Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Lacrosse Ball Specifications: Learn about the different types of lacrosse balls and their specific uses.
- Top Lacrosse Ball Brands: Discover the leading brands that produce high-quality lacrosse balls.
- Maintenance Tips: Get practical advice on how to maintain your lacrosse balls for longevity.
Introduction to Lacrosse Balls
Lacrosse, a sport with deep roots in Native American culture, has grown exponentially in popularity. Central to the game is the lacrosse ball, a small but mighty piece of equipment. Understanding the nuances of lacrosse balls can significantly impact your game performance. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, knowing what to look for in a lacrosse ball is crucial.
Lacrosse balls come in various types, each designed for specific purposes. From practice balls to game balls, the material, texture, and weight can vary. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best lacrosse balls, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Types of Lacrosse Balls
Lacrosse balls are not one-size-fits-all. There are different types designed for various aspects of the game. The most common types include practice balls, game balls, and training balls. Practice balls are typically softer and more forgiving, making them ideal for beginners. Game balls, on the other hand, are made to meet official standards and are used in competitive play.
Training balls often come with unique features like added weight or specific textures to help players improve their skills. For instance, weighted balls can help enhance shooting strength, while textured balls can improve grip and control. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right ball for your needs.
Official Specifications
When it comes to official play, lacrosse balls must meet specific standards set by governing bodies like the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). These standards ensure that the balls are safe and perform consistently. Official lacrosse balls must have a diameter of 62.7 to 64.7 mm and weigh between 140 to 147 grams.
The material is also crucial. Most official balls are made of solid rubber, which provides the necessary bounce and durability. The color can vary, but white and yellow are the most common for visibility. Knowing these specifications can help you ensure that you're using the right ball for official games.
Top Lacrosse Ball Brands
Several brands stand out when it comes to producing high-quality lacrosse balls. Champion Sports, for example, is renowned for its durable and reliable balls that meet official standards. Another top brand is STX, known for its innovative designs and high-performance balls.
Other notable brands include Warrior and Brine, both of which offer a range of lacrosse balls suitable for different levels of play. These brands have built a reputation for quality and consistency, making them popular choices among players and coaches alike.
Best Lacrosse Balls for Practice
When it comes to practice, having the right ball can make a significant difference. Practice balls are generally softer and more forgiving, which helps beginners get a feel for the game without the risk of injury. One popular option is the Swax Lax Training Ball, which is softer than a standard ball but still mimics the weight and feel of a game ball.
Another excellent choice is the Velocity Practice Lacrosse Ball, known for its durability and consistent performance. These balls are designed to withstand the rigors of practice sessions, ensuring you get the most out of your training.
Best Lacrosse Balls for Games
For competitive play, using an official game ball is essential. The Champion Sports Official Lacrosse Ball is a top choice, meeting all NOCSAE standards and providing excellent performance. These balls are made of high-quality rubber, ensuring durability and consistent bounce.
Another great option is the STX Official Lacrosse Ball, which is also NOCSAE-approved and offers superior grip and control. These balls are designed to perform well under various conditions, making them ideal for competitive play.
Specialty Lacrosse Balls
Specialty lacrosse balls are designed for specific training purposes. Weighted balls, for example, are excellent for improving shooting strength and accuracy. The Brine Weight Training Lacrosse Ball is a popular choice, offering added weight to help players build muscle memory and strength.
Textured balls, like the Maverik Training Ball, are designed to improve grip and control. These balls have a unique texture that mimics the feel of a game ball, helping players develop better handling skills. Specialty balls can be a valuable addition to any training regimen.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your lacrosse balls can extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance. One simple tip is to store them in a cool, dry place to prevent the rubber from deteriorating. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can cause the material to break down.
Regularly cleaning your lacrosse balls can also help maintain their grip and performance. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean off dirt and debris, and dry them thoroughly before storing. These simple steps can help keep your lacrosse balls in top condition.
Buying Guide
When purchasing lacrosse balls, there are several factors to consider. First, determine the type of ball you need—practice, game, or specialty. Next, consider the brand and its reputation for quality and consistency. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also help you make an informed decision.
Price is another important factor. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in high-quality balls can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Look for balls that meet official standards and offer good durability and performance.
5 of the Best Lacrosse Balls Available on Amazon
We hope you find your next awesome thing from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. Oh, and FYI — AnnesAnalytics may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding your next awesome thing.
Why We Love This
Every ball is of official size and weight, meeting NOCSAE standards. It is NCAA and NFHS approved and SEI certified, ensuring improved shooting accuracy and handling during practice and gameplay.
Multi-Count Packs Available
Choose from a variety of pack sizes: 1, 2, 3, 6, or 12 count sets. Perfect for outfitting players in youth gym classes, summer camps, collegiate teams, or for completing training regimens to enhance skills.
Variety of Colors
Our lacrosse balls come in a uniquely colorful variety, making them suitable for men, women, boys, girls, and children. Enjoy a fun and vibrant game on both indoor courts and outdoor fields.
Versatile Usage
These balls are versatile and can be used across many platforms to support health and quality of life. Ideal for cross-training, massage targeting of backs, juggling, or even as a dog toy.
Encouraging Review
"These were great for a first-time lacrosse player. They were the right weight to let my son practice his new skills at home."
Why We Love This
- Meets All New Specifications: STX Lacrosse balls are designed to comply with the latest standards.
- Official Approvals: Approved for use by the NFHS, NCAA, and NOCSAE, ensuring they are suitable for high school, college, and professional play.
- Versatile for All Ages and Levels: Ideal for players of all ages and skill levels.
- Game Ready: Perfect for both official games and practice sessions.
- Multi-Surface Use: Suitable for skills training on any surface.
- Official Supplier: STX is the official ball supplier for the NCAA Lacrosse Championships.
- Convenient Packaging: Comes in a polybag containing 6 lime official lacrosse balls.
Why Choose STX Lacrosse Balls?
STX Lacrosse balls are engineered to meet the highest standards, making them the preferred choice for athletes and coaches. Whether you're preparing for a championship or honing your skills, these balls provide the reliability and performance you need.
Purchase Your STX Lacrosse Balls Today
Ensure you're equipped with the best. Order your STX Lacrosse balls now and experience the quality trusted by top players and institutions.
Encouraging Review
"Best quality lax balls. Arrived very quickly. Easy to find in the yard. My dogs leave the balls alone and my lawnmower doesn’t cut them up." Amazon Review by DC
Velocity Lacrosse Balls - 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 60 and 120 Packs
Official NFHS and College Approved Size
Why We Love This
Velocity lacrosse balls are crafted with molded rubber construction, making them ideal for training, tournaments, and competitive gameplay. These high-quality lacrosse balls ensure top-notch performance every time you step onto the field or box.
Great for School Sports & Professional Use
Approved by the NCAA/NFHS and meeting NOCASE standards, Velocity lacrosse balls are certified to enhance shooting accuracy and handling during both gameplay and practice. They are perfect for players of all skill levels.
Durable & Easy to Use
Constructed from 100% solid rubber, these lacrosse balls are of official size and weight, making them perfect for lacrosse play. The premium rubber material ensures durability, making them suitable for everything from training sessions to tournaments.
Massage Therapy Benefits
Lacrosse balls are versatile tools that can improve your health and quality of life. They are excellent for foot massages, physical therapy, back pain relief, sore muscle relief, myofascial trigger points, and various other massage therapy procedures.
Variety of Options
Choose from multiple colors and quantities! Whether you need a single color, a variety pack, a 6-pack, or a 120-ball case, Velocity lacrosse balls have you covered.
Encouraging Review
"Original package sent had broken in transit and some of the ball were lost (FedEx). I was sent replacements immediately. My son plays lacrosse and these balls are good quality and reasonably priced." Amazon Review by SC
Franklin Sports Lacrosse Balls - Soft Rubber Lacrosse Balls for Kids
Perfect for Beginners & First Time Players - Softer & Smaller Construction than Regulation Balls - Bright Colors
Why We Love This
The Franklin Future Champs Kids Lacrosse Ball 6 Pack is the ideal starter set for young athletes eager to learn the sport of lacrosse. This set is specifically designed to help children get involved in lacrosse for the first time.
Soft Construction for Safe Learning
Featuring a soft rubber construction, these lacrosse balls are less hard and less heavy than regulation lacrosse balls. This design allows kids to master the fundamentals of throwing and catching without the risk of injury, making it easier for them to transition to more advanced equipment later on.
Youth-Sized for Easy Handling
These lacrosse balls have a 7" circumference, which is slightly smaller than regulation lacrosse balls. This size makes throwing, catching, and handling much easier for young players, ensuring they can develop their skills effectively.
Perfect for First-Time Players
The Franklin Future Champs lacrosse ball set is perfectly designed for first-time players and is ideal for recreational and backyard play. It is the ultimate "my first" lacrosse ball set, providing a fun and safe way for kids to get started in the sport.
Set Includes
- 6 vibrant color lacrosse balls
- 1 reusable drawstring mesh bag
This set offers everything your child needs to begin their lacrosse journey. Get your little athletes started with the Franklin Future Champs Kids Lacrosse Ball 6 Pack today!
Encouraging Review
"I bought these for my daughter who is 8 and playing her first year of lacrosse. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I have never touched a lacrosse ball. To my surprise these balls are super soft, will not injure you if ylu miss catching it, and are extra bright so you can easily find them in the grass. So far they’ve been of great quality!" Amazon Review by Ashley
Why We Love This
Our lacrosse balls are SEI certified to meet NOCSAE standards, ensuring they comply with NFHS, NCAA, and NOCSAE specifications. This certification guarantees a safer ball for all levels of play.
Premium Molded Rubber for Durability
Each lacrosse ball is crafted from premium molded rubber, making them perfect for various types of play, from intense tournaments to everyday training sessions.
Official IHSA Championship Lacrosse Ball
From 2017 to 2020, CHAMPRO lacrosse balls have been the official ball of the IHSA Championship series, a testament to their quality and reliability.
Available in Convenient Packs
Our lacrosse balls are available in multiple pack sizes to suit your needs. Choose from a 3-pack, 6-pack, or 12-pack to ensure you always have enough balls for practice and games.
Official Colors for All Leagues
Our lacrosse balls come in official colors, including white, yellow, orange, and lime green, meeting all league standards and ensuring high visibility on the field.
Encouraging Review
"But there was something... hard to describe, just better about these balls. I can't put my finger on it, and if I did, my finger would feel cool, and like it was touching rubber, and sheer excellence. in short, you can't go wrong with these balls." Amazon Review by Adeep Reader
Summary
Lacrosse balls are a crucial part of the game, and choosing the right ones can make a significant difference in your performance. From understanding the different types of balls to knowing the top brands and how to maintain them, this guide provides all the information you need. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, having the right lacrosse balls can enhance your game and help you reach your full potential.
FAQ
1. What are the official specifications for lacrosse balls?
Official lacrosse balls must have a diameter of 62.7 to 64.7 mm and weigh between 140 to 147 grams. They are typically made of solid rubber and come in colors like white and yellow for visibility.
2. How do I maintain my lacrosse balls?
Store your lacrosse balls in a cool, dry place to prevent the rubber from deteriorating. Clean them regularly with a mild soap and water solution, and dry them thoroughly before storing.
3. What are the best brands for lacrosse balls?
Some of the top brands for lacrosse balls include Champion Sports, STX, Warrior, and Brine. These brands are known for their high-quality, durable balls that meet official standards.