Building our own portable lacrosse goal is a great way to save money and get creative. We just need a handful of basic materials and a few straightforward steps to make a goal that’s sturdy and easy to move. Forget fancy equipment or specialty tools—this is totally doable.
We can tweak the design for our own needs and make sure it’s safe for everyone. The instructions here are clear enough that we can build, move, and enjoy our lacrosse goal just about anywhere we want.
Key Takeaways
- Materials are easy to find; steps are simple to follow
- Portable design means practice anywhere, anytime
- Safety and care tips help the goal last
Essential Materials for a DIY Portable Lacrosse Goal
To make a portable goal that holds up, we want the right pipes, netting, and hardware. The better the materials, the easier it is to move and the longer it’ll survive outside.
Recommended Piping and Connectors
For the frame, PVC pipe is a classic go-to. It’s light, surprisingly strong, and super easy to cut. Look for 1.5-inch diameter Schedule 40 PVC—it’s tough enough for shots but not so bulky that it’s a pain to carry. Figure on needing about 30 feet total for the frame.
Connectors are just as important. We’ll need elbows, tees, and cross fittings—usually four elbows and four tees do the trick. These snap the frame together and let us break it down fast. If we want it even more portable, adding a couple detachable couplers helps. Metal pipes like galvanized steel are an option for a heavy-duty build, but they weigh more and cost extra.
Choosing the Right Netting
Lacrosse goals take a beating, so netting needs to be tough. Go for weather-resistant nylon or polyester with either square or diamond mesh. Mesh should be no bigger than 1.5 inches to catch the ball. For backyard use, netting around 2.5 mm thick works, but 3 mm or more is even better for durability.
The net needs to cover a 6x6 foot frame, with a bit extra for tying. Zip ties, sturdy string, or bungee cords work well for attaching it. If the net’s UV-resistant, even better—it’ll last way longer in the sun.
Hardware and Tools Checklist
We don’t need a huge toolbox. Here’s what helps:
- Measuring tape
- Permanent marker for marking
- PVC cutter or hacksaw
- Rubber mallet
- Safety goggles
- Drill with bits (if using screws)
- Zip ties, rope, or bungee cords for the net
No table saw required! For metal, grab a pipe cutter and gloves. A tidy workspace makes everything easier—no one likes stepping on pipes or losing a connector mid-build.
Step-By-Step Construction Guide
We need to measure, cut, and assemble the frame so it stands up and the net stays tight. Each step matters if we want the goal to last.
Cutting and Prepping the Materials
First, lay out the PVC and double-check measurements. Use a measuring tape and mark where to cut for the top bar, sides, base, and back supports. Here’s a sample breakdown:
| Pipe Section | Length | Quantity Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Top bar | 6 feet | 1 |
| Sides | 6 feet | 2 |
| Base | 4 feet | 2 |
| Back supports | 3 feet | 2 |
Cut as straight as you can with a hacksaw or pipe cutter. Sand off rough edges—no one wants a splinter or a pipe that won’t fit. Lay out all the pieces on the ground, matching your diagram, before moving on. Catching mistakes now saves a headache later.
Assembling the Frame
Now, time to build. Connect the sides to the top bar with PVC elbows. Press and twist until they’re snug. If you want a permanent hold, use PVC cement, but then it won’t come apart easily for storage.
Attach the base bars with T-joints to the sides and back supports. This gives the goal its shape and helps it stand up, even when you rip a shot at it. Make sure everything’s level—nobody likes a crooked goal.
If it’s wobbly, press the pipes together tighter or check your cuts. A rubber mallet can help close gaps. Once it feels solid, you’re ready for the net.
Attaching the Net Securely
The net should be about 6x6 feet. Drape it over the frame and line up the corners. Use zip ties, hook-and-loop straps, or bungee cords to attach it.
Start in one corner and work around, pulling the net tight. Don’t crank the ties so hard you rip the net. Trim off any extra zip tie tails for a cleaner look.
If you see saggy spots, add a few more ties. Once it’s snug all the way around, you’re good to go.
Portability Features and Design Upgrades
A portable goal means we can use it anywhere and stash it away easily. The design should be quick to break down, fit in a trunk, and handle a little bad weather.
Collapsible Frame Techniques
There are a few ways to make the frame collapsible. Snap-button fittings (like on folding chairs) let pipes come apart with a push.
Hinges at the corners—simple door or gate hinges—let us fold the sides flat for storage.
Or, use sectional pipes and label each piece. It’s like assembling a puzzle, and you’ll never forget which part goes where. PVC and aluminum are easy to cut and drill, which makes things smoother.
Lightweight and Weatherproofing Tips
PVC and aluminum are both light, so the goal’s easy to carry. Aluminum costs more but won’t rust and holds up well.
Pick a weather-resistant nylon or polyester net so it dries fast and doesn’t get heavy. Skip cotton nets—they soak up water and get gross.
A little outdoor spray paint or sealant on the frame helps protect against rust, sun, and cracking. If you use PVC, paint it a bright color so you don’t lose it in the grass. Plus, it just looks cooler.
Safety Considerations When Building and Using
Safety first! When using saws or drills, wear safety goggles and gloves. Work somewhere bright and keep your space tidy.
Sand down any rough edges on pipes so nobody gets cut.
Here’s a quick gear checklist:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Safety glasses | Protect our eyes |
| Gloves | Keep hands safe |
| Closed shoes | Protect our feet |
When you use power tools, actually read the manual. Guessing usually ends with a busted thumb.
After building, check for loose joints or sharp corners. Add extra zip ties or tape if the net feels loose or snaggy.
Set up the goal on flat ground so it won’t tip. If it’s windy, anchor it down—chasing a goal across the park is never fun.
If kids are around, keep an eye out. Lacrosse balls hurt, so wearing a helmet when shooting is just smart.
Let’s keep it safe so everyone can play and go home in one piece.
Maintaining Your DIY Portable Lacrosse Goal
A little care keeps the goal in good shape and safe to use. Most problems are easy to fix if we stay on top of them.
Cleaning and Storage Advice
Brush off dirt and mud after each use. A broom or damp cloth works for the frame and net. For tough spots, a bit of mild soap is fine—just rinse it off well.
Net care tips:
- Shake out grass and leaves
- Patch holes fast with net twine
- Let the net dry before storing to avoid mildew
If it rains, let the whole thing dry before putting it away. If it’s stored outside, toss a tarp over it. Otherwise, keep the pieces dry in a garage or shed to avoid rust.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the frame gets loose or wobbly, tighten the connectors. Bent pipes can sometimes be straightened by hand or with a gentle tap from a rubber mallet.
If the net slips off, zip ties or bungees fix it quick. For holes, tie with string or patch it up until you get a new net.
Quick troubleshooting table:
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Loose frame | Tighten bolts/connectors |
| Bent poles | Straighten by hand or mallet |
| Net holes/tears | Tie or patch with twine/kit |
| Parts missing | Keep extras on hand |
Frequently Asked Questions
We all want a lacrosse goal that’s the right size, safe, easy to move, and doesn’t break the bank. Picking the right stuff and netting really helps it last and play well outdoors.
What are the ideal dimensions for a homemade lacrosse goal?
Standard lacrosse goals are 6 feet high by 6 feet wide, with a depth of 7 feet at the base. That’s the pro size. For backyard play or younger kids, 4x4 feet works, but honestly, 6x6 is better for learning real skills.
Can you list the materials needed to construct a sturdy portable lacrosse goal?
Here’s what you need:
- PVC pipes (1.5-inch or 2-inch diameter, about 30 feet)
- Four 90-degree elbows
- Two T-joints
- Zip ties or strong cord
- A lacrosse net (or heavy-duty netting)
- Measuring tape, saw, and marker for cutting
If you want extra stability, ground stakes are a good add-on.
How do you ensure stability for a lacrosse goal made out of PVC?
A wider base keeps the goal steady, especially when we get a little too competitive. If we use thicker PVC—like 2-inch pipes—it cuts down on annoying wobble. On windy days or when shots get wild, tossing a couple of sandbags on the base or staking it down with tent stakes usually does the trick. Honestly, sometimes we improvise with whatever's lying around.
What's the best netting material for a DIY lacrosse goal that won't break the bank?
Nylon netting or heavy-duty polyester mesh usually gets the job done for backyard games without costing too much. Replacement lacrosse nets pop up online or in sports shops, but honestly, thick garden netting from a hardware store works surprisingly well if you're in a pinch. It might not last forever, but for the price? Can't complain.
Are there any portable lacrosse goals design that can fold for easy storage and transport?
You can throw together a foldable design if you connect some PVC joints with bungee cords or pins, so the parts swing and collapse flat. Hinges are an option too, though they're a bit more of a hassle. Sure, you can buy folding metal goals, but with a few clever PVC connections, you can build a portable goal yourself and stash it away in minutes. Why overcomplicate it?
Could you give a simple, step-by-step guide to assembling a lacrosse goal at home?
- Measure and cut your pipes for the frame: grab two 6-ft, two 7-ft, and four 3-ft pieces.
- Lay out the base using T-joints and elbows, connecting each pipe to the joints as you go.
- Start building upwards, attaching the side and back pieces one by one.
- Tighten the joints as much as you can, then use zip ties to fasten the netting all around the frame.
- Stand the whole thing up and see if it wobbles—if it does, just add a few stakes. If you want, paint or tape the corners for a bit of style or to make them easier to spot.