A Guide to Choosing the Best Soccer Shin Guards

Playing soccer is exciting and not every player is able to avoid any injury. Professional soccer players understand the risk of injuries. However, the most common injury is a shin hit from an opponent player’s kick which is quite painful. To avoid this, using a soccer shin guard plays an essential part in your soccer gear.

You can choose the right shin guard not only for your comfort, but it also matters for your safety and performance on the field. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about selecting the shin guards to help you avoid major injuries. 

Soccer is an aggressive sport because every player has the aim to kick the ball with its full strength to make a successful goal. Even though players aim to kick the ball, legs often get in the way. Without soccer shin guards, playing soccer is like riding a bike without a motorcycle. You could not know when an accident would take place. Similarly, a strong tackle or stray kick could make you injured. That’s why every player, from kids to professionals, wears shin guards as part of their soccer gear and equipment.

You should keep in mind that not all shin guards are the same. Every soccer player has different playing styles and comfort preferences. For this purpose, you should select one type over another to avoid any injury. Here are some of the following types of soccer shin guard you might consider.

1. Slip-in Shin Guards

Many professional players use slip-in shin guards because they are lightweight and easy to wear. Moreover, they provide flexibility and freedom of movement, which is why midfielders and advanced players often prefer them. It is the best approach for young players to secure their shin against strong opponent players.

Best for: The slip-in shin guards are best for experienced players who want speed and comfort.

2. Ankle Shin Guards

You can use ankle shin guards with extra padding around the ankle area for additional protection. Additionally, they usually have straps that keep them in place, making them a good option for players or defenders who face more tackles.

Best for: These soccer shin guards are best for beginners, and defenders who need maximum protection.

3. Sock-Style Shin Guards

You can wear these types of shin guards that are built into a long sock. They are easy to use because you do not need to adjust straps or sleeves. With this, you can play soccer without worrying about the discomfort of straps.

Best for: It is the best approach for young players or anyone who wants a simple, all-in-one option.

It is necessary to get a soccer gear that best fits according to your personality. However, there are few important factors you should keep in mind while selecting a soccer shin guard:

1. Size and Fit

Selecting the right size of your shin guard is the most essential key point you should remember. Your soccer shin guards should cover most of your shins without restricting movement. If they are too small and do not fit according to your height, they will not protect you. Also, if they are too big in size and you are unable to handle them while playing, they will slip and feel uncomfortable.

Pro Tip: Most brands like The soccer factory have size charts based on your height. Before buying, always select the right size that you are comfortable with.

2. Position on the Field

The type of shin guards you choose often depends on the position you play. Defenders usually need stronger shin guards with ankle protection since they block tackles more often. Similarly, midfielders benefit from a balance between protection and mobility because they are constantly on the move. On the other hand, forwards prefer lighter shin guards that allow for quick bursts of speed and sharp movements.

Pro Tip: Choosing a shin guard based on your position role is a wise idea. So, always consider the soccer gear that provides you with extra ankle protection.

3. Material

Researching on the right material is another major key point you should keep in mind while selecting the soccer shin guards. Shin guards come in different materials and each of them has its own advantages. Since plastic shin guards are affordable and a good choice for beginners or casual players. However, carbon fiber shin guards are both lightweight and high-performance. Additionally, carbon fiber material is a preferred choice for advanced players, but they are more expensive.

Pro Tip: A beginner defender might start with affordable ankle shin guards. For experienced players, they can use carbon fiber soccer shin guards for speed and comfort.

Playing soccer is not just about utilizing skill and strength, it is also about safety. Good soccer gear gives you confidence to play at your best without worrying about injuries. From cleats to shin guards, every piece of soccer equipment has a purpose. When you invest in the right gear, you are investing in your performance and long-term health.

In this article, we have guided you through all major aspects to choose your best soccer shin guards. Always think about your position, your comfort, and your safety needs. The more you think about your safety the longer you will be in a part of the soccer game. Furthermore, it is important to select the right brand for your soccer equipment. A well-known sports brand like The Soccer Factory is here to provide you with the best quality soccer gear. You can get your desired shin guards at affordable prices.

At the end of the day, soccer should be fun and the right protection helps keep it that way.