Shinguards
Not only is it in the best interests of your health to wear shinguards, a referee should ensure that all players are wearing them.
Shinguards are available in a number of different materials and it is best to try on a number of pairs and find which feel most comfortable for you.
You should be looking for a shinguard that will give you good protection but not restrict your movement and be comfortable.
You want to protect as much of the shin area as possible.
A particularly popular type are those which loop around under the foot and are then held in place on the upper calf by a Velcro strap.
These will usually have extra padding around the ankle and Achilles area which is very beneficial.
Ankle protection is particularly important for a striker, while a defender will be best served by a heavier and greater protecting shinguard.
Fibreglass shinguards will give great protection and are lightweight making them a very good choice for youth players.
Plastic shinguards are generally the cheapest and still give good protection.
