British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) has introduced new regulations with immediate effect, following changes announced by World Lacrosse and England Lacrosse.
The requirement applies to:
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BUCS Lacrosse Leagues and Knockout Competitions
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BUCS Lacrosse 6s Championships
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LUSL Lacrosse Leagues and Knockout Competitions
What do field players need to wear?
All field players must wear protective eyewear that:
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Is specifically designed for lacrosse.
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Meets ASTM F3077 or is UKCA Certified.
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Fits securely and comfortably.
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Does not obstruct vision.
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Is maintained and used in line with the manufacturer's instructions.
Soft-shell protective headgear is also permitted, provided it meets the relevant ASTM or comparable standards. However, headgear does not replace protective eyewear - players wearing soft-shell headgear must still wear compliant eyewear.
If eyewear is integrated into the headgear, both must meet the relevant standards.
Why has this changed?
The new regulations follow World Lacrosse's updated safety and equipment standards announced in May 2026.
World Lacrosse's review considered player-safety research, expert advice and evidence around injury prevention. Research has found that protective eyewear can reduce the likelihood of catastrophic eye injury by up to 84% when an impact occurs. A 2024 study also found a 50% reduction in concussion rates among women's lacrosse players wearing soft-shell headgear.
England Lacrosse introduced the same protective eyewear requirement for women's and mixed lacrosse, including lacrosse 6s, from 1 September 2026.
BUCS has therefore aligned its competitions with these developing international and national safety standards.
What does this mean?
Clubs and teams should make sure all players, coaches and match officials are aware of the new requirements before their next fixture.
The good news is that protective eyewear has been permitted for many years, and BUCS has recommended its use in women's lacrosse for more than a decade. Many players may therefore already have compliant eyewear.
Where can I buy protective eyewear?
Compliant eyewear is available from UK lacrosse retailers including:
Players who wear prescription glasses should use protective eyewear specifically designed to be worn over prescription glasses.
Key message
If you're playing women's or mixed lacrosse in a BUCS or LUSL competition as a field player, protective eyewear is now a requirement - so make sure you're competition-ready.
The new rules are an important step towards improving player safety.
