Soccer is a very popular sport worldwide. It is played by millions of people and has been around for centuries. Many soccer players ask themselves during their games, “do professional soccer players wear shin guards?”
If you are also wondering the same thing, this article will give you the answer to this question and some other interesting facts about soccer and shin guards in general.
What Is A Shin Guard?
A shin guard is a piece of equipment that protects the front and sides of your lower leg. Shin guards are worn by many athletes, including skiers/sledders, soccer players (kickers), lacrosse players, wrestlers (in some states), field hockey players, softball batters, track runners, or anyone who participates in activities where they are at risk of being hit by another person or object.
Shin guards are typically made up of a plastic outer shell or ‘shell,’ foam padding, and straps to secure the guard in place on your leg. They do not protect the back of your leg very well because it is more difficult for other players to make contact with you from behind.
Shin guards are typically more expensive than regular soccer socks because they must fit your leg exceptionally well to be practical and comfortable. They need to last a long time.
There are a few different kinds of shin guards on the market, but the two most common are:
- Ankle-length shin guards that cover your lower leg and attach to your ankle with straps
- Knee-length shin guards that cover your lower leg and thigh and attach to your knee with straps
Shin guards can be uncomfortable at first, but most people get used to them pretty quickly. It is essential to wear them the correct way to protect you as much as possible. Check with your coach or athletic trainer if you are unsure how to wear them properly.
It is also a good idea to have a few pairs of shin guards to rotate them and give them a chance to dry out between uses. Shin guards should never be stored while they are still wet, as this will cause the foam padding to break down and lose its shape.
Do Professional Soccer Players Wear Shin Guards?
Yes, professional soccer players wear shin guards. It is recommended that they do so to prevent injury to the lower leg due to being kicked or stepped on by another player during play. There are different shin guards used in soccer, but the most common type is the plastic guard that slips over the shoe and attaches to the ankle.
Shin guards are also available in a foam version that wraps around the calf and foot. Some professional players do not wear shin guards because they give them an advantage when playing; they can better handle the ball on their feet and move more freely.
Shin guards can also cause some discomfort when running or making quick turns, so many players choose not to wear them, depending on the game situation. Soccer players are recommended but not required by FIFA (the international governing body) to wear shin guards during play; however, they may be subject to discipline for refusing.
Common Questions About Shin Guards
How do I choose the proper shin guards?
It’s essential to find a pair of orthotics that fit your feet properly. You want something snug but not too tight, so you can run around without being uncomfortable or constantly worrying about whether they will fall off. The leg should have at least an inch clearance from each side.
What size shin guards should I buy?
Shin guards are sized in youth, junior and adult sizes. The ideal fit you can wear without them sliding too much when running around on the field. They shouldn’t be so tight that they give your thighs a rash or so loose that they slip down all day long.
What types of shin guards are there?
There are three main types of shin guards: hard shell, soft shell, and ankle. The type you choose depends on your preference and the amount of protection you need. Hard shells provide more protection but can be bulky; soft shells offer less protection, while ankle guards protect your ankles but don’t offer as much coverage for your shins.
Are shin guards necessary?
Shin guards are not always necessary, but they can provide extra protection if you are playing in a sport with a higher risk of getting injured. They can also help to prevent more minor injuries from happening. If you are playing in a recreational league, it’s up to the coach whether you need them or not.
How do I know if I need shin guards?
Shin guards are generally only necessary if you’re playing in a game that has the potential to be more dangerous. If you find yourself getting hit or kicked on your shins, then shin guards can provide some extra protection and help heal any bruises quicker. They also prevent more minor injuries by acting as an additional layer of skin between your shin and the ground.
How do I clean my shin guards?
Shin guards should be wiped down after every game with mild soap and water to get rid of dirt and debris from playing. Be sure not to submerge the hard shell in water as it could cause the material to warp.
Let them air dry before putting them back in your equipment bag. You can also apply a light coat of oil or wax to the hard shell to help keep it looking new. While washing them, don’t use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or detergents.
How often should I replace my shin guards?
Replace shin guards every two to three years or when they show signs of wear and tear. If the straps begin to come loose or the foam is deteriorating, it’s time for a new pair. The plastic shell will always be durable enough to last multiple seasons.
How do I take care of my shin guards?
Shin guards are pretty low maintenance, but you can do a few things to keep them in good working order for as long as possible. Rinse the foam off after every use with cold water and mild soap, so they don’t start to smell.
Let them air dry before putting them back in your equipment bag. You can also apply a light coat of oil or wax to the hard shell to help keep it looking new. While washing them, don’t use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or detergents.
Why are shin pads so small?
Shin pads are typically designed to protect the shins from impacts and not provide coverage. They are meant to be worn in conjunction with larger equipment such as helmets, shoulder pads, and elbow pads. If you’re looking for extra protection on your shins, consider wearing ankle guards instead.
Although not all players wear a cup, many consider it an essential part of their equipment. They are worn for protection from hard hits and falls and direct impacts by the ball or another player. Thicker cups provide more stability but can make running difficult. They’re also typically made out of foam padding instead of plastic.
Do shin guards work?
Yes, shin guards work to protect your shins from impacts and injuries. They are typically made out of a hard plastic shell, foam padding, and elastic straps that keep them in place. The type of protection they offer depends on your style: hard shells provide more protection but can be bulky; soft shells are lightweight but provide less protection, and compression sleeves are the most protective but offer less breathability.
Do shin guards go over or under socks?
You should wear shin guards over your socks, so they can provide the best protection from impacts and minor injuries. Some players choose to cut slits in their socks for a more precise fit, but you can also buy shin guard sleeves that slip easily over any type of sock.
Are footy shin pads better than soccer ones?
Footy shin pads and soccer shin guards offer the same general level of protection and differ only in their size. When choosing a pair, make sure it’s large enough to cover your shins from knee cap to ankle bone while also allowing for a full range of motion when running or kicking.
Conclusion
Shin guards are essential pieces of equipment for athletes, especially those who play in sports where they are at a higher risk of getting injured. Shin guards protect your shins from injuries such as bruises and scrapes. They also help prevent more minor injuries by acting as an additional layer of skin between your shin and the ground.
Professional soccer players also wear shin guards. Shin guards are generally only necessary if you’re playing in a game that has the potential to be more dangerous. If you find yourself getting hit or kicked on your shins, then shin guards can provide some extra protection and help heal any bruises quicker.
