Summer tournament season is here. Whether you're heading to a local event or traveling across the country, one thing remains the same: being prepared can make or break your weekend. The last thing any player wants is to be scrambling for equipment between games or realizing something important was left at home. Before you pack up and head to your next tournament, make sure your bag includes these essentials.
1. A Game-Ready Backup Stick
This is the most important item on the list. Every player should have a backup stick in their bag, and it shouldn't just be an old stick collecting dust in the garage. Your backup should be fully strung, legal, and ready to play at a moment's notice. Heads crack. Mesh tears. Shafts bend. Officials can even rule a stick illegal during a game. When something unexpected happens, you don't want to spend the rest of the tournament trying to adjust to a stick you've never used. Take some reps with your backup before tournament season starts so it feels familiar when you need it. Head over to your local LU to have our professional stringers inspect your stick-they can tell if you need a restring or a new setup!
2. Extra Mouthguards
Mouthguards have a way of disappearing. Whether it gets lost after a game, falls out during warmups, or gets left in a hotel room, having a spare mouthguard can save you from a stressful situation. Keep at least one backup in a separate pocket of your bag so you always know where it is.
3. Fresh Roll of Tape
Few things are more frustrating than a slippery stick handle in the middle of a game. A fresh roll of Throne Tac Tape can help improve grip, absorb moisture, and give you the confidence to handle the ball in any conditions. If your tape starts peeling or wearing down during a tournament weekend, you'll be glad you packed an extra roll.
4. Extra Socks
Tournament days are long. Between multiple games, long walks across complexes, and hours spent in cleats, fresh socks can make a huge difference. Packing an extra pair of LU Ankle Breaker Socks helps keep your feet comfortable and dry throughout the day. Trust us, after a muddy morning game or a rain delay, you'll be happy you brought them. Whether you like quarters or mids, LU has you covered!
5. Proper Footwear
Many tournament facilities feature a mix of grass, natural turf, and synthetic turf fields. Bringing both cleats and turf shoes ensures you're ready for whatever surface you're playing on. Having the proper footwear can improve traction, comfort, and overall performance throughout the weekend. Our suggestion? Come grab a pair of New Balance Freeze 5 for stable ankle support and all grass conditions. Have a pair of Huarache 9 turfs in your bag for better traction and support through cuts and rolls on those hot turf fields!
6. Athletic Tape and Trainer Supplies
Minor injuries happen. A roll of athletic tape, blister pads, bandages, and basic first-aid supplies can help keep small issues from becoming major problems. While many tournaments have athletic trainers on-site, it's always smart to have your own supplies available.
7. Extra Strings
You never think you'll need them until you do. Keeping a few sidewall strings, shooting strings, and mesh pieces in your bag can help you make quick repairs if something breaks between games. Coming in all different colorways come grab your team color setup of Hero or Throne strings to have in an emergency!
8. Water Bottle and Hydration!!
Tournament weekends often mean multiple games in hot conditions. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to improve your performance and recovery. Bring a large water bottle and consider bringing some additional hydration supplements for between games to replace what you're losing through sweat. Check out Wynz, our newest addition to our line! Come grab our favorite bottle out there, the LU squeeze bottle! Easy to carry to games and ready for a quick sip.
9. Recovery Tools
The best players recover just as hard as they compete. Foam rollers, massage guns, stretching bands, and recovery sleeves can help keep your body feeling fresh throughout the weekend. Even a few minutes of recovery between games can make a noticeable difference late in the day.
10. Kane Recovery Footwear
After spending all day in cleats, your feet deserve a break. Kanes Recovery Shoes are perfect for post-game recovery, allowing your feet to relax while still providing support and comfort. Slip them on after your final game and you'll immediately understand why they've become a favorite among athletes.
Be Prepared for Anything
The players who get the most out of tournament season aren't always the most talented, they're often the most prepared. Before your next event, take a few minutes to go through your bag and make sure you have everything you need. A game-ready backup stick, fresh gear, hydration, and recovery essentials can help ensure you're focused on playing your best when the whistle blows. Need to stock up before your next tournament? Stop by your local Lacrosse Unlimited or shop online to make sure you're ready for whatever the weekend brings.
