Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, wearing your shin guards properly is a must! Wearing shin guards will protect your legs from any impact from the ball and other players. But if worn incorrectly, they can cause more harm than good! Let’s dive into all the things you need to know about how to wear shin guards for soccer like a pro.
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How to wear shin guards for soccer.
Wearing protective gear is essential for any sport, especially soccer where the chances of ending up with bruised shins from a tackle are very high!
Shin guards are great because not only do they protect your legs from impact, they also give you peace of mind and confidence when you’re on the pitch.
So, how do you wear shin guards properly? It’s easy! Just follow our step by step guide:
Step #1 Choose the right size shin guard
The first step in finding the right pair of shin guards is choosing the right size.
Shin guards come in different sizes, so it’s important to find one that fits properly. If the shin guard is too big, it won’t provide enough protection; if it’s too small, it won’t stay in place and could cause discomfort.
To measure your shins, stand up straight with both feet together and measure the distance from just below your knee (at mid-shin) down to your ankle. Make sure to measure both legs—you may need different sizes for each one!
Step #2: Choose your shin guard style
Once you’ve measured your shins, it’s time to choose the right style of shin guard for you.
There are two main types: slip-in shin guards and ankle shin guards.
Slip ins shin guards are lightweight, easy to slip on and off, and provide good protection against flying kicks.
They’re smaller than ankle guards and are held in place with a shin guard sleeve that goes over the shin guards and under your football socks.
We love these for being easy to slip on and off and good for those with smaller legs!
Ankle shin guards provide more robust protection thanks to the extra material that comes up around your ankle – perfect for younger players who need that added security as they learn the game.
We love these for the extra padding at the ankle to protect us from wayward kicks and flying soccer balls.
Whichever type you choose, having a couple pairs in your kit bag means you’ll always be ready for action.
Step #3: Wearing your shin guards
Now that you have chosen the right type of guard for you, it’s time to put them on properly!
With ankle guards, make sure that the straps are not too tight or too loose—you should be able to fit two fingers underneath each strap comfortably.
With slip-in guards, make sure that they fit snugly around each leg without being too tight or too loose—if necessary, use additional padding or bandages around the top of the guard for extra security.
You can use sock tape or specialized tape specifically made for securing shin guards (available at most sporting goods stores).
Wrap two pieces around each guard so they cover both sides securely and don’t slip while in motion—this will ensure maximum protection and prevent any chafing on your skin caused by movement.
It’s important to realise that shin guards have a left and a right! These are usually clearly marked on the shin pad itself or on a label that’s attached.
Make sure you get them the right way up too! The wider part is at the top with the higher edge on the outside of your shin, sloping inwards.
Step #4 Put your soccer socks over the top
After securing your shin guards, put on a pair of soccer socks over them—these should be snug but not overly tight as this can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort during play time.
Make sure that there is no space between your shins and the socks; this will further secure them in place and prevent any slippage during gameplay.
It’s also important to make sure that your socks are long enough so that they cover up most of the shin guard—this will help keep them clean and free from dirt or debris that could compromise their effectiveness.
Watch and learn: How to wear shin guards for soccer
Here’s a great film that shows you how to tape up your shin pads to stop them from moving around and getting sweaty!
Where should I put my shin guards for soccer?
Putting your shin guards in the right place can make all the difference on the soccer field.
The proper position for your shin guards is just below your knees, fitting securely against your calves and covering most of the shins.
You want them to fit snugly so they don’t cause any discomfort yet still give you that extra protection you need out on the field.
To make sure the fit is just right when strapping them on, start by placing the guards just above your ankles and then slowly slide them up until they’re secure.
Make sure not to put them too close to your knees as this can reduce flexibility and restrict movement as they stab you in the knee cap!
Soccer shin guards shouldn’t be an afterthought so make sure you pick a pair that best fits your needs and practice their ideal positioning long before you hit the pitch!
What do you wear under shin guards?
When it comes to shin guard comfort and protection, don’t skimp on the essentials!
That means wearing your guards directly on your skin and leaving nothing in between.
If you’re putting on your shin pads and finding that they’re too uncomfortable against the skin or giving you a nasty rash, don’t sweat it.
All you need are shin guard inner socks. You’ll easily find them at places like Amazon and hockey players commonly wear them too.
They slide right beneath the shin pads and provide cushioning while helping keep everything in place.
They’re made from a thin fabric designed for optimal breathability and protection from rubbing that can cause blisters and other skin issues.
So stock up, stay safe, and don’t let uncomfortable shin guards slow down your game!
Do shin guards go over or under socks?
Soccer socks over shin guards is the way to go if you want to stay safe and have extra protection on the field.
Wearing them over your shin guards helps to keep your shin pads and any tape in place and reduces friction so you can feel comfortable for the whole match.
So remember, keep your soccer socks on top!
What are shin guards made of?
You’d be surprised to find that shin guards and shin pads are made from a variety of materials.
Plastic or polyethylene is the traditional material used, as it’s lightweight and flexible enough without compromising protection.
Modern shin guards also feature foam padding with synthetic fiber, so they’re extra comfortable while offering superior impact absorption.
Shin pads are symmetrical and their ergonomic design means the material shape to your shins and stay comfortable without moving around.
Of course, several other materials are available, but no matter which one you choose, your shins will thank you for the extra cushioning!
The final score
Wearing shin guards correctly can help protect you while playing soccer—but getting them just right takes some effort!
Choosing the right size, securing them properly with sock tape or specialized tape, then putting on soccer socks over top are all key steps in ensuring you get maximum protection without any unnecessary discomfort during your game.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to wear soccer shinguards with confidence like a true pro!
