USA Lacrosse lists a mouthguard as required equipment for both girls' and boys' lacrosse, but fit and tether details vary by product. Compare the exact size range, braces guidance and manufacturer fitting instructions for the model you choose. Do not transfer heating steps from one mouthguard to another.
Start with the rule requirement, then compare the exact product’s size range, tether and braces guidance. Fitting steps differ across mouthguard models, so use the instructions published for the guard in hand. If the player wears braces, check the manufacturer’s specific guidance before choosing.
Compare model details
| Decision | What the manufacturer publishes |
|---|---|
| Size and tether | Shock Doctor Gel Max Power is listed in Youth and Adult sizes and has a convertible tether. SISU Tether is a tethered model with instructions for attaching it to a helmet cage. |
| Fitting method | Shock Doctor’s Gel Max Power instructions specify a rolling-boil step, followed by a rest period before immersing the guard. SISU Tether instructions call for hot, not boiling, water at about 170°F / 76°C. |
| Fit check | Shock Doctor says to test Gel Max Power’s fit and repeat its steps if inaccurate. SISU says its fitted guard should stay on the teeth without using fingers to hold it in place. |
| Braces | Shock Doctor says Gel Max Power is not for use with braces. SISU’s separate braces guide says its mouthguards must be fitted by a dental professional; check eligible models and current instructions. |
These are model-specific examples, not interchangeable fitting recipes. Read the complete instructions and sizing details from the manufacturer before molding or remolding a mouthguard. If the player wears braces, do not assume a standard model is appropriate: the Shock Doctor page excludes braces for this model, while SISU provides separate braces guidance.
Check rule and helmet setup
USA Lacrosse includes a mouthguard in its required-equipment list for both girls’ and boys’ lacrosse. Some products include a tether or can be used tethered or strapless, but the equipment list itself does not prescribe one configuration. Check the player’s current rules and the exact helmet and guard combination.
The youth equipment checklist covers the rest of the starter kit. For helmet fit and certification, see the lacrosse helmet guide and the gloves and pads guide. Browse protective gear.
Sources
Checked November 5, 2026.
- USA Lacrosse equipment guide
- Shock Doctor Gel Max Power product page
- Shock Doctor Gel Max Power fitting instructions
- SISU Tether fitting instructions
- SISU fitting with braces
Related
Common questions
Do lacrosse players need a mouthguard?
Yes. USA Lacrosse lists a mouthguard among the required items for both girls' and boys' lacrosse. Check the current rules for your player's age group and competition.
Does a lacrosse mouthguard need a tether?
Product configurations vary: Shock Doctor says Gel Max Power's tether is convertible, while SISU Tether's instructions show attaching its tether to a helmet cage. The USA Lacrosse equipment list requires a mouthguard but does not specify a tether configuration on that page, so check the current rules and exact model.
Can I use Shock Doctor Gel Max Power with braces?
Shock Doctor's product page says Gel Max Power is not for use with braces. SISU's braces guide says its mouthguards must be fitted by a dental professional, so check the exact product and get the maker's instructions.
Do all mouthguards use the same fitting method?
No. Shock Doctor's Gel Max Power instructions use a boiling-water step, while SISU Tether instructions call for hot but not boiling water at about 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Follow the fitting instructions for the exact model.