How to Buy Youth Soccer Shin Guards

Soccer shin guards are made to protect the front of the lower leg from errant kicks. They are regulation wear in all levels of the sport.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Study the offerings. There are several basic types and many styles of shin guards.

2. Check the fit. Shin guards should mold to the shin, fit snugly around the ankle bone, and end under the knee.

3. Try them on. Pull them up as far as you can from the stirrup without causing the guard to hit the knee.

4. Make sure the ankle cup fits snugly around the ankle bone above the collar of the cleat.

5. Wear the proper size. Do not have children wear adult shin guards.

6. Wear soccer socks and cleats or other soccer shoes when trying on shin guards.

7. Go for maximum protection for younger players. A more serious player can opt for custom-molded shin guards, with or without ankle protectors.

8. Wear soccer socks with shin guards in all weather, at all times. Although not mandatory while practicing, these socks are meant to hold shin guards in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy from a sports specialty store with knowledgeable salespeople.
• Stick with a brand that works. Once you have found success with a style, stay with it.
• Experiment in practice before wearing new shin guards in a game.
• Measure before using mail-order. The length in inches is provided in catalog product descriptions. In general, measure from 1 inch above the ankle bone to 1 inch below the kneecap.
• Ask for help. A catalog salesperson can give you guidelines and recommendations.
• Use powder on shin guards to absorb perspiration or odor.
• Follow directions for laundering. Some shin guards (such as those with removable ribs) can safely be machine-washed. For longest wear, hand-wash and line dry.
• Scrub to remove odors. A soft brush (such as a toothbrush) is the safest tool for washing the foam-covered shin guard lining.
• Close Velcro shin guard straps when storing or laundering to protect other clothing.
• A cracked shin guard should be replaced.

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on 11/22/2005 If there is one prayer I have for all youths who play the game, it is that they wear their guards. Last year I shattered my ankle in a very hard collision. My high end Nike guards are the only thing that saved me from shattering my shin into a million pieces. Don't try to act like a tough guy, wear your guards. You will be thankful one day.