Youth Soccer Gear

"Prevent injuries with youth soccer gear that fits"

Although youth soccer players need the same type of equipment as any other soccer player, it is extremely important that the gear fits properly. Your child will enjoy the game more and will be less likely to get hurt.

Your youth soccer gear needs will include a good pair of soccer cleats, soccer shorts and socks that match the team jersey, soccer shinguards, and a soccer jersey, if not supplied by the team. Let's look a little deeper at each piece of the youth soccer gear.

Soccer Cleats and Shoes

Cleat or shoe types include molded cleats, removable cleats, turf shoes and indoor soccer shoes:

Molded Cleats have pre-formed rubber or plastic cleats on the sole. Metal cleats are not allowed. These cleats can be used on all outdoor field types but will not perform as well on turf, or wet, soggy fields. Usually have 10 to 16 plastic studs.
Removable Cleats are made of a hard plastic. These studs can be replaced as they wear down. Players of a higher skill level usually use this type of cleat on longer grass, or wet soggy fields.
Indoor soccer shoes look a lot like a sneaker, but don't fool yourself. They are made with special compounds in the sole to provide better grip than a sneaker. They are also cut lower to prevent rolling off the ankles as your child makes the moves that soccer requires. They are made for firm surfaces like gyms, not for indoor artificial turf.
Turf Shoes are made especially for playing on artificial turf. It doesn't matter if the turf is indoors or outdoors. The sole has specially designed studs that are much shorter than molded or removable cleats, and are multi-directional in nature. This helps provide the grip necessary for playing on artificial turf.

Shinguards

Soccer shinguards can be made from a variety of materials.These materials can include:

Plastic.
Polyurethane.
Foam rubber.
Fiberglass.
Foam/lycra.

Shinguards are mandatory part of youth soccer gear and one of the best ways to prevent injury for kids playing soccer. After all most of the action is at their feet. It is suggested that players at different positions wear a different type of shinguard. I will provide the information, but only you and your child can decide what is best.

Defenders - thicker model with more protection.
Midfielders - protective, lightweight, and more rounded in style.
Forwards - more ankle protection and very light.

This guide will be helpful in choosing the proper shinguard size for your child:

X-Small: up to a height of 3 feet 9 inches
Small: up to a height of 4 feet 5 inches
Medium: up to a height of 5 feet 1 inch
Large: over 5 feet 2 inches

Youth Soccer Socks

These socks do not differ much from the socks that older players wear. They are just smaller. They are intended to hold the shinguards in place and to match the team's uniform.

Less expensive socks are usually made from a polyester - acrylic blend. Sometimes cotton is added for comfort, but don't expect a lot of cotton. You can also find 100% cotton socks.

However the top of the line socks are made with synthetic microfibers that pull perspiration away from the foot. They will usually have a padded sole to enhance foot comfort as well.

TIP - If your child's foot sweats alot, put talcum powder or foot powder in the sock to help soak it up. This will help prevent blisters.

Youth Soccer Jerseys

Most jerseys today are made from a combination of microfibers that are light-weight and do not absorb much moisture. When it comes to youth soccer, the jerseys are usually supplied by the team or association where your child is a member. So for that reason, I will leave the jersey choosing to you and your soccer association. Unless you are looking for replica soccer jerseys.

Soccer Shorts

Even though they may be cool to your kids, baggy shorts are not good for the soccer field. If they are too long, they can restrict easy movement. If this happens your child may get injured, or may not play up to their ability. The less restriction, the better it is for their game. They also have to fit your team's uniform. Some associations will provide shorts and socks as part of the team uniform.

If you use this information as a guide you should be able to get the right youth soccer gear for your child.

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