SOCCER SHINGUARD BUYING GUIDE
Shinguards are required to be worn by all players by any organized league or team. They help to reduce the risk for serious leg injuries, such as broken legs, cuts, and bruises. There are several different designs and materials that offer different amounts of protection, comfort and flexibility.
Styles
There are three basic styles of shinguards. Each different style offers a different amount of protection, coverage, comfort, fit and flexibility.
Shield is the most common shinguard today. It has a hard outer layer made out of plastic or similar materials. It stops the contact while layers of backing dampen the impact and provide additional comfort, breathability and protection.
OSI is the most advanced type of shinguard available. In a process that is like molding a medical cast, the player molds this shinguard to fit his/her individual body perfectly. The molding requires only water and can be done in a few minutes. The shinguard incorporates multiple layers of fiberglass to provide greater strength. The more layers, the stronger and more durable the shinguard.
Wands are the traditional style of shinguards. They are very light-weight, comfortable and formfitting. It has several wands that run the length of the shinguard and that stop and disperse the force of the impact. Foam and fabric backing adds comfort and protection.
Materials
Shinguards are made out a variety of materials. They can be made out of the following materials:
Fiberglass offers the best protection and is moldable and very light-weight. Used in OSI shinguards.
PU (Polyurethane) is heavier and less moldable. Offers outstanding protection.
Plastic is usually used in less-expensive shinguards.
Foam Rubber is very light-weight and moldable, but does not offer good protection.
EVA foam is used as backing to provide greater comfort.
Components
Ankle protectors are attached to the bottom of some shinguards. They are made out of padded foam and offer protection of ankles and Achilles tendons. However, they are soft and flexible enough to allow for easy movement. Ankle protectors are highly recommended for players up to 12 years.
Closure most shinguards have a closure to ensure that they will stay in place during use. A hookand loop, velcro strap is the most common type of closure. However, slip in shinguards are also available to can be worn simply inside of the socks or compression sleeves.
Size
It is very important that shinguards fit the player correctly. The shinguards need to cover most of the area from the knee down to the ankles.
To measure your knee to ensure a proper fit, measure in the front from just below where the knee bends to about 1 inch above the top of the shoe.
As a general guideline - Adult shinguards are for players 5'4" or taller, Youth shinguards are for players under 5'4".
Care
The care instructions depend on the individual shinguard. Please refer to the care instructions that come with your shinguard.
