How To Wear Soccer Shin Guards? 

Are you a soccer fan who’s looking to buy some shin guards? Maybe you’re not sure how to wear them properly.

Either way, read on for some tips on how to wear soccer shin guards so that you can be as safe and comfortable as possible while playing your favorite sport.

Shin guards come in all different shapes and sizes, so make sure to choose the right ones for you.

They should fit snugly but not too tightly against your skin. You’ll also want to make sure they’re the right size – not too big or too small.

Most importantly, always follow the instructions that come with your shin guards. Different brands may have different instructions on how to put them on properly.

Read on as we’ll cover all the basics (and much more!) on how to wear shin guards properly.

But first…

What Is A Shin Guard for Soccer?

A soccer shin guard is a piece of protective equipment that is worn by players to help protect their shins from injuries.

They are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, foam, and even metal. Shin guards can be worn on the inside of the socks, so are usually not visible.

They are typically secured in place with Velcro straps, tape, or even laces and are usually worn with long socks that cover them completely.

Traditionally, shin guards were made from leather and would need to be soaked in water before use to make them more flexible.

Nowadays, most shin guards are made from synthetic materials that are more comfortable and easier to care for.

When to Wear Shin Guards?

Shin guards should be worn whenever you are playing or practicing soccer. This includes games, scrimmages, and even drills at practice.

They should also be worn during any other activities where there is a risk of getting hit in the shins, such as kickboxing or hockey.

The most obvious reason to wear shin guards is to protect your shins from injuries.

Soccer is a contact sport, and there is always the risk of getting kicked in the shin by another player. This can cause severe pain and even bruises.

Wearing shin guards can help to minimize the risk of these injuries by absorbing some of the impacts.

They can also help to protect against more serious injuries, such as fractures. When players tackle each other in soccer, studs on their cleats can dig into the shins of their opponents.

Having it helps protect studs from puncturing the skin and causing serious injuries.

Types of Shin Guard To Choose

Now that we’ve answered the question “what is a shin guard for soccer,” it’s time to look at the different types that are available so that you can choose the right ones for you.There are three main types: 

Slip in Shin Guards

Slip-in shin guards are the most common type that is worn by professional players. They offer a high level of protection and are very comfortable to wear.

The main downside of slip-in shin guards is that they can be tricky to put on, and they often need to be replaced more frequently than other types. However, they are usually less expensive than other types of shin guards.

The reason players like it so much is that they offer a snug fit that doesn’t move around when you’re playing.

They also don’t require any extra straps or laces to keep them in place, which can be uncomfortable.

To put on slip-in shin guards, simply pull up your socks and then slide the shin guards into place. Make sure they’re positioned correctly before tucking your socks over them.

You may need someone to help you the first few times you put them on so that you can get the hang of it.

Ankle Shin Guards

Ankle shin guards are a type of shin guard that is worn over the ankle. Compared to the slip-in-shin guards they give better protection as it covers more of the leg.

However, they can be less comfortable to wear since they can rub against the ankle bone. They are often preferred by young players or those who are new to the sport.

To put on ankle shin guards, simply pull them over the foot and up the leg until they reach the desired position. Make sure that the guards are secure and not too loose or too tight.

In addition, be sure to wear socks that come up over the shin guards for additional comfort and protection.

Shin Socks

Shin socks are a type of shin guard that is worn over the player’s sock. They are simple and easy to put on and offer good protection for the shins. However, they can be uncomfortable and may slip down during play.

They are often used by young players or beginners.

In addition, some shin socks come with an ankle guard attached. These offer more protection but can be more difficult to put on.

How To Buy the Right Shin Guards?

There are a few things to consider when purchasing shin guards.

The first is the level of protection you need. If you’re playing in a recreational league, you’ll likely need less protection than if you’re playing in a competitive league.

Why? Because in a recreational league, the level of play is not as intense and there are typically fewer hard tackles.

The second thing to consider is the size. Shin guards come in different sizes and it’s important to find a pair that fits properly. The best way to do this is to measure your shins from the top of your foot to your knee.

Once you have this measurement, you can consult a size chart to find the right size.

The third thing to consider is the material. Shin guards are typically made from plastic, foam, or a combination of the two. The level of protection offered by each material varies, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

Plastic shin guards offer the highest level of protection, but they’re also the heaviest and can be uncomfortable to wear.

Foam shin guards are lighter and more comfortable, but they don’t offer as much protection.

Fourth, you need to consider the straps. Shin guards come with different types of straps, and it’s important to choose the right ones for your needs.

The most common type of strap is the elastic strap. This type of strap is easy to use and provides a good level of protection.

Another option is the Velcro strap. This type of strap is more secure than the elastic strap, but it can be more difficult to put on and take off.

Finally, you need to consider how comfortable the fit is. Shin guards should be snug but not too tight. They should also allow you to move and flex your legs freely.

If the fit is too loose, the shin guards will rub and chafe your skin. If the fit is too tight, it will be uncomfortable and restrict your movement.

5 Steps How to Wear Shin Guards Properly with Socks

Many people think that shin guards are just another piece of equipment that you have to wear when playing soccer. 

However, they are actually very important safety gear that can protect your legs from serious injuries.

Wearing shin guards properly is not difficult, but there are a few steps that you need to follow to make sure they stay in place and do their job.

1. Start by putting on a pair of socks that come up to at least your mid-calf. This will give the shin guards something to grip onto so they don’t slip down your leg during the game.

2. Next, take your shin guards and hold them so that the hard shell is facing down. You want the softer, padded side to be facing your leg.

3. Slip the shin guards into your socks, starting at the ankle and working your way up your leg.

4. Once the shin guards are in place, make sure they fit snugly against your skin without being too tight. You should be able to move your legs freely without the shin guards slipping or falling down.

5. Finally, put on your soccer cleats and tie them up tightly. This will help keep the shin guards in place and prevent them from moving around during the game.

Importance of Shin Guards

Shin guards are an important piece of safety gear for anyone who plays soccer. They are designed to protect your legs from impact and help prevent serious injuries.

While shin guards will not make you invincible, they can go a long way in protecting your legs from serious injuries like fractures, bruises, and cuts.

Wearing shin guards is not just for professional and competitive players. They are also important for recreational players, especially those who are just starting out.

Even if you are not playing in a competitive match, wearing shin guards can help protect your legs from injuries sustained during practice or pick-up games.

No matter what level of player you are, it is always important to wear shin guards when playing soccer. They could be the difference between an enjoyable game and a trip to the hospital.

The nature of any contact sport is impact. In soccer, as players tackle the ball, they often come into contact with other players’ legs.

This can result in bruises, cuts, and scrapes. In more severe cases, it can lead to fractures or breaks. Wearing shin guards can help protect your legs from these types of injuries.

What Are Some Shin Guards Accessories?

When it comes to shin guards, there are quite a few accessories that you can add on to help improve your experience. Here are a few of our favorites:

Stirrups and Elastic Band

This is a great way to keep your shin guards in place, especially if you have to take them off during the game. Also, they’re adjustable, so you can make them as tight or as loose as you like.

Shin Guard Sleeves

Sleeves help to keep your shin guards in place and can also add a bit of padding. They’re typically made from neoprene or another stretchy material.

Shin Guard Tape

Tape can be used to keep your shin guards in place or to add extra padding. An athletic tape is a good option, but you can also use most types of tape.

Shin Guard Stays

These are optional, but they’re great for keeping your shin guards in place. They’re typically made from plastic or metal and fit into the slots on the back of your shin guards.

FAQs

What Side Do Soccer Shin Guards Go On?

The hard, protective side of the shin guards should face outwards. This is the side that will take the impact if you are tackled or kick the ball.

Do Soccer Shin Guards Go Over or Under Socks?

Typically, soccer shin guards go under socks. This helps to keep them in place and prevents them from slipping down your leg.

How Should Shin Guards Fit?

Shin guards should fit snugly against your legs without being too tight. You should be able to move your legs freely without the shin guards slipping or falling down.

Conclusion

Wearing shin guards is an important part of playing soccer. They are designed to protect your legs from impact and help prevent serious injuries.

When choosing shin guards, it is important to find a pair that fits snugly against your legs without being too tight.

You should also make sure that the hard, protective side of the shin guards is facing outwards.

Finally, don’t forget to wear socks over your shin guards to help keep them in place and prevent them from slipping down your leg.

How do you like to wear your shin guards when playing soccer?

Read More: Why do soccer players fake injuries? Find out our top 5 reasons, plus answers to the most common soccer player injuries in this sport.