Basic Soccer Equipment

Soccer Shoes

First, you need to know that shoes come in three materials: PVC, synthetic leather, and full-grain leather. Although very affordable, PVC is also not as durable. It’s an acceptable choice for young players or first soccer seasons. Synthetic leather shoes, in the mid-range, are preferred by players with a little more experience because they give better contact with the ball and last longer. Full-grain leather is offered only in adult sizes, as it’s meant for advanced players.

The soles of soccer shoes also come in different materials: rubber (the least expensive, perfect for beginners and games on natural grass); polyurethane (all fields, for more advanced players); and turf soles (for synthetic fields). Young players just starting out may prefer turf soles because their cleats aren’t as sharp, so they dig into the grass less. This way, they won’t be tripping over themselves!

What not to wear? Cleats designed for baseball or football. Soccer cleats conform with the rules of the game, whereas other sports may have spikes or studs that actually would be dangerous on a soccer field.

A Soccer Ball

Neither too big nor too small, choose a ball according to the player’s age. Here are the sizes to choose from:

• Size 3: for players under 8 years old

• Size 4: for players between 8 and 12 years old

• Size 5: for players 13 and over

How do you judge a good soccer ball? Surprise, it’s all in the seams! For an entry-level ball, the seams are on the outside. A ball with the seams inside is mid- to high-end depending on its finish: top-quality soccer balls have sealed inner seams. Those certified by FIFA/IMS will all have this feature, which guarantees a longer lifespan and less deformation.

Shin Guards

Shin guards are exactly what they sound like, they’re little inserts that help protect the shin bone, and they’re one of those safety things that players don’t appreciate until they take a good whack in the leg... Shin guards are essential protection for soccer players and come in two formats: with or without ankle protection. Full-length models offer more protection, but they reduce the player’s mobility, which is why more advanced players prefer models without ankle protection.

Whichever guards you choose, to ensure maximum protection make sure the shins are well covered and that your child can move easily. They must always snugly fit the leg in both width and height, or they will slide around. Oh, and they always go UNDER the socks...

An Appropriate Outfit

Here again, no need to buy anything expensive... All you need is a shirt, a pair of shorts, and high socks (to cover the shin guards). Some teams may require a specific outfit for practices but we allow players to wear what they want as long as it is appropriate. We also provide gameday/tournament outfits when needed so no need to worry about that!

A Water Bottle

This may well be the most important item on this list. We live in Florida, where it’s hot and humid approximately 13 months out of the year. It’s extremely important to keep our children well-hydrated at practices and games.

To that end, you can never send your player to the field with too much water. A water bottle (or two) is not optional. It needs to be filled with water (yes, really), and should be big enough to last a whole practice or game without needing to be refilled.

Optional: A Sports Bag

The final step is to find the ideal sports bag. Make sure you get a bag that’s the right size for your soccer player so that they’ll be proud to carry it around. In addition to their soccer outfit and equipment, consider slipping in a towel, a plastic bag for any items that get dirty, a change of clothes, and a snack.

Optional: Goalie Gloves

If your soccer player plans on playing as a goalkeeper, he/she should come prepared with a pair of gloves that will give them protection and flexibility. Functions, types, and cuts vary depending on what players are most comfortable with as well as their level of play. If you are interested in learning more about Goalkeeper gloves here is a good article that should answer some of your questions: https://www.theoneglove.com/en-us/pages/parent-zone

There you go! Your soccer player is now properly equipped and ready to become the next big star as they begin learning the joys of soccer. And who will be in the front row to cheer them on? Why, you will, of course!