As a soccer player, one of the most important pieces of equipment you need to wear is a good pair of shin guards. Shin guards protect your shins from potential injuries that can occur during a game.
However, wearing shin guards is not just about protecting your shins. It’s also about finding the right fit, comfort, and style.
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into how to wear shin guards for soccer, including different types of shin guards, sizing, and how to properly put them on.
Table Of Contents
Types of Shin Guards
Before we dive into how to wear shin guards, let’s first talk about the different types of shin guards available on the market.
There are two main types of shin guards: slip-in and ankle shin guards.
Slip-in Shin Guards Slip-in shin guards are the most common type of shin guards. They are lightweight, easy to wear, and can easily slip into your socks.
They come in different sizes, ranging from small to extra-large. They also come in different materials, such as foam, plastic, and carbon fibre.
Ankle Shin Guards Ankle shin guards, as the name suggests, have additional ankle protection. They provide extra cushioning around the ankle and are designed to protect against high-impact collisions.
They are great for players who are looking for extra protection and support.
Sizing
The next step is to find the right size shin guards. Shin guards come in different sizes, so it’s important to find the one that fits you best.
If the shin guards are too small, they won’t provide adequate protection, and if they are too big, they will be uncomfortable and move around during the game.
To determine your shin guard size, measure the length of your shin from the ankle to just below the knee.
This measurement will give you an idea of what size shin guards you should be looking for.
Check out this article to know your shin guard size for soccer.
How to Wear Shin Guards for Soccer?
Now that you’ve found the right size shin guards, it’s time to learn how to properly put them on. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and comfortable fit:
- Wear soccer socks: First, put on your soccer socks. Make sure they are pulled up all the way to your knees.
- Slide in your shin guards: Slide your shin guards into your socks, making sure they are centred on your shin.
- Adjust the shin guards: Make sure the shin guards are in the right position, covering the entire shin bone. They should be snug against your leg, but not too tight. If they are too tight, it can cause discomfort and restrict blood flow.
- Secure with tape: Some players prefer to use tape to secure their shin guards in place. If you choose to use tape, wrap it around your sock and shin guard, making sure it’s not too tight.
- Put on your cleats: Once your shin guards are securely in place, put on your cleats.
If you don’t have a shing guard, there is a trick you can do as said by Soccer Training Methods here.
Tips for Maintaining Shin Guards
Now that you know how to properly wear shin guards, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of them:
- Replace old shin guards: Over time, shin guards can wear out, lose their shape, and provide less protection. It’s important to replace your shin guards every season to ensure adequate protection.
- Clean your shin guards: After each game, be sure to clean your shin guards. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down and let them air dry. This will help prevent odor and keep them in good condition.
- Invest in quality shin guards: Don’t skimp on the quality of your shin guards. Invest in a good pair that provides adequate protection and comfort.
- Wear them correctly: Make sure you wear your shin guards correctly every time you play. This will not only protect your shins but also improve your overall game.
- Consider your position: Depending on your position on the field, you may want to choose a different type of shin guard. For example, defenders may want ankle shin guards for extra protection, while forwards may prefer slip-in shin guards for a lightweight and streamlined fit.
Final Thoughts
Wearing shin guards is essential for any soccer player, regardless of skill level or age. It’s important to choose the right type of shin guard, and size, and wear them properly to ensure maximum protection and comfort.
By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you’ll be able to wear your shin guards with confidence and focus on your game.
Hope you have gained value from this article.
You can also read: Do professional goalkeepers wear shin guards?
