Walk into any sporting goods store and you will find a wall of lacrosse sticks in every color, size, and price. For parents of a new player, it is hard to know where to start. The right stick makes catching and throwing easier, and the wrong one can slow a young player down before they ever get going.
Quick Answer
Most youth players should start with a complete stick (head, shaft, and pocket already assembled) sized for their age. For boys 10U and younger, field player sticks must be 37 to 42 inches long. Choose a lightweight shaft, a head with a youth-friendly shape, and a soft, pre-strung mesh pocket. Girls need a girls-specific stick with a shallower pocket.
Below, we break down each part of the stick, the legal sizes by age, and what to look for before you buy.
The 3 Parts of a Lacrosse Stick
Every lacrosse stick has three parts. Knowing what each one does makes shopping much easier.
Head
The head is the plastic frame at the top of the stick. Wider heads make catching easier, which helps beginners. Narrower heads give more control and accuracy, which advanced players often prefer. For most youth players, a forgiving head with a slightly wider face is the better choice.
Shaft (Handle)
The shaft is the handle. Youth shafts are usually made from aluminum, alloy, or composite. Aluminum and basic alloys are light and affordable, which makes them a good fit for beginners. Composite shafts cost more and are usually aimed at older, more experienced players.
The pocket is the netting strung inside the head. It holds the ball while a player cradles, passes, and shoots. A good pocket, as Stringers Society puts it, "should be able to hold the ball securely, yet still be easily accessible for passing and shooting." Most youth sticks come with mesh pockets, which are easy to break in and hold their shape in wet weather.
Youth Lacrosse Stick Length by Age
Stick length rules change as players get older. These are the boys youth crosse lengths from USA Lacrosse's 2023 youth rules chart. Total length includes the head and shaft.
| Age Group | Field Player Stick | Long Pole | Goalie Stick |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6U / 8U | 37 to 42 in | Not permitted | 37 to 54 in |
| 10U | 37 to 42 in | 47 to 54 in (3 max) | 37 to 54 in |
| 12U | 40 to 42 in | 52 to 72 in | 40 to 72 in |
| 14U | 40 to 42 in | 52 to 72 in | 40 to 72 in |
What this means for parents: a 37 to 42 inch short stick is legal for field players from 6U through 10U. Once your child reaches 12U, the minimum rises to 40 inches, so a very short youth stick may need to be replaced. Long poles are only for defenders, and beginners should start with a short stick no matter what position they want to play.
Girls lacrosse follows separate rules for stick design and pocket depth. Check with your league or program before buying a girls stick.
Boys vs Girls Lacrosse Sticks
Boys and girls lacrosse sticks are not interchangeable. The biggest difference is the pocket:
- Boys sticks have deeper pockets that let players cradle and protect the ball through contact.
- Girls sticks have shallower pockets, and the rules limit how deep the ball can sit. This makes ball control more about technique and wrist work.
Buy the stick that matches the game your child plays. A boys stick is not legal in girls games, and a girls stick will make the boys game much harder.
Complete Stick vs Custom Stick
There are two ways to buy a stick:
| Option | What You Get | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Complete stick | Head, shaft, and strung pocket, ready to play | Beginners and most youth players |
| Custom stick | Head, shaft, and pocket bought separately | Experienced players with specific preferences |
For youth players, a complete stick is almost always the right call. It is ready to use out of the package, costs less, and the parts are already matched. Stringers Society notes that buying parts separately is "ideal for intermediate or advanced players who want to customize their stick."
Mesh vs Traditional Pockets
- Mesh: a single piece of woven netting. Easy to break in, consistent, and low maintenance. The best choice for most beginners.
- Traditional: leather or synthetic strings woven with nylon. Offers a unique feel but needs more upkeep and adjustment. Usually chosen by experienced players.
Tips for Buying Your Child's First Lacrosse Stick
- Check the length rules first. Make sure the stick is legal for your child's age group before buying.
- Hold it before you buy. Your child should be able to cradle and pass comfortably. If the stick feels heavy or awkward, try a lighter shaft.
- Look for a youth-ready pocket. A soft, pre-strung mesh pocket makes catching easier from day one.
- Don't overspend. Many solid complete youth sticks are available at entry-level prices. Save the premium gear for when your child is committed to the sport.
- Check the warranty. Stringers Society recommends looking for "a warranty covering at least a year, ideally longer."
- Avoid the mini stick trap. Toy and mini sticks are fun for backyard play, but they are not legal for games or practice.
- Plan for a size change. Players moving into 12U will need a stick that is at least 40 inches long.
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Buying an advanced, narrow head that makes catching harder
- Buying a long pole for a beginner who wants to play defense
- Using a boys stick for girls lacrosse, or the other way around
- Letting the pocket get too deep or too stiff without having a coach check it
Get the Most Out of Your New Stick With NJLT Lessons
A new stick is only the first step. Learning to use it the right way is what builds a confident player. NJLT private lacrosse lessons give youth players one-on-one attention from experienced coaches, so bad habits get fixed early and good ones stick.
In a lesson, coaches can:
- Check that your child's stick is the right size and legal for their age group
- Look at the pocket and recommend adjustments
- Build proper grip, cradling, catching, and throwing mechanics
- Tailor drills to your child's position and skill level
NJLT has been developing New Jersey lacrosse players since 2010. Book NJLT private lacrosse lessons, or call 732-810-0181 to find the right fit for your player.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size lacrosse stick should a youth player use?
Under USA Lacrosse boys youth rules, field player sticks must be 37 to 42 inches for 6U through 10U, and 40 to 42 inches for 12U and 14U. Length includes the head and shaft.
What is the best lacrosse stick for a beginner?
A complete stick with a lightweight shaft, a forgiving head, and a pre-strung mesh pocket is the best choice for most beginners. It is ready to play and easier to catch with.
Can girls use a boys lacrosse stick?
No. Girls sticks have shallower pockets and follow different rules. Boys sticks are not legal in girls games.
Should my child get a long pole?
Not as a beginner. Long poles are only for defenders and are not allowed at 8U and younger. Most players learn the basics with a short stick first.
How much should I spend on a youth lacrosse stick?
Many quality complete youth sticks are sold at entry-level prices. Spend more only once your child is committed to the sport and has outgrown their first stick.
Mesh or traditional pocket for kids?
Mesh. It is easier to break in, more consistent, and needs less upkeep than a traditional pocket.
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