Choosing the right shin guard is as essential as choosing any other sports gear. Whether you are a proficient player or just a trainee, shin guards help to safeguard your legs and let you enjoy the game without worries of injuries. It would be best if you choose the right shin guards that fit well, long-lasting, and those that will protect you fully.
You also have to consider your budget. This article has pointed out some essential tips to guide you in choosing the right soccer shin guard. Here is the list.
1. The Type of Shin Guard
Do not just buy any shin guard. You have to choose the right type according to your needs. There are three types of shin guards: the slip-in, ankle, and shin socks. Slip-in shin guards are lightweight and can be worn under socks to protect your legs. While socks can hold them firmly, most players use tapes to secure their position. These are the best shin guards for individuals who prefer freedom while playing.
Ankle shin guards are for intermediates and the youth. They offer protection to avoid leg injuries and ankle sprain. They come fully equipped with straps and elastics to ensure they fasten. You can get one with removable ankle-guards, which you can use depending on the game. The shin socks are just complete, reinforced socks that protect your legs.
2. Consider the Position You Play
When choosing the best shin guards, you first have to know the position you play in your team. The reason is that the more challenging the position, the stronger the shin guards you’ll need. If you are a defender, you’ll probably require more rigid shin guards that cover until your ankle. You require a shin guard that protects you and allows more comfortable movements when running for the ball for midfielders.
In contrast, forwards will need shin guards to run with speed while protecting them from defenders. If you are a forwarder, the best shin guards for soccer should be small and light to enable faster movements when rushing to score. Goalkeepers should get shin guards that protect their entire legs and lightweight with less padding.
3. Sizes
When choosing shin guards, you must make sure that they fit into your legs properly to avoid them falling or misaligning while playing. Other than the position you play, your height should determine the size of your shin guards. All shin guards come with size specifications to choose from. If possible, before purchase, you can wear them to check if they fit correctly.
If ordering online, you can try the locally available shin guards to determine your size before ordering. Ensure you follow the chats carefully to ensure you get the right shin guards that fit correctly. What are the requirements for a fitting shin guard? A proper shin guard must fit snugly and, if possible, be 2 inches below the knee.
4. Accessories
Not all shin guards come with accessories. Those with accessories are from renowned brands and come with an additional cost to cater for the accessories. So what are the supplements? The shin guards’ accessory includes the shin guard sleeves, tapes, and stays, which secures the shin guard in your legs, and the ankle guards.
Ankle guards can be worn separately or with the shin guards and help protect the ankles, especially when playing in a difficult position or a beginner in the game. Although they are sold separately, you can get one that matches your preferred shin guard.
5. Cost
Costing is the overall determinant when getting a shin guard. You might want the best type entirely with accessories, but your budget might be lower. Shin guards come with different prices depending on the manufacturer, size, and if it comes with accessories. Some cost higher because they have been approved by relevant soccer governing bodies and have additional features that provide maximum security to your legs.
Others might be cheaper but might only be used for training. Ensure you get the best grade at the best price and, if possible, buy them as a team to get the best wholesale offer. However, you shouldn’t worry much about the price since they are the most affordable things you can buy for sports. The price might be as little as $10 or as high as $50, depending on the factors discussed above.
After getting your shin guards, you should maintain them well to ensure they last long and serve you better. Some of the maintenance procedures include washing them regularly, wearing them as required, and storing them properly when not in use. This article has probably enlightened you on what to consider when buying shin guards. Use the tips wisely.