How to Play Lacrosse: A Quick Guide for New Parents
Understand the game from the sideline.
Our top picks at a glance
Youth Complete Lacrosse StickBest starter★ 4.6
Lacrosse MouthguardBest for safety★ 4.4
Folding Sideline ChairBest for parents★ 4.6We compared real Amazon listings in this category, kept the products with strong ratings and plenty of reviews, and read what buyers praise and complain about, so the "Heads up" notes are things real owners reported. Ratings and review counts are from Amazon as of Oct 30, 2026 and change over time. We earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you, and it never changes our picks.
Lacrosse is a fast-paced game played with a stick and a small rubber ball. Teams try to score by shooting the ball into the other team's goal.
The basics
- Players pass, catch and carry the ball with a stick.
- Positions include attack, midfield, defense and goalie.
- Games are divided into quarters or halves depending on the league.
- Boys' and girls' rules differ, especially around contact and equipment.
What to expect
Fast action, lots of running and plenty of whistles. Cheer for hustle and let the coach handle the rules.
Youth Complete Lacrosse Stick
A forgiving, short-handled stick built for a first season.
- Designed for young beginners, with a shorter, thinner handle that is easier to control
- Softer head molding makes it easier to catch and throw for the first time
- A complete stick, so it comes strung and ready to play
Lacrosse Mouthguard
A slim, comfortable mouthguard that lets kids actually talk and breathe.
- About 50% thinner than standard mouthguards, so players are more likely to keep it in
- Starts flat and molds to the mouth, so it is easy to customize at home
- Rated 4.4 by almost 11,000 buyers, and buyers say it is comfortable and low profile
Folding Sideline Chair
The workhorse sideline chair: roomy, cushioned and with a built-in cooler pocket.
- Over 36,000 buyers rate it 4.6, and several report chairs lasting years of weekly use
- Built-in 4-can cooler arm plus cup holder keeps drinks within reach
- Cushioned seat and back, 18-inch seat height that is easy to get out of
The bottom line
If you only buy one thing from this guide, make it the Youth Complete Lacrosse Stick (4.6 stars from 1,025 Amazon ratings). It is our top pick for best starter.
See it on Amazon →Frequently asked questions
Is lacrosse a contact sport?
Boys' lacrosse allows some body contact with protective gear, while girls' lacrosse limits contact. Rules vary by age and league.