Soccer Gear and Equipment

Soccer Shin Guards: How Big Should They Be and What’s the Best Type?

soccer shin guards

One of the benefits of soccer over certain other sports is that you don’t need to wear lots of protective equipment like pads and helmets.

There’s one safety measure that is well worth it, however, so you’d be well advised to make sure it’s a part of your gameday ensemble.

I’m talking, of course, about shin guards: a thin and simple protective layer made from a variety of synthetic materials like polyurethane, plastic, or foam rubber.

In fact, at most levels of play shin guards are required for all players so it’s not like you have to choose between them or not.

But there is still one important question that remains: how large should they be?

And with that question we naturally get into the territory of choosing from the major categories of shin guards that come in different sizes. Read on to get all the details.

How to Choose the Best Shin Guard Size for Me?

To answer this question we are basically balancing two factors: protection from potential injuries and comfort.

In general, the larger the shin guard, the larger the area of your leg that will be cushioned from a direct kick.

This can be hugely helpful given how painful that can be since your shin is a very tender area.

But those larger shin guards also can feel more awkward and bulky to run in, so some players don’t prefer them.

Many players who pride themselves on speed wonder if larger shin guards make you slower. Is this true?

To more fully answer this question it also is important to consider a few specific types of guards that you may encounter.

soccer shin guards, socks and shoes

Different Types of Shin Guards (And What’s Best?)

Ankle Shin Guards

Some shin guards come with ankle guards, which are padded material that helps protect your ankles as well as parts of your feet from an errant kick.

These guards provide much more protection but are naturally bigger and may feel slightly unwieldy.

This type of shin guard is commonly used by younger players. Some brands even offer a removable ankle guard which give you multiple options.

Slip In Guards

The most lightweight shin guard option is called “slip in” guards. As you may guess, these shin guards slip directly into your sock and are the most basic type in their design.

Because there isn’t anything holding them in place, it’s common to wear a compression sleeve with them to help make sure they stay put. (These often come with the guards)

They are extremely lightweight, ideal for players who want to prioritize their speed and comfort, but the sacrifice is that less of your leg is going to be protected from injury.

Strap Shin Guards

This subtype of guard does not have angle protection but does utilize some type of strap to help keep them in place. They are usually a little larger and less lightweight than slip in guards.

Molded Shin Guards

Some brands make a shin guard that can be molded to your own leg shape to provide additional comfort and customized protection.

Shin Socks

This unique design means that shin guards are actually built into the sock itself so you can cut one piece of equipment out entirely.

Shin socks are popular among youth players for this reason and also because they often have some leeway as far as the types of socks they can wear.

Browse Top Recommended Shin Guards

All in all, soccer players at all levels utilize a wide variety of guards for their protection, from the sleekest of designs to an emergency workaround like a Gatorade cup shoved inside their socks (trust me, I’ve seen it!)

When it comes to choosing the best guards, think about the options above and what will work best for your specific situation in regards to the core tradeoff of comfort vs. protection during both games and soccer training.

Do you play a position where you often are dribbling past defenders who might be a bit clumsy? Are you willing to risk getting whacked just so you can feel as unencumbered as possible? Much of this is a matter of personal preference so make sure you think through the possibilities before making a decision.

Once you do know the type of shin guards that you want to wear, it’s time to look at the different brands out there.

We’ve found some amazing deals on Amazon which also allows you to sift through the myriad of reviews from players and parents of all types. (You can also check out local sporting goods stores too.)

Click the links below to see some of the most popular shin guards right now and how much they cost. As you’ll see, some of the most basic will run less than $10, so it certainly won’t break the bank to ensure your shins get the protection they need.

Adult Soccer Shin Guards

Soccer Shin Guards for Kids

If you have any questions about shin guards, let us know in the comment section below.

Images public domain sourced from Pixabay

7 Best Fitness Trackers For Soccer

By STS Staff Leave a Comment

To perform at their best, soccer players must maintain a high fitness level. Working on improving your speed and endurance has a myriad of benefits for not only your ability to play longer without needing a sub, but also for improving everything from your touch and finishing to your confidence levels.

Just playing in as many games as you can helps quite a bit, and you can also work on a variety of fitness tests and challenges.

There are also some particular tools that can help you track and monitor your fitness levels which have become more ubiquitous for athletes of all types. I’m taking, of course, about fitness trackers. A handy device that has become much more valuable in recent years.

We’ve put together a list of the top fitness trackers available to assist you be the greatest soccer player you can be. Read more below. You’ll see some models that are used for multiple sports as well as a couple of types that are soccer-specific.

Fitbit Versa 2

Without a Fitbit, no collection of fitness bands would be complete. Fitbit is, without a doubt, the most well-known fitness tracker brand, and for a good reason.

Fitbit Versa 2 is the most recent smartwatch to hit the market, and it works with both Android and iOS devices.

Unlike Fitbit’s usual thin rectangle shape, this has a square display that looks more like a smartwatch.

The Fitbit Versa 2 has a brilliant AMOLED touchscreen protected by Gorilla Glass 3, making it a durable product that can take most of what a soccer workout can throw at it.

This tracker’s battery life is outstanding, lasting roughly five days when used regularly.

Always keep in mind that using the “always on watch faces” can drain your battery, so experiment with them to determine if you prefer them on or off.

It’s simple to use. Nearly every single touch or action has a lightning-fast response time, and it feels as if there is no lag at all most of the time. Many electronic devices do not have this feature.

The Fitbit Versa 2 is also a terrific alternative for those of you who want to incorporate water sports into your soccer fitness training because it is water-resistant up to 50 meters.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

Garmin Venu

The Venu is up there along with the Garmin Fenix as the best sports tracking watch on the market. There was no cost spared when it came to all modern conveniences. Distress, breathing, movement, sleeping patterns, and breathing patterns can all be tracked.

This includes assessments of blood oxygen levels to tell you how well your blood is absorbing oxygen. The hydration notification can be vital for a player to keep fresh during training and a game by consuming the necessary fluids.

The watch also has 20 preset sports that you may use to keep track of your progress while playing soccer. It also offers a coach mode that is ideal for training, and you can create unique exercises to aid with the fitness aspect of your workout.

The Venu has animations that demonstrate how to perform particular tasks, such as strength training; this is especially useful when you’re just getting started because you can see exactly what to expect.

This fitness tracker is on the higher end of the fitness tracker pricing spectrum; however, like many other things in life, you get what you pay for, and what this fitness tracker delivers is worth the price, in our opinion.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

Ticwatch Pro 3

Ticwatch Pro 3 is an improved version of Ticwatch Pro 2, including revolutionary technology for longer battery life. It also has a low-energy display that allows the user to use the wristwatch for 45 days without recharging it. Furthermore, if a user enjoys mounting, the built-in altitude function indicates how much above or below sea level the person is.

Overall, we believe the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 is one of the best smartwatches for Android phones available. This wearable is convenient, simple to use, and attractive.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

Huawei Band 4 Pro

The blood oxygen readings are one feature that sets the Huawei band 4 apart from its competitors. One of the critical indicators that might represent the body’s oxygen supply is blood oxygen saturation (SpO2).

The Band 4 Pro allows you to measure your SpO2 level in real-time, allowing you to check your blood oxygen level whenever and anywhere you need it. This can be extremely valuable in assessing a player’s performance in training and during a game.

As a soccer player, the ability to monitor steps, distance traveled, and effort exerted is critical, so why wouldn’t you want the Huawei? This band will help you enhance your soccer game if you’re on a budget.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

Suunto Spartan Sport

It is impossible to overlook SUUNTO when it comes to sports, recreational, and fitness watches. As a result, Spartan Sport has earned a spot on this list. It comes with 80 built-in workouts from which you may choose and customize your fitness routine. It also offers an Amazon Alexa voice control option, making it incredibly simple to use for new users.

The GPS is lightning fast and provides precise readings of the player’s movements. It has calorie counting, step counting, and move notifications, just like the rest. Also, it covers over 80 different sports, including soccer, so the feature can detect what type of sport you’re playing; this means that the built-in technology allows players to get close to reading how they move on the pitch.

As this is a high-end watch, it is not inexpensive, and at roughly $300, it is a pricey alternative for something that isn’t quite suitable, such as the vest selections. However, if you’re looking for one of the best watches, this is undoubtedly one of the top selections.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

Catapult PLAYR GPS Tracker

This soccer tracker differs from the previous suggestions in that it is a wearable GPS vest with an app rather than a watch.

These “vests” are put around a soccer player’s upper torso and have a GPS tracker on the back that measures the player’s motion, speed, position, strength, and concentration on the soccer field during a game or training session among other things.

The battery life is roughly 7 hours, which should be more than enough time for any player to turn it on, train, or play a game before syncing it to the app.

The CATAPULT ONE Soccer GPS Tracker is designed to track all of your activities on the soccer field and let you have precise and valuable data to develop your game and become a better player the next time you take the field.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

Zepp Play Soccer

You can get the Zepp Play Soccer tracker for about half the Catapult cost. Many of the elements already stated are available in the Zepp play, such as measuring how far a player has walked, the energy used at certain moments during the game, the number of kicks they have done, and so on.

However, it offers a tiny edge over other in-depth soccer assessments in that it can make highlights of crucial game moments. For example, you could have someone videotape you on the sidelines and then tie that video to the event; this might help to generate a clear picture of what happened.

Read Reviews and See Current Pricing

We spent a lot of time testing and analyzing these best fitness trackers for soccer players. Furthermore, if you want a fitness tracker that will tell you your speed, distance, and altitude, you should search for one with an built-in GPS.

The Best Soccer Rebounders for Efficient Practice

By Joseph Leave a Comment

A cornerstone of our philosophy on this website is that although soccer is a team sport, individual skills are essential. Each player needs to know and be able to execute the fundamentals and when they do this can elevate the team to a whole new level.

Many players have a soccer goal in their backyard, but a soccer rebounder is a perfect way to practice individual skills. Whether it’s target shots, ball control, or trapping, you’ll need a rebounder for your practice.

Top 5 Soccer Rebounders

We’ve tried to save you some effort and handpicked the best five soccer rebounders on the market and reviewed them for you.

QuickPlay Pro Rebounder Adjustable Angle Multi-Sport Trainer

Stripping a soccer rebounder to its essence, you need a sturdy frame with a durable net that provides good rebound upon impact. An adjustable angle and a reasonable price would be a plus. These specs apply to QuickPlay Pro’s rebounder.

QuickPlay Pro’s rebounder is available in four sizes variations; the 2.5 x 2.5 inches and the 3 x 3 inches are available as flat pants, whereas there are dual-panels at sizes 5 x 5 and 7 x 7 inches.

This rebounder works well as practice for shooters as well as goalkeepers. Even better, both can use it for a one-on-one practice session!

One of the merits of QuickPlay Pro’s rebounder is that it’s capable of adjusting into a negative angle, meaning that it can lean forward past the vertical position, which is a highly challenging practice, by the way.

The sturdy frame features a rubber base that helps it gain traction and stick well to any surface type. All these features easily make QuickPlay Pro our favorite rebounder on the list.

Apart from other rebounders in its price range, QuickPlay Pro’s rebounder comes with a two-year warranty, which shows how much the manufacturers are standing behind their product.

Check Current Pricing and Read More User Reviews

Tekk Trainer Rebounder Goal

Tekk’s trainer rebounder checks all the items on our list; it’s wide, convenient, and adjustable at a handful of angles, making it a perfect choice for children and grown up’s practice. That’s why it’s the choice of many soccer academies all over the world.

The frame is made of powder-coated artifact-grade aluminum and measures 5 x 8 x 4 inches. The nylon net is durable, and it’ll rebound the ball back at full speed. The ball won’t lose power, which is in your practice’s best interest.

The ball speed might be surprising to some. The ball comes at you at full speed, so that you might need some adjustment, and here’s when the angle adjustments come in handy. You can choose between seven angle adjustments to practice different shots.

The main downside of this rebounder is that its assembly might need some time. It’s even better to get some help to get the job done.

It’s a tad overpriced, but honestly, it’s worth the price for its versatility and heavy-duty construction.

Check Current Pricing and Read More User Reviews

SKLZ Quickster Soccer Trainer Portable Soccer Rebounder

If you want performance that’s close to the Tekk Trainer, but at a more affordable price, SKLZ’s portable rebounder is a solid contender.

The dual net provides a true-roll experience designed to help players master ball control from head to toe, specifically receiving and passing the ball from/to the ground. You’ll get a chance to train your chest, torso, and legs, of course.

The setting up process is pretty straightforward, and it won’t take much time. Yet, it’s not the most stable when it comes to how it holds to the ground. You can secure it with some sandbags to enhance its stability.

Not all rebounders are portable. That’s another thing that gives SKLZ’s rebounder an edge over its counterparts. Thanks to its lightweight and foldable action, you can put it in a big pouch and transfer it quickly.

The pitfall here is that the design is limited to passing skills. You won’t probably be able to work out other skills using this net. However, we think that’s okay given its price.

Check Current Pricing and Read More User Reviews

Goalrilla Striker Soccer Rebound Trainer

For people who’re more serious about their practice, those who want to take it up a notch, Goalrilla’s striker rebound trainer is probably your best bet.

At first glance, you can tell that this is a well-designed rebounder. The net is super responsive, and it’s bounded by side nets, where it acts as a goal. This is a nice chance for goalkeepers to use it also for practicing one-on-ones.

The sturdy frame is made of powder-coated steel to resist the elements, rust, and corrosion. More importantly, the corners are welded so that you don’t get into the hassle of flimsy parts that break down when they get shot at violently.

We love this rebounder because it exudes quality. Besides, it’s suitable for all ages and all skill levels, so it’s perfect for any setting where multiple players will be using it.

Check Current Pricing and Read More User Reviews

Trigon Sports Soccer Rebounder Training Net

Double-sided rebounders are perfect for group settings, where the net can take shots from both sides efficiently. That’s why we couldn’t wrap up our list without mentioning this amazing rebounder from Trigon.

Its size is relatively large (6 x 12 inches), and it’s made of a durable galvanized steel frame that’s powder-coated to resist rust and corrosion. Each side is armed with three ground stakes to stabilize it, making it one of the best rebounders that stick to the ground.

The assembly is simple, but it’ll take around 20 minutes or so. Yet, this is one of the sturdiest rebounders on the market. If you have the space for it, go for the Trigon soccer rebounder for efficient soccer training sessions.

Check Current Pricing and Read More User Reviews

Wrap Up

You’ve got to set your practice goals to pick the rebounder that’s best for your needs. Will you be practicing with a group or on your own? Will you be using your legs only, or do you need to practice upper body control? Are you interested in adjustable rebounders?

The answers to these questions should guide you through the choice process.

Best Backyard Soccer Goal

By Joseph 1 Comment

With just about any sport, practice makes perfect.

And if we’re talking about soccer, that practice can easily take place in your own backyard.

This ranges from serious soccer players who needs space to practice their shooting to kids who just want a place to kick around and have fun.

For these and other players, we’ve picked five of the best backyard soccer goals on the market and reviewed them. But first let’s talk about what makes a great backyard soccer goal.

How to Choose the Best Backyard Soccer Goal?

Now all these look like good options. What’s the best one for me?

It all boils down to two most important factors.

Frame Material

As you’ve seen, we’ve got steel frames and plastic ones. Usually, the foldable pop-up goals are made of plastic, while the other ones are steel.

Steel is more durable, but plastic is lighter. The purpose and type of your practice should determine which way to go. If it’s serious practice, then plastic won’t take strong hits, and it might break. If it’s for your kids to play some soccer and enjoy themselves, plastic will do.

Goal Type

When it comes to backyard soccer goals, there are two main types; portable goals and pop-up goals. (For the purposes of this article we are assuming you want something that can be assembled and disassembled when needed, not a huge permanent fixture in your yard.)

Pop-up goals are the most versatile and the lightest. They’re so light that you can fold them in a pouch and carry them anywhere. They’re suitable for kids’ practice and adults’ accuracy shooting.

Portable goals, on the other hand, are not necessarily collapsible, but they’re light enough to transport from somewhere without having to spend too much time assembling it again (think 20-30 minutes.) These goals are usually bigger although the exact size can vary.

Top Five Backyard Soccer Goals

They’re portable, flexible, and sturdy. Take a look at the market’s best backyard soccer goals.

Franklin Sports Blackhawk Portable Soccer Goal

Franklin Sports Blackhawk’s portable soccer goal ranks highly on Amazon’s Choice list, and it’s easy to see why. It’s portable, foldable, durable, and comes at a reasonable price.

This goal is made of galvanized steel that’s weather-resistant, which is a property you want in a backyard soccer goal since, you know, it’ll be out in the open air all the time, so it has to be able to withstand the elements.

The net relies on tie-down ground stakes that secure it to the ground, which provides it with stability. Yet, you need to assemble it yourself, which affects the sturdiness of its connectors. One of the reviewers went old school and secured the connectors with old duct tape to give them another layer of support, and it worked!

Pros

Collapsible
Easy to set up
Available in multiple sizes

Cons

The net velcro could use some improvement

Golme Pro Pop Up Soccer Goal 6 Feet

If you’re in the market after a light, portable soccer goal for kids, then Golme Pro’s soccer goal is probably what you’re looking for.

The Golme Pro comes in a pack of two goals that rely on a simple twist movement to ‘pop up’ or collapse. We love that it’s so versatile that it has a size for nearly every skill. This comes in handy when you’re looking for goals for kids or for specific skills, like accuracy shooting, for example.

To ensure it’s anchored well, the Golme Pro comes with efficient multi-grip stakes that tie it to the ground -or whatever surface- well. The fact that it needs no assembly is definitely a plus in terms of ease of installation and the absence of flimsy parts that might threaten its stability.

If you’re looking for more soccer equipment for kids, check out our articles on toddler soccer balls and toddler soccer cleats

Pros

Available in multiple sizes
Twist action for opening and collapsing
Suitable for all ages
Affordable

Cons

They’re not the sturdiest on the market; they won’t hold up for too long

PUGG 4 Foot Pop Up Soccer Goal

Ask parents and soccer trainers about the best pop-up goal for accuracy training, and they’ll tell you PUGG.

Since 1994, PUGG has been a prominent manufacturer of children’s soccer training goals, and their proprietary pop-up goals are a fans’ favorite.

You can set up the goal in an instant via a single twist. It’s impressive in that it collapses into a compact 1-inch thick oval that you can store anywhere easily. It comes with a carrying bag for that purpose.

The pegs are well distributed through the frame, providing an elastic but stable connection to the ground. All in all, these are high-quality goals that have been tried out by many without showing any deficiencies.

Pros

Impressive ‘Twist to collapse’ action
It comes with a carrying pouch
Convenient and lightweight
Made of durable metal

Cons

Limited to small sizes only

Bownet BOW3X5 Soccer Mini

Bownet’s soccer goal is hands down the smartest designed portable goal on the market. Featuring an outstanding Energy Absorption System or an EAS, this goal diffuses the ball’s energy that hits it throughout the whole frame so that it’s more stable, thus increasing its longevity.

The name refers to the powder-coated steel frame that’s supposed to ‘bow’ so it doesn’t break upon impact. The setting up process is effortless and takes about a minute or so. Thanks to its well-thought-out load balance and deep anchors, you can put it on any surface and expect it to stand still.

Pros

Strikes a balance between durability and lightweight
It can take a hit
Quick set up

Cons

Relatively expensive

Amazon Basics Soccer Goal Frame With Net

Not all people who’re looking for a backyard soccer goal are after a smaller portable one. Some soccer players want a lightweight but full-size frame that they can assemble at the comfort of their backyard, and that is exactly what Amazon Basics’s soccer goal frame is.

The 12 x 6 x 5 foot (144 x 72 x 60 inch) frame is made of powder-coated steel tubes that are 1.25 inches thick. They’re weather and corrosion resistant. The net itself is made of strong velcro that attaches easily to the frame.

The assembly is straightforward, and it doesn’t take much time. Additionally, the net comes with ground anchors to secure the frame to the ground firmly so that it withstands violent shots.

Pros

Stable frame withstands wear and tear
Portable despite its size
Comes with a carrying bag

Cons

The velcro’s connection to the frame might get loose after it gets hit with a shot

Wrap Up

There you have it, the best backyard soccer goals. No matter which one you choose, remember to practice often. Consistency is key here.

What Are the Best Soccer Training Pants?

By Joseph 1 Comment

Even though soccer uniforms most commonly include shorts and not long pants, there are situations in which you may want to choose soccer pants for your training sessions and friendly games.

In addition, soccer pants are getting more popular not just for playing soccer, but also for working out at the gym, running, lounging comfortably at home, or even as a fashion statement.

Searching for the best soccer training pants can get overwhelming since they all look fairly similar, but we’ve done our research and compiled a list of our top picks to help narrow down your options.

Top 5 Soccer Training Pants in 2021

Soccer training pants come in male or female varieties. Whether you’re a field player or a goalkeeper; male or female, you’ll find your pick here.

STARBILD Men’s Soccer Pants

Starbild is a reputable Amazon-based clothing store. It provides black male soccer pants that come in 5 different stripe colors. They come with drawstrings for tightening and taper off nicely towards the ankles with two stripes on each side.

The pockets have medium-quality zippers that will hold your wallet and phone securely while playing but may get jammed from time to time. They’re perfect for someone who occasionally visits the soccer pitch.

Starbild’s soccer pants may not be the greatest in terms of material choice, but they’re surely fashionable, comfortable, and budget-friendly.

Specs

Material: 100% polyester
Stripe colors: white, red, blue, green, x-black.
Adjustment options: waistband and ankles.
Pockets: zipper-sealed pockets.

Things We Like

Affordable price point
Fashionable design that’s suitable as casual wear
Comfortable and breathable material

Things We Don’t

Sizing chart isn’t very accurate
Pocket zippers get jammed occasionally

Starter Women’s Soccer Pants

Starter is an athletic clothing brand established in 1971. They have an affordable choice for females that only comes in black. They come with zipper pockets, so you can jump around without worrying about your belongings falling out of your pockets.

The pants also have zippers on the ankle cuffs, which enables you to wear them without having to take off your shoes.

However, the material is quite thin and may not be suitable for the colder months. Also, there are more fashionable options in our opinion.

Specs

Material: 100% polyester
Colors: black only
Adjustment options: ankle zippers and foldover waistband
Pockets: zipper-sealed pockets with mesh bags

Things We Like

Affordable pricing
Lightweight comfortable material
Ankle zippers allow for easy wearing and removing

Things We Don’t

Material is too thin for the winter
Very limited color options

Adidas Men’s Tiro 19 Pants

Adidas makes the best-selling Tiro 19 pants with their signature triple-striped sides. These pants are one of the most premium options on the market today.

The material is made to be breathable using their ClimaCool technology, which is designed to fit closely to the body to avoid floppiness and to support your clean footwork training.

The side pockets are large and feature a convenient zipper. Another pair of zippers are also on the ankles for easy on and off.

Specs

Material: polyester with ClimaCool technology
Colors: more than 35 colors to choose from
Adjustment options: drawstring and ankle zippers
Pockets: zipper-sealed large pockets

Things We Like

Many color options
Great ventilation and sweat management
High quality yet lightweight material
Fashionable design that’s suitable for casual wear

Things We Don’t

Pricier than most other options
Stripes have been reported to wear off after continued use

Puma Women’s Liga Training Pants

Puma makes a pair of flattering, high-quality soccer pants that are super comfy. With just the puma cat logo on the left leg, the pants taper towards the ankle and have no stripes or lines. The pants come in 2 color options and have an elastic closure for waist fitting.

The pants are manufactured using dryCELL technology, which helps keep away the moisture to keep you dry and comfortable throughout your training session.

The pants also have ankle zippers to allow you to take them off or put them on whilst wearing your shoes.

Specs

Material: 90% polyester, 10% elastane
Colors: blackpuma and peacoat puma
Adjustment options: elastic enclosure and ankle zippers
Pockets: Front open pockets

Things We Like

DryCELL technology keeps you comfortable
Elastane provides more give for extra comfort and wear-prevention
Fashionable and simple design

Things We Don’t

High-end pricing
The elastic enclosure may not fit you perfectly

Storelli ExoShield Goalkeeper Pants

Storelli produces a superb pair that is dedicated to risk-taking goalkeepers. These pants will protect you with their strategically placed padding so you can dive for the ball confidently.

Despite the cushioning within the pants, they’re still lightweight and allow your joints to freely move without any resistance.

The knee cover is made of 100% cotton, while all the foam padding is 100% urethane foam, so you’re guaranteed top-notch comfort.

These pants may not be great for casual wear or lounging like the ones above, but they serve their purpose outstandingly during training. They come in black, with the Storelli logo on the right leg.

Specs

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
Colors: black only
Adjustment options: zipper closure, elastic ankles
Pockets: no pockets

Things We Like

High-end protection against impact
Lightweight and don’t compromise mobility
Stretchy and comfortable fabric

Things We Don’t

Extravagant Pricing
May suffer some tears with continued use on turf

Why Buy Soccer Pants?

You may be a casual soccer player who plays in shorts, in which case, there’s a high chance you may be training on turf, hard maple, or even asphalt! Soccer training pants will give you a layer of protection against possible slide tackles or close encounters.

Additionally, you may want to use these pants for more than just soccer training, which has been an ongoing trend for a while now.

Finally, soccer pants are designed for playing soccer. They minimize floppiness and keep you cool and dry, which are all reasons you may be on top of your game!

Conclusion

If you aren’t willing to invest too much into soccer pants and are looking for a reasonable option, the STARBILD and Starter may be your choices.

However, if you want to move up the tier list, you can go for the Adidas or the Pumas and enjoy higher quality materials, better colors, and more stylish looks.

If you’re a goalkeeper, we recommend no other than the Storellis. These’ll keep you comfortable and protected during your training sessions.

What’s the Difference Between SG and FG Soccer Cleats?

By Joseph Leave a Comment

Shopping for the right soccer shoes can make or break your next soccer match, as they have a significant impact on how you perform in different conditions.

But as you’re shopping for new soccer shoes, there can be confusion surrounding the type of cleat to get. Your decision should be directly related to the surface where you’re more likely to practice soccer.

There are different types of soccer cleats that you can choose from, so what is the difference between SG and FG shoes? And in addition, should you stick to one pair or alternate between both kinds depending on the circumstances? Keep on reading to find the answers to these questions.

What are Soccer Cleats?

To start at a very basic level, soccer cleats refer to the footwear worn by soccer players and compared to regular sports sneakers, any cleats get their name for the small protrusions on the shoe’s bottom, which are also known as studs. These provide traction when the players are running around the field to minimize slipping and protect players from serious injuries.

Over the past decades, soccer cleats have come a long way. Their main purpose is to stabilize players as they change direction suddenly when running after the ball or accelerating past an opponent.

Soccer cleats become especially important when the weather conditions get more challenging, like in the case of sudden rain or an unexpected frost. Wearing cleats will support the player’s feet and help them move confidently.

The studs dig into the ground, whether the ground is muddy, hard, slippery, or dry. As a result, regardless of the challenging conditions, players can avoid serious injuries and falls. The protrusions provide a better grip and increase the friction against the ground, regardless of the challenging conditions.

What is the Difference Between SG and FG Soccer Cleats?

The main difference between SG and FG soccer cleats lies in the different outsoles, as they’re designed for different playing surfaces.

Soft Ground (SG) Cleats

SG or Soft Ground cleats feature an outsole with screwed-in removable metal studs. They’re designed to be used in wet grass fields, especially after rain.

In most cases, professional players will prefer to use soft ground cleats, as their pitches are usually better treated. However, some amateur players will also buy these cleats if they’re likely to play soccer on wet pitches.

Since professional players are more likely to play their games on soft ground fields, they will need to buy these special cleats to provide an adequate level of stability and control.

These soft fields usually have a layer of gravel and sand that provides the right level of cushioning. On top of this layer, there’s a layer of grass, which should be regularly watered and fertilized to maintain its condition.

If you’re an amateur player, you might need a pair of SG cleats if you play soccer on muddy fields. These pitches become too soft when it rains, and you need the unique studs to provide the needed stability.

Compared to FG cleats, SG cleats are slightly heavier. This is due to the presence of the metal studs on the outsole. However, the difference in weight isn’t that significant.

Since the studs are screwed in, you can remove some of the metal studs and replace them with softer plastic studs if you don’t need that much traction. These cleats aren’t recommended for use on artificial grass.

Firm Ground (FG) Cleats

FG or Firm Ground cleats feature an outsole that should be used on dry natural grass pitches, where the surface is more rigid and drier. There are plastic protrusions on the outsole, but they’re not strong enough to penetrate the surface.

These cleats are more versatile and can work in wet and dry conditions. Most amateur players will choose a pair of FG cleats because they’re more likely to work on a hard soccer pitch. The pitch is also easier to maintain than a soft ground field.

Although FG cleats work for multiple surfaces, they’re not suitable for playing soccer on artificial grass. As a matter of fact, they can cause a severe injury in case of a slip.

Unlike SG cleats, these ones don’t have metal studs on the outsole, so they might feel a little more comfortable and easier to maneuver, especially for amateur players.

What if You Play Soccer on Multiple Surfaces?

This is the situation that most of us face, as long as you’re not playing soccer professionally. If you’re usually playing on multiple fields, you should invest your money in a high-quality pair of FG cleats.

These can provide good traction on both soft and hard surfaces to provide a decent grip and protect you from accidentally slipping as you suddenly change your direction when you’re running across the field.

Do You Have to Wear Cleats if You’re Playing Soccer?

Surprisingly, the answer is no. There’s no official requirement to wear cleats while playing soccer.

The rule is that players should wear footwear, but there’s no law that names cleats as the only accepted footwear for professional or amateur soccer games. This means that even a professional soccer player can take part in a professional game even if they have forgotten, misplaced, damaged, or lost their cleats.

However, wearing cleats will significantly impact each player’s performance and accordingly affect how the game progresses. Cleats provide the needed stability, especially on wet ground where there’s a higher chance of slipping.

As a matter of fact, in rainy weather or if you’re playing a game on soft and wet ground, there’s a little chance that you can master your moves and become a better soccer player wearing turf shoes or indoor shoes.

Wrap Up

Cleats provide the needed stability on a soccer pitch, whether you’re an amateur or a professional player. The difference between SG and FG cleats refers to the difference in the pitch where you’re more likely going to play your soccer games.

SG cleats are more suitable for professional players, although some amateurs might need them. However, FG cleats are more versatile and should definitely be on your list if you want to enjoy a longer game of soccer without the risk of accidentally slipping.

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Can You Wear Indoor Soccer Shoes on Turf?

By Joseph Leave a Comment

Finding a pair of good shoes isn’t always the easiest task, and the difficulty level increases exponentially as you look for a decent pair of sports shoes. Also, good quality doesn’t necessarily come cheap.

That’s why many of us have favorite shoes that we like to use for multiple activities. Sometimes this works, like a nice pair of tennis shoes which can be great for a jog or a bike ride. But can you wear indoor soccer shoes on turf? Let’s take a look.

How Is a Soccer Turf Different from Grass and Floors?

Turf is a special type of ground that many people confuse with artificial grass, but it’s not. It’s a rubber base that’s designed to have a rough texture and a bit of elasticity. It’s rather thin though, and that comes as a surprise for first-time users.

It’s also worth mentioning that indoor soccer can also be played on hardwood floors, and another variant is the cement floor usually found in playgrounds. In certain areas these are the predominant surfaces that players play on.

Running on soccer turf requires durable footwear with good traction and high grip. On the other hand, it’s best to use flexible shoes that provide traction on hard floors. And since they aren’t subject to the roughness of the turf, they could be made from various materials.

The common aspect between hard floors and turf is that both become slippery when they get wet. A little rain would make the field feel like playing ice hockey instead of soccer.

The Differences Between Indoor Shoes and Turf Soccer Shoes

Footwear comes in a wide variety of designs to accommodate the various floor types and sports requirements. There are usually two letters on each model to summarize its best usage. For example:

IN: Indoor soccer shoes
FG: Firm ground grass
SG: Soft ground grass, also, wet or soggy ground
HG: Hard ground
AG: Artificial ground
AT: Astroturf, or simply turf soccer shoes

Indoor soccer shoes are often flat with rubber soles. These shoes often have parallel striations or grooves. This setup provides high flexibility, dependable grip, and helpful traction.

Contrary to that, turf soccer shoes are characterized by pointy dimples in their soles, which provide a better footing for the player. And they’re often made from a rugged material that can handle the aggressive material of the turf.

Generally speaking, top of the line indoor soccer shoes can be quite expensive, while turf shoes often come in at a lower price. There are exceptions, of course, and budget-friendly options are always available for any product, as well as high-end brands with tons of bells and whistles.

So Can You Wear Indoor Soccer Shoes on Turf?

In theory, any sports shoe can be used anywhere. However, in reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Wearing the wrong shoe would be uncomfortable, inefficient, and potentially dangerous.

Using an indoor soccer shoe out on the turf would be a bit hard for the following reasons:

The absence of the dimples and protrusions that characterize turf shoes makes indoor soccer shoes quite unstable on the turf.
It would be extremely hard to stop, change direction, and stay balanced.
Repeated bumps and falls on the semi-hard turf has the potential to cause serious injuries.
The grip and traction of indoor soccer shoes are rather useless on the turf.
Indoor shoes are often made from soft leather, which can be damaged very quickly by the aggressive turf.

How to Choose the Right Soccer Shoe?

First of all, you need to specify the intended usage to be able to buy the right soccer shoes. As we saw in the previous discussion, every type of floor has its own specific requirements. If you can spot the two letters that serve as a guide to optimal usage, then you can look for the attributes that best serve your intent.

Next, you should look for a shoe that feels comfortable, fits well, provides perfect support for your whole body, and endures the rough grounds well. If it looks good as well, then that would be great.

In Conclusion

Always buy footwear that suits the activity you’re doing, and the environment around you. But don’t let the glam look of some big-name brands lure you into buying something that you won’t need.

And more importantly, avoid buying a pair that doesn’t feel as good as it looks. Gimmicks are the name of the game when it comes to athletic wear, but smart shoppers know better than that.

And speaking of smart, wearing turf soccer shoes on an artificial grass field is a wise choice, as they have similar attributes. But wearing indoor soccer shoes on turf might not be just as clever.

Soccer Goal vs. Rebounder: Which Is Best for My Yard?

By Joseph Leave a Comment

Improving your soccer skills relies mainly on practice. For both team and individual skills, practice is a must for soccer players.

What’s better than practicing in the comfort of your backyard?

There are plenty of exercises you can do in the backyard without any special equipment, but there are also two main options for upping your training: getting a backyard soccer goal or a soccer rebounder.

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the two, and we’ll see which one is best for your backyard.

Soccer Goals

Choosing the right soccer goal for your backyard isn’t an easy task given that there are plenty of types that come in different sizes. There are permanent nets and portable ones, and when it comes to portable nets, there are foldable and pop-ups. Although each of them is suitable for a particular setting, in terms of size and space, they also works for a different type of practice.

Pop-up goals, for example, work best for practicing your accuracy. The small area they cover and their cave-like shape make it challenging to get shots and passes on target, making them convenient for individual training sessions.

On the other hand, if you’re buying this for entertainment purposes during leisure time or as a group activity, then a permanent soccer goal net would be a perfect choice for your backyard. It’d also be a better choice than a rebounder.

We’ve reviewed some of the best soccer goals that are suitable for backyards in this article. You’ll find plenty of good options there.

Why Choose a Soccer Goal?

You can use it for both serious practices and for small-sided games and leisure activities.
Works well for individual and group settings.
Available in different sizes for different age ranges.
It can be ideal if you want something with an easy setup. Some pop up and collapse via a single twist action.
On average, portable soccer goals are more affordable than rebounders.
If you want something that’ll last longer and you don’t care about portability, a permanent soccer goal would be perfect for you.

Soccer Rebounders

Rebounders are perfect, versatile tools for skill training. The idea of a two-dimensional net that might adjust to different angles provides a wider variety of training options, way more than a regular goal.

The main difference between a soccer goal and a rebounder is that while a goal merely receives the ball, a rebounder’s net receives the ball, retracts, and rebounds it without stripping it of any of its power or momentum.

Thus, you’ll be receiving the goal with an equal force to the one that you kicked it with in the first place, giving you a chance to sharpen your receiving skills, not only shooting.

There are three types of rebounders; passing and ball control, striking rebounders, and multi-task rebounders. Their names are self-explanatory. Passing and ball control rebounders are usually smaller and closer to the ground. In all cases, they’re perfect for backyards.

Striking rebounders are larger, as they tend to provide a broad area on which you can practice shooting. Finally, multitaskers, which refer to multiple techniques and sometimes multiple sports. These two types can be really large and might need a vast space, where you’ll need space for installation and space to shoot from.

You can check out our best picks for the three types in this mini buying guide.

Why Choose a Rebounder?

It offers versatile training options in terms of techniques and skill levels.
Suitable for individual training and one-on-one training.
Adjustable rebounders are perfect for customizing the difficulty of your training session.
Goalkeepers can use some types of rebounders to train as well.
You can use it to train your whole body.
It’s not only limited to soccer training, but it works for other sports as well.

Soccer Goal vs. Rebounder: Which Is Best for My Yard? – The Verdict

Well, it all boils down to which technique you intend to practice. Goals are primarily designed for target shots, especially pop-ups, which are the most convenient to backyards given their size. On the other hand, portable rebounders are lightweight, and fit easily anywhere. More importantly, they allow you to practice different techniques ranging from accuracy shots to tapping and ball control.

The size of your backyard determines which soccer goal or rebounder you’ll get. Since most rebounders are already small, it’ll be easy to put any of them in your backyard. When it comes to soccer goals, the space factor will be limiting. Getting a pop-up would be easy, but a permanent one would need some extra consideration. So regarding this aspect, the point easily goes to the rebounder.

Overall, we’d say rebounders provide more extensive individual training. In contrast, net goals are ideal for group settings and leisure activities.

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Nike vs. Adidas Soccer Socks: Which to Choose?

By Parker & Walsh Leave a Comment

When you’re looking for the right soccer socks, there are quite a few possible decisions to make.

First you want to make sure they fit you appropriately with shin guards on. Think about whether you prefer to pull them all the way up, fold them down, and how far up your leg you feel most comfortable. (our article on soccer sock length can help with this).

But at some point, you’ll find yourself comparing the more popular brands since these are the most highly trusted among players. With soccer gear, you inevitably come up with two names: Nike and Adidas.

Differences Between Nike and Adidas: Which is Better for Soccer Socks?

As we’ve said, these are two of the most well-known and successful soccer brands, so you know that in both cases, the socks will be high-quality.

And it’s important to remember as well that each brand has many different varieties.

It is difficult to make any definitive conclusions about fit, comfort or quality between Nike and Adidas since they both make so many different soccer socks. But there are a few general points to keep in mind.

Nike is the biggest name in all of footwear, which is a selling point for some people. The brand has long been associated with their crew socks, but these days they have plenty of soccer socks of all lengths as well, as well as a plethora of short socks you can use in training or when you don’t need to wear shin guards.

Adidas is the largest sportswear company in Europe and second in the world after Nike. Soccer has always been a main focus of Adidas, which some players appreciate.

Another point of comparison is the different sweat-wicking technology that Nike and Adidas use to help to control moisture and sweat. Adidas uses ClimaCool (ClimaLite) while Nike utilizes Dri-FIT, and you may find a slight preference for one or the other.

At a more basic level, the look and attractiveness of the socks can play a major role, as well as favorite professionals who don the apparel.

Soccer players who are or have been sponsored by Nike include Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Zlatan Ibrahimović, Wayne Rooney and Landon Donovan, and teams include Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea and Tottenham.

For Adidas, player sponsors have included Lionel Messi, James Rodríguez, Gareth Bale, Mohamed Salah and Paul Pogba, and teams include the big-names of Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Juventus, Benfica, and Real Madrid.

In addition to the pros, the simple preference of the three stripes (Adidas) or the iconic swoosh (Nike) can be a powerful factor.

Thus, much of the decision of which sock to go for depends on your specific preferences. Textures, fit and comfort (and not to mention price!) are all variable depending on the specific sock that you select. (Read our guide on fit for soccer socks)

We also recommend reading reviews from players on the specific socks you are interested in:

Nike Soccer Socks

Adidas Soccer Socks

If you are a soccer player, do you like Nike or Adidas for socks? Or do you prefer another company?

How Long are Soccer Socks and How Should They Fit?

By Parker & Walsh Leave a Comment

soccer socks

You probably consider wearing socks to be a pretty easy and natural concept to grasp, but when it comes to soccer socks, then you may have some questions that are worthy of investigation.

For one, how long should they be, especially when you have to factor in shin guards? And how tight or loose should they fit, and what’s the potential downside if they aren’t right for you?

What’s the Right Length for Soccer Socks?

There are some general guidelines for how long your soccer socks should be, but beyond that the question becomes a manner of some personal preference.

First, the functional answer: your soccer socks are longer than most regular socks, as they need to be tall enough to completely cover your shin guards.

This of course isn’t a single precise measurement either, as some shin guards are longer or shorter, others can be thin or quite thick, and some pairs have ankle guards which add to their bulk.

The longer and thicker the shin guard, the longer your sock should be in order to make sure to comfortably cover it.

If you (or the player you are buying for) likes to wear an extra pair of socks under their soccer socks, make sure to factor this in as well.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Soccer Sock

Once you’ve figured out how long your sock needs to be to cover your shin guards, then you can try some different lengths in order to decide what is best for you.

Some players prefer “over the calf” socks that go up to about your knee area. They can choose either just under, or even over the knee based on what feels better. Some players pull the socks all the way up, but most fold them over.

Other players like “crew” style socks that don’t go up quite as high and are designed not to be folded down.

After this, the next decision is how tight or loose the socks should be. You want them to be snug enough that they don’t fall down, as this can be distracting and can lead to you taking yourself out of the game to pull them back up.

But on the other hand, they shouldn’t be so tight that they cause pain or numbness or restrict your movement, since you need to be able to quickly take off on a sprint when the situation calls for it.

The best way to find the right fitting soccer shoe? Try a bunch of different sizes on! Different brands (and types) of soccer sock will fit slightly differently on your legs, and there’s no way to be sure until you see how they actually feel.

Make sure to bring your shin guards with you, as well as your shoes. If your sock is too thick, then your soccer shoes, whether indoor or outdoor, may become too tight and can cause discomfort or sores. You also don’t want them to be too thin, as this could lead to blisters as well. Thus a proper fitting shoe and sock must be considered together.

The Last Words on Soccer Sock Fit

When we’re talking about soccer socks as a whole category, then we should also think about socks we wear during practice when we may not always have shin guards on. In those cases, you can get away with a much shorter design, and just want to make sure it’s an appropriate fit with your shoe (as we’ve explained above).

Finally, to quickly go over one final question we’ve heard before: do soccer socks go only on the left or right foot?

In most cases no, the socks are interchangeable so they can fit on either foot, much like casual and general athletic socks.

But there are some high-end soccer socks that are designed to be worn specifically on one of your feet. They are supposed to provide better cushion and support on your left or right. In most cases, this is not necessary and won’t give you too much of an advantage, but it is something to consider.

We hope this article has helped you understand how to find the best soccer sock length and fit for you. If you have any questions or feedback, let us know below in the comments section below.