![10 Best Soccer Shin Guards for Ultimate Protection [2023]](https://www.soccer-tricks.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/complete-shin-guards-buyers-guide.jpg "10 Best Soccer Shin Guards for Ultimate Protection [2023] 1")
Shin guards consist of a front shield plate and back cushioning, but their design varies depending on the type and brand. Some guards cover the entire leg and have straps for extra support, while others only cover the shin and rely on the player’s sock to keep them in place.
It is important to review the specifications and descriptions of a Shin Guard before purchasing them to ensure it is proper for the individual player and his or her needs.
- Separated front plate for perfect fit and comfort
- Compression sleeve feels like you’re not wearing a guard
- EVA backing for high comfort and durable cushioning
- NOCSAE SEI-certified packaging logo
- Flexible and high-impact resistant TPU softshell
- Debossed, perforated CMEVA backing for lightweight shock absorption
- Compression sleeve with slip pocket for agility and secure fit
- Nylon and spandex sleeve
- Armour Flex shell provides flexible protection
- Charged Cushioning padding for the ultimate in comfort
- Meets NOCSAE standards. Regular Fit
- Sold with ergonomic, form-fitting calf sleeves
- SMALL: Recommended for heights between 3’11”-4’7″
- Aircell Technology keeps players cool
- Simplified guard
- Slip in design
- Hex weave shell
- EVA back for comfort
- Lightweight PP shell for protection.
- Foam padded backing.
- Front strap closing system.
- Comfortable, Durable and Lightweight to play in
- Vizari. Game On, Always
- Light weight low profile guard for an exact fit
- 3 piece shell for added flexibility
- Detachable ankle guard for variable fit and comfort
- Velcro strap closure
- Football Protective Shin Guards
- COMPREHENSIVE SHIN GUARD — Perfect shin guards for adults that shield legs from potential impacts due to extreme sports such as soccer, field hockey, etc. Lightweight and flexible yet the impact and abrasion proof out from this are made sure to provide extensive protection while you perform!
- ERGONOMIC & WATERPROOF — Made low profile and lightweight to allow athletes to play without hesitation and movement constraint. Bodyprox Shin Guards are machine washable, but the pads are waterproof to ensure it withstands perspiration and washing cycles!
- SLEEVE STYLE WITH SILICON GRIP PROTECTION — Sturdy sleeve style shin guard which stays in place with flexible protective pads feature for freedom of movement and hard on abrupt impact. Comfortable enough and use it without even realizing wearing them!
- LIGHTWEIGHT & FLEXIBLE — Soft to touch and flexible that these incredible pair conform to any individuals shin very well! Less bulky compared to traditional plastic slip-in shin guard. Despite that, they protect the shin from impact and do the job efficiently and effectively!
- ACE YOUR GAME! — Get the best protection you need and achieve a great lead over the competition with Bodyprox Shin Guard you deserve!
- Soccer Shin Guards for Youth: This protective, lightweight gear uses body-mapped SmartFlex technology that stays flexible when playing but hardens on impact
- Secure Sports Accessories: The integrated shin guard and sleeve construction combined with the single-contoured seam offers excellent compression and security
- Soccer Equipment & Sports Wear: These soccer shin guards with woven elastic for security are made from moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you dry
- May Run Small: Please consult the size chart and check your measurements before ordering; this item tends to run small
- Protective Gear for Athletes: G-Form provides the best protection for athletes using materials that protect the fields they play on
Player position can also be a factor when deciding which Guard is the proper one for the individual. A midfielder will not always wear the same Guard as a forward. Forwards tend to worry about weight and size, opting for a smaller fit. Goalies will also wear smaller and lightweight Shin Guards. Defenders typically seek more coverage and protection due to the amount and severity of tackles they are involved in. In the end, advanced or older players will need to weigh the benefits and pitfalls found within the various Guards.
Moreover, youth players typically wear different and more protected guards than adult players. Youth players should lean more towards full ankle and shin protection, as they will be more prone to being kicked during play (training and match). However, adults and older players will too suffer from harder, even if less prone, kicks.
Similar to most footwear, Shin Guards are designed based on actual leg molds, typically those of professional players. Professionals and those sponsored by companies will test and assist in the design process before the Guards are released and sold to the public. This ensures the products are safe for use at the highest levels of competition. The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) oversees the standards for sports equipment specifically designed to protect High School players in the U.S. All High School players, and many at the club level must wear NOCSAE-approved Guards. The approval should be on the Shin Guard or Packaging, indicating that they have been certified for such use.
There are two primary forms of Shin Guards: Slip-On & Full Ankle Shin Guards.
Slip-On Shin Guards
A slip-on Guard is usually a light shield that is slid under the sock. Keeping slip-on Guards in place can be done in numerous ways, including but not limited to Velcro straps, athletic tape, bands, or compression sleeves. In today’s age, compression sleeves are generally used and sold with the Shin Guards. However, it is important to note that not all slip-on Guards will have sleeves included with the original purchase. The various companies usually sell sleeves separate from their individual Shin Guards. A slip-on Guard will provide a more advanced player will a wider range of motion and movement. They are also usually lightweight, allowing the player to move fasters and quicker on and off the ball.
Full Ankle Shin Guards
Full ankle Shin Guards are usually the shin plate attached to a padded ankle protector. Usually, the best shin guards for defenders soccer and attackers feel they need more protection. The Guard is all-in-one and usually has a strap at the foot or heel area, supporting the ankle protector, and a strap at the calf area, securing the shin plate. Typically, the ankle protector will protect against kicks or abrasions at the ankle and against ankle rolling. Full ankle Shin Guards are highly recommended for younger players, but any player that sustains many tackles or kicks to the ankle and shin area. It is worth noting that separate ankle protectors can be purchased and used in tandem with slip-on shin guards. For those wanting full protection with mobility, pairing a separate ankle protector and slip-on Guard is recommended.
It is important to clean Shin Guards regularly. This will prolong the Guard’s life and decrease the smell that will accumulate over time after regular use. It is safe to use soap and water. It is recommended to wash them by hand; however, some can be machine-washed. It is best to check the product information before using any machine. Once they have been washed, air-drying is then recommended. Baking soda can also be used when washing to reduce or eliminate odors.
Shin Guard size is generally determined by height. The taller the player, the larger or longer and wider the Shin Guard should be purchased. However, this has become a personal preference for older or more experienced players. The size of the Guard will get longer and wider, generally, when moving up in size. It is important to note that sizing is NOT the same as clothing sizes. A good rule of thumb is for Guards to fit so that the Guard is no more than a few inches away from the ankle and knee, respectively.
Best Soccer Shin Guards – NOCSAE Approved Shin Guards
- Separated front plate for perfect fit and comfort
- Compression sleeve feels like you’re not wearing a guard
- EVA backing for high comfort and durable cushioning
- NOCSAE SEI-certified packaging logo
- Flexible and high-impact resistant TPU softshell
- Debossed, perforated CMEVA backing for lightweight shock absorption
- Compression sleeve with slip pocket for agility and secure fit
- Nylon and spandex sleeve
- Armour Flex shell provides flexible protection
- Charged Cushioning padding for the ultimate in comfort
- Meets NOCSAE standards. Regular Fit
- Sold with ergonomic, form-fitting calf sleeves
- SMALL: Recommended for heights between 3’11”-4’7″
- Aircell Technology keeps players cool
- Simplified guard
- Slip in design
- Hex weave shell
- EVA back for comfort
- Lightweight PP shell for protection.
- Foam padded backing.
- Front strap closing system.
- Comfortable, Durable and Lightweight to play in
- Vizari. Game On, Always
- Light weight low profile guard for an exact fit
- 3 piece shell for added flexibility
- Detachable ankle guard for variable fit and comfort
- Velcro strap closure
- Football Protective Shin Guards
- COMPREHENSIVE SHIN GUARD — Perfect shin guards for adults that shield legs from potential impacts due to extreme sports such as soccer, field hockey, etc. Lightweight and flexible yet the impact and abrasion proof out from this are made sure to provide extensive protection while you perform!
- ERGONOMIC & WATERPROOF — Made low profile and lightweight to allow athletes to play without hesitation and movement constraint. Bodyprox Shin Guards are machine washable, but the pads are waterproof to ensure it withstands perspiration and washing cycles!
- SLEEVE STYLE WITH SILICON GRIP PROTECTION — Sturdy sleeve style shin guard which stays in place with flexible protective pads feature for freedom of movement and hard on abrupt impact. Comfortable enough and use it without even realizing wearing them!
- LIGHTWEIGHT & FLEXIBLE — Soft to touch and flexible that these incredible pair conform to any individuals shin very well! Less bulky compared to traditional plastic slip-in shin guard. Despite that, they protect the shin from impact and do the job efficiently and effectively!
- ACE YOUR GAME! — Get the best protection you need and achieve a great lead over the competition with Bodyprox Shin Guard you deserve!
- Soccer Shin Guards for Youth: This protective, lightweight gear uses body-mapped SmartFlex technology that stays flexible when playing but hardens on impact
- Secure Sports Accessories: The integrated shin guard and sleeve construction combined with the single-contoured seam offers excellent compression and security
- Soccer Equipment & Sports Wear: These soccer shin guards with woven elastic for security are made from moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you dry
- May Run Small: Please consult the size chart and check your measurements before ordering; this item tends to run small
- Protective Gear for Athletes: G-Form provides the best protection for athletes using materials that protect the fields they play on
Below you will find a general guide for Shin Guards and the various sizes found within the major brands:
General Shin Guard Sizing
| Small | up to 5’2″ |
| Medium | up to 5’10” |
| Large | up to 6’4″ |
| X-Large | up to 6’10” |
Soccer Shin Guards FAQs
What are the benefits of wearing shin guards?
During soccer matches, shin guards protect your legs from injuries caused by kicks and tackle. They provide essential protection to the shin bone and reduce the risk of fractures and other serious injuries.
How do I choose the best soccer shin guard?
When choosing the best soccer shin guard, consider factors such as the level of protection, comfort, fit, and durability. Look for lightweight shin guards that offer a custom fit and adequate ankle protection.
Should I wear shin guard sleeves or socks?
It is a matter of personal preference. Some players prefer wearing shin guard sleeves, while others prefer shin guard socks. Both options provide adequate protection, so choose the one that feels more comfortable.
Can I play soccer without shin guards?
No, it is not recommended to play soccer without shin guards. Shin guards are one of the essential pieces of equipment for soccer players, and wearing them helps prevent injuries and ensure player safety.
Do shin guards protect ankles?
Shin guards primarily protect the shin bone. However, some shin guards also provide ankle protection by extending to the sides of the ankle. Look for shin guards that offer this additional feature if ankle protection concerns you.
How do I wear shin guards correctly?
To wear shin guards correctly, place them against your shins and secure them with the straps or sleeves provided. Ensure they are snug and properly positioned to maximize protection and keep them in place during play.
How do I find the right fit for shin guards?
To find the right fit for shin guards, measure the length of your shin and choose a pair of shin guards that correspond to your measurements. Some shin guards come in different sizes, so refer to the manufacturer’s size guide for accurate sizing.
What are the top brands for soccer shin guards?
Some top brands for soccer shin guards include Nike, Adidas, Puma, Under Armour, Uhlsport, Diadora, Joma, Hummel, Vizari, and Mitre.
Do lightweight soccer shin guards provide enough protection?
Lightweight soccer shin guards are designed to provide optimal protection without compromising comfort and mobility. They are made with innovative materials that absorb and distribute impact evenly, reducing the risk of injury.
How do shin guards protect players during dribbling?
Shin guards protect players during dribbling by providing a barrier between their legs and the opponents’ tackles or kicks. They absorb the impact and minimize the risk of painful collisions, allowing players to focus on their dribbling skills without fear of injury.
