SOCCER-THE GAME:
The Equipment
Shoes
Shin guards
Goalkeeper Gloves
Soccer Ball
Shoes
Soccer Cleats are specifically designed for use on a soccer field and can be changed depending on conditions. Cleat types include molded cleats, detachable cleats, indoor soccer shoes and turf shoes:
- Molded Cleats have non-removable rubber or plastic cleats (most programs doe not allow metal cleats) on the bottom and are used widely in youth programs, as they are safer than some other types of cleats. They are designed for use on all types of fields in varying weather conditions.
- Detachable Cleats utilize hard plastic, metal tipped studs that can be removed and replaced. Usually used by more advanced players on dry or wet grass. Make sure that metal cleats are allowed; most programs don't allow them.
- Indoor soccer shoes look more like a low cut sneaker, utillize flat rubber bottoms and are used almost entirely on indoor soccer fields.
For tips on buying athletic shoes, click here
For why hand-me-down shoes are a bad idea, click here
Shin Guards
Shin guards are mandatory for children playing organized soccer and provide important protection against injury Shin guards vary according to player size and position. They are typically made out of fiberglass, foam rubber, polyurethane, plastic and eva foam/lycra. Look for shin guards that meet the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) standard stamped or labeled with the NOCSAE logo. They will specify which size is correct for a particular sized player, making it easy for players, coaches and officials to differentiate which shin guards are to be worn.
Defenders should use thicker, more protective shin guards. Midfielders need a more rounded shin guard, protective but light. Forwards need light shin guards with better ankle protection.
The following guide may be helpful in selecting the right shin guard size.
| X-Small: |
up to a height of 3'9'' |
| Small: |
up to a height of 4'5'' |
| Medium: |
up to a height of 5'1'' |
| Large: |
over 5'2'' |
Goalkeeper Gloves
Goalie gloves are only worn by the goalie and have feather sticky synthetic palms which aid in the catching or deflecting of a soccer ball. Generally, look for gloves one to two sizes bigger than one's own hands. Gloves wear out quickly and are often made of non breathable fabric. A light cleaning in warm water and mild soap can extend their life. Having a backup pair is recommended.
The Ball
The ball must have a circumference of 27-28 inches, a weight of 14-16 ounces (dry), and must be inflated to a pressure of 8.5-15.6 psi..
The game of lacrosse is played very differently for boys and girls. Therefore, different equipment is used.
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