Remember soccer shin guards are made to protect the front of the lower leg from errant kicks and are regulation wear in all levels of the sport. With player safety of maximum importance in all levels of soccer, the shin guard has now become a necessity in competitive soccer-at all ages.
New coaches don't forget, referees will not allow you to play without shin guards. If you don't want your kids to incur serious leg injuries then carefully selected shin guards are your kids' both best friend and most loyal protector.
There are many styles and sizes to choose based on your age and style of play. Here are some important points to consider when selecting soccer shin guards:
• When sizing shin guards, the best way to measure the leg for shin guards is to take the length of the leg from ankle to knee and take off an inch. Soccer shin guards should offer protection for legs without obstructing movement.
• Measure the shin from below where the knee bends to 1 inch above the shoe top--this is the proper length of soccer shin guards.
• High school players should look for NOCSAE Approved shin guards
• Shin guards should cover most of the area from the ankle to your knee
Look for protective shin guards that are strong and durable. On my Girls U13 team, we have selected Vizari Milanos to protect our girls-they are NOCSAE approved and affordable. Remember, they will get kicked in the shins, so choose your soccer shin guards wisely. Make sure they cover the leg from the ankle to the bottom of the knee. Do your shin guards fit comfortably? Can you run, jump, and kick easily with the shin guards on?