Which lacrosse balls are best?
Lacrosse is growing rapidly in popularity. It is now the fastest growing sport among college and high school athletes in the United States and is played from coast to coast. There are even two professional leagues now established for rising stars.
In addition to a stick, helmet and other protective gear, a lacrosse ball is a critical part of the game. Game balls must meet high standards for size, weight and color. Training balls have a wide variety based on whether you want to get stronger or be protected from ricochets. For overall durability in both game and practice situations, the Crown Sporting Goods Regulation Size Lacrosse Balls are the top-recommended lacrosse balls.
What to know before you buy a lacrosse ball
Are you using lacrosse balls for an organized game?
There are a lot of different lacrosse balls on the market. While most of them are the same size and weight, you will need one that is certified as being within the standards set for game play. Lacrosse balls should be 7.75 to 8 inches in circumference and weigh between 5 to 5.25 ounces.
Are you using certified lacrosse balls?
The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment is the gold standard certification. Look for balls with their certification to ensure that you have regulation size and weight balls in play.
Some lacrosse balls also have stamps of approval from the National Collegiate Athletic Association and the National Federation of State High School Associations for collegiate and high school play. However, NOCSAE remains the most important certification for game play.
Are you using lacrosse balls for practice only?
In addition to regulation game balls, there also is a wide array of lacrosse practice balls. These practice balls come in two styles. There are weighted balls to help improve overall strength and coordination. There are also soft practice balls that allow you to practice without concern for injury if you are hit by one.
What to look for in a quality lacrosse ball
Material
Most lacrosse balls are made from solid rubber for extra durability. However, this material can release an oily residue over time that causes the ball to be slippery. Some balls are made with a polyurethane component to prevent this.
Color
There is an almost endless array of colors and designs to choose from with lacrosse balls. Some coaches and trainers use different color balls for different drills and emphases. For other players, it is simply a matter of personal preference. Make sure you know your regulating body’s rules for the color of the game ball permitted.
Easy to clean
To prolong the life of a lacrosse ball, you should clean it after every two or three uses. Most lacrosse balls can be washed on the top rack of a dishwasher, or you can soak them in soapy water for 20 to 40 minutes and then rinse with cool water. Always let lacrosse balls air dry.
How much you can expect to spend on a lacrosse ball
Lacrosse balls cost $3-$6, but larger multi-packs can cost as little as $1.25-$3 per ball. Training lacrosse balls that are padded or weighted will be priced higher at around $5-$15.
Lacrosse ball FAQ
Does NOCSAE certification matter for lacrosse balls?
A. Since lacrosse can be more dangerous than many people realize, having the right size and weight of a lacrosse ball is critical. Lacrosse balls that do not meet these high standards can cause injury or damage to game equipment.
Is the same size ball used for both women’s and men’s lacrosse?
A. Yes, the lacrosse ball is the same size for games in women’s and men’s leagues. The main difference between women’s and men’s play is that body checks are allowed in men’s lacrosse, so men tend to wear more protective gear because of this extra physical contact.
What’s the best lacrosse ball to buy?
Top lacrosse ball
Crown Sporting Goods Lacrosse Balls
What you need to know: These standard size lacrosse balls are perfect for game play and practice.
What you’ll love: Hard vulcanized rubber is durable and ideal for outdoor game and practice sessions. The set of six balls are regulation 2.5 inches and solid white. A mesh bag is included for easy toting and storage.
What you should consider: Some players will prefer colored lacrosse balls instead of the white ones in this set.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top lacrosse ball for the money
What you need to know: These versatile lacrosse balls come in a wide variety of colors and can be used for competitive play as well as training sessions.
What you’ll love: The balls are approved by both the NCAA and NFHS. Made from molded rubber, they stand up to tournament and practice play. They come in a wide variety of colors and multi-packs from 6 to 120 balls.
What you should consider: Dog owners have reported that these lacrosse balls attract dogs as potential toys but are easily chewed apart.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
SWAX LAX Lacrosse Training Ball
What you need to know: This set of 12 practice lacrosse balls are the same size and weight as regulation balls but softer for safer practice sessions.
What you’ll love: You won’t have to chase balls in practice sessions since these practice balls bounce less. They are ideal for indoor play, gentle on hardwood gym floors and won’t bounce off walls. The balls are water-resistant and come in many bright colors.
What you should consider: For some people, 12 practice balls are too many, but they are very affordable and having a few extra practice balls can be helpful.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Steve Ganger writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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