A lacrosse goalie bears the brunt of the determined opponents trying to beat your team. This is why they should put on as many protective gears as possible. One of them is the goalie throat guard. It is easy to wear one because it is simply attached to a lacrosse goalie helmet.
The best lacrosse goalie throat guard keeps the throat covered against hard shots or any object that may cause the goalie injuries around the throat area. The best lacrosse goalie throat guard protects the user without limiting their movements.
You will find these throat guards in different types, but the best lacrosse goalie neck protector should be made of hard yet comfortable material. Note that this protective equipment is bought separately and is attachable to various lacrosse helmets. Here are the top 5 lacrosse goalie throat guards:
The 5 Best Lacrosse Goalie Throat Guard
When playing lacrosse, you need more than just the ball to enjoy the game. Some of the things you should never overlook the importance of include a lacrosse goalie guard. The good thing is that they are available in a wide variety. While some are unisex, others may be masculine or too feminine.
Whichever you find most appealing, just select what suits you best. Remember that the most important thing is to get 100% throat protection.
1. CAS Cascade TP-S Goalie Throat Piece
The CAS Cascade TP-S throat guard is advanced protective equipment for every goalie in lacrosse. This throat guard from Cascade is beautifully designed. Even the TPC2, which is its predecessor, looked great too. However, TPS is more contemporary and sleeker than the TPC2.
This throat guard has small indentions all around that remove the boring block look associated with throat guards. It is among the most aesthetically appealing guard. Currently, it is available in smoke, grey and transparent colors.
The TP-S throat guard fits on a Cascade helmet perfectly. It covers the area around the throat better than other guards while remaining securely attached to the helmet. However, installing the guard on the helmet requires you to drill two screw holes to attach it to both sides of the helmet using screws.
Using a string, you can attach the TP-S throat guards to other helmets, such as the Warrior and STX helmets. However, for excellent fitting, use a throat guard and a helmet from the same brand. It hangs perfectly and does not cause any discomfort.
The TP-S throat guard is strong. It is made of a durable material that can last for several years. It gets scratched but holds up well. It doesn’t lose its appeal even after countless wears and still offers maximum protection. The best thing about these goalie throat guard pieces is that both men and women can use them.
2. STX Eclipse Lacrosse Goalie Throat Protector
STX Eclipse throat protector is strong and made of polycarbonate. It can be worn by goalies and other players regardless of their levels in the game. It has an ergonomic design that provides you with a secure and comfortable grip. It will not hinder you from saving or clearing the ball.
Attaching the throat guard to the helmet is straightforward. You don’t need to drill any holes; all you need is a screwdriver to fix the screws. It also has an adjustable strap that allows easy mobility. Besides that, this lacrosse goalie neck guard is lightweight, and you won’t feel like you have added anything to your helmet.
The STC Eclipse throat protects made of polycarbonate that gives it a shiny and aesthetically appealing appearance. It is comfortable, and you can use the front strap to adjust it to your perfect fit.
The guard can also be attached at the back using the sidewall laces. They tighten the throat guard tightly and keep it in place as you pay. But the laces keep the throat piece in place, which feels like floating around the throat area.
The STX Eclipse Lacrosse protector is usable with STX and Cascade helmets. These are the two common helmets used by most lacrosse players. However, these throat guards have a masculine look, and most women tend to shun them.
3. Cascade Throat Guard TPC2 11
The Cascade Throat Guard TPC2 11 is a one-of-a-kind protective gear well equipped for any lacrosse goalie. This extraordinary piece has undergone several advancements making it the best goalie throat guard you can find. It is classy with modern designs that appeal to all ages.
The throat is quite appealing aesthetically more than its previous versions that basically consisted of dangling plastic. This throat guard is currently available in one size, and the colour is clear. It can be worn by all lacrosse players and goalies regardless of their gender.
Cascade brand is reputable and widely recognized for its quality-designed lacrosse protective kits that leave no room for common injuries. The Cascade Throat Guard TPC2 11 is an ideal match for a Cascade helmet as is it protects the throat area effectively. It fits so well and comes with a customizable fitting that allows a goalie to slip in and out of it effortlessly.
It keeps a secure link with the helmet by drilling screw holes on the sides of the helmet to ensure the protection it offers is efficient. However, take the measurements carefully before you drill to avoid having to drill another hole.
This goalie throat guard is usable with all lacrosse Cascade helmets. But it does not guarantee you versatility with other brands. It is highly recommended that you attach it to a cascade helmet.
When you can combine a throat guard and a helmet from Cascade, you are guaranteed comfort and maximum protection as the two blend effortlessly. The throat guard hangs well without obstructing your vision in any way or feeling like a burden around your neck.
4. A&R Sports Goalie Round Style Throat Guard
The A&R Sports Goalie Round Style Throat Guard, Senior is a unique piece of art that any sportsman should consider having. The throat guard is the most preferred by lacrosse players due to its high quality and robust protection.
Other than being aesthetically attractive, the throat guard is made of quality plastic that lasts for years. It comes with different styles and not just the round one. There is V-style, which can be used by everyone, but it’s mostly for senior lacrosse players.
Regardless of the style you choose, this goalie throat guard is flexible and will not stand in your way when turning around. It protects without reducing your ability to win against opponents.
The throat guard comes with a thirty-inch lace that ensures it is firmly connected to the helmet to offer maximum protection. It is easy to use because no drilling is required, you attach it with the lace, and you are ready for the game.
This US-made product is made by one of the leading companies in sports accessories. A&R Sports has been in the industry for more than two decades. You are assured of durability, comfort, and 100% protection when playing the Lacrosse game.
The guard is clear in color, which makes it almost invisible to other people. But, it does not require a lot of maintenance. A&R Sports Goalie Throat Guard is can be used countless times and still maintains its quality and ability to protect your throat and the neck area.
5. Warrior Lacrosse Universal Goalie Throat Guard
The Warrior Lacrosse Universal Goalie Throat Guard – Clear is an unparalleled throat guard. Unlike other types, the throat guard is available in many colors, but the clear one stands out.
The throat guard is equipped to fit any type of helmet that is on sale as it is attached using zip ties or strings. The ties are reusable, giving the throat guard an added benefit of customizing the right fit.
Moreover, players can quickly mount the throat guard, making it easier for it to be attached to any type of helmet. Goalie can doesn’t waste time putting on and removing it.
It is one of the most efficient throat guards you will find in the market.
The Warrior Goalie Throat Guard comes from a great brand name buyers around the world trust. It is made from durable material that is strong, thus providing maximum protection from a throat injury.
The throat guard is also long-lasting, quite affordable, and unisex. A goalie can use it for years without losing its appeal. Besides, it comes with a warranty, something a rare with throat guards.
The throat guard is made of quality materials, which protects you against lacrosse ball shots. This protective gear piece is undeniably one of the best throat guards available not only for lacrosse games but for other games such as ice hockey.
Lacrosse Goalie Neck Protector Buying Guide
Getting a nice lacrosse goalie throat should not be a challenge. Lacrosse is a popular game with many protective gears available in the market. However, it doesn’t hurt to know how you can choose and buy the best goalie throat protector.
Important factors to consider
Types
Sometimes, players interchange the lacrosse and hockey, throat guards. But it is always best to buy a lacrosse throat protector goalie; it is made of quality that withstands lacrosse ball force effectively.
Read on to understand what the two common throat guards have to offer:
- Hockey style danglers
You can never be highly cautious enough as a goalie. Although the hockey-style protectors are always associated with hockey games, you can also use them when playing lacrosse.
Usually, they are thick enough to offer extra impact resistance whenever the ball hits your neck area. The only challenge you might have while using them is difficulty connecting them to your helmet easily.
- Lacrosse specific throat guard
Unlike hockey-style danglers, lacrosse-specific throat guards are thinner, enabling you to attach them with ease. And the best part, it doesn’t hinder your movement, which is essential in a lacrosse game.
Materials
Most lacrosse goalies are either made of plastic or polycarbonate.
• Plastic
Plastic is easier to use and lasts for a long time. It doesn’t require much maintenance. Also, its production process is cheaper as compared to other materials.
• Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a combination of plastic and carbon. It makes the throat guard flexible and more comfortable.
Here are some factors to help you to make a good decision when buying a lacrosse goalie.
• Easy Attaching
Attaching your lacrosse goalie to a helmet should not be a problem. Choose the one with straps that are adjustable for a better experience. If it requires you to drill holes on the helmet, follow instructions to the letter. Otherwise, you might end up being frustrated when playing on the field.
• Durable
The lacrosse throat guard you buy should serve you for years without losing its appeal and ability to protect you. You can go through some customer reviews to know how long it can serve you. Other people who have used the product give firsthand experience with the throat protector to help others make a sound decision.
• Materials
Some goalie neck protection gears are made of cheap materials, which lower their ability to guard your throat. Always check the materials used to make the lacrosse goalie throat guard. Some of the reliable ones are made of polycarbonate.
How to Put a Throat Guard on a Lacrosse Helmet
If you are not sure how to fix your throat guard on a lacrosse helmet, here’s how you can do it in 4 simple steps. But these steps may change depending on the helmet or throat guard you want to use. Some of the tools you may need include:
- 7/32″ drill bit
- Marker pen
- Drill
- Screwdriver
Also, try to be very precise because you are going to deal with measurements. By following these steps, you will end up having a good helmet with a throat guard fixed on it.
- Depending on your helmet, drill another hole on each side. The position for drilling is always indicated, so you don’t have to worry about that. Using a ruler, measure 2 ¼” from the shell and chin piece, and insert the T-nut if you are using the CPXR type of helmet. 1 ¼” and 1″ are for CPVR and CSCR types, respectively.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the black screw and push the T-nut backward. Eject the webbing that looks like a strap and make sure its hole coincides with the T-nut. Return the black screw in its position, and you have it fixed.
- Finally, hook up the sides. Position your throat guard to the helmet and drill a hole.Once more, insert the screwdriver in the silver spacer and turn it anticlockwise; with the screwdriver inside, push the T-nut inwards. Return the screw by binding the throat guard and helmet while ensuring that the T-nut goes between the shell and chin. Apply the same procedure to the right side if you begin with the left.
- To know whether you have done it correctly, check if the screws are firm. The TPS should also be able to move up and down freely. Please note that the helmet does not guarantee you complete protection. Always remember to follow all the game rules and double-check to ensure that your helmet is not defective before any game.
Read information about Best Lacrosse Goalie Shin Guards
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a throat protector cost?
Most throat guard protectors range from $30 to $40. However, you can find some cheaper or more expensive ones. The price entirely depends on other factors like durability and the ability to guarantee you protection.
2. Are goalies required to wear throat a throat protector in lacrosse?
Goalies must always wear throat protectors in lacrosse, whether in men’s or women’s sports. Besides being part of the game’s rules, it ensures you leave the field without neck area injuries.
3. What are the benefits of wearing a throat protector in lacrosse?
The throat protectors reduce the risk of getting injured when you are playing. They are attached to your helmet and dangle downwards, which ensures your visibility, is not affected.
As the lacrosse ball bounces, you worry it might hurt and make you lose concentration in the game, but you can stop opponents from scoring goals comfortably with a throat guard.
4. How do you attach a throat guard to goalie helmet lacrosse?
You attach your lacrosse goalie throat protector to a helmet using zip ties or drilling holes depending on the type of throat guard you have. If you decide to use the zips, just make sure it is tight enough.
Otherwise, it might easily fall off when hit by the ball. Alternatively, you can use the drilling method, which tends to be more secure. The disadvantage of drilling is that you are likely to go wrong if you are not keen on measurements.
5. Do all goalies wear neck guards?
Not all goalies wear neck guards. Some do not wear them, but it is highly recommended that all lacrosse goalies wear a throat guard.
6. When was the neck guard invented?
The first neck guard was invented in 1796 by Bill Buhler. However, over the years, these protective tools have evolved and become better.
7. Why do lacrosse players put tape on their helmets?
Lacrosse players love to boast about what they value. Therefore, the tapes are a sign of communicating their messages. Nowadays, lax straps are substituting tapes. It’s not all about the great appearance but also the ability of lax straps to withstand harsh weather, which means your messages do not get destroyed.
Protect your neck with a lacrosse goalie throat guard. Leaving it exposed can lead to severe injuries in case you get hit by the lacrosse ball. Make sure you install the protector properly to cover the throat area without leaving any parts exposed.
Each type of goalie protector comes with a particular way of attaching to the helmet. Some require you to drill holes on the helmet, while others use laces. Choose what you find most suitable for you.