How to Determine What Size of Soccer Shin Guard I Should Wear
Soccer shin guards are placed over the shin in order to protect the area and reduce injury. A correct-size shin guard will allow the leg to move freely while protecting the shin. There is no standard shin guard size dictated by FIFA, the governing body for international soccer. However, a shin guard is considered too big if it covers more than three-quarters of the length of the shin, according to the My Youth Soccer Guide website. Shin guards are manufactured by several sports equipment companies and come in different sizes, styles and colors.
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Instructions
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Determine the length of your shin if you are an adult or teen buying shin guards for yourself. Use a tape measure to measure the length of your shin from one inch below the kneecap to one inch above the ankle, according to the About Soccer website.
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Know your child's height if purchasing shin guards for her. Children's shin guards are often packaged according to age and small, medium and large sizes. Youth shin guard sizes are determined by height in inches instead of shin size and length.
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Take your measurements to your local soccer or sporting goods store. Salespeople at specialty stores are knowledgeable about sports equipment and can answer any questions that you may have regarding brands and fit.
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Select shin guards in your size as indicated by your measurements. Try on a variety of shin guards while wearing soccer socks and shoes or cleats to determine which is the best and most comfortable fit.
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Consult with a store salesperson if you are having trouble finding your size or a pair of shin guards that fit properly and mold to your shin.
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Tips & Warnings
In addition to proper sizing, look for shin guards that are NOCSA certified. This indicates that the shin guards have passed rigorous safety standard testing according to The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment.
Once you know which size and brand shin guard fits the best, order shin guards online, where prices are often lower.
Do not purchase or wear shin guards that are damaged or cracked. Shin safety is compromised when wearing inferior or broken gear.
Measure children each soccer season to make sure that they have not outgrown old shin guards. Purchase new ones if necessary to ensure the best protection.
