If you’re a soccer player, you know that protecting your shins is a top priority. And that’s where shin guards come in. They’re essential for preventing injuries and allowing you to play with confidence. But once you’re done playing, what’s the best way to store them?
In this post, we’ll explore the best practices for storing your soccer shin guards, so they stay in top condition for your next game.
First things first: Why is it important to store your shin guards correctly?
Well, for one, you want to avoid any damage that could compromise their protective capabilities. But there are other reasons, too. Proper storage can help prevent odours from building up, and it can make it easier to find them when you’re getting ready to play.
So, without further ado, here are some tips for storing your soccer shin guards.
How do you Store Shin Guards for Soccer?
1. Let Them Air Out
After you’ve finished playing, take your shin guards out of your cleats and let them air out. This will help prevent any moisture from building up, which can lead to odors and mold. If your shin guards are particularly sweaty or dirty, you can wipe them down with a damp cloth or use a disinfectant spray to kill any bacteria.
2. Store Them in a Dry Place
Once your shin guards have aired out, you want to store them in a dry place. Don’t just toss them in your gym bag and forget about them until your next game. Instead, find a dedicated spot to store them, such as a drawer or a cubby in your locker. Make sure this spot is dry and well-ventilated to prevent any moisture buildup.
3. Keep Them Separate
It’s also a good idea to keep your shin guards separate from your other gear. If you just toss them in with your socks and other clothing, they could get bent or damaged. Instead, try using a separate bag or compartment to store them.
You could even use a special shin guard sleeve or case to keep them protected.
4. Don’t Fold Them
Speaking of bending, you want to avoid folding your shin guards if at all possible. This can cause them to lose their shape and compromise their effectiveness. Instead, try to store them flat or in a shape that won’t cause any bending or twisting.
5. Hang Them Up
One option for storing your shin guards is to hang them up. You could use a hook or hanger in your locker or even a simple clothesline or drying rack. This can help them air out even more and prevent any musty odors from building up.
6. Don’t Expose Them to Extreme Temperatures
Finally, you want to avoid exposing your shin guards to extreme temperatures. This means keeping them away from heaters or direct sunlight. Extreme heat or cold can cause them to warp or crack, so you want to keep them in a temperature-controlled environment.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, storing your soccer shin guards properly is crucial for their longevity and effectiveness.
Make sure to let them air out, store them in a dry place, keep them separate from your other gear, avoid folding them, hang them up, and don’t expose them to extreme temperatures.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your shin guards in top condition for your next game.
And don’t forget, choosing the right shin guards and washing them correctly are also important factors in keeping them in top shape.
With that in mind, be sure to check out our other articles on “Picking Shin Guards” and “Washing Soccer Shin Guards” for more tips and advice.
And if you are curious about the history of shin guards, check out this article on when shin guards became mandatory in soccer.
With these resources, you’ll be a shin guard expert in no time!
