You may wonder, “What is the lacrosse ball made of?”. After all, it’s an essential component of the game, and understanding its composition can help you choose the right ball for your needs.
Lacrosse balls are small, hard rubber balls that are used during gameplay. They’re designed to be durable enough to withstand the rough-and-tumble nature of the sport, but also lightweight enough to be easily handled by players. So what exactly are they made of?
The most common materials used to make lacrosse balls are solid rubber, such as latex rubber, vinyl, silicone, or polyurethane. According to the official NCAA handbook, lacrosse balls must be made of a “uniform, solid, rubber material” to be considered legal for gameplay. However, there are some variations in the exact composition of lacrosse balls, which we’ll explore in more detail below.
What Was the First Lacrosse Ball Made Of
When lacrosse was first played, the ball was made from natural materials found in the environment. The earliest lacrosse balls were made from wood and later from buckskins filled with fur. These were made naturally and were meant to keep the game connected with nature.
Dr. William George Beers, in 1860, codified the rules including having the ball made with rubber. Manufacturers started producing rubber balls for lacrosse, and it became the standard material for making lacrosse balls. The rubber balls were more durable than the earlier materials, and they bounced well, making the game faster and more exciting.
Before the rubber ball, players used a variety of materials to make the ball. The Native Americans used deerskin balls filled with fur, hair, or feathers. The balls were often soaked in water before the game to make them heavier and harder. The sticks used to play lacrosse were also made from natural materials such as hickory, ash, or maple.
What is the Lacrosse Ball Made of Today
When it comes to lacrosse balls, they are made of a uniform, solid, elastomeric material. The material is typically solid rubber or elastomeric material that accords with the certification standards. Different lacrosse ball manufacturers and brands use different types of elastomeric materials such as silicone, polyurethane, rubber, and variations of vinyl.
According to the CLA guidelines, lacrosse balls must follow specific guidelines to be legal for gameplay. These guidelines specify the weight, size, and rebound of the ball. The old NCAA specifications are: Mass 140 g – 147 g Diameter 62.7 mm – 64.7 mm Rebound.
Lacrosse balls are typically white for men’s lacrosse, or yellow for women’s, but they are also produced in a wide variety of colors. The outer layer is typically cut from deerskin or cowhide and then stitched or glued together to form a seamless ball. Then rubber is applied to create durability and to ensure the ball won’t crack after being hit multiple times.
Modern-day lacrosse balls are made of solid, vulcanized rubber. The days of cement being inside lacrosse balls are long behind us. According to NOCSAE rules (the governing board of US youth lacrosse), lacrosse balls must be of a smooth or slightly textured, solid, elastomeric material. (Learn more lacrosse rules)
What’s Inside a Lacrosse Ball?
You might be wondering what’s inside a lacrosse ball. Lacrosse balls are made of solid rubber with a vulcanized rubber shell and an inner core.
The outer shell of a lacrosse ball is typically composed of natural rubber and synthetic additives to improve the ball’s overall performance. It’s usually more durable because it mixes natural rubber with other additives under high temperatures. The inner core, on the other hand, is made of solid rubber and is designed to provide the ball with its bounce and weight.
Lacrosse balls are filled with air, which is what gives them their bounce. The amount of air inside a lacrosse ball can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific ball.
Are Lacrosse Balls Safe for Dogs?
Is it safe to let your furry friend play with lacrosse balls? Yes, lacrosse balls are generally safe for dogs to play with, however there are some precautions you should take to ensure your pet’s safety.
Firstly, it’s important to note that lacrosse balls are made of rubber and polyurethane, which are generally safe materials for dogs to put in their mouths. However, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to these materials, so it’s always a good idea to supervise your dog when they’re playing with a lacrosse ball for the first time.
Additionally, ensure the lacrosse ball is the appropriate size for your dog. An official lacrosse ball measures 7.75 – 8 inches in circumference, which is small enough to fit in your dog’s mouth but also large enough to avoid accidental swallowing or choking.
Finally, your dog must be playing with the lacrosse ball in a safe environment. If your dog plays outside, the area is free from hazards such as sharp objects or other potential dangers.
Types of Lacrosse Balls
There are several different types of lacrosse balls. Each type has its unique properties and is designed for a specific purpose.
Game Balls
Game balls are the official balls used in lacrosse games. They are typically made from solid rubber, designed to meet specific size and weight requirements. According to the official NCAA handbook, game balls must weigh between 5 and 5.25 ounces and have a 7.75 to 8 inches diameter. Game balls are available in various colors, but white is the most common color used in men’s lacrosse, while yellow is the most common color used in women’s lacrosse.
Training Balls
Training balls are designed to help players improve their skills. They are typically softer and lighter than game balls, which makes them easier to catch and throw. Training balls are available in different colors and materials, including rubber and polyurethane.
Polyurethane Lacrosse Balls
Polyurethane lacrosse balls are a newer type of ball quickly gaining popularity. They are made from a patented cross-linked polyurethane material that is more durable and longer-lasting than traditional rubber lacrosse balls. Polyurethane lacrosse balls are softer than rubber balls, making them easier to catch and throw. They are available in various colors, including white, yellow, and orange.
Rubber Lacrosse Balls
Rubber lacrosse balls are the most common type of lacrosse ball. They are made from solid rubber and are designed to meet specific size and weight requirements. Rubber lacrosse balls are available in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and orange. They are durable and long-lasting, but they can become slippery when wet, which can make them harder to catch and throw.
(Related: Cheap Lacrosse Balls: Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Options | Top 6 Best Lacrosse Balls for Beginners and Pros)
In conclusion, understanding what is the lacrosse ball made of is essential for any lacrosse player or enthusiast. As we have seen, lacrosse balls are typically made of a solid, elastomeric material such as silicone, latex rubber, polyurethane, or vinyl.
When choosing a lacrosse ball, it’s important to consider the level of play and the purpose for which the ball will be used.
Finally, it’s worth noting that lacrosse balls are not just used for playing lacrosse. They can also be used for massage, physical therapy, and as a tool for training and conditioning.
