If you’re a soccer fanatic, then you know that it becomes integrated into your lifestyle. You love the gear, the physical gratification from playing, and the joy you feel when your favorite team wins a game. Besides adequate training and conditioning, it is crucial to have quality gear as these things affect the in-game outcomes. Buying the right equipment comes with a lot of hassle if you don’t know where to start. Don’t worry, as we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the essentials every soccer player needs to make the game enjoyable and safe.
Soccer Apparel
There’s nothing quite like having high-end quality soccer apparel. The apparel you choose can vary from a simple T-shirt to a standard uniform with matching accessories. Ensure the apparel you wear is according to the weather. For example, choosing a polyester blend is an excellent pick for the summer season. However, if you are playing for a league or a soccer club, they might provide a matching uniform for all players.
Soccer uniforms and jerseys are usually worn in matches, whereas in practice games, using clothes you are comfortable in would suffice. Still, it is necessary to wear clothes that don’t limit your range of motion during practice,
Soccer Cleats
It’s certainly okay for you to spend a little more when it comes to cleats. When you get the right pair of cleats, they’re gonna last for quite a while with you, not to mention make playing so much more comfortable. There are no rules enforcing the use of cleats, but soccer cleats become essential when playing professionally as they provide you traction for better stability. The soles are embedded with studs that prevent slips and falls while running. Never rush in when buying soccer cleats, and always research beforehand for the best pick. Depending on your budget, there are tons of soccer cleats to choose from, with each having its exclusive features and form factors.
Goalkeeper Gloves
While most soccer players don’t need to put gloves on their soccer equipment checklist, individuals interested in goalkeeping are required to wear gloves as a part of their gear. There are several types of professional goalie gloves on the market, each with its pros and cons. Therefore, it is crucial to put in some extra legwork before you make a choice.
Nevertheless, the gloves are designed specifically to provide support to the wrist, preventing wrist injuries. The goalie gloves allow free movement of the wrist and fingers, making it easier and safer to handle the soccer ball during impact.
Water Bottle
While most people might ignore its importance, having a water bottle during your soccer game sessions is imperative. It keeps you hydrated as soccer involves a lot of running around. When buying a water bottle, make sure the bottle does not contain BPA as the material has specific negative health effects on the body. Whether an amateur player or a professional league player, everyone needs to drink water throughout the matches.
Shin Guards
If you want to continue playing soccer for many years, then you need to pay attention to damage control! The risk of injury is prevalent and it’s important to have high-quality shin guards. The game of soccer involves a lot of tackling maneuvers that can lead to injuries if the adequate gear is not worn. Shin guards protect the player from muscle and tissue injuries during tackling, from fast-moving balls and errant kicks.
You can add several other soccer accessories to your equipment checklist, like a soccer ball and sports bag. Training nets, cones, speed ladders, and balls are other training gear you can purchase to improve your in-game skills. When buying soccer equipment, remember to never compromise on the quality of the gear to ensure your safety and swift gameplay.
