Why the Right Mouthguard Matters in Lacrosse
A high-quality mouthguard is one of the most important protective items in lacrosse — whether you play box or field. A mouthguard is essential for jaw and dental safety in lacrosse. It protects your teeth, helps prevent injury to the teeth and jaw, reduces impact on your jaw, shields your lips and gums, and can even help lower concussion risk by absorbing shock from checks, collisions, and accidental stick contact. Athletes feel protected when using a high-quality mouthguard. Many lacrosse athletes tend to chew on their mouthguards during gameplay, so it's important to choose comfortable and durable mouth guards that can withstand this habit and still provide proper protection. With a properly fitted mouthguard, players no longer have to worry about dental injuries. Athletes who do not wear mouthguards are significantly more likely to sustain dental injuries, making them a critical piece of equipment for safety.
In 2026, players want mouthguards that offer elite protection without sacrificing breathability, communication, or comfort. Certain players, such as those in more physical positions or with specific needs, may require more protection from their mouth guards to ensure maximum safety. Below are the best options available at Sanderson Lacrosse.
What Makes a Great Lacrosse Mouthguard?
Strong Impact Absorption
Protects from high-speed shots, checks, and collisions — crucial in both box and field lacrosse.
Secure, Comfortable Fit
A well-molded mouthguard should stay in place without needing to bite down constantly. It should also fit tightly and not be easily removable by the tongue, which helps prevent chewing and ensures consistent protection. A good fit is essential for maintaining the mouthguard's protective qualities during play.
Breathability
Players need to communicate, breathe hard, stay conditioned, and, thanks to modern designs, can even drink easily during play. Modern slim-fit designs help with airflow, allowing athletes to speak and breathe effectively while still providing protection.
A mouthguard with excellent breathability and communication features enables athletes to perform at their highest level during intense play.
Durability
Lacrosse is a high-wear sport. Mouthguards must withstand chewing, hits, and moisture. Proper care, such as cleaning them regularly, is essential to maintain hygiene and extend their longevity. Regular cleaning also helps prevent the buildup of bacteria, ensuring the mouthguard remains safe to use. Mouthguards should also be stored in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage and maintain their shape.
Easy Moldability
Boil-and-bite and warm-fit designs offer a customized shape for comfort and safety, and some mouthguards are easier to mold than others. Achieving the perfect fit may require some work during the molding process, but the results are worth it for comfort and safety. Game On Mouthguards are created using innovative materials and made from a proprietary polymer that absorbs up to two times more shock than regular mouthguards, making them a standout option for players seeking enhanced protection.
Starting the fitting process correctly—such as ensuring the mouthguard is floppy before shaping—helps achieve the best fit. Custom mouthguards are engineered to absorb more shock than standard mouthguards, providing better protection for athletes during high-impact play. This makes them an excellent choice for players seeking both comfort and superior safety. Custom mouthguards are also beneficial for men lacrosse players to provide adequate protection against jaw injuries.
Taking the right amount of time during molding ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Best Lacrosse Mouthguards We Carry at Sanderson Lacrosse (Ranked)
Nike Alpha Mouthguard — Best Slim-Fit Athletic Mouthguard
Lightweight and breathable, the Nike Alpha Mouthguard is a great option for players who want maximum comfort and minimal bulk. It fits securely and comfortably, conforming to your teeth and mouth for optimal protection. The design allows excellent airflow, making it ideal for fast-moving field players and ensuring optimal performance during the game.
Best for: Attack, midfield, youth players, fast-transition styles
Why players love it: Soft feel, sleek profile, easy to mold
Product link: Nike Alpha Mouthguard
SISU Aero Max Mouthguard — Best for Speaking, Breathing & Comfort
The SISU Aero Max is one of the most advanced slim mouthguards on the market. It’s incredibly thin, highly breathable, and allows players to talk clearly while wearing it — perfect for field lacrosse communication and long shifts. The mouthguard stays securely in place thanks to the support of the tongue, ensuring comfort and stability during play. SISU Mouthguards are also engineered to withstand impact and are built with perforations that redirect impact forces, enhancing their protective capabilities.
Best for: Field players, box offensive players, communication-heavy roles
Why it stands out: Ultra-thin, highly breathable, remoldable
Product link: SISU Aero Mouthguard
Shock Doctor Gel Max — Best Overall Protection at a Great Value
The Shock Doctor Gel Max has long been one of the most trusted mouthguards in sports. It offers a secure fit, strong protection, and a gel layer for comfort. This mouthguard is also suitable for players with braces, providing protection without interfering with orthodontic appliances. It is one of the few mouthguards to have earned the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance for its effectiveness in protecting teeth from impact trauma. Game On Mouthguards are the only other mouthguard to have earned this prestigious recognition.
Best for: Youth, high school, box players, beginners
Why players choose it: Durable, comfortable, budget-friendly
Product link: Shock Doctor Gel Max Mouthguard
Shock Doctor Gel Max Power — Enhanced Comfort & Reinforced Protection
An upgraded version of the Gel Max, the Gel Max Power is engineered for enhanced impact absorption and stability, offering a more refined fit. A step up for players who want stronger bite stability and extra durability.
Best for: Box lacrosse, defenders, high-impact play
Why it’s elite: Premium shock protection, firm stability, stronger materials
Product link: Shock Doctor Gel Max Power Mouthguard
CCM 3D Fit Mouthguard — Best Premium Custom-Fit Feel
The CCM 3D Fit Mouthguard molds precisely using a warm-water fit system, giving players a near-custom feel. It’s comfortable, stable, and ideal for athletes who want premium protection without the bulk. This mouthguard is also a great choice for team players seeking a custom-fit feel to enhance collective performance and safety.
Best for: Competitive players, box athletes, elite-level field players
Why players love it: Excellent fit, high-end comfort, excellent jaw support
Product link: CCM 3D Mouthguard
Box vs Field Lacrosse Mouthguards
Box Lacrosse
Box is more physical, with closer contact and harder cross-checks, so players should prioritize maximum protection. The type of helmet and facial protection, such as face cages commonly used in box lacrosse, can influence which mouthguard is best suited for each player. Additionally, lacrosse mouthguard needs are gender-specific due to differences in equipment between men's and women's lacrosse. Women lacrosse players require mouthguards with proper frontal protection due to the lack of a helmet or face cage. Men lacrosse players need protection against upper and lower jaw collisions because of legal body contact in the sport.
Best picks for box:
- Shock Doctor Gel Max
- Shock Doctor Gel Max Power
- CCM 3D Fit
- SISU Aero Max (for offensive players who want quick communication)
Field Lacrosse
Field players benefit from breathability and communication, especially offense and midfield roles.
Best picks for field:
- Nike Alpha
- SISU Aero Max
- CCM 3D Fit
How to Properly Fit a Lacrosse Mouthguard
Heat & Mold
Follow the specific instructions for each brand (boil-and-bite or warm-water molding).
Center the Mouthguard
Ensure even coverage on upper teeth and bite gently.
Suction Fit
Use suction and finger pressure to contour the guard to your teeth.
Remold if Needed
SISU and CCM models can be remolded for adjustments.
When to Replace Your Mouthguard
Replace it if it becomes:
- Torn or cracked
- Loose
- Chewed
- Irritating or uncomfortable
- Too small (growing youth players)
Most athletes replace theirs once per season, with many choosing to get a new mouthguard every year.
Final Recommendations
Best overall protection: Shock Doctor Gel Max Power
Best slim-fit comfort: SISU Aero Max
Best for youth and beginners: Shock Doctor Gel Max
Best for box lacrosse: CCM 3D Fit or Gel Max Power
Best for field players who talk a lot: Nike Alpha or SISU Aero Max
Sanderson Lacrosse is thrilled to offer these top-rated mouthguards to help keep players safe and performing at their best.
