sized properly so that they do not slide down off your bicep all the time. Injury can occur if you are exposed while playing.

Lacrosse Elbow Pads/Caps

Constructed with minimum constriction and the most mobility. Lacrosse elbow caps are primarily designed for defensive players, although some elite-level middies do wear them as well. These usually consist of a thin plastic cap that covers the elbow bone or a simple soft pad that covers about 6-8 inches around the crux of the arm. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT PLAYERS REFRAIN FROM WEARING THESE PADS UNTIL THEY ARE OLD ENOUGH TO MAKE THE DECISION TO SACRIFICE PROTECTION FOR ULTIMATE MOBILITY. You will see many elite level collegiate and high school defensemen in elbow caps.

How To Size Lacrosse Arm Pads?

** Lax.com makes no representation of the safety or suitability of any of these pads. We are relaying the information regarding what most of our customer are buying based on age and size. Please refer directly to the manufacturer for suggestions or sizing guidelines. Sizes are approximate, different manufacturers may vary slightly in size.**

Other blogs you might be interested in:
VIDEO: When To Buy A New Lacrosse Head
VIDEO: The Difference Between Men's Composite & Metal Lacrosse Shafts
VIDEO: The Difference Between Men's Lacrosse Shoulder Pads & Liners - Men's Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Sizing Guide

Here at Lax.com we strive to educate you about the different options that are available to lacrosse players. Lax.com thinks that younger players, or players just starting out should always gravitate towards higher protection than mobility. Stay in those arm guards and arm pads as long as you can until you are really ready to make the jump. If you have any questions concerning arm protection for your player give us a call at 855.255.5294 or send us an email at questions@lax.com.