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If you play field hockey or lacrosse, protective gear isn’t optional — it’s your safety net. Think of your gear like armor: the better it fits and the higher the quality, the more confident you feel on the field. One stray ball or stick can change a game in seconds, so choosing the right helmet, pads, and guards can keep you in the action season after season.
Before we dive into stores and shopping tips, let’s list the must-have items. For lacrosse: helmet, mouthguard, shoulder pads, arm pads, gloves, rib/torso protection, and goalie-specific gear if you play in net. For field hockey: shin guards, mouthguard, gloves, face mask for penalty corners, and goalie equipment for netminders. Most youth setups also include properly fitted cleats and protective cups where required.
Helmets are the MVP of lacrosse safety. A good helmet absorbs impact from a ball traveling 80+ miles per hour and helps reduce rotational forces from hits. Look for helmets that meet NOCSAE standards and offer adjustable padding so you can get a snug fit—about a fingertip space above the eyebrow is a good rule of thumb. Field hockey players typically use face masks during penalty corners; these should be lightweight and not restrict breathing or vision.
Field hockey shin guards are essential for blocking low drives and stick checks. Choose guards that cover from two inches below the knee to just above the ankle, providing full coverage while allowing ankle mobility. Some players prefer extended guards with ankle flaps for extra protection; others like slim-fit guards for agility. For lacrosse, defenders and midfielders often use long socks and compression sleeves over shin guards when needed.
Mouthguards are inexpensive insurance. A fitted mouthguard reduces concussion risk by absorbing jaw impacts and protects teeth. For goalies and high-contact positions, throat guards or caged masks can prevent serious neck injuries. Opt for boil-and-bite mouthguards for a customized fit, or get a dentist-molded one if you want premium comfort and protection.
Gloves protect against slashes, checks, and hard ball contact while allowing grip and stick feel. Lacrosse gloves vary by position: attackers normally wear low-profile gloves for dexterity, while defenders choose heavier padding. Field hockey gloves are becoming more common, especially for midfielders who face repeated stick contact. Make sure you can flex your fingers and maintain a secure stick grip—if your gloves feel bulky, try the next size down or a different model.
Shoulder pads in lacrosse help disperse impact and protect the collarbone and upper ribs. Goalies use a bulkier chest protector tailored to their movement patterns in the crease. For field hockey, rib protectors and padded vests can be helpful for players who frequently use their torso to block shots. Comfort matters: too much bulk chokes range of motion, too little leaves you exposed.
Goalies carry the heaviest load: helmets with throat guards, chest protectors, oversized gloves, reinforced leg pads, and special cleats. Buying good goalie gear is like investing in a suit of armor—fit and protection should be prioritized over style. Check that leg pad width lets you move laterally and that chest protectors don’t push your shoulders forward, which can hinder reaction time.
Shopping for protective gear is about balancing selection, price, and expertise. Below are trusted US retailers that cater to lacrosse and field hockey players, from youth teams to elite club athletes.
Dick’s is a go-to for teams and individuals looking for a wide selection at accessible prices. You’ll find helmet models from industry names, a variety of shin guards, and seasonal sales that shave dollars off youth bundles. The advantage? Physical stores let you try on helmets and pads in person, and online reviews help narrow options if you shop from home.
Lacrosse Unlimited is a specialty shop focused on lacrosse gear. Their catalog spans beginner helmets to pro-level shoulder pads, and they often stock niche brands and colorways you won’t find in big-box stores. Their staff tends to be knowledgeable about sizing and product differences, which is a plus if you want a more tailored purchase experience.
Lacrosse Monkey is another specialty retailer with a solid reputation for selection and customer service. They run frequent sales and bundle deals, especially around the spring season, making them a good place to save on comprehensive setups. Their online fit guides and video reviews help you pick the right gear without stepping into a store.
Scheels blends big-box inventory with specialty service. Many locations include interactive displays and trained staff who can help you demo helmets and gloves. Scheels’ selection tends to skew toward higher-end models alongside reliable mid-range options, making it a one-stop shop for families with players at different skill levels.
Academy is a solid value destination for beginner and youth players. They stock entry-level helmets, affordable shin guards, and basic goalie accessories. If you’re outfitting a team on a tight budget, Academy’s seasonal promotions and multi-item discounts can be a game changer.
Amazon gives you unmatched convenience and a massive catalog, from brand-name helmets to lesser-known protective items. Customer reviews and Q&A sections can be helpful, but be careful: sizing can vary and counterfeit products occasionally slip through. Stick with vetted sellers and check return policies before ordering.
For budget-conscious players and parents, Play It Again Sports is a unique option. You’ll find gently used or refurbished gear at steep discounts. This is especially useful for fast-growing youth players who need temporary upgrades between seasons. Always inspect used helmets and pads for damage or worn padding before buying.
HockeyMonkey and LacrosseWarehouse often carry crossover gear for lacrosse and field hockey players, particularly goalie equipment and protective accessories. These specialty shops can offer deeper inventories for goalies and protective-specific items like throat guards, neck rolls, and reinforced helmets.
Buying protective gear that actually protects hinges on fit. Here are practical, imperial-based measurements and quick-fit checks you can do at home or in-store.
Measure head circumference in inches, about one inch above the eyebrows. Most helmets list size ranges; for example, small might be 20–21 inches, medium 21–22 inches, large 22–23 inches. When the helmet is on, it should sit three-quarters of an inch above your eyebrows and feel snug without pinching. Shake your head gently: the helmet shouldn’t shift more than an inch.
Shin guard length is typically measured in inches from the top of the guard to the bottom. For field hockey, choose guards that cover from about two inches below the knee to an inch above the ankle. Youth players under 4 feet 6 inches often use short guards around 8–10 inches long, while taller players need 12–16 inch guards depending on position and preference.
Shoulder pads should cover the collarbone and sit flush with your jersey without riding up when you raise your arms. Chest protectors are sized by torso circumference; measure around the widest part of your chest in inches to match sizing charts. Goalies need a slightly larger fit for mobility—aim for a balance of coverage and flexibility.
Not all pieces of gear carry equal importance. Invest in helmets, mouthguards, and goalie chest protection; these items face the most severe impacts. You can save on gloves, shin guards, and secondary padding when shopping for youth or recreational play. Premium buys matter more when reaction time and comfort translate to performance at higher competitive levels.
When buying protective gear online, read product reviews for fit clues, watch video demos, and check sizing charts carefully—measure in inches. Look for retailers that allow easy returns or exchanges in case the helmet or pads don’t fit. Check product standards like NOCSAE for helmets; these certifications matter more than flashy marketing copy.
Nothing beats trying gear on. Bring a jersey or long-sleeve shirt to mimic how pads will sit during play. Test helmet rotation and gap, flex your arms with shoulder pads, and squat in shin guards to ensure comfort. Ask staff to simulate movements you make on the field—good retailers will help you mimic game conditions.
Treat gear like a teammate: clean it and store it right. Wipe inside helmets and gloves with a mild disinfectant, let pads air dry after practices, and avoid leaving gear in a hot trunk. Replace foam padding or cracked shells immediately. For youth players, expect to upgrade helmets or larger pads every 12–36 months depending on growth and wear.
If you’re outfitting a team, consider bulk orders from retailers like Dick’s, Lacrosse Unlimited, or specialized shops that offer team discounts. Custom colors, logo printing, and number embroidery can create a cohesive look, but allow extra lead time—custom items can take weeks to produce, so plan ahead of the season.
Don’t buy gear based on looks alone. Avoid helmets or pads that are too loose hoping you’ll “break them in.” Never use cracked helmets or compressible foam that has lost bounce—those can fail when you need them most. And for youth players, don’t let growth spurts push you into oversized gear; ill-fitting protection is almost as bad as no protection.
Late winter and early spring are prime times for lacrosse and field hockey sales, but you can find offseason discounts in summer and fall as well. Major retailers run Black Friday and clearance events where last season’s models go for a fraction of retail. If you’re buying for a fast-growing kid, weigh the savings against how soon you’ll need the next size up.
Before you click “buy” or head to the checkout lane, run through this checklist: measure head and torso in inches, confirm standards like NOCSAE, read reviews for the specific model and size, verify return/exchange policies, and prioritize helmets and mouthguards if you must pick one item to upgrade first.
Choosing protective gear is more than a purchase—it’s a decision that keeps you and your teammates safe. With the right information and reliable retailers, you can find gear that fits, protects, and helps you play at your best.
Now that you’ve got the rundown on what to buy and where to shop, go try on a helmet, measure your shin, and get back out on the field. Safety doesn’t have to feel heavy; with proper fit and care it becomes second nature, like a glove that just fits right.
Conclusion: Buying the right protective gear is smart, not scary. Armed with the right measurements, a list of trusted US retailers, and a practical sense of where to invest, you’ll be ready for game day with confidence and comfort.
| Field Hockey & Lacrosse Protective Gear | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Warrior Sports Adrenaline Shoulder Pad 7 Small | $ 19,99 |
