How to Buy Soccer Shinguards

Few things hurt as much as getting kicked in the shins, and no matter how long you've been playing soccer, it will unavoidably happen to you. Wearing shinguards is not only required for competitive play, it is a safety necessity for all ages and levels. Designed to protect you from serious ankle injury or tibia fracture, shinguards are available in a wide variety of materials and fits. Select a style that provides you with maximum comfort and performance on the field.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Select the best shinguard for your position. Since goalies spend little time competing for the ball, shinguard strength is not as critical. Defenders and midfielders should consider buying very protective shinguards since their positions demand that they are constantly in the fray. Forwards need adequate protection, but should also select a shinguard that lets them move freely while trying to score.
2. Buy shinguards that fit properly. Correctly fitting guards should start just above the ankle and stop 2 to 3 inches below the kneecap so they don't inhibit the knee joint during running.
3. Determine what type of shinguard construction you prefer. Common materials include fiberglass, foam rubber and plastic. Choose a material that is strong enough for the position you play, but that forms properly to your shin for maximum comfort and protection. Foam shin guards are inexpensive, lightweight and soft, but bulky and less protective. Fiberglass and plastic are stiffer and less comfortable, but more protective and less obtrusive. Plastic costs less than fiberglass.
4. Take your soccer shoes and socks with you when trying on shinguards. Soccer socks are designed to help hold guards in place, and you'll want to make sure the shinguards fit properly above your shoe and don't chafe or irritate your ankle when you run.
5. Look for shinguards that are snug but do not restrict circulation. Generally speaking, you should be able to comfortably place a finger between your guard and your leg.
6. Choose a shinguard designed with detachable ankle protectors. Ankle protectors have more give than the upper part of the guard so they don't restrict range of motion while providing added protection against ankle injuries. However, skilled players may want to remove them because ankle padding restricts ability to feel and control the ball.
7. Decide whether or not you want to buy shinguards with ankle stirrups designed to go under your foot and hold the guard in place. The other option is a shinguard that you place around your lower leg and secure with a knee-length sock.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're looking for kids' shinguards, buy fiberglass. It's protective enough for most youth leagues, but also lightweight, allowing kids to move freely.
• More advanced players may want to consider newer-style, shorter shinguards. While not as protective, they give players more ball control.