Best Lacrosse Backpacks (Boys & Girls)
Seven backpacks we went through nook by nook, rated on looks, storage and who they fit best, plus the ones you can order today from Battle Lax.
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So you've stocked up on all your gear, but how are you supposed to get it all to the field? One great option is a lacrosse backpack with all the bells and whistles you need to store and carry your equipment and sticks in style.
Unlike a lot of other sports bags, lacrosse backpacks value versatility, convenience and ease. They're compact without sacrificing the space you need for everything from your pads to your stick to (in most cases) your helmet. This guide breaks down the best lacrosse backpacks on the market so you can find the right one.
We went through the best lacrosse backpacks for both boys and girls, looking at every nook and cranny so you don't have to. We focused on appearance, storage space, and who each bag suits best. After enough years of watching kids dump their gear out in Virginia Beach tournament parking lots, I can tell you the bag matters more than you'd think.
The 7 best lacrosse backpacks
- Lacrosse Unlimited Overtime Backpack
- Harrow Elite Lacrosse Backpack
- Athletico Extra Large Lacrosse Backpack
- Athletico Youth Lacrosse Bag
- STX Lacrosse Sidewinder Backpack
- Brine Blueprint Lacrosse Backpack (available at Battle Lax)
- Erant Lacrosse Backpack w/ Stick Holder
Compare all 7
| # | Backpack | Best for | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | LU Overtime | Teens & older | 5/5 | Alt |
| 02 | Harrow Elite | Team orders | 4.9/5 | Alt |
| 03 | Athletico XL | Big gear loads | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 04 | Athletico Youth | Youth players | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 05 | STX Sidewinder | Compact & simple | 4.6/5 | Alt |
| 06 | Brine Blueprint | Girls & younger boys | 4.6/5 | Buy |
| 07 | Erant | Best budget | 4.4/5 | Alt |
Lacrosse backpack reviews
1) Lacrosse Unlimited Overtime Backpack Top pick
Tons of storage for the pack-rat laxer who can never have enough room.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 25" H x 17" W x 6" D
- Colors: Black Camo, Grey Camo, Navy Camo, Tan Camo
- Stick holders: 2 (one on each side)
- Key features: Additional back straps, water bottle holder
- Warranty: 30 days
The Lacrosse Unlimited Overtime Backpack is perfect for the pack-rat, older laxer who can never have enough storage space for his gear. Six compartments, including one large pocket, give you enough space and organization to keep all of your gear exactly how you like it.
The two stick holders are great for anyone bringing a backup stick to games and practices. Straps on the back let you carry your helmet outside the bag without giving up any internal space, and a lap strap keeps the carry secure no matter how loaded down you are.
This is the perfect bag for a teen or older player who can handle the weight and has the amount of gear this bag begs for. Admittedly, the camouflage pattern isn't everyone's cup of tea.
- Tons of storage space and a large main pocket
- Dual stick holders
- Extra back straps for your helmet
- Super durable (based on customer reviews)
- Camo patterns may not be for everyone
- On the expensive side
Who it's for: High school and older players with a lot of gear and a backup stick.
At Battle Lax: the Lacrosse Unlimited Overtime Backpack isn't sold at Battle Lax. Our closest in-stock alternative is the Maverik Hometown Hero Backpack ($84.99).
2) Harrow Elite Lacrosse Backpack
Twelve colors and plenty of room for team logos and names.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 18" H x 12" W x 11" D
- Colors: 12 options
- Stick holders: 2 (one on each side)
- Key features: Lots of space for personalization
- Warranty: 1 year (one-time replacement)
If you're a player, coach, or parent looking for customizable options to fit your team's needs and colors, the Harrow Elite Backpack is a great option. The wide range of colors and fairly bare look will fit any team's scheme and leave room for logo or name embroidery.
Even if you're not shopping for a team, the Elite Backpack isn't a bad way to go. Its compartments fit all your protective gear (besides your helmet), and two stick holders are great for those of you with a backup stick. The material and construction are also notably durable.
The downside is that it doesn't offer much beyond the basics and may not fit your helmet and cleats. It's still a great option for a team purchase and will meet the capacity needs of girls' players and most boys' and men's players.
- Multiple color options
- Space for personalization
- Dual adjustable stick holders
- Heavier fabric and reinforced straps for durability
- Cushioned back for comfort
- Smaller storage space
- No external helmet holder or straps
- More expensive than other options
Who it's for: Teams ordering matching bags, and players who want their name on it.
At Battle Lax: the Harrow Elite Lacrosse Backpack isn't sold at Battle Lax. Our closest in-stock alternative is the Warrior Q10 Jet Pack Lacrosse Backpack ($64.99).
3) Athletico Extra Large Lacrosse Backpack
All the bells and whistles, including a fence hook, at an affordable price.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 24" H x 15" W x 11" D
- Colors: Black, Blue
- Stick holders: 2 (one on each side)
- Key features: Front helmet straps, cleats pocket, water bottle holder
- Warranty: 1 year
Affordability and capacity come together in the Athletico Extra Large Lacrosse Backpack, a great option if you want a bag with more space. It has all the bells and whistles: two stick holders, a cleats compartment at the bottom, a water bottle holder, and room for every piece of equipment in your arsenal and then some. Even the fence hook shows Athletico has thought of everything a player needs.
So where's the rub? Durability and awkwardness are the two major drawbacks. There have been reports of zippers breaking and the material being less than sturdy over time. And although it claims an ergonomic design, the sheer amount of gear you can fit makes it a tough carry for a smaller player. Even so, Athletico's one-year warranty and satisfaction guarantee give you time to find out if it works for you.
This probably isn't the best option for a girls' lacrosse player, since most won't need the extra space and compartments.
- Front helmet straps save internal space
- Affordable for the size and quality
- Fence hook for off-ground storage
- Water-resistant material
- Cleats compartment for cleanliness and convenience
- Thinner shell makes personalization difficult
- Some durability questions
- May be too big for younger players
Who it's for: Boys who carry a full set of pads, a helmet and two sticks.
At Battle Lax: the Athletico Extra Large Lacrosse Backpack isn't sold at Battle Lax. Our closest in-stock alternative is the Warrior Black Hole Lacrosse Bag ($84.99).
4) Athletico Youth Lacrosse Bag
The same features as the XL in a smaller package.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 19.5" H x 14" W x 10" D
- Colors: Black, Blue, Pink, Red
- Stick holders: 2 (one on each side)
- Key features: Helmet holder, cleat pocket, water bottle holder
- Warranty: 1 year
Smaller than the Athletico Extra Large Backpack above, the Youth bag is better suited to younger players or anyone with less gear to carry. It has all the same features as its bigger brother but gives up some size and the supportive hip strap. Even scaled down, it can still be a tough carry for a small player when it's fully loaded.
The cleats pocket is the highlight feature on both sizes. It keeps your dirty cleats separate from the rest of your gear and is vented to help them dry.
There are some durability questions with this bag, though. One buyer's backpack showed up missing a stick holder, which raises questions about the sturdiness of that feature. The water bottle holders also may not fit larger bottles; it's definitely a skinny-plastic-bottle pocket. Still, for the price, features, and satisfaction guarantee, the Athletico is a quality option.
- Front helmet straps save internal space
- Fence hook for off-ground storage
- Water-resistant material
- Cleats compartment for cleanliness and convenience
- Thinner shell makes personalization difficult
- Some durability questions
- Can be big for very young players
Who it's for: Youth players (boys and girls) who want the full feature set.
At Battle Lax: the Athletico Youth Lacrosse Bag isn't sold at Battle Lax. Our closest in-stock alternative is the Warrior Q10 Jet Pack Lacrosse Backpack ($64.99).
5) STX Lacrosse Sidewinder Backpack
A minimalist, durable bag for players who don't need extra frills.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 19.25" H x 14" W x 9" D
- Colors: Black, Columbia/Black, Red/Black
- Stick holder: Adjustable side straps for one
- Key features: Accessory pocket inside, heavy-duty base
- Warranty: 30 days
The STX Sidewinder is a minimalist backpack with a smaller frame, best for a younger player or anyone who prefers a compact bag. Two large compartments easily fit protective gear and cleats, with extra room for your lacrosse balls. The outside stick holder makes for easy stick storage without making the bag awkward to carry.
The main drawback is helmet storage. The bag isn't built for larger helmets, so it may not be the bag your young player grows into. There also aren't any outer straps beyond the stick holder for carrying a helmet.
This is the perfect bag for someone who doesn't need any extra frills and wants durable, easy-to-maintain storage for their gear.
- Adjustable stick straps fit all shaft sizes
- Space for embroidery and personalization
- Mesh interior to prevent moisture buildup
- Durable, stiff nylon for a longer life
- May not fit your helmet
- No water bottle holder
- No outside straps beyond those for the stick
Who it's for: Players who want a simple, durable bag with no extras.
At Battle Lax: the STX Lacrosse Sidewinder Backpack isn't sold at Battle Lax. Our closest in-stock alternative is the Battle Lax Under Armour Backpack ($79.99).
6) Brine Blueprint Lacrosse Backpack
Compact and easy to carry, with a front carabiner for your helmet.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 20" H x 15" W x 5.5" D
- Colors: Black, Grey/Black, Forest Green, Grey, Red, Blue
- Stick holder: Yes, adjustable side straps for one
- Key features: Front helmet carabiner
- Warranty: 30 days
The Brine Blueprint is a great bag for girls' lacrosse and the younger boys' lacrosse players in your household. Its compact, smaller design is easier to carry for a smaller frame.
One large main compartment and a smaller front pocket make it easy to keep track of your gear without losing anything in extra space. A front carabiner makes up for the smaller interior and is perfect for carrying your helmet.
The minimalist style leaves plenty of room for personalization, so you can give the bag your own individual or team flair. If you're looking for a backpack your younger boys' player can grow into, though, this may not be your best option.
- Smaller, minimalist design
- Front carabiner for carrying a helmet
- Multiple color options and space for personalization
- No extra storage space
- Relatively plain design (could be a positive for some)
Who it's for: Girls' players and younger boys who want a light, simple bag.
At Battle Lax: Battle Lax carries the Brine Blueprint Women's Lacrosse Backpack in black and navy, on sale for $54.99 (regularly $64.99). Stock has been running low, so check availability.
7) Erant Lacrosse Backpack w/ Stick Holder
The most affordable bag on our list that doesn't skimp on storage.
Key details:
- Dimensions: 19.5" H x 14" W x 10" D
- Colors: Black
- Stick holders: 2 (one on each side)
- Key features: Cleat pocket, helmet holder
- Warranty: 30 days
If you're looking for a lacrosse backpack for a younger player, the Erant may be the perfect choice. It packs everything you need: two stick straps, a helmet holder, a cleats pocket, and enough compartments to get all of your gear to and from the field. A locker/fence hook on the back keeps your bag high and dry during those wet early-season months (if you've ever played a March game in upstate New York, you know).
The only problems we've seen are that it can be hard to get into when fully loaded and a bit top-heavy for a smaller player. Despite those drawbacks, it's the most affordable backpack on our list that doesn't skimp on storage or features. It should fit a player's needs from youth to high school and beyond.
- Vented cleat pocket for cleanliness
- Dual stick holders
- Multiple open storage pockets
- Locker/fence hook for easy storing and drying
- Hard to access when fully loaded
- Can be top-heavy with two sticks and a helmet
- Few color and customization options
Who it's for: Budget-minded families with a youth or high school player.
At Battle Lax: the Erant Lacrosse Backpack w/ Stick Holder isn't sold at Battle Lax. Our closest in-stock alternative is the Warrior Q10 Jet Pack Lacrosse Backpack ($64.99).
In stock now at Battle Lax
Most of the backpacks above aren't sold at Battle Lax, so here's what you can order today:
Maverik Hometown Hero Backpack
Laptop sleeve, two accessory pockets, a snack pocket and a separate shoe compartment.
Maverik's Hometown Hero is built for the player going straight from class to practice: a laptop and tablet sleeve in the main pocket, two front accessory compartments, a side snack pocket, side loops to carry your stick hands-free, an isolated shoe compartment and a suitcase sleeve for tournament travel.
Warrior Q10 Jet Pack Lacrosse Backpack
Warrior's everyday lacrosse backpack.
A straightforward lacrosse backpack from Warrior at a solid price, for youth and high school players who need a reliable bag to get to practice.
Battle Lax Under Armour Backpack
The Battle Lax-branded Under Armour backpack.
A clean everyday backpack that works for school, travel and practice, and reps the shop at the same time.
Warrior Black Hole Lacrosse Bag
Warrior's all-time best seller, for players who outgrow a backpack.
Not a backpack, but if you're hauling multiple sticks, the Black Hole's full-length side pocket stores complete sticks and extra shafts, with a separate wet gear and shoe compartment. 42" L x 13" W x 12" H, in black, navy and gray.
Advantages of lacrosse backpacks
1) Easier to transport and store than full-sized bags
The biggest advantage of a backpack over a full-sized lacrosse bag is how easy it is to carry and store. A backpack gives you all the space you need for gear without the rigidity and clunkiness of a full-sized bag, so you have more storage options when it's not in use.
A backpack is also much easier to lug around than a single-strap bag, especially for a younger, smaller player. The ergonomic design makes getting your gear to and from the field less taxing, so you can save that energy for the game.
2) Most fit all your equipment
As mentioned above, even though they're backpacks, these options don't skimp on space. External holders for your helmet and stick straps make up for the smaller design. Keep in mind that not every backpack has helmet and stick carriers, so do your research if those are must-haves.
3) Can use them for other purposes
This can't be overstated: the best part of a lacrosse backpack is that, at its core, it's still a backpack. It's useful beyond the lacrosse field. It can carry your books to school or hold your hockey gear in the winter months. Several bags on this list also work well for field hockey. If you want an all-purpose carrier, a lacrosse backpack is a great way to go.
4) Cheaper than full-sized bags
Backpacks are cheaper than full-sized bags, a LOT cheaper in some cases. In recent years, the price, storage options, and versatility have made the lacrosse backpack the common-sense choice for most players. A backpack isn't just cheaper; it meets most capacity needs with added convenience, giving you more bang for your buck.
5) Long pole approved
If you play long pole, a backpack is definitely preferable to a full-sized bag, since you'll likely be carrying your stick either way. Unless it's built for a long pole, a full-sized bag won't hold your stick inside. A backpack covers all your gear and frees up both hands to carry your pole safely. (Shopping for a pole? See our best lacrosse defense shafts.)
Disadvantages of lacrosse backpacks
1) They don't carry as much as full-sized bags
The most obvious knock: a backpack doesn't match the capacity of a full-sized lacrosse bag. That matters if you want to bring multiples of your equipment to the field. A backpack is really meant for your everyday needs without extras, so if you want one carrier that holds all your equipment year-round, a full-sized bag may be better.
Backpacks are fine for a few extra balls and some stick hardware, but if you like to pack balls by the dozen and a full do-it-yourself stringing kit, a backpack may not have the room on top of your pads and cleats. (Need a separate bag for balls? See our best lacrosse ball bags.)
2) May not match team bags
A backpack may be convenient for you, but it may not be the bag your team requires. Your team may supply an official bag with team branding so everyone looks uniform rolling into games, so check with your coach before you buy.
See our picks for the best full-sized lacrosse bags here, plus our guide to the best women's lacrosse backpacks.
People also ask
What size lacrosse backpack do I need?
Younger players and girls' players can usually go with a smaller bag like the Brine Blueprint. Older boys carrying pads, a helmet and two sticks should look at a larger bag with two stick holders and external helmet straps.
Is a lacrosse backpack better than a lacrosse bag?
For most players, yes: backpacks are easier to carry, cheaper and double as a school bag. Players who carry multiple sets of gear may still want a full-size bag.
What should a lacrosse backpack have?
Stick holders, a way to carry your helmet, a vented cleat pocket, a water bottle holder and a fence hook are the features that make the biggest difference.
