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Lacrosse gloves are one of the most important pieces of equipment you wear on the field.
Aside from adding to your style, gloves connect you to your stick and protect the part of your body that is checked the most. They also are a major factor in how well you can feel the stick which has a large impact on how well you perform.
This guide will break down the best lacrosse gloves available today and give you some tips on how to find the perfect pair for you.
Best Lacrosse Gloves
As stated in the intro, there are multiple things to look out for when deciding how good a glove it, such as protection, mobility, and feel.
Like all lacrosse equipment, we researched the lacrosse glove market to find the options that best balance these factors by weighing consumer reviews, manufacturing specs, cost, brand precedent, and more.
Note: If you are looking specifically for goalie gloves, check out our guide to the best goalie lacrosse gloves.
24 Best Lacrosse Gloves:
- Warrior Evo V Lacrosse Gloves
- Maverik Shift Lacrosse Gloves
- Nike Vapor Elite Lacrosse Gloves
- Maverik M6 Lacrosse Gloves
- Warrior Burn Lacrosse Gloves
- Nike Vapor LT Lacrosse Gloves
- STX LZR Lacrosse Gloves
- Under Armour Command Pro 3 Lacrosse Gloves
- STX Cell VI Lacrosse Gloves
- Epoch Integra Select II Lacrosse Gloves
- STX Surgeon RZR2 Glove
- Maverik M5 Glove
- Warrior Evo QX2 Glove
- Maverik Max Glove
- Epoch Integra Elite Glove
- Epoch Integra Select Gloves
- Maverik Shift Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
- Nike Prime Elite Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
- STX Cell VI Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
- Maverik M6 Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
- STX Surgeon RZR2 Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
- Maverik MX Glove
- Epoch iD JR Glove
- Warrior Burn Next Jr Glove
1) Warrior Evo V Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Elite players | Finger mobility |
| Key Features | Premium AX Suede Palm | IMPAX LT foam durometer for impact absorption | Truvent system to avoid heat build-up in summer |
| Colors | Black | Gray | White |
Evo V is Warriors’ newest glove, featuring 2024’s most advanced technology. It is extremely flexible and doesn’t need any break-ins. Although it felt extremely snug around the palm, the Ax-pseudo palm offered an amazing grip.
Besides, I have used its predecessor with 7 finger breaks, and this one offers even better mobility with 9 sections. It allowed me to bend my fingers back and forward without feeling restrictive.
Compared to the Maverik Shift, which has a more linear design down the fingers, the Evo V breaks it up with a diagonal structure. It improves ventilation to avoid hand warming during practice.
Furthermore, the finger vents and Wartech liner help wick away sweat, keeping my hands drier than expected for a snug-fitting glove.
However, the cuff design felt overly thick adding extra weight. Therefore, despite the satisfactory protection, these 7-ounces won’t suit you if you like lighter ones.
Pros
- Stylish geometric design
- Natural hand curvature
- Excellent finger mobility
- No break-in needed
Cons
- Expensive
- Slightly heavy
- The cuff is bulky with limited adjustability
2) Maverik Shift Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Lightweight feel | Breathability |
| Key Features | Speed fit for a snug feel | Maximum finger mobility with Power Flex | Flow cool venting | Removable wrist cuff |
| Colors | Black | Gray | White |
The Maverik Shift is the best lacrosse glove for those who want the flexibility of EVO V but find it heavy and discomforting. It weighs 4.8 ounces and features a Power Flex design with thicker finger breaks extending to the hand’s back.
Moreover, the textured Connekt Palm maintains control even in wet conditions. The Flow-Cool technology keeps hands dry, making it comfortable for long play sessions. While the fully open cuff design maximizes flexibility, I prefer velcro adjustment.
Although the wrist area lacks protection, I like these gloves’ shock absorption ability. I faced some aggressive checks, and the padding nicely absorbed the impact without feeling too bulky. The fit also remained secure during fast movements, preventing unnecessary shifting.
Pros
- Lightweight and protective
- Highly breathable Flow-Cool technology
- Fully moldable fit for a secure feel
- Durable and weather-resistant materials
Cons
- No wrist strap for added security
- The wrist cuff area lacks some protection
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LaxDrip’s #1 Seller is Battle Lax
3) Nike Vapor Elite Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Attackers | Wrist mobility |
| Key Features | Standard Ax Suede palm | Segmented cuff design | Mesh layered design |
| Colors | Black | White |
Next on my list are the Nike Vapor Elite, the attacker’s favorite lacrosse gloves. I love how secure they feel around the fingers. They give me great stick control when dodging or handling under pressure.
The 4-piece cuff is flexible enough to allow clean wrist movement on quick feeds and shots without feeling loose. Nike kept the padding low-profile but protective. I barely felt slashes on the backhand, and the wrist coverage was reliable when absorbing checks.
Furthermore, the AX Suede palm is soft, which gave me a consistent grip even when my shaft got slick in wet conditions. However, the break-in period was longer than expected, and the ventilation wasn’t as one would expect from Nike.
Read my detailed review of the Nike Vapor Elite lacrosse gloves here.
Pros
- Snug and responsive fit
- Highly protective padding
- Unrestrictive wrist mobility
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- Long break-in period
- Lacks breathability
4) Maverik M6 Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Ventilation | Game-ready feel |
| Key Features | Flow cool venting system | Adjustable cuff design | Connekt palm |
| Colors | Black | White | Gray |
The Maverik M6 gloves offer a comfortable, broken-in feel from the first game. They have a traditional fit that balances protection and mobility. The padding flexes naturally, making it easy to move my hands without feeling restricted, and they absorb checks well.
Similarly, the Connekt palm provides good stick control. However, I would have liked a bit more grip for wet conditions like the Nike Vapor Elite. They were also too tight for my palm, as there is no size 14. Otherwise, they were a good fit for smaller hands.
The backhand has a large, open vent that you can see through. It circulates air and keeps my hands from sweating on hot summer days. The palm also has perforations that prevent sweat from pooling, so the glove stays dry instead of getting clammy mid-game.
Pros
- Ventilated builtGame-ready feel
- Flexible padding
- Great ventilation
- Good impact absorption
Cons
- Limited palm grip
- Slightly uncomfortable fit for larger hands
5) Warrior Burn Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Comfort | Impact absorption |
| Key Features | AX Suede Palm | Bone system padding for extra protection | Durable FlamePro material built |
| Colors | White | Black |
Warrior Burn lacrosse gloves were the most comfortable ones I used last year. They have a very adjustable wrist cuff without Velcro or cords. Although they slightly shift during quick movements, the easy fit allows wrist protection with unrestricted multidirectional mobility.
Moreover, the Bone System padding is surprisingly soft on the inside. My hands stayed relaxed, and I didn’t get the pinched feeling you get with bulky gloves. It also distributes the force of slashes and checks, transferring the minimal impact to my hand.
Besides, the breathable mess on the lateral side of the fingers and palm delivers good airflow without compromising the grip. The gold-standard AX Suede Palm gave me a smooth stick feel and remained scratch-free despite rough use.
Pros
- Ventilated built
- Soft impact-absorbing padding
- Weather resistant
Cons
- Limited finger breaks
- Slight shift on the wrist cuff
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6) Nike Vapor LT Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Beginners | Lightweight feel |
| Key Features | AX Suede Palm | Thin and lightweight padding | Foam layered design for shock absorption |
| Colors | Black |
The Nike Vapor LT gloves are designed to be more affordable and beginner-friendly than the Vapor Elite. These gloves didn’t weigh my hands down, and I liked how lightweight they felt when cradling and passing.
However, the back of the hand padding is thinner than that of the Elite version. Thus, these gloves are not built to handle heavy slashes like high-end gloves. Still, they provide decent impact absorption.
The palm material was also less grippy than the standard AX Suede. Yet, I had tacky stick control even during fast transitions. Although it doesn’t have an adjustable strap, it still felt secure without being restrictive.
Furthermore, the ventilation was better than I expected for an entry-level glove. The small perforations in the palm kept my hands from getting too sweaty. Hence, these are some of the best beginner gloves with ample protection and a weightless build.
If you’re interested in knowing lacrosse glove sizing and how to measure your hand for the right fit, read my detailed guide here.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to break in
- Decent flexibility for an entry-level glove
- Simple, non-restrictive cuff design
Cons
- Thinner padding
7) STX LZR Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Good Protection, Durable |
| Key Features | Numerous finger breaks for skeletal movement, Premium AX Suede Palm for better grip. |
| Colors | White and Black |
I practiced with STX LZR Lacrosse Gloves for two months and found them very durable. The AxSuede palm liner kept me comfortable and sweat-free despite the hot weather.
The double-layer palm fabric protects against wear and tear from repeated contact. I have used RZR2, so I bought a medium size that was true to size. The glove didn’t need continuous adjustment, even during faster hand shifts over the stick. The smooth design makes it easy to grip and pass.
Furthermore, the flexible rounded thumb with padded skeletal cuts adds extra security during checks and loose-ball scrambles. I liked the impact absorption as I didn’t feel any hit.
Besides, it also didn’t feel too bulky and restricted. The back-of-hand design is pure genius with skeleton-like finger breaks. The STX design team created incredibly lightweight and frictionless gloves by removing excess stitching parts. Thus, the glove smoothly moved like a human skeleton!
Moreover, the articulate back-of-hand system and tapered fingers gave me the freedom to move my hands with ample protection. The flared cuffs and suspension padding also offer wrist protection from checks.
Although the wrist cuff was slightly stiff, and I had limited wrist mobility, the gloves loosened up after a few games. The wrist adjustment strap was also helpful in adjusting wrist mobility.
Despite the break-in period, the LZR is one of the best lacrosse gloves for men. It offers excellent protection, flexibility, and comfort during long game hours.
Pros
- Good protection
- Durable palm layer
- Break-in finger design for better flexibility
Cons
- Stiff wrist cuff
- Limited wrist mobility
8) Under Armour Command Pro 3 Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | High Shock Absorption, Flexibility |
| Key Features | Flayed cuff for better wrist mobility, round thumb with PE board for grip, AX® Suede Palm, Dorsal vent for breathability |
| Colors | White, Black, White and Navy Blue, and White and Royal Blue |
I used the Under Armour Command Pro 3 Lacrosse Gloves last summer, and it offers the highest protection from checks. The flared cuffs and suspension padding did an excellent job of keeping my wrists safe during games.
Moreover, the gloves allowed a good range of motion, especially when cradling sticks in traffic. The flexible, rounded thumb with the PE board was particularly helpful when cradling sticks in traffic. It didn’t shift, so I was confident when making sharp cuts and quick direction changes on the field.
Besides, the Command Pro 3 gloves’ padded design offers elite-level protection. The padding on the back of the hand and wrist did a great job of dispersing the impact, and it never felt like I was taking a direct hit. Whereas, the Dorsal vent allowed maximum airflow to keep my hands dry in summer.
However, I noticed that the AX Suede 10W 90 Palm fabric started to wear after a few months of use as I was carrying a rough stick. I could feel the stick’s texture through the glove. It may be because the inside mesh offers good ventilation and sweat absorption.
Thus, If you prefer a well-lined palm, try STX RZR2. Otherwise, the Under Armour Command Pro 3 is one of the best lacrosse gloves for protection and a flexible back-of-the-hand design.
Pros
- Perfect fit
- High shock absorption
- Better wrist mobility
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons
- Palm started to wear out after 6 months
9) STX Cell VI Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Impact and Sweat Absorption |
| Key Features | Expanded design for bigger hands, Dual ventilation for better airflow, Geo Flex II system for better mobility of fingers, Guard Lock strap |
| Colors | White, Black, Navy Blue, Red, and Royal Blue |
The STX Cell VI gloves have been a remarkable upgrade from its predecessor, the Cell V. I loved how flexible they are despite weighing more than the Maverik RZR. Breaking them in also didn’t take as long as the CELL V, which felt stiffer and more resistant in the fingers.
The major difference for me has been the improved flexibility. The updated finger joints allowed me a firm grip and easy cradling at different wrist angles. Whereas the IsoFlex thumb design also helps in consistent grip on the stick.
It also has the GeoFlex II padding that feels like it’s designed for the power player. It offers a flexible shield without compromising mobility and is helpful when dodging defenders and taking checks on the run. STX aimed to balance protection and performance, and they nailed it.
Moreover, Cell VI offers better impact protection than Maverick RZR, especially around the thumb and backhand. The extra padding absorbs the impact, but I’ll admit it adds a bit of bulk.
Still, the dual ventilation system kept my hands cool and dry during intense games. Even on hot days, I didn’t experience the overheating that can happen with bulkier gloves.
My friends also loved the Guard Lock strap to secure the mouthguard off the field. I used to misplace mine constantly, but this small detail has saved me. Hence, despite weighing 6.8 ounces, these gloves offer elite protection and comfort.
Pros
- Impact absorption
- Padded finger joints for better finger mobility
- Sweat absorption technology
- Guard lock strap
Cons
- Bulky design
- Expensive
10) Epoch Integra Select II Lacrosse Gloves
| Best for | Padded Protection, One Piece Palm |
| Key Features | Dual-density foam for stiff padding, carbon fiber thumb, Ax Suede One-Piece Palm, Adjustable Wrist with extended cuff for better mobility |
| Colors | White |
Epoch Integra Select II is also one of the best lacrosse gloves I tried this year. It has Dual-Density Foam Stacks that are firm enough to absorb checks and slashes, especially around the backhand and fingers. Thus, I didn’t have to worry about injury.
Moreover, the carbon fiber-supported thumb also adds an extra layer of protection around the thumb to avoid the “stinger” effect after a good thumb hit. The hard surface of carbon fiber does an excellent job of distributing the force of any impacts. Still, It’s flexible enough to allow a full range of motion.
Besides, the Ax Suede one-piece palm is soft and offers a solid grip on the stick. It’s durable, and I haven’t seen any signs of wear, even after repeated use. However, it does feel slightly warmer during long practices compared to gloves with more ventilation.
The extended cuff offers good protection to the wrist and forearm, but I found it bulkier than other gloves in the same price range. The added coverage helps avoid injuries and allows easy cradling when wearing the gloves for longer periods. Still, my hand movement slowed until I got used to it.
Besides, it’s slightly loose around the wrist area. Although the adjustable strap provided a better fit, it didn’t eliminate the extra space. Thus, if you prefer a tighter, more secure fit around the wrist, try gloves with a more snug fit like STX Cell VI.
Pros
- Padded protection from slashes
- High thumb protection
- Comfortable fit
- One-piece palm for better grip
Cons
- Heavy
- Loose around the wrist
- Slightly warmer
11) STX Surgeon RZR2 Glove
| Best for | Thumb guard | Layered cuff design |
| Features | Ax Suede palm provides great feel, SuperFlex Plus design for mobility and protection, Taper Fit on fingers provides great, tight feel while being breathable |
| Colors | Black | White |
STX comes in hot at #1 with the Surgeon RZR2 glove—the newest addition to our list of the best lacrosse gloves and the updated version of our previous #1 the Surgeon RZR.
The Surgeon RZR2 quite literally breaks the mould by cutting out the traditional bulk of lacrosse gloves in a single, continuous piece design that promotes a lightweight (possibly the lightest glove on the market) and flexible feel.
When it comes to the connection with your stick, the Taper Fit implemented through the fingers provides a snug feel without sacrificing breathablility.
In addition, the Ax Suede palm provides the best feel of any lacrosse glove I’ve tried. While no glove will feel as good as your bare hands, the RZR2 comes very close.
With all this in mind, the Surgeon does not skimp on protectiveness. Reinforcement through the thumb and backhand gives you superior protection from those dreaded slash checks.
The only real downside that I’ve found with the Surgeon RZR2 is the relatively high price—this complete package and cutting-edge tech come at a serious cost, but it is very worth it if you can afford it.
Pros
- Superior comfort
- Lightweight and flexible
- Extremely protective
- Great feel of stick
Cons
- Expensive
- Lack of feedback on longterm durability
12) Maverik M5 Glove
| Best for | Comfort, Ventilation |
| Key Features | Quickdry liner evaporates sweat, FLOWCOOL venting tech for comfort, AxSuede provides soft yet durable feel, Adjustable cuff for custom fit |
| Colors | White, Gray, Black |
The Maverik M5 was released in 2021 to replace one of the most popular lacrosse gloves in recent memory—the M4.
The M5 builds on many of the great things that so many players loved about the M4.
FLOWCOOL venting and the quick-dry liner throughout promote moisture wicking and comfort—both being invaluable on the field especially if you find yourself playing into the dog days of summer.
The AxSuede palm provides a soft, comfortable feel that won’t deteriorate over time. The mesh palm also allows air in, helping your hands stay dry.
Unlike some other options, the M5 comes with an adjustable cuff that lets you control the fit.
On the downside, the M5 has a tighter fit as compared to other gloves. I typically wear (and am comfortable in) a 13-inch glove but find the M5 to have a tighter fit.
If you typically find most 13-inch gloves to be already tight, or if you wear a 14-inch glove, you’re better off looking elsewhere.
Pros
- Superior ventilation
- Comfortable palm
- Customizable wrist fit
- Cheaper high-end glove
Cons
- New glove so limited longterm reviews
- Tighter fit
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13) Warrior Evo QX2 Glove
| Best for | Stick Feel, Back Hand Protection |
| Features | Cloud Cuff provides great wrist mobility, Ax Suede liner provides great stick feel, Impax high density foam for protection, Wartech Liner for ventilation |
| Colors | White |
The newest glove from one of the most respected lacrosse brands, Warrior, comes in at #3 on our list of the best lacrosse gloves. The stripped-down, no-frills Evo QX2 gloves provide amazing feel and great protection.
The Evo QX2 improves on the original Evo QX glove by introducing the Ax Suede liner (the same as the STX Surgeon RZR2) which provides unmatched stick feel.
The new Cloud Cuff also provides great wrist mobility for checking, dodging, or shooting.
The use of high-density foam pinpointed to key impact areas keeps the glove lightweight without sacrificing protection. If you tend to get sweaty palms when you play, the Wartech Liner will wick away that moisture buildup to keep you nice and dry.
The only real knocks on the Evo QX2 are anything but impactful to the gloves’ functionality—there is a notable lack of customer feedback since these gloves were just recently released.
Additionally, if you like to take the field in a certain color scheme or aesthetic, there is a definite lack of customization to these bad boys.
Overall, if you’re a player that values a glove that performs well, protects you, and doesn’t have a super flashy exterior, the Evo QX2 is a perfect glove for you.
Pros
- Ax Suede palm
- Great wrist mobility
- Extra protection in vulnerable spots
Cons
- Lack of customer reviews
- Lack of color options
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14) Maverik Max Glove
| Best for | Extra Protection |
| Key Features | Durastretch panels for flexibility, Flowcool venting for comfort, Triple density foam for back hand protection, SharkGel inserts for thumb protection, Magnetic cuff for snag prevention |
| Colors | Black, White, Gray |
The Max in Maverik’s latest glove stands for maximum protection, and that’s exactly what you get. The newest version of the Maverik Max Gloves is the best.
The main difference between the new model and the old model is the extra divots in the knuckles that allow for more flexibility.
Triple density foam coupled with SharkGel inserts at high-impact areas provide unmatched protection to your thumb and back hand. Even with the added padding, the DuraStretch design gives the glove flexibility through the fingers.
The Magnetic cuff is a highlight as it allows customization to your focus as a player. You can adjust the fit between protectiveness and mobility depending upon your preference.
While the old Max gloves had some durability and feel issues, the newest version is much better. The Ax Suede liner, especially, provides an almost barehand-like feel of the stick.
The Maverik Max Gloves are a solid option for those players who want maximal protection with good feel.
Pros
- Superior protection
- Elimination of velcro elements
- Wrist cuff adjustability
- Focus on cooling and moisture protection
Cons
- Durability issues
- Poor stick connectivity
- Sizing issues (run small)
15) Epoch Integra Elite Glove
| Best for | Stick Feel, Flexibility |
| Key Features: | Ariaprene material for a “second skin” feel, Player Core Control for protection and odor reduction, Composite Material and Dual Density Foam for flexibility, One-piece palm for improved handling |
| Colors | White, Gray, Black |
You may think of Epoch as sort of an indie outfit when it comes to equipment but they are definitely punching up in weight class when it comes to the Integra Elite gloves.
The Integra Elites were highly rated across the board when considering direct consumer feedback with bonus points for comfort and flexibility. The use of Ariaprene gives a very naturalistic, toned-down feel to the glove that couples with the composite and foam construction providing great mobility.
The Player Core Control inherent to Epoch’s padding makes an appearance here as well to promote moisture and odor protection—the latter cannot be overlooked cause if there was a mortal enemy to gloves, it’s the smell.
This was another glove that required some stretching to find a con—the muted color options are the most apparent knock. The glove employs a suede palm as well so there’s some room for growth in terms of stick feel, but they have eliminated any stitching/seams to improve connectivity.
Ultimately, the Integra Elite is a great glove if you’re looking for value—it boasts top of the line protection and feel on a more affordable end of the pricing spectrum.
Pros
- Natural, lightweight feel
- Advanced flexibility
- Odor protection
Cons
- Muted color options
- Traditional suede palm
16) Epoch Integra Select Gloves
| Best for | Budget Glove |
| Key Features | Dual Density Foam Stack for protection, Ax Suede one-piece palm for feel, Adjustable wrist for customization, Extended cuff for protection |
| Colors | White, Gray, Black |
Epoch makes the list for a second time with another quality pair of gloves but at an even more affordable price with the Integra Select.
The Integra Select employs much of the same tech as the Elites but tones down some material and design specs to cut costs. Like the Elite, it uses Dual Density Foam to provide top of the line protection without sacrificing flexibility or bulking up the weight.
Consumer feedback on the durability of the glove is mixed, but the pendulum seems to swing more towards it being good.
Like the Elites, you do have to stretch for the negatives with the same muted color options being one. Some reviews note that the gloves do run small so you may want to keep this mind before you checkout.
As the most affordable option on this list, the Integra Select appears cheap only in price and not quality. This is a great glove to consider for those players on a tight budget or just entering the game.
Pros
- Affordable
- Flexibility and comfort
- Durability
- Lightweight feel
Cons
- Muted color options
- Sizing (runs small)
Best Goalie Gloves
17) Maverik Shift Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
| Best for | Durable | Thumb protection |
| Key Features | TorqueLoc 2 thumb fit | Maximum finger break with Power Flex | Durable Connekt Palm | FlowCool Venting |
| Colors | Black | Gray | White |
The Maverik Shift Goalie Gloves offer a smart balance of flexibility and protection. Its TorqueLoc 2 thumb nicely absorbs high-velocity shots and prevents hyperextension when facing hard outside rips.
Unlike bulkier goalie gloves, the Shift’s Power Flex design allows the goalie’s hands to stay quick and reactive. As a result, it was easier to clamp rebounds and adjust mid-save.
Besides, the FlowCool system kept my hands from overheating during long games. Its removable wrist gave me the choice between added mobility or extra protection. However, I would have appreciated some ventilation at the back of the hand, similar to Nike Prime Elite lacrosse gloves.
Regardless, I enjoyed the shaft grip for powerful outlet passes because the Connekt Palm design significantly improved the stick feel. There was minimal wear and tear despite the continued rough use.
Pros
- Comfortable true to size fit
- Flexible finger movement due to numerous finger breaks
- Ventilated palm for excellent airflow
- Durable and lightweight
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
18) Nike Prime Elite Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
| Best for | Lightweight | Flexible feel |
| Key Features | Full-coverage thumb guard | Premium Ax Suede palm | Nike Dri-FIT technology for ventilation |
| Colors | Black | Gray | White |
My teammate goalie used the Nike Vapor Pro goalie gloves for two seasons and got amazing thumb protection with a full-coverage thumb guard. They have one of the biggest thumbs on the market, competing with the Maverik M6. However, they felt stiff during the initial games.
Secondly, these are lightweight and well-ventilated due to Dri-FIT technology. Still, if you have naturally sweaty hands, they will get slightly warm in extremely hot weather.
Furthermore, the premium suede palm gives a strong grip on the stick. The flex joint in the thumb improves mobility.
Its loose cuff also allows easy multidirectional wrist movement, which is great for quick reactions and clearing passes. However, after a season of use, there was minimal wear in the high-friction areas, including the lateral side of the index finger and thumb.
Pros
- Well-protected thumb guard
- Flexible fingers
- Comfortable and slipless grip
Cons
- Slightly loose fit
- Less durable than other premium gloves
19) STX Cell VI Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
| Best for | Thumb guard | Finger protection |
| Key Features | LOCK BOX thumb guard | C3 cuff system | GeoFlex II protection | AX Suede palm |
| Colors | Black | White |
Compared to RZR2 goalie gloves, STX Cell VI is slightly heavier, weighing 6.8 ounces. However, it also ranks as one of the best goalie gloves for those who didn’t like the external thumb guard in the RZR2.
The STX Cell VI has a newly designed LOCK BOX thumb guard that provides a locked-in thumb feel with enough protection. Hence, it was easier to maintain control while gripping the stick.
Besides, the dual ventilation system improves airflow and reduces sweat buildup during outdoor lacrosse. I loved the fresh and sweat-free feel, especially in warmer weather.
Furthermore, Cell VI also has a C3 cuff system similar to RZR2. Thus, it doesn’t restrict my wrist when twisting for quick reactions.
However, the gloves have a stiff feel. I have used it for a season, but the stiffness didn’t reduce. Therefore, I wouldn’t suggest it to those who prefer traditional flex over durability and stiff feel.
Pros
- LOCK BOX thumb guard for reinforced protection
- The C3 cuff system allows free wrist movement
- Durable construction for long-term use
- Vented palm for improved breathability
Cons
- Slightly heavy compared to other high-end gloves
- Stiff feel that doesn't break in easily
20) Maverik M6 Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
| Best for | Flexible padding | Thumb protection |
| Key Features | Connekt Palm | Torqueloc 2 design | Quickdry inside liner for ventilation |
| Colors | Black | Gray | White |
Most brands have their version of reinforced thumb padding, but Maverik’s Torque Lock system is one of my favorites. It’s a hard shell that fully wraps the thumb with two flex points, so you get better thumb movement without sacrificing protection.
Moreover, Maverik’s Anaform ridges mold into a piece over the fingers, evenly distributing the force. Even with an open palm grip, I felt protected from shots from different angles.
Yet, the heavy padding makes it less suitable for beginners as it lacks the natural flex and lightweight feel.
Otherwise, it offers better breathability than the Maverik shift. Mesh layered sections and a quick dry liner inside the glove do a better job of heat regulation and sweat absorption.
Hence, it’s a well-protected option for elite-level goalies.
Pros
- Secure thumb protection
- flexible finger padding
- Good impact distribution
- Breathable design
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners
- Slightly bulky
21) STX Surgeon RZR2 Lacrosse Goalie Gloves
| Best for | Thumb guard | Layered cuff design |
| Key Features | Superflex Plus design | C3 cuff system for wrist mobility | Taper fit built for molded hand feel | External Thumb Guard |
| Colors | Black | White |
The STX has designed RZR2 goalie gloves to minimize the typical restrictive feel while providing the flexibility required for quick reaction.
It features a stiff articulated thumb with extra padding that absorbs impact well. However, it doesn’t lock my thumb into place like older designs.
Usually, gloves are useless once the internal plastic thum piece breaks due to repeated shots. Here, the external thumbpiece is more durable. It also provides exceptional thumb protection with extra lateral coverage for unintentional hits from missed shots.
Moreover, its tapered fit and comfortable palm offer a snug feel. The gloves didn’t feel bulky, even when I was cradling outside the crease.
Hence, you will not need another pair if you’re a goalie who plays the first half and then runs the field in the second. The thumb moves just enough for passing and shooting while giving enough protection.
Read my detailed review of the STX RZR2 lacrosse gloves here.
Pros
- Layered Cuff Design for Increased wrist mobility
- Ax Suede Palm with Good Vents
- Flexible and durable thumbpiece
- Comfortable taper fit that molds according to hand size
Cons
- Pricey at $190
- The thumb takes time to break in
- Slight squeaking issue
Best Youth Lacrosse Gloves
With the start of adult standard sizing being around 12” for gloves, youth sizing is critical to a proper fit for any young laxer entering the sport.
Beyond size, youth gloves tend to strip down some of the protective qualities that are not needed at the lower levels of the game to promote flexibility and mobility instead. This is important when it comes to simply familiarizing yourself with the movements of lacrosse such as cradling and throwing.
For reference, the normal transition age from youth to adult-sized gloves is around 11 years old or at a hand length of 7” from the bottom of your palm to the top of your middle finger. DO NOT buy gloves a size bigger than you or your player needs under the guise that they will grow into them—this will severely hamper performance and development.
Best Youth Lacrosse Gloves:
22) Maverik MX Glove
| Best for | Added protection |
| Colors | Grey |
The Maverik MX has a traditional design that will help familiarize your young player with the proper feel of a glove. In terms of protection, the MX uses some of the tech found in its adult counterpart to provide extra security around critical impact zones. The MX so closely mirrors the larger Max and M4 that the transition from youth to adult sizing will not be as abrupt.
23) Epoch iD JR Glove
| Best for | Comfort, Protection |
| Colors | White |
For as stripped down as Epoch’s adult gloves are, the iD JR sports a clunkier, more traditional design that lacks the paneling of its higher end products. This makes the glove functional without pushing the boundaries of innovation. Still, the iD JR is durable and protective at an extremely affordable price point to make it a great first glove for your young player.
24) Warrior Burn Next Jr Glove
| Best for | Comfort, Protection |
| Colors | Black |
The Burn Next Glove Jr. is a throwback to Warrior’s older line of gloves that more closely fit the youth market. This is the bare bones of design and elements, providing ample protection without the frills of more high-end gloves on the market. There is no cuff or string element to adjust the wrist fit as noted in some reviews so this is worth keeping in mind before purchasing. This is an ultra affordable entry level glove, though.
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LaxDrip’s #1 Seller is Battle Lax
Lacrosse Glove Buying Guide
Before venturing out on your own to find the gloves that fit you (figuratively and literally), here are some elements to consider before clicking BUY:
1) Protection
Protection is easily the most important thing to consider when buying a glove. If it wasn’t, everyone would be running around with their bare hands, right?
A great glove provides protection without you even noticing it. The number of beatings your gloves will take over the course of a given game can be immeasurable depending upon where you are on the field.
You want a glove that provides extra protection along the thumb, especially at the base of your hand, as this is a high impact spot during ground balls and for those desperation swings from defenders when you’re mid-cradle.
The back of your hand is another point of focus. You want layers of protection to guard against the inevitable checks, purposeful pokes, and those wayward slashes that could ruin your day…or month with a broken bone.
Extra cuff length is another valuable bonus, especially for those players that find themselves in faceoffs regularly. The slash to the wrist is as inherent to the sport as anything else so the added protection will be appreciated.
2) Comfort & Flexibility
This comes at a close second to protection. As stated earlier, the connection between palm and stick is hugely important to your success on the field.
Let’s start with the palm: you want something that is less of a noticeable layer and more of a membrane between your palm and stick. Normally, this will be suede but we are beginning to see companies make advancements in material. You want something with minimal stitching and a thin construction that gives you the ultimate feel on your stick.
On the flip side of your hand, you want a glove that promotes dexterity of your fingers. Higher-end gloves on the market will employ design quirks such as paneling to allow the ultimate range of motion to your fingers.
And finally the wrist: look for an adjustable cuff element that will prove valuable to customize the fit of your glove to your preference; namely, protectiveness versus flexibility.
3) Breathability
Moisture wicking technology. Advanced ventilation. Breathable material. These are some of the buzzwords/elements to keep an eye out for when looking for gloves.
In play, breathability is majorly important to keeping your hands dry and avoid any further weighing down of your movements thanks to a build up of sweat. This helps promote that all important connection of palm to stick as well.
Beyond play (and what some would say is most important), breathability is a major tool in fighting against the dreaded smell that comes with an aging pair of gloves. Companies like Epoch have begun experimenting with added elements such as embedded coffee grounds to help promote odor prevention as well.
Keeping sweat off your hands and out of your gloves will not just be appreciated by you on the field but everyone else off it.
4) Durability
Gloves are an expensive investment so it would be best to get multiple seasons out of a pair and not continue to have to dip into your pocket year after year.
When on the hunt for a pair of lacrosse gloves, material is key to durability. Look for gloves that do not skimp on the highest level of palm and outer material to prevent any wear inherent to usage.
Another important element is stitching. The less “pieces” to a glove, the longer it will likely last as it will not have the usual points of vulnerability. STX made a major leap with this generation of gloves by breaking the mould quite literally with a single continuous exterior piece. It’s elements such as this that will ensure years of use.
Lastly, you want to look for the least external elements that could wear down. You’ll find this in the wrist cuffing, for instance, that may depend upon velcro for security. Something like velcro can wear down quickly and ultimately diminish the quality of your glove.
5) Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are worth major consideration before you splurge on gloves.
Do your due diligence and seek out every website and resource you can for some first hand input on how any of the above four elements are for a given product. Other users can provide actual feedback to the wear and performance of a glove.
Additionally, reviews can be helpful in finding out any quirks to a glove’s fit or the buying process. Such feedback can be helpful in avoiding the pitfalls that may have ensnared other customers.
And don’t forget to leave your own review for whatever gloves you choose. It’s always good practice to pay it forward.
6) Budget
Find something that fits your budget…this is easier said than done when it comes to gloves but still worthy of consideration.
Always keep in mind that if you’re cutting costs now, you’re likely giving up something in the future, whether it be the durability or extra protection of a more expensive glove. Pinpoint where exactly a product is saving you money and consider the implications of that cost-cutting to your safety and wallet in the long run.
Lacrosse Gloves Size Chart
If you are unsure which size goalie glove to buy, the following table may be able to help you out. This general information comes from Lax.com. I suggest you read the manufacturer’s site to see if their size suggestions differ.
You can also print out a glove sizing page that you can place your hand on to see your ideal size here.
How We Rate Lacrosse Gloves
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend products that we would use ourselves.
To come up with our ratings for each product, we test the product ourselves whenever possible, review product specifications (weight, materials used, etc.), and read customer reviews/talk to lacrosse players we know that use the product.
When testing gloves, we most often bring them to a field and use them in a game situation, making sure we try passing, catching, shooting, and getting checked. When we can’t bring them to a field ourselves, we try them on at the store (at the very least) and spend more time talking to players we know that use them.
If you ever have any feedback for any of the products listed on this page or have a recommended addition, please contact us and let us know!
People Also Ask
How to Choose Lacrosse Gloves?
Consider protection, comfort, flexibility, breathability, and durability. Look for gloves with good palm feel, wrist cuff adjustability, and ventilation. Reviews can offer insights into real-world performance and fit.
When to Replace Lacrosse Gloves?
Replace lacrosse gloves when they show significant wear and tear, such as holes, diminished padding, or loss of flexibility, affecting protection and performance.
How Do I Keep My Lacrosse Gloves from Smelling?
To prevent odor, ensure gloves have good ventilation and moisture-wicking features. Dry them thoroughly after each use and consider odor prevention technologies like those used by Epoch.
Do Girls Wear Lacrosse Gloves?
Yes, girls wear lacrosse gloves, especially at the youth level, for added protection and better grip, similar to boys.
Other Gear Guides
Here at Lax Drip, we have many other gear guides to help you find your perfect fit. Here are some you may be interested in:
- Best Lacrosse Arm Pads
- Best Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
- Best Lacrosse Heads
- Best Lacrosse Shafts
- Best Lacrosse Helmets
- Best Lacrosse Cleats
- Best Lacrosse Rib Pads & Kidney Pads
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