List of Gear You’ll Need to Play Soccer

Soccer players should wear proper gear during matches to remain safe. A soccer store will have all the equipment you need to be properly outfitted for your game. The right gear will also help you feel comfortable so that you can perform at your best. Here’s a list of the gear you’ll need to play soccer:

Jersey

A jersey is the most important part of a soccer uniform because it identifies players to the teams and the fans. For a soccer match, apart from the goalkeeper, each team wears a similar jersey with identical colors and patterns. Soccer jerseys encourage unity among the players and allow them to work as a team to defeat their opponents.

Team members are distinguished by the number on their jerseys, allowing commentators to point out specific plays and audience members to easily identify their favorite players. Each jersey will also have the last name of the player wearing it, along with a few logos from sponsors. 

If you’ve recently started playing on a soccer team, you’ll need a matching team jersey. If you’re playing soccer for fun, a simple mesh jersey of any color will work just fine. The basic purpose of a jersey is to have lightweight, motion-friendly material; this will help you stay comfortable and cool while playing.

Shorts

A soccer player must wear a uniform comprising matching jerseys and pairs of shorts. Only the goalkeeper in a soccer team can choose to wear sweatpants if they choose to. Wearing the same complete uniform helps fans and referees identify different members of a particular team. 

One of the benefits of soccer shorts is that they are lightweight. The shorts are also comfortable and fitting for the players. Soccer shorts allow the player to easily run and handle the ball in a seamless and non-restrictive way.

Shin Guard

Shin pads are made of recommended and approved plastic or rubber. The shin guards protect players from leg injuries during a tackle. Without proper protection, players are vulnerable to serious kicks, collisions, and, at worst, a broken shin bone. Since most intense moves in the game will occur on the ground near your shins, wearing guards is the best way to protect the front of your legs from accidents and injuries.

Long Socks

Soccer players always wear long socks when playing in a match. The long socks cover the shin guards and keep them in place during play. Long and thick socks also help players keep their legs and muscles warm during cold seasons. Protection from cold helps to prevent possible cramping that can affect the player’s performance in a match.

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Cleats

Soccer shoes, or cleats, are designed to grip the ground as the players run. Proper grip protects the players from slides and falls, which can cause injuries. Soccer cleats are typically light and low-profile (usually below the ankle). The low-profile shoe enables a player to be swift and make easy and quick turns.

Proper footwear offers comfort and helps players control the ball.  Soccer shoes comprise soft leather that protects players’ feet from injuries in case of contact with cleats. Cleats should be especially well-fitting and comfortable. Your foot should not be able to slide around within the shoe; it should fit snugly. 

Bag

A soccer player needs a bag to carry all the necessary gear to and from practices and matches. Common types of soccer bags are:

•   Backpacks
•   Duffels
•   Drawstrings 
•   Ball bags

The bags come in different designs and with different features to help a player easily store their gear.

One of the materials used to make soccer bags is polyester. Polyester bags are cost-effective and long-lasting, retaining their sturdy shapes after years of wear. Polyester bags are also stain-resistant, making them easier to maintain.

Nylon is also a popular material used to make soccer bags. Nylon soccer bags have a higher strength–to–weight ratio than polyester bags. They can stretch to carry more soccer gear and are wrinkle-resistant, enabling them to stay new-looking for a long time.

Visiting a Soccer Store

Whether you’re playing in a friendly or competitive soccer match, wearing soccer gear can help you stay safe and comfortable. A good soccer store will have a variety of the best soccer gear players need. When choosing good soccer gear, look for specific features like material, design, and personal fit, rather than price or brand name alone. To get the most out of your gear, start with pieces that are high-quality and durable; good gear will last for many years of play to come.