Guardian Innovations, maker of the first greaseless lacrosse ball, is at it again.

The company recently introduced a new textured ball, the Pearl LT, which meets NOCSAE’s ball performance standard and is certified by the independent Safety Equipment Institute (SEI).

The textured ball offers better feel in the pocket, enhancing control and consistency in the release coming out of the stick.

In contrast to Guardian’s signature product, the Pearl X, which is made from urethane and comes with the company’s grease-free guarantee, the Pearl LT is made of rubber. Similar to other traditional rubber balls, it will have some greasing over time. However, the textured surface will not dissipate.

“We had many coaches reaching out to us looking for a textured ball, and nobody else was manufacturing it,” Crawford said. “We knew we could make it.”

A number of teams, from youth through college, have already begun purchasing the Pearl LT.

“We will be experimenting with it this spring and could use it in some games,” said Widener University men’s coach Jamie Lockard.

Having the same size, weight, and softness of a standard ball, the Pearl LT is approved for US Lacrosse youth, NFHS and NCAA play. It’s available in white and yellow.