The Ultimate Guide to Women’s Lacrosse Gloves: Performance, Protection, and Comfort
Lacrosse is a sport that requires speed, agility, and precision. For female players, choosing the right pair of gloves is crucial to ensure optimal performance while maintaining safety and comfort. Women’s lacrosse gloves are designed specifically to cater to the unique needs of female athletes, blending lightweight materials with protective features. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore different types of women’s lacrosse gloves, their applications, key features to consider, and how to choose the perfect pair for your game.
Comparison of Women’s Lacrosse Gloves
Glove Model | Brand | Type | Protection Level | Best For | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
STX Women’s Lacrosse Strike Glove | STX | All-Position | High | Attackers and Midfielders | $50 – $100 |
Brine Superlight Gloves | Brine | Field | Medium | All-Positions | $40 – $90 |
Hummingbird Sports Leather Gloves | Hummingbird | Field & Goalie | High | Goalies and Attackers | $60 – $110 |
STX Lacrosse Women’s Sultra Goalie | STX | Goalie | Very High | Goalies only | $90 – $130 |
Women’s Lacrosse Gloves by Lacrosse Unlimited | Lacrosse Unlimited | All-Position | Medium | General Use | $45 – $85 |
Women’s Gloves at Universal Lacrosse | Universal Lacrosse | All-Position | Medium to High | Beginners to Advanced | $50 – $95 |
Understanding the Different Types of Women’s Lacrosse Gloves
When selecting women’s lacrosse gloves, it’s essential to understand the various types available and their specific applications. Here’s a breakdown:
1. All-Position Gloves
All-position gloves are designed to cater to players in multiple positions on the field, offering a balanced mix of flexibility, grip, and protection. For example, the STX Women’s Lacrosse Strike Glove features targeted grip zones and foam inserts, making it suitable for both attackers and defenders.
2. Goalie Gloves
Goalie gloves are specialized to provide maximum protection, often featuring additional padding and reinforced areas. The STX Lacrosse Women’s Sultra Goalie Glove is an excellent choice, designed specifically for female goalies, providing essential protection without sacrificing comfort.
3. Lightweight Gloves
Lightweight gloves focus on breathability and flexibility. The Brine Superlight Gloves, for instance, are perfect for players seeking agility and ventilation during intense games, ensuring hands remain cool and dry.
4. Cold Weather Gloves
For winter play, cold weather gloves are essential. Some models, like the STX Strike, include pockets for heat packs, providing warmth during cold conditions while maintaining performance.
Key Features to Look for in Women’s Lacrosse Gloves
When investing in a pair of women’s lacrosse gloves, consider the following features for optimal performance:
1. Fit and Comfort
A snug fit is crucial. Gloves that are too loose can hinder performance, while those that are too tight may restrict movement. Always refer to brand sizing charts available on sites like www.lacrossemonkey.com or www.dickssportinggoods.com.
2. Padding
Look for gloves with adequate padding without compromising flexibility. Foam inserts in the knuckles, as found in the STX Women’s Lacrosse Strike Glove, provide excellent protection during gameplay.
3. Grip
Grip is vital for handling the stick. Textured palms, like those in Brine Superlight Gloves, enhance grip, ensuring control during fast-paced games.
4. Breathability
Breathable materials help wick moisture away, keeping hands dry. Features like mesh panels can improve airflow, ideal for players in warmer climates.
5. Durability
Lacrosse gloves endure a lot of wear and tear. Ensure the material used is durable, particularly in high-friction areas.
How to Choose the Right Women’s Lacrosse Gloves
Choosing the right gloves can significantly impact your game. Here are some tips to guide your selection:
1. Assess Your Position
Consider your playing position. Attackers may prefer lighter gloves for agility, while defenders may need more padding for protection.
2. Determine Your Skill Level
If you’re a beginner, look for gloves that balance comfort and protection. For advanced players, consider gloves with enhanced features like grip zones and lightweight materials.
3. Try Before You Buy
If possible, try on multiple pairs to find the best fit. Many sporting goods stores, such as www.dickssportinggoods.com, offer a wide selection to test.
4. Read Reviews
Before making a purchase, read customer reviews on websites like www.lacrossebee.com and www.funattic.com to gain insights into performance and durability.
Technical Features Comparison of Women’s Lacrosse Gloves
Glove Model | Material | Weight | Water Resistance | Heat Retention | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
STX Women’s Lacrosse Strike Glove | Synthetic Leather | Light | Moderate | Yes | 1 Year |
Brine Superlight Gloves | Mesh & Synthetic | Ultra-Light | Low | No | 6 Months |
Hummingbird Sports Leather Gloves | Genuine Leather | Medium | Moderate | Yes | 1 Year |
STX Lacrosse Women’s Sultra Goalie | Synthetic & Foam | Medium | High | Yes | 1 Year |
Women’s Lacrosse Gloves by Lacrosse Unlimited | Synthetic | Light | Low | No | 6 Months |
Women’s Gloves at Universal Lacrosse | Synthetic | Light | Moderate | Yes | 1 Year |
Related Video
Conclusion
Selecting the right women’s lacrosse gloves is essential for enhancing performance and ensuring safety on the field. With various types available, from all-position gloves to specialized goalie gloves, understanding your needs and preferences is vital. Consider features such as fit, padding, grip, breathability, and durability when making your choice. Whether you opt for gloves from brands like STX, Brine, or Lacrosse Unlimited, the right pair will help you play confidently and effectively.
FAQ
What are the best women’s lacrosse gloves?
The best gloves often depend on personal preference and position. However, popular choices include the STX Women’s Lacrosse Strike Glove and Brine Superlight Gloves due to their combination of comfort, protection, and performance.
How do I know what size glove to buy?
Sizing varies by brand. Most brands provide sizing charts on their websites, such as www.lacrossemonkey.com. Measure your hand and compare it to the chart for the best fit.
Are women’s lacrosse gloves different from men’s?
Yes, women’s lacrosse gloves are designed specifically for the female hand structure, offering a better fit and often lighter padding compared to men’s gloves.
Can I use men’s lacrosse gloves for women’s lacrosse?
While you can use men’s gloves, they may not fit as comfortably or provide the same level of performance due to differences in shape and padding.
What features should I look for in cold-weather gloves?
Look for gloves with insulation, heat pack pockets, and waterproof materials to keep your hands warm and dry during colder games.
How do I maintain my lacrosse gloves?
Regularly clean your gloves with a damp cloth and allow them to air dry. Avoid machine washing as it can damage the materials.
Do all lacrosse gloves come with a warranty?
Most brands offer warranties, typically ranging from 6 months to 1 year. Check the specific warranty terms on the brand’s website.
Can I return lacrosse gloves if they don’t fit?
Return policies vary by retailer. Check the return policy on the purchasing website, like www.dickssportinggoods.com or www.lacrosseunlimited.com, before buying.
What is the price range for women’s lacrosse gloves?
Prices can range from $40 to over $130, depending on the brand, materials, and features.
Are there gloves specifically designed for goalies?
Yes, goalie gloves, such as the STX Lacrosse Women’s Sultra Goalie Glove, are specifically designed to provide maximum protection and grip for female goalies.