There are definite advantages to buy soccer gear online especially with the savings you can make compared to going to an established store. Many of the best known soccer gear stores are well well established online but savvy shoppers are heading to places such as Ebay looking for a bargain and to keep their budget within check.

Buying soccer gear for kids can be an expensive exercise given that kids will outgrow their apparel at a fast rate. It's here where a parent needs to be savvy with the spending and going online to get great deals on soccer gear makes a lot of sense.

Many consider it preferable to buy soccer gear from a sports store rather than a department store but in today's online dominated world, buying soccer gear online is fast becoming the norm.

Buying Soccer Gear Tips

Let's take a look at buying soccer gear and what you need to be aware of to cut costs and to ensure that your gear will last longer and give you more service.

#1..Parents need to know what type of soccer gear to buy for their children that will protect them from any injury. Specific soccer gear is required before children can start playing the game. Soccer gear includes soccer balls, soccer cleats, soccer shoes, shin guards, socks and soccer jerseys. Soccer gear identifies a player because their a certain jersey numbers to choose from.

#2..Soccer gear must be purchased at least two months before the start of the season. Parents should check with the coach to get a description of what colors the team is using. Soccer gear is not gender specific. You can use them all as unisex for girls and boys alike, but most girls would want to have their own type of soccer gear and they do sell specifically for girls as well.

#3..There is soccer gear for older players as well, but these vary in sizes and how they are cut. Read the labels to see if you are getting what you paid for. The cost of soccer gear can add up to be quite expensive, but at least you can use them for more than one season.

#4..When it comes to soccer balls, you have to think about which size you prefer. Players over 12 use a size 5 ball while those between the ages of 8 and 12 use a smaller size 4. Regulation balls are the official balls for soccer and have a stamp that read, “FIFA approved.”  These balls may be more expensive, but worth buying because unregulated soccer balls can sometimes be quite heavy to use. Players who are just beginning will prefer a softer ball instead of a harder ball. So be wise when you are buying a soccer ball. You want to purchase the right one.

#6..Keeping your gear and equipment in good condition is vitally as important as buy the right gear. There are other essential gears that are required for the game as mentioned previously. Your shin guards must be durable and so you will need to select a shin guard that will give you the most protection during the game. Make sure it fits comfortably.

#7..Socks are also an important commodity to the game of soccer. This is a personal item that must be kept clean for hygiene purposes. Select socks that fit you well and won’t affect your blood circulation.

#8..The goalkeeper’s shorts must have extra padding and should be longer than the rest of the other players to protect the goalie from any sustainable injuries when diving for the ball. The goalkeeper can wear longer pants but this is a personal decision since it can cause discomfort in some cases. Goalkeepers also must wear gloves to help them to catch the ball. The glove prevents the ball from injuring the fingers or bruising the hand. Gloves must be strong, durable and have some kind of flexibility to last for the whole season.

that depends on a lot of things.....personally when i play (i'm defence on my team) i like to have it cover a large area on my shins and i use nike srry i dunno the model but my boyfriend who's a forward on his team uses Sondico Air Shock which has lined backing & this special foam for maximum ventilation. It also has Velcro Calf Strap and Buckle for added support and also detachable ankle protection and he's highly satisfied with them...but again this all depends on ur gender and position

	Wilson Youth Soccer Shin Guard Sale Price: $8.00
	WSP200 soccer shin guards have a reinforced shell and are lightweight. They have a simple, compact design, and come in sizes for all levels of play. Contain a secure velcro closure and perforated EVA foam padded backing.

	Adidas PREDATOR Repliqué Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas PREDATOR Anatomic Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

adidas PREDATOR Repliqué WC Shin Guard

100% polypropylene, injection molded. In soccer, every game is a battle. Now you can confidently crash through the defensive line in this elite pair of hard-hitting Predator Replique shin guards. Each guard features a single-strap ankle sock construction, a highly protective front plate, soft and durable EVA cushioning, a soft synthetic lining, and adjustable guard width. Offering unmatched ankle and shin protection, the Predator Replique shin guards meet all National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). About adidas The vision of company founder Adolf Dassler long ago became reality, and his corporate philosophy the guiding principle for succeeding generations. The idea was as simple as it was brilliant. Adi Dassler's aim was to provide every athlete with the best possible equipment. It all began in 1920, when Adi Dassler made his first shoes using the few materials available after the First World War. The adidas name dates back to 1948, deriving from the first two syllables of Adi Dassler's first and last name. One year later, Adi Dassler registered the Three Stripes as a trademark. After a period spanning almost 70 years, the Dassler Family withdrew from adidas in 1989, and the enterprise was transformed into a corporation ("Aktiengesellschaft"). French-born Robert Louis-Dreyfus was chairman of the executive board from April 1993 to March 2001. It was he who initiated adidas' flotation on the stock market in November 1995. adidas--a name that stands for competence in all sectors of sport around the globe. Today, the adidas product range extends from shoes, apparel and accessories for basketball, soccer, fitness and training to adventure, trail, and golf.

	Adidas Pro Lite US Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas adi Club Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas F50 Repliqué Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Wilson Peewee Soccer Shin Guard Sale Price: $8.02
	WSP200 soccer shin guards have a reinforced shell and are lightweight. They have a simple, compact design, and come in sizes for all levels of play. Contain a secure velcro closure and perforated EVA foam padded backing.

	Milano Performance Soccer Shin Guards - Small Sale Price: $7.97
	* 180 degree high impact polyethylene shell. * Ergonomic design ensures custom fit and optimum comfort. * Removable sock with Velcro attachment. * Contour molded shin cup pads and achilles pad for optimum protection and comfort. * Comfort knit elastic ankle strap.

	Adidas PREDATOR Lesto Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

Whether it's a day camp, a weeklong sleep-away camp or a month-long camp abroad, sending your child to soccer camp for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience for the both of you. Here are a few ways to ease the transition and help them enjoy the experience.

Involve them in the planning and the prep work.

Likely there are many soccer camps to choose from, so narrow it down by your child's needs and your budget, and let your child make the final decision on where to go. If that's not possible, then perhaps he or she can pick some of the activities or classes to take at camp.

Also, let your kids pick out some of the things they'll need for camp. Whether it's practice clothes and new shin guards or a toothbrush holder and face soap, letting them help with the planning and preparation will give them some control over the situation, and hopefully stave off the worst of homesickness.

Practice getting ready for new experiences.

One of the scariest things about any first time at camp is that it's an unknown. Find out what will be new to your kids and help them practice doing it. If your kids are going abroad, buy a language dictionary and practice saying simple things like "please" and "thank you" and asking for directions. If they're just going out of town, spend a day over in the town if it's within driving distance. If you happen to know or learn some of the drills they'll be doing, practice those with your kids in the backyard or the local soccer fields.

New experiences are an exciting and sometimes terrifying part of soccer camp, but practicing a little before your kids go will make the adjustment a lot easier.

Talk to them.

Are your kids worried about camp, that they won't be as good as the other players? Are they excited? Both? Sit down and talk with them about it. Let them know that it's OK to have mixed feelings about going. Talk about homesickness, but be positive and encouraging about all the new things they'll learn and experiences they'll have.

If they're worried about keeping in touch with friends and family, give them some stationery and an address book, or a phone card so they can call. Or, try giving them a journal so they can write down their soccer camp adventures, and they can share it with their friends when they return.

And don't forget to have fun!

Scary as it may be, the first time away at soccer camp can also be a fun and rewarding experience that will have your kids begging to go back year after year. By taking a few steps to make the transition as smooth as possible, you can make sure they get the most out of their time at camp.

EduKickÂ’s mission is to provide intensive soccer development training programs that also teach youngsters about cultural diversity and foreign languages. For more information about soccer camps, or to register for a soccer camp abroad, visit EduKick.com.

i have a cream called protopic that gets rid of excema overnight so get it then go for the soccer team!

	Adidas adi Club Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	adidas Club Lite Shinguards
	#802928 Hard shell plastic face plateMolded EVA Backing foam for impact absorptionDual strap closureImported.

Hey,yeah there is a huge difference.My field hockey shin guards have the hard shell in the front and the small covering in the back to cover your legs.In soccer,the shin guards usually just cover the front.But if you can try to get field hockey shin guards cause trust me with the ball and everything it will hurt with soccer shin guards,i have learned from expirence.you should be able to tell the difference cause field hockey shin guards are way thicker.
if you go here you can see what they look like,and they arent that expensive either

https://www.longstreth.com/products.asp?dept=1221&topdept=1079

	Wilson Youth Soccer Shin Guard Sale Price: $8.00
	WSP200 soccer shin guards have a reinforced shell and are lightweight. They have a simple, compact design, and come in sizes for all levels of play. Contain a secure velcro closure and perforated EVA foam padded backing.

	Adidas PREDATOR Anatomic Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas PREDATOR Repliqué Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

adidas PREDATOR Repliqué WC Shin Guard

100% polypropylene, injection molded. In soccer, every game is a battle. Now you can confidently crash through the defensive line in this elite pair of hard-hitting Predator Replique shin guards. Each guard features a single-strap ankle sock construction, a highly protective front plate, soft and durable EVA cushioning, a soft synthetic lining, and adjustable guard width. Offering unmatched ankle and shin protection, the Predator Replique shin guards meet all National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). About adidas The vision of company founder Adolf Dassler long ago became reality, and his corporate philosophy the guiding principle for succeeding generations. The idea was as simple as it was brilliant. Adi Dassler's aim was to provide every athlete with the best possible equipment. It all began in 1920, when Adi Dassler made his first shoes using the few materials available after the First World War. The adidas name dates back to 1948, deriving from the first two syllables of Adi Dassler's first and last name. One year later, Adi Dassler registered the Three Stripes as a trademark. After a period spanning almost 70 years, the Dassler Family withdrew from adidas in 1989, and the enterprise was transformed into a corporation ("Aktiengesellschaft"). French-born Robert Louis-Dreyfus was chairman of the executive board from April 1993 to March 2001. It was he who initiated adidas' flotation on the stock market in November 1995. adidas--a name that stands for competence in all sectors of sport around the globe. Today, the adidas product range extends from shoes, apparel and accessories for basketball, soccer, fitness and training to adventure, trail, and golf.

	Adidas Pro Lite US Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas adi Club Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas F50 Repliqué Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Wilson Peewee Soccer Shin Guard Sale Price: $8.02
	WSP200 soccer shin guards have a reinforced shell and are lightweight. They have a simple, compact design, and come in sizes for all levels of play. Contain a secure velcro closure and perforated EVA foam padded backing.

	Milano Performance Soccer Shin Guards - Large Sale Price: $7.33
	Large is for height 5'6" and over.

	Adidas PREDATOR Lesto Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

If you are looking for solid training in massage, you should know that massage therapy schools in Maine can present you with several exciting options in your quest to be a professional massage therapist. Maine massage therapy schools offer various Eastern and Western forms of massage, and many of them also offer specializations in massage therapy for chronic pain, trauma massage, medical massage, sports massage, and others.

Students in Maine massage therapy schools will gain the necessary knowledge and skills needed by massage therapy professionals. Courses that prepare students in the art and science of therapeutic massage will include anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, and nutrition, as well as theory and various techniques of massage therapy.

The program of study in any massage therapy school should emphasize communication skills and working with patients to develop the students' massage therapy techniques. Students should gain extensive clinical practice under the supervision of trained instructors. Western types of massage should be addressed, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports, craniosacral, reflexology, hydrotherapy, lymph, geriatric, and more. Eastern forms, including Shiatsu, Thai, Tui Na, Jin Shin Jyutsu, acupressure, etc., may also be learned. Your choice of schools may also see that you get the business skills you need for managing and operating your own massage therapy businesses.

Upon graduation, you will be qualified to apply for a rewarding position in a healthcare clinic, hospital, spa, sport club, or begin a private practice; however, your massage education will need to be supplemented with a license in order to practice massage in the state of Maine. Licenses are awarded after passing NCETMB examinations, or by completing training schools or massage therapy programs that are accredited by the COMTA. License renewal is required annually.

If you would like to know more about Maine Massage Therapy Schools, you can start right now. Visit our website today and submit a request for information to schools that seem to meet your professional goals. You will soon be on the path to an exciting new career!

If necessary, you may wish to look into massage therapy schools in other states, such as:

- Minnesota Massage Therapy Schools

- Pennsylvania Massage Therapy Schools

- Michigan Massage Therapy Schools

- Arizona Massage Therapy Schools

- Colorado Massage Therapy Schools

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Copyright 2007 - All rights reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc.

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. Find Massage Therapy Schools in Maine and other states, such as Florida Massage Therapy Schools, at SchoolsGalore.com, your educational resource to locate schools.

It could be that the shin guards are rubbing against your ankles and causing irritation from the friction. Don't scratch the skin, that's obviously just making it worse. When you notice the redness and itching, cover the area with a moisturizer and don't pick at it. Also check to see if your guards could be too loose at the ankle; that would cause the guards to shift around when you're wearing them and irritate your skin.

	Wilson Youth Soccer Shin Guard Sale Price: $8.00
	WSP200 soccer shin guards have a reinforced shell and are lightweight. They have a simple, compact design, and come in sizes for all levels of play. Contain a secure velcro closure and perforated EVA foam padded backing.

	Adidas PREDATOR Repliqué Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas PREDATOR Anatomic Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

adidas PREDATOR Repliqué WC Shin Guard

100% polypropylene, injection molded. In soccer, every game is a battle. Now you can confidently crash through the defensive line in this elite pair of hard-hitting Predator Replique shin guards. Each guard features a single-strap ankle sock construction, a highly protective front plate, soft and durable EVA cushioning, a soft synthetic lining, and adjustable guard width. Offering unmatched ankle and shin protection, the Predator Replique shin guards meet all National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). About adidas The vision of company founder Adolf Dassler long ago became reality, and his corporate philosophy the guiding principle for succeeding generations. The idea was as simple as it was brilliant. Adi Dassler's aim was to provide every athlete with the best possible equipment. It all began in 1920, when Adi Dassler made his first shoes using the few materials available after the First World War. The adidas name dates back to 1948, deriving from the first two syllables of Adi Dassler's first and last name. One year later, Adi Dassler registered the Three Stripes as a trademark. After a period spanning almost 70 years, the Dassler Family withdrew from adidas in 1989, and the enterprise was transformed into a corporation ("Aktiengesellschaft"). French-born Robert Louis-Dreyfus was chairman of the executive board from April 1993 to March 2001. It was he who initiated adidas' flotation on the stock market in November 1995. adidas--a name that stands for competence in all sectors of sport around the globe. Today, the adidas product range extends from shoes, apparel and accessories for basketball, soccer, fitness and training to adventure, trail, and golf.

	Adidas Pro Lite US Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas adi Club Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas F50 Repliqué Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Wilson Peewee Soccer Shin Guard Sale Price: $8.02
	WSP200 soccer shin guards have a reinforced shell and are lightweight. They have a simple, compact design, and come in sizes for all levels of play. Contain a secure velcro closure and perforated EVA foam padded backing.

	Milano Performance Soccer Shin Guards - Small Sale Price: $7.97
	* 180 degree high impact polyethylene shell. * Ergonomic design ensures custom fit and optimum comfort. * Removable sock with Velcro attachment. * Contour molded shin cup pads and achilles pad for optimum protection and comfort. * Comfort knit elastic ankle strap.

	Adidas PREDATOR Lesto Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

Sports theme birthday parties are fun for kids of all ages. They can be fun to plan as well as fun to attend. No matter what your budget, you are sure to find a sports theme that will fit your budget. When planning a sports theme birthday party, it is important to keep in mind the age of the children who will be at the party. You will want the games and prizes to be age appropriate.

Soccer themed birthday parties are popular amongst boy and girls of varying ages. For the invitations, you could print off a soccer ball card. You could have a cake that resembles a soccer ball. As well, you could have soccer plates, cups and napkins and green silverware. If you are looking to have games at the party, you could have soccer shoot out, dribble contest and see who can head ball the soccer ball into a goal or bucket. Small soccer balls could be purchased for the goody bags as well as soccer ball candy and treats.

When looking to decorate for a soccer party, consider placing soccer gear, such as uniform shirts and shorts, goalie jerseys and gloves, cleats, shin guards and socks around the room. As far as food goes, consider serving pizza, chips and soda.

Another favorite sports theme birthday party is a football party. For this one, you could print off invitations from your computer that say "Help us kick off John's 7th birthday". In the background, you can have a picture of a football or a football field. Ask the kids to come dressed in their football jersey of their favorite player.

For food, consider purchasing a variety of different finger foods, as well as chips and dip. A game that is sure to be a hit is football toss. Design a piece of plywood to resemble a football. Then, cut out a hole in the middle. Have the kids try and toss a football through the hole.

Cheerleading is very popular among girls of all ages. If you are considering a cheerleading themed birthday party you can design an invitation that says "Let's give a cheer, Tamra is turning 8". The invitations can look like a cheerleading outfit. As well, the cake can be designed with cheerleaders on top. Have the guests come dressed in their cheerleading uniforms. You can decorate for the party by placing cheerleading uniforms around, as well as pom-poms and megaphones. If you are looking to pass out goody bags at the party, consider putting pom-pom hair ribbons, as well as sports related candy and small megaphones in the bags.

Perhaps you are looking to host an all sports themed birthday party. With this, you could pass out invitations that look like sport tickets. At the top, place the words VIP Pass. Kids will get a kick out of seeing the invitation that looks like a real sporting ticket. Use a variety of different sports balls, such as soccer balls, basketballs and baseballs to decorate. You can also place jerseys around throughout the party room. If you have access to pennants, they would also make some great decorations. For food, you could have a variety of different finger foods, such as wings, cheese trays and veggie trays. You could also have hot dogs, popcorn and cracker jacks.

Bowling is another great sports theme birthday party idea. With this one, you will not have a lot of preparation. You can simply call your local bowling alley and book a couple of lanes. Many bowling alleys will provide balloons and a bowling pin that the birthday kid can take home with them. You purchased pre-made bowling invitations or make your own. If you make your own, you can cut out circles with three black dots on them, to resemble a bowling ball. On the back side, you can place the words "You will be bowled over at Kayla's birthday party" and give all of the details for the party. If you will have younger kids at the party, you can request that the bumpers be put up on the lanes. Kids will have a great time bowling.

A sport theme birthday party can be a lot of fun for kids of all ages. With some creativity, you can easily plan a birthday party that will not soon be forgotten. Just be sure to make the games, prizes and food are age appropriate. No matter what sport you choose, your party will be loved by everyone.

Author: Bennetta Elliott, CEO Personalized Gift Express, your 1-stop-shop for personalized sports theme gifts.

	Adidas Pro Lite US Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas PREDATOR Repliqué Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas adi Club Soccer Shin Guard
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	Adidas PREDATOR Anatomic Shin Guard Average Rating:
	100% polypropylene, injection molded.

	adidas Women's adiPure Fit Lite Shinguards
	#312970 EVA cushioning. Dual strap front closure for a secure fit. Adjustable guard width. Soft synthetic lining Hard shell protection.NOCSAE approved.

adidas PREDATOR Repliqué WC Shin Guard

100% polypropylene, injection molded. In soccer, every game is a battle. Now you can confidently crash through the defensive line in this elite pair of hard-hitting Predator Replique shin guards. Each guard features a single-strap ankle sock construction, a highly protective front plate, soft and durable EVA cushioning, a soft synthetic lining, and adjustable guard width. Offering unmatched ankle and shin protection, the Predator Replique shin guards meet all National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). About adidas The vision of company founder Adolf Dassler long ago became reality, and his corporate philosophy the guiding principle for succeeding generations. The idea was as simple as it was brilliant. Adi Dassler's aim was to provide every athlete with the best possible equipment. It all began in 1920, when Adi Dassler made his first shoes using the few materials available after the First World War. The adidas name dates back to 1948, deriving from the first two syllables of Adi Dassler's first and last name. One year later, Adi Dassler registered the Three Stripes as a trademark. After a period spanning almost 70 years, the Dassler Family withdrew from adidas in 1989, and the enterprise was transformed into a corporation ("Aktiengesellschaft"). French-born Robert Louis-Dreyfus was chairman of the executive board from April 1993 to March 2001. It was he who initiated adidas' flotation on the stock market in November 1995. adidas--a name that stands for competence in all sectors of sport around the globe. Today, the adidas product range extends from shoes, apparel and accessories for basketball, soccer, fitness and training to adventure, trail, and golf.

Puma Powercat Pro Pad Nocsae Shinguards

The ultimate customisable shinguard. The outer shell of this shinguard is made from the low-temperature thermo plastic, so when immersed in hot water, the shell can be formed to provide a custom fit. Furthermore the process is repeatable, so the shell can be remolded as often as required. The lightweight, yet protective, detachable ankle and independent elastic straps allow you to configure your shinguard to your exact preference. The polyester backed EVA pad can be detached from the shell for washing.

	Puma Powercat 5.10 Soccer Shin Guards
	The lightweight, streamlined Puma® Powercat 5.10 shin guard is designed with a high-impact PP shell for excellent fit and protection, while EVA backing provides additional comfort.

	adidas F50 Techfit Shin Guards (Black/Sun)
	#15185 Maximum comfort from a minimal guard. Detachable hard shield for low profile protection. Breathable,lightweight compression sleeve with PowerWeb TPU bands create a perfect fit and increase circulation for improved stamina and faster play. EVA padding cushions. NOCSAE Certified. 3.0 oz.

Prevent injuries with proper youth soccer gear.

Youth soccer players do need the same type of equipment as more mature soccer players. But, it is important that their gear fits properly. Children will get more enjoyment from the game, and will be less likely to injure themselves.

Youth soccer gear includes a solid pair of soccer cleats, well-fitting soccer shorts, and socks that match the team jersey. Soccer shinguards will provide lower leg protection, and a soccer jersey, to top it off. Let's look a little deeper at each item of youth soccer gear.

Soccer Cleats and Shoes

Cleat or shoe types include removable cleats, molded cleats, indoor soccer shoes and turf shoes:

• Molded Cleats have non-removable, pre-formed rubber or plastic cleats on the bottom. Metal cleats are not allowed. They can be used on all outdoor field types but will not perform as well on turf, or wet, soggy fields.
• Removable Cleats are made of a hard plastic. These studs can be replaced as they wear down. Players of a higher skill level usually use this type of cleat on longer grass, or wet soggy fields.
• Indoor soccer shoes look similar to a sneaker, but they are very different. They are made with exclusive compounds in the sole that provide improved grip over sneakers. They are cut lower to prevent rolling off the ankles as your child makes the moves that soccer requires. They are made for firm surfaces like gyms, but not for indoor artificial turf.
• Turf Shoes are specifically for playing on artificial turf. It doesn't matter if it is indoor or outdoor turf. The sole has been specially designed with studs that are shorter than molded or removable cleats. They are multi-directional in nature. This helps provide the grip necessary for playing on artificial turf.

Shinguards

Soccer shin guards are made from a variety of materials. These materials can include:

• Plastic.
• Polyurethane.
• Foam rubber.
• Fiberglass.
• Foam/lycra.

Shin guards are required as part of youth soccer gear and one of the best ways to prevent injury. In soccer most of the action is at your feet. It is sometimes suggested that different positions need to wear a different type of shin guard. I will provide the information, but only you and your child can decide what is best.

• Defenders - thicker model with more protection.
• Midfielders - protective, lightweight, and more rounded in style.
• Forwards - more ankle protection and very light.

This guide will be helpful in choosing the proper shin guard size for your child:

• X-Small: up to a height of 3 feet 9 inches
• Small: up to a height of 4 feet 5 inches
• Medium: up to a height of 5 feet 1 inch
• Large: over 5 feet 2 inches

Youth Soccer Socks

These socks are not much different from the socks that older players wear. They are just smaller. They are needed to hold the shin guards in place, and to match the team's uniform.

Less expensive socks are usually made from a polyester-acrylic blend. Sometimes cotton is added for comfort, but don't expect a lot of cotton. But you can find 100% cotton socks.

Choosing top quality socks made with synthetic microfibers will pull perspiration away from the foot. They will have a padded sole to enhance foot comfort as well.

TIP - If your child's foot sweats a great deal, put talcum powder or foot powder in the sock to help soak it up. This will help prevent blisters.

Youth Soccer Jerseys

Most jerseys today are made from a combination of light-weight microfibers that are and do not absorb much moisture. When it comes to youth soccer, the team or association usually supplies the jerseys. So for that reason, I will leave the jersey choosing to you and your soccer association. Unless you are looking for replica soccer jerseys.

Soccer Shorts

Even though they may be cool to your kids, baggy shorts are not good for the soccer field. If they are too long, they can restrict easy movement. If this happens your child may get injured, or may not play up to their ability. The less restriction, the better it is for their game. They also have to fit your team's uniform. Some associations will provide shorts and socks as part of the team uniform.

If you use this information as a guide you should be able to get the right youth soccer gear for your child.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out Youth Soccer Gear for more great soccer information for yourself or your team.

The Soccer Drill Sargeant

the one with the ankle support is better. i think you will feel adequately protected with the padding. it may take time to get used to it, but once done, you'll be okay.

	Fly Racing Standard Adult Knee/Shin Guard MotoX Motorcycle Body Armor
	Impact resistant plastic shellLycra laminated biofoamTwo adjustable straps2011 Model

	Fly Racing Standard Youth Knee/Shin Guard MX Motorcycle Body Armor
	Impact resistant plastic shellLycra laminated biofoamTwo adjustable straps2011 Model

	Fly Racing Flex Adult Knee/Shin Guard MotoX Motorcycle Body Armor
	Impact resistant ABS plastic construction Perforated biofoam padding for increased airflow Calf pad for added comfort Wrap-around foam padding extends to the sides of your legs for better coverage Available in Adult and adult sizes 2011 Model

	Fly Racing Flex Youth Knee/Shin Guard MX Motorcycle Body Armor
	Impact resistant ABS plastic construction Perforated biofoam padding for increased airflow Calf pad for added comfort Wrap-around foam padding extends to the sides of your legs for better coverage Available in youth and adult sizes 2011 Model

	Champion Sports All-In-One Sock and Shin Guard - Youth Large
	Cut down on gear and make prepping for practices easier with Champion Sports' All-In-One Sock and Shin Guards. These cotton and Lycra socks are a great choice for young athletes who might fidget with or resist wearing shin guards. Each sock has a removable EVA foam shin guard inside, as well as a built-in ankle protector. Machine washable.

	Throwdown Hybrid Shin Guards

	SixSixOne MXE Knee/Shin Guard Black One Size Fits All OSFA 6403-05-530 Sale Price: $20.03
	SixSixOne MXE Knee/Shin Guard Black One Size Fits All OSFA 6403-05-530

	UNDER ARMOUR Adult Ua Contain Ii Shin Guard
	NOCSAE approved shin guard, outer PP molded shell lined with 7 mil, 1000b EVA foam, detachable ankle padding

	CranBarry Deluxe Youth Field Hockey Shin Guards
	The CranBarry® Deluxe youth field hockey shin guards offer full protection with a hard plastic and heavy foam construction. Protective ankle cups and padded cushions in front of the ankle provide added coverage. The unique designed of these guards allow them to be rolled down when you're are not playing.

	CranBarry Deluxe Field Hockey Shin Guards
	The CranBarry Deluxe field hockey shin guards are ideal for games, featuring a unique design that allows you to fold them down for full ventilation and a wrap-around design that allows them to double as game socks. The guards offer full shin and ankle protection.