Best Lacrosse Backstops Reviewed
9 backstops that attach to your goal or stand behind it, from 12 ft to 30 ft wide, rated on size, setup, collapsibility and durability, plus the backstop you can order today at BattleLax.
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Once you've got passing and catching down, shooting is one of the best ways to take your offensive game to the next level.
It gets really frustrating, though, when you have to chase down every miss or take something off your shot so you don't break a neighbor's window. Luckily, there's a fix: a lacrosse backstop.
Backstops are big nets that go behind your goal so your misses don't fly far, far away. They save you time shagging balls so you get more reps, and you can let it rip without worrying about breaking anything. This guide covers the best backstops out there and what to think about when you pick one.
Coach's note: I've heard the stories from every corner of the lax world: the upstate New York kid who put three balls through the garage window in one summer, the Virginia Beach family whose neighbor started keeping the balls, and the Ontario box shooter who wore a path in the lawn chasing misses. A backstop pays for itself in saved balls, saved windows and twice the reps.
Heads up: BattleLax carries one backstop, the Warrior 10x30, which matches the size and specs of the XL Champion backstop on this list. For the others, it's the closest pick they stock, and you'll find the full list below.
I spent 10 hours analyzing backstops to find the 9 best. I looked at type, size, how hard they are to put together, how well they collapse, customer reviews and the frame and net materials. Below are 2 backstops that connect right to your goal and 7 that stand behind it, in a range of sizes.
Our top picks
- Backstop that connects to goal: Smart Backstop Gen 3
- Budget backstop that connects to goal: EZGoal Monster
- XL behind-goal backstop: Champion 30 x 10 ft
- Large behind-goal backstop: Champion 21 x 11 ft and Lacrosse Scoop 20 x 10 ft
- Medium behind-goal backstop: PowerNet 16 x 10 ft and Rukket XL 16 x 10 ft
- Small behind-goal backstop: Rukket 12 x 9 ft
- Budget small behind-goal backstop: GoSports 12 x 9 ft
Overview of the best lacrosse backstops
| # | Backstop | Type | Drip | BattleLax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Smart Backstop for Lacrosse Goals, Gen 3 | Connects to goal | 5/5 | Alt |
| 02 | EZGoal Monster Lacrosse Backstop | Connects to goal | 4.4/5 | Alt |
| 03 | Champion Sports Lacrosse Backstop Net (30 x 10 ft) | Behind goal, XL | 4.6/5 | Alt |
| 04 | Champion Sports Lacrosse Backstop Net (21 x 11 ft) | Behind goal, large | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 05 | Lacrosse Scoop 20 x 10 ft Sports Backstop | Behind goal, large | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 06 | PowerNet 16 x 10 ft Sports Barrier Net | Behind goal, medium | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 07 | Rukket XL 16 x 10 ft Barricade Backstop Net | Behind goal, medium | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 08 | Rukket 12 x 9 ft Barricade Backstop Net | Behind goal, small | 5/5 | Alt |
| 09 | GoSports Portable 12 x 9 ft Sports Barrier Net | Behind goal, small | 4.8/5 | Alt |
"Alt" goes to the backstop BattleLax has in stock.
Best lacrosse backstop reviews
1. Smart Backstop for Lacrosse Goals, Gen 3 My #1 choice
- Drip level5/5
- TypeConnects to goal
- Size14 ft wide x 10 ft tall
- FrameNot listed, likely steel
- NetHeavy-duty, UV-resistant 45-ply polyethylene
- Shipping weight22 lbs
- AssemblyMinutes, no tools
- CollapsibilityFolds down behind the goal
- Warranty1 year
If I were buying a backstop today, this is the one I'd get. The best part is that it connects right to the goal instead of standing on its own behind it, so balls are less likely to get past it.
It has a high-quality frame and a strong net, and it folds down behind the goal when you're not using it.
On the downside, it's lacrosse-specific, so it's harder to use for other sports like soccer.
- Connects to the goal. I prefer backstops that attach to the goal. It cuts down on balls getting past when you ring the crossbar or miss badly.
- Sturdy. It won't blow over in heavy wind or on hard shots, and it comes with an extra counterweight you can add.
- Folds down behind the goal. When you're done for the day, it folds down so it takes up no more room than your goal.
- Great reviews. It has the best customer reviews of any backstop on this list.
- Great customer service. Buyers say Smart Sports Tek has been really helpful making things right.
- Lacrosse only. It needs a lacrosse goal to work, so if you want to use it for soccer or basketball, get a behind-goal backstop.
- May not work with very light goals. If your goal is really light, the backstop may be too heavy for it.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Smart Backstop for Lacrosse Goals, Gen 3. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
2. EZGoal Monster Lacrosse Backstop Budget attached
- Drip level4.4/5
- TypeConnects to goal
- Size11 ft wide x 8 ft tall
- FramePowder-coated 12-gauge steel
- NetNot listed
- Shipping weight23 lbs
- AssemblyEZGoal says minutes, some buyers say it's tough
- CollapsibilitySides fold in
- Warranty1 year
If you want a backstop that attaches to your goal on a smaller budget, the EZGoal Monster is a good option. It's not as big as the Smart Backstop, but it does a decent job stopping misses.
On the downside, it's smaller than the Smart Backstop, the net tends to rip quickly, and assembly can be a pain.
- Connects to the goal. Less chance of a ball getting by when you ring the crossbar or miss badly.
- Folds in for storage. The sides fold in easily to save space.
- Pretty small. It may not stop all your misses.
- Net rips easily. A lot of buyers complain the net rips.
- Tough assembly. It can be hard to put together, even with instructions.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the EZGoal Monster Lacrosse Backstop. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
3. Champion Sports Lacrosse Backstop Net (30 x 10 ft) Best XL
- Drip level4.6/5
- TypeBehind goal, XL
- Size30 ft wide x 10 ft tall
- Frame1.25" steel, T-bar construction
- Net2.5 mm high-extension nylon
- Shipping weight75 lbs
- AssemblyUnder 30 minutes, snaps together
- CollapsibilityCollapses and folds down quickly
- WarrantyNot listed
This is the biggest backstop on the list at a ridiculous 30 ft by 10 ft. If you shoot from way out, at low angles or really hard, the huge surface area makes it a great pick.
Even with its size, it's pretty easy to break down and move, and an extra person or two makes setup and takedown a lot easier.
- Huge. It's the biggest backstop here and should stop even the wildest shots.
- Freestanding. Unlike some backstops, it doesn't need to be staked into the ground.
- Collapsible and portable. Even this big, it collapses easily to move around the yard or take somewhere else.
- Thick net. The net should hold up well.
- Takes at least 2 people to set up. It's really tough to set up alone, so grab a parent or a buddy.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax's backstop, the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), has the same 30 ft by 10 ft size, 1.25" steel uprights and 2.5 mm net.
4. Champion Sports Lacrosse Backstop Net (21 x 11 ft) Best large
- Drip level4.8/5
- TypeBehind goal, large
- Size21 ft wide x 11 ft tall
- FrameSteel ground frame, flexible composite bow poles
- NetHigh-quality knotless netting
- Shipping weight60 lbs
- AssemblyMinutes, no tools
- CollapsibilityFits into a travel bag
- WarrantyNot listed
Another Champion backstop makes the list, this time the smaller (but still really big) 21 ft by 11 ft version. It's freestanding with a thick net like the XL, and it comes with a carrying case.
It's easier to assemble, set up and take down than the XL, and at 60 lbs, most players can carry it alone.
- Large. It's the second-biggest backstop here and should stop your misses with no problem.
- Freestanding. You won't need ground stakes to keep it up.
- Rhino Flex technology. The net flexes on impact, which cuts down on rips and adds stability.
- Easy setup. Really easy to set up, with no tools.
- Portable. It collapses easily and comes with a bag.
- Few reviews. There aren't many reviews online, so long-term durability is hard to judge.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Champion Sports Lacrosse Backstop Net (21 x 11 ft). The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
5. Lacrosse Scoop 20 x 10 ft Sports Backstop Best guarantee
- Drip level4.8/5
- TypeBehind goal, large
- Size20 ft wide x 10 ft tall
- FrameSteel frame, flexible vertical poles
- NetNot listed
- Shipping weight32 lbs
- AssemblyUnder 10 minutes, one person
- CollapsibilityCollapses easily, travel case included
- Warranty100% satisfaction guarantee
The Lacrosse Scoop backstop is another big behind-goal net that should stop almost all your misses. It's easy to set up and break down and comes with a travel case. Unlike the Champion nets, you have to stake it into the ground, but that's easy to do.
Another big plus is the 100% satisfaction guarantee. If anything breaks or goes wrong, Lacrosse Scoop will make it right, and plenty of buyers mentioned that in their reviews.
- Large. Big enough to stop most of your misses.
- Easy setup. Takes minutes and one person.
- Collapses easily. Takes minutes to take down, and it fits in the included case.
- Good customer service. Buyers say the team was helpful and fixed issues fast.
- Not freestanding. You need the 4 U-shaped stakes, though they take seconds to put in.
- Metal base issues. Some buyers say the base rusts and breaks easily.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Lacrosse Scoop 20 x 10 ft Sports Backstop. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
6. PowerNet 16 x 10 ft Sports Barrier Net Fastest setup
- Drip level4.8/5
- TypeBehind goal, medium
- Size16 ft wide x 10 ft tall
- FrameSteel frame, fiberglass bow poles
- NetKnotless polyester, polyurethane coating
- Shipping weight41 lbs
- AssemblyA few minutes, no tools
- CollapsibilityCollapses easily, travel case included
- Warranty1 year on frame and composite parts
If you have less room or don't need a huge backstop, this PowerNet is a great option. It's medium-sized but should still stop most of your shots.
Out of the box, it goes together in a few minutes with no tools. It's easy to set up and take down and comes with a carrying case. The 1-year warranty on the frame and composite parts is nice in case anything goes wrong early.
- Easy setup. One of the easiest and fastest to set up on this list.
- Durable. Lots of buyers were impressed with how well it holds up.
- Carrying case. Breaks down easily into a travel bag.
- May need extra weight. You may have to weigh down the frame so it doesn't blow over or shift.
- Net not covered. The warranty only covers the frame and composite parts, not the net.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the PowerNet 16 x 10 ft Sports Barrier Net. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
7. Rukket XL 16 x 10 ft Barricade Backstop Net Expandable
- Drip level4.8/5
- TypeBehind goal, medium
- Size16 ft wide x 10 ft tall
- Frame1" steel frame, flexible fiberglass poles
- Net7-ply knotless
- Shipping weight43 lbs
- AssemblyUnder 15 minutes for most
- CollapsibilityCollapses easily, travel case included
- Warranty100% lifetime warranty
This is another medium-sized backstop if you don't have room for, or don't need, a bigger one.
What makes it stand out is that you can buy an extra backstop and connector if you ever want to make it bigger or change its shape. If you move to a spot with more room or want more coverage, just add another.
- Easy setup and breakdown. Takes minutes and fits in a travel case.
- Lifetime warranty. If anything breaks, you can get a replacement part.
- Some frame issues. Some buyers say their frame broke.
- May need extra weight. In strong wind or if you shoot really hard, you may need to weigh it down.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Rukket XL 16 x 10 ft Barricade Backstop Net. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
8. Rukket 12 x 9 ft Barricade Backstop Net Best small
- Drip level5/5
- TypeBehind goal, small
- Size12 ft wide x 9 ft tall
- Frame1" steel frame, flexible fiberglass poles
- Net7-ply knotless
- Shipping weight24 lbs
- Assembly15 minutes or less, one person
- CollapsibilityCollapses easily, travel case included
- Warranty100% lifetime warranty
This Rukket is a lot like the medium Rukket above, just a little smaller. It comes with a carrying case, and you can add another backstop and connector to make it wider or change the shape.
- Collapses easily. Breaks down into the included travel case.
- Lifetime warranty. If anything breaks, you can get a replacement part.
- Small. As one of the smallest backstops here, some misses may get past it, especially off the crossbar.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Rukket 12 x 9 ft Barricade Backstop Net. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
9. GoSports Portable 12 x 9 ft Sports Barrier Net Best budget
- Drip level4.8/5
- TypeBehind goal, small
- Size12 ft wide x 9 ft tall
- FrameReinforced steel bow frame
- NetHigh-density polyester
- Shipping weight24 lbs
- AssemblyUnder 10 minutes, one person
- CollapsibilityCollapses easily, travel case included
- WarrantyLifetime warranty
The GoSports Portable is another smaller option for anyone who doesn't have the room for, or need, a big backstop. It's the cheapest backstop on this list but still has great reviews. It collapses easily and comes with a travel case.
- Collapses easily. Breaks down into the included travel case.
- Lifetime warranty. If anything breaks, you can get a replacement part.
- Smaller. As one of the smallest backstops here, some misses may get past it, especially off the crossbar.
- Some frame breaks. Some buyers say the frame broke within the first year.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the GoSports Portable 12 x 9 ft Sports Barrier Net. The backstop they stock is the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop ($224.99), a 30 ft wide, 10 ft tall steel-frame net with a 2.5 mm net and stakes included.
What to consider when choosing a lacrosse backstop
Still deciding? Here's what to think about before you buy.
1. Behind the goal vs. attached
Backstops that attach to your goal let fewer balls slip past, but you usually can't use them for other sports like you can with behind-goal backstops. If you only need one for lacrosse, I recommend an attached backstop. If you or your kids play other sports, a behind-goal backstop is the way to go and works just fine.
2. Size
How big a backstop do you need, and how much space do you have? If you shoot hard or take low-angle shots, think about a wider backstop. Anything 20 ft or wider should stop most lacrosse shots.
If you have a younger kid who doesn't shoot very hard, or you're short on room, a smaller backstop should be fine. Keep in mind a lacrosse goal is 6 ft wide, so a 10 ft wide backstop only covers about 2 ft on each side. Need a goal? See our best lacrosse goals and best portable goals.
3. Collapsibility
Are you leaving your backstop in the yard or wherever you practice, or moving it around a lot? If you're moving it, look for one that collapses easily and comes with a travel bag. In my opinion, the most important part is not having to reattach the net to the frame every time you set it up and take it down.
4. Assembly
Look for a backstop that isn't too hard to put together. Depending on how they ship, backstops can be really easy or really, really hard to assemble out of the box. Read reviews to get a sense of how tough it is. Speaking of which…
5. Customer reviews
It's important to read reviews (like I did for this guide) to get an idea of how durable and sturdy a backstop is, among other things. Real players' experiences will tell you a lot more than the company's marketing.
How we rate lacrosse backstops
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend gear we'd use ourselves. To rate each backstop, we test it ourselves whenever we can, dig into the specs (weight, materials and so on), and read reviews and talk to players we know who use it.
We can't get our hands on every backstop out there, but we try out as many as we can. When we test backstops, we mostly look at how easy they are to set up, how big they are and how well they hold up, plus whether the materials feel high quality. If you have feedback or want us to add a backstop, let us know!
Final thoughts
When I got my first backstop in high school, I was thrilled to stop shagging balls and worrying about hitting my neighbor's house. I'm confident a backstop will help you take your game to the next level, since you'll get more reps and can shoot as hard as you want.
I hope this guide helped you find the right backstop. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Here are some other training aids to go with it:
- Goal: Need a goal to shoot on? Try the Champion Backyard Lacrosse Goal 6'x6' ($215.00) or see our recommended lacrosse goals.
- Rebounder: A great way to practice catching feeds and shooting. Try the Champion Sports Deluxe Lacrosse Rebounder ($270.00) or see our recommended rebounders.
- Balls: You can't shoot without balls! Grab Pearl X Greaseless Balls (3-pack) ($19.99) or see our recommended lacrosse balls.
- Targets and shot blockers: To practice picking smaller spots, try the Champion Rhino Corner Targets ($46.99) or the Maverik Paul Wall Goal Blocker ($69.99).
Backstops and training gear in stock at BattleLax
Want something you can order today? Here's the backstop and the training gear to go with it that BattleLax carries right now.
| Product | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop | Backstop, 30 x 10 ft | $224.99 |
| Champion Pro High School Lacrosse Goal | Official 6x6 goal | $346.99 |
| Champion Backyard Lacrosse Goal 6'x6' | Backyard 6x6 goal | $215.00 |
| Champion Sports Deluxe Lacrosse Rebounder | Rebounder | $270.00 |
| Champion Rhino Corner Targets | Corner targets | $46.99 |
| Maverik Paul Wall Goal Blocker | Goal blocker | $69.99 |
| Pearl X Greaseless Balls (3-pack) | Game balls | $19.99 |
Prices and stock change, so check the product page before you order.
People also ask
What is the best lacrosse backstop?
Our top pick is the Smart Backstop Gen 3 because it attaches right to your goal. For a big behind-goal net, the 30 x 10 ft backstop is the biggest on our list, and BattleLax carries the Warrior 10x30 Lacrosse Backstop in that size.
How wide should a lacrosse backstop be?
For hard shooters or low-angle shots, go 20 ft wide or more. A lacrosse goal is 6 ft wide, so a 10 ft backstop only covers about 2 ft on each side.
Should I get a backstop that attaches to the goal or stands behind it?
Attached backstops let fewer balls slip by but usually only work for lacrosse. If you or your kids play other sports, a behind-goal backstop is more versatile.
Do lacrosse backstops need to be staked down?
Some are freestanding and some need stakes. Lighter nets may also need extra weight in wind or if you shoot really hard.
