Sports

Soccer Gear Shopping Tips – What to Consider

Soccer Ball

Your feet are crucial in the game of soccer. This makes the cleats you wear the most essential type of equipment that you will be using on the pitch. Soccer boots are the main point of contact between you and the ball. They have a direct and significant effect on your overall performance. This is why it is important for you to identify the shoes that are suitable for your playing style, budget and game.

Cleats

While looking for cleats, the key features are the upper and sole of the shoe. Soles are designed for different surfaces and the upper is the area that touches the ball. To achieve the best grip, maneuvering skills and acceleration, you need soccer shoes that feature the outsoles that are suitable for you’re the field surface that you will be playing on.

  • Firm ground shoes are ideal for beginners and players who are developing their skills because they work well on a variety of natural surfaces.
  • The category of soft ground shoes is a good choice for professional and experienced players and different surfaces. Adjustable cleat studs can be used to perform under a variety of conditions.
  • Turf outsoles are suitable for artificial grounds and harder surfaces. Indoor traction facilitates indoor play and the hard surfaces typically found in gyms.
  • The upper may be made from synthetic or leather material and this affects the contact with the ball. Softer leather enhances control while synthetic material is water resistant and ideal for wet conditions.

Socks

Players typically wear their soccer socks high to give their shin guards coverage whole they play. Socks also provide benefits that influence performance. Wear socks according to the conditions that you play in. Opt for thinner socks during hot weather and thicker socks for colder months. Soccer socks are affordable and you can buy different types that you can wear as conditions change.

Shin Guards

There are various styles of shin guards but they are all designed to absorb impact, which protects the shins, ankles and legs from injuries. The best shin guards provide maximum impact absorption without compromising on the player’s comfort. The more coverage that your shin guards provide, the safer you will be.

Apparel

Soccer apparel for players typically consists of jerseys and shorts. They are made from breathable and lightweight material to keep you feeling and looking good. They are available in numerous colors and styles. Your preference will determine your choice but you should always make sure that your clothing is comfortable and fits to enhance your agility and performance on the field.

Goalkeepers

The goalkeeper’s jersey usually has built in pads to protect the arms and elbows as you dive for shots. Shorts and pants also feature padding to protect the lower half of the body. Proper apparel gives you the confidence you need to handle this physically-demanding role.

Gloves improve control over the ball and make it possible to make dramatic stops during the game while protecting the hands from injury. They are made from different materials and in a variety of styles to facilitate training and matches.

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Paul Tomaszewski is a science & tech writer as well as a programmer and entrepreneur. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of CosmoBC. He has a degree in computer science from John Abbott College, a bachelor's degree in technology from the Memorial University of Newfoundland, and completed some business and economics classes at Concordia University in Montreal. While in college he was the vice-president of the Astronomy Club. In his spare time he is an amateur astronomer and enjoys reading or watching science-fiction. You can follow him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

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