Ever watch a young lacrosse player on the field, their eyes shining with excitement as they chase down a ground ball or launch a shot? That pure joy often starts with the right equipment, and for a budding lacrosse star, that means the perfect stick. But for parents and young players alike, navigating the world of youth lacrosse sticks can feel like trying to catch a fast-moving ball with your eyes closed.
The sheer variety of shafts, heads, and stringing options can be overwhelming. You want to make sure your child has a stick that’s not only safe and durable but also helps them develop good habits and enjoy the game to its fullest. Without the right stick, a young player might struggle with control, accuracy, or even feel discouraged. This can lead to frustration on the field and a less than ideal introduction to this amazing sport.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down everything you need to know to choose a youth lacrosse stick that’s just right. You’ll learn what makes a stick suitable for different age groups, how to understand the different parts, and what features truly matter for young players. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to pick out a stick that will help your young athlete shine on the field.
Our Top 5 Youth Lacrosse Stick Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Youth Lacrosse Stick Detailed Reviews
1. STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 A/M Boys Complete Stick
Rating: 8.8/10
The STX Stallion 200 A/M Boys Complete Stick in Black is a fantastic choice for young lacrosse players just starting out. It helps beginners learn the basics of the game while still offering some cool features found on more advanced sticks. This stick is designed to make catching and controlling the ball super easy, so boys can focus on improving their skills.
What We Like:
- It’s built to help new players develop important lacrosse skills.
- The head is inspired by the top-level STX Stallion U550, and it comes with soft mesh for easier catching.
- You get a complete stick, including a strong STX 6000 series alloy handle with neat “memory marker” designs.
- It makes catching and handling the ball simple for any beginner.
- This stick follows all the rules for NCAA and NFHS games.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a beginner stick, it might not have all the advanced features that more experienced players need.
- The focus on beginner-friendliness means it might be outgrown as skills advance.
This stick is a great starting point for any young athlete looking to jump into lacrosse. It offers a solid foundation for skill development and makes the game enjoyable right from the start.
2. STX Lacrosse Girls Crux Jr. Complete Stick
Rating: 8.7/10
The STX Lacrosse Girls Crux Jr. Complete Stick in Green is a fantastic starter stick for young lacrosse players. It’s built for girls under seven, making it a perfect introduction to the sport. This stick is inspired by the popular Crux line, so even beginners get high-quality performance.
What We Like:
- It’s designed specifically for young girls, making it easy for them to learn.
- The Lock Pocket Jr. keeps the ball in place without a lot of fuss.
- The shorter handle is just right for small hands, giving good control.
- It’s a great way for kids to start their lacrosse journey and have fun.
- It’s inspired by top-tier STX sticks, so the quality is excellent.
What Could Be Improved:
- The green color might not be everyone’s favorite.
- More color options could make it even more appealing to young players.
This stick is a wonderful tool for young athletes to develop their skills and passion for lacrosse. It offers a solid foundation for fun and growth on the field.
3. STX Lacrosse Stallion 50 Youth Lacrosse Complete Stick
Rating: 8.7/10
The STX Lacrosse Stallion 50 Youth Lacrosse Complete Stick, Platinum/White, 39″ is a fantastic starter stick for young lacrosse players. It’s designed to make learning the game easier and more fun. This stick takes inspiration from the popular Stallion 550 head but is made with softer material. This makes it more forgiving when catching the ball, which is a huge plus for beginners. The shorter and thinner handle is perfect for smaller hands, making it much easier to grip and control. It’s a complete stick, so it’s ready to go right out of the box!
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What We Like:
- The head is made with softer material, which helps players catch the ball more easily.
- It has a shorter and thinner handle, making it simple for young players to hold and control.
- The soft mesh stringing also contributes to easier catching and better ball control.
- This stick is specifically designed to help beginners learn the right way to play lacrosse.
- It’s a complete stick, so you get everything you need to start playing right away.
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What Could Be Improved:
- This stick is not suitable for older or more experienced players, like those in college or high school.
Overall, the STX Stallion 50 is an excellent choice for any young athlete just starting out in lacrosse. It offers a forgiving and easy-to-handle experience that builds confidence and fundamental skills.
4. CHAMPRO LRX7 Youth Lacrosse Stick
Rating: 9.0/10
The CHAMPRO LRX7 Youth Lacrosse Stick is built to help young players start their lacrosse journey and grow into skilled athletes. It’s designed with beginners in mind, offering features that make learning the game easier and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- The molded nylon head gives a better feel for catching and throwing than many other beginner sticks.
- It has soft mesh that helps young players get ready for tougher mesh used at higher levels.
- The shorter 24.5-inch length and thinner shaft are perfect for smaller hands and bodies.
- The aluminum shaft is strong and looks good with its shiny finish and white designs.
- This stick helps players develop their skills from the start.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for beginners, more advanced players might want a stick with a stiffer mesh as they improve.
- The glossy finish, while attractive, could potentially show scratches more easily with rough play.
This CHAMPRO LRX7 stick is an excellent starting point for any young lacrosse player. It provides the right tools to build confidence and master the fundamentals of the game.
5. Franklin Sports Future Champs 2 Player Youth Lacrosse Sticks + Ball Set – Kids 32″ Inch Beginner Backyard Practice Lax Sticks + Lightweight Soft Lacrosse Ball – Toy Kids Lax Set – Green and White
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for some backyard fun with the Franklin Sports Future Champs 2 Player Youth Lacrosse Sticks + Ball Set! This set is designed to introduce young athletes to the exciting world of lacrosse. It includes everything kids need to start playing, making it a fantastic “my first” lacrosse experience.
What We Like:
- The 32-inch sticks are perfectly sized for smaller hands, making them easy to handle and control.
- The lightweight ABS construction and thinner shafts help kids learn proper stick handling techniques.
- The deep pocket on the lacrosse head makes catching and throwing the ball much simpler for beginners.
- Bright, colorful graphic wraps add a fun and engaging element to the sticks.
- It’s an ideal set for backyard play and teaching the basic skills of lacrosse.
- The set comes with two sticks and a soft practice ball, so two kids can play right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for beginners, these sticks might be too light for more advanced play or older children.
- The soft ball is safe for backyard use, but it won’t replicate the feel of a real lacrosse ball for serious training.
This Franklin Sports set is an excellent starting point for any child interested in lacrosse. It offers a fun and accessible way to learn the fundamentals of the sport.
Choosing the Perfect Youth Lacrosse Stick
Finding the right lacrosse stick for a young player can make a big difference in their enjoyment and skill development. This guide will help you understand what to look for, so you can pick a stick that’s both fun and functional.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a youth lacrosse stick, a few things really stand out.
1. Stick Length
The length of the stick is super important. It needs to be the right size for your child’s height and age. A stick that’s too long or too short will be hard to handle. The general rule is that the stick should come up to your child’s chin or shoulder when held upright. For younger players (ages 5-9), shorter sticks (around 30-35 inches) are best. Older youth players (ages 10-14) might use sticks that are 35-42 inches long.
2. Head Shape and Size
The head is where you catch and throw the ball. Youth heads are usually wider and shallower than adult heads. This makes it easier for beginners to catch and cradle the ball. Some heads have a scoop that helps you pick up ground balls easily.
3. Pocket Depth and Stringing
The pocket is the mesh part of the head that holds the ball. For young players, a shallower pocket is better. It helps the ball release quickly and accurately. Some sticks come with pre-strung pockets, while others allow for custom stringing. For beginners, a good quality pre-strung pocket is usually fine.
4. Weight
A lighter stick is easier for young players to control. They can swing it faster, throw it further, and catch more easily. Most youth sticks are made from lightweight materials.
Important Materials
The materials used in a lacrosse stick affect its durability and performance.
1. Shaft Materials
The shaft is the long part of the stick. Most youth shafts are made from aluminum or composite materials.
* Aluminum: These shafts are durable and affordable. They can be a bit heavier than composite.
* Composite: These shafts are lighter and can offer more flex, which can help with passing and shooting. They are often a bit more expensive.
2. Head Materials
The head is typically made from a strong plastic, like nylon or a special composite blend. These materials need to be tough enough to withstand impacts from sticks and balls.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a stick great, while others can make it less ideal.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Good Balance: A well-balanced stick feels natural in your hands. It doesn’t feel too heavy in the head or the shaft.
- Durable Construction: The stick should feel solid and not flimsy. Good quality sticks can handle rough play.
- Ergonomic Grip: A comfortable grip on the shaft helps players hold the stick securely.
- Easy Ball Release: A well-designed head and pocket make it easy to throw the ball accurately.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Poor Balance: A stick that’s unbalanced is hard to control.
- Cheap Materials: Sticks made with very low-quality plastic or metal can break easily.
- Difficult Ball Control: A head that’s too deep or a pocket that’s too loose can make catching and throwing frustrating.
- Heavy Weight: A stick that’s too heavy will tire out young players quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
A youth lacrosse stick is designed for beginners and developing players.
For Beginners
These sticks are made to make learning easy. The wider heads and shallower pockets help new players catch and cradle the ball. The lighter weight means they can practice without getting tired too fast.
For Developing Players
As players get better, they can still use youth sticks. Some advanced youth sticks offer features that mimic adult sticks, helping them prepare for the next level. These sticks are great for practice sessions, casual games, and team practices. They are built to be forgiving and help build fundamental skills.
Youth Lacrosse Stick FAQ
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when buying a youth lacrosse stick?
A: The most important thing is the stick’s length. It needs to be the right size for your child’s height and age to ensure they can handle it properly.
Q: How do I know if the stick is the right length?
A: When your child holds the stick upright, the top of the head should reach somewhere between their chin and their shoulder.
Q: Are youth lacrosse sticks different from adult sticks?
A: Yes, youth sticks are typically shorter, lighter, and have wider, shallower heads to make them easier for beginners to use.
Q: What is a lacrosse pocket?
A: The pocket is the mesh part of the head that holds the ball. For youth players, a shallower pocket is usually better for easy ball release.
Q: Should I buy a pre-strung stick or one that I can string myself?
A: For most young players, a good quality pre-strung stick is perfectly fine. Custom stringing is usually for more advanced players.
Q: What are the common materials for the shaft of a youth lacrosse stick?
A: The most common materials are aluminum and composite. Aluminum is durable and affordable, while composite is lighter and can offer more flex.
Q: How does the head shape affect play?
A: A wider head makes it easier to catch the ball, and a shallower pocket helps the ball come out quickly and accurately.
Q: Can a younger child use a stick that’s a little too long?
A: It’s not recommended. A stick that’s too long is difficult to control, which can make learning frustrating and potentially lead to bad habits.
Q: What does “balance” mean for a lacrosse stick?
A: Balance refers to how the weight is distributed along the stick. A well-balanced stick feels comfortable and easy to maneuver, not heavy in one spot.
Q: How often do youth lacrosse sticks need to be replaced?
A: Youth sticks are generally quite durable. They usually need replacing when the player outgrows them in length or when the stick becomes damaged from use.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.