Boys' and men's field players need a certified helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, arm protection and a mouthguard. Attackmen take the most checks, so they wear larger arm guards and more padded gloves; midfielders choose lighter, flexible pads; defensemen often wear slim pads because they give more checks than they take. Shoulder pads and chest protectors must meet the current NOCSAE ND200 standard where the rules require it.
What you wear depends on your position: who takes checks, who gives them, and how much you handle the ball.
Gear by position
| Position | Gloves | Arm protection | Shoulder and chest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attack | Padded, flexible | Larger arm guards | Lighter shoulder pads |
| Midfield | Balanced | Medium elbow pads | Shoulder pads with chest coverage |
| Defense | Durable, mobile | Slim elbow pads | Slim shoulder pads |
| Goalie | Goalie gloves with thumb protection | Optional arm pads | Goalie chest protector |
Gloves
Gloves protect the hands and wrists from checks. Look for a snug fit with full finger flex. Attack gloves usually have more padding on the back of the hand; defense gloves prioritize durability.
Shoulder pads and chest protection
Chest protection that meets NOCSAE ND200 is required for goalies at every level that follows USA Lacrosse, NFHS and NCAA rules, and the rules for field players’ shoulder pads have also moved to that standard. Check your league’s current equipment rule before you buy.
Mouthguards and cups
A mouthguard is required in lacrosse at every level. Many players also wear an athletic cup, and goalies should always wear one.
Related
Common questions
What size lacrosse gloves do I need?
Measure from the tip of the middle finger to the wrist crease and use the maker's chart. Gloves should leave about a quarter inch past the fingertips.
Do defensemen need arm pads?
Many leagues require arm protection for all field players, so check your rules. Defensemen usually choose slim pads for mobility.
What is NOCSAE ND200?
It is the NOCSAE standard for lacrosse chest protectors, designed to reduce the risk of commotio cordis from ball impact. Rules at many levels now require it.