5 Best Shin Guards for Youth Soccer Players (2024)
Shin guards are vital equipment in soccer for a crucial reason: protecting your shins. The shin bone, or tibia, is one of the body’s most exposed bones, and the fast-paced nature of soccer puts it at risk from kicks, tackles, and falls. Wearing well-fitting shin guards acts as a shield, absorbing impact and significantly reducing the risk of bruises, cuts, and even fractures. This allows players to play confidently and to enjoy the game without the fear of serious injury.
All youth soccer players have to put safety as one of their top priorities, which is why they have to invest in a good pair of shin guards. Shin guards are crucial for keeping players safe on the field from dangerous tackles. They not only protect against painful bruises and cuts, but they also help to prevent more serious injuries such as fractures and breaks. With so many different types and brands of shin guards on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best shin guards for youth soccer players.
Therefore, to make your lives easier, we’ve researched and compiled a list of our top picks for the best shin guards for youth soccer. Also, make sure to read how to put on soccer shin guards, so that you know what kind of shin guards would suit you the most.
Our Top Picks for The Best Shin Guards for Youth Soccer
Without further ado, let’s look at our list for the best shin guards for youth soccer:
1. Franklin Sports Superlight Shin Guards
The Franklin Sports Superlight Shin Guards are a great option for youth soccer players who prioritize comfort and mobility on the field. The super-lightweight design and high-density foam backing provide adequate protection against impacts on the field. These shin guards are also very affordable, making them a great choice for youth players on a budget.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that they may not provide as much protection as some other, more heavy-duty options on the market. Additionally, the sizing can be tricky, so it’s important to measure your shin size carefully before purchasing.
Pros:
- Lightweight design allows for greater freedom of movement on the field
- High-density foam backing provides adequate impact absorption for most youth players
- Easy to put on and take off
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- May not provide as much protection as more heavy-duty options on the market
- Sizing can be tricky, with some users finding them too small or too big
2. Adidas Performance Lesto Shin Guards
The Adidas Performance Lesto Shin Guards are a popular option for youth soccer players. They feature a hard outer shell for maximum protection, with EVA foam backing for cushioning against impact. The guard is designed with a simple, lightweight construction that allows for greater freedom of movement on the field.
Pros:
- The hard outer shell provides excellent protection against impacts and collisions on the field.
- The lightweight and low-profile design allows for greater mobility and agility during play.
- EVA foam backing adds extra cushioning and support for added comfort.
Cons:
- Finding the correct size may be difficult.
- Some users report that the shin guard is not very secure and may slide around during play
3. Nike Mercurial Lite Shin Guards
The Nike Mercurial Lite Shin Guards are a high-performance option for youth soccer players. They feature a low-profile design that fits comfortably under socks, with a hard shell for maximum protection against impact. The guard is contoured to fit the shape of the leg, and the breathable sleeve provides added comfort and ventilation.
Pros:
- Low-profile design fits comfortably under socks and provides a sleek look on the field
- Hard shell provides excellent protection against impacts and collisions
- Contoured shape gives it a more snug fit
- They have good breathability, which reduces sweat and odor
- Available in a variety of colors to match team uniforms or personal style
Cons:
- Players with bigger legs could find them to be a bit small.
- If the size does not correctly fit, then it could slip inside your socks.
4. Vizari Malaga Shin Guards
The Vizari Malaga Shin Guard is a popular choice for youth soccer players. It features a durable, hard shell that provides excellent protection for the shins, and has an ergonomic design that offers a comfortable fit. The shin guard comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, pink, and red.
Pros:
- Durable hard shell provides excellent protection against kicks and impacts
- Ergonomic design offers a comfortable fit and allows for easy movement on the field
- Comes in a variety of colors to match any team uniform
- An affordable choice for most players.
Cons:
- May not fit well for children with larger leg sizes or calves
- Some users have reported discomfort due to the hard shell rubbing against the skin
- Velcro straps may wear out over time and require replacement
5. G-Form Pro-S Vento Soccer Shin Guard
The G-Form Pro-S Vento Shin Guards are designed to provide maximum protection and comfort while playing soccer. These shin guards feature a flexible and lightweight design that allows for a comfortable fit without sacrificing protection. The Pro-S Vento Shin Guards are constructed with a ventilated design that promotes airflow to keep you cool during intense games. The shin guards are also machine washable, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Pros:
- Lightweight and flexible design allows for comfortable fit and movement
- Ventilated design promotes airflow and keeps you cool during games
- Machine washable for easy cleaning and maintenance
Cons:
- May not provide as much protection as heavier, bulkier shin guards
- Sizing can be tricky, so make sure to check the size chart before purchasing
Things to Consider When Choosing The Best Shin Guards for Youth Soccer
When it comes to buying the best shin guards for youth soccer, there are several things to consider to ensure that you select the right pair for your child. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Size and Fit: The most important factor when buying the best shin guards for youth soccer is to consider the size and fit of the shin guards. Make sure the guards fit securely and comfortably on your legs, without slipping or moving during play. It’s important to measure the length of your leg from ankle to just below the knee to ensure that you select the right size.
- Protection Level: The level of protection provided by the shin guards is also an important consideration. Different models offer varying levels of protection, ranging from basic foam padding to advanced materials that are designed to absorb and disperse impact energy.
- Type of Soccer Cleats: Consider the type of soccer cleats you will be wearing when playing soccer. Some shin guards are designed to be worn with specific types of cleats, so it’s important to choose a pair that will work well with your child’s shoes.
- Material: Shin guards can be made from a variety of materials, including foam, plastic, and composite materials. The material you choose will depend on the level of protection you need, as well as your budget.
- Comfort: The comfort level of the shin guards is another important consideration. Look for guards that are designed to be lightweight and breathable, with features like moisture-wicking fabric and ventilation channels to help keep your legs cool and comfortable during play.
- Brand: Finally, consider the brand of the shin guards you are considering. Look for reputable brands that are known for producing high-quality, durable soccer equipment, and read reviews from other parents and players to get a sense of the overall quality and performance of different models.
Final Thoughts
Different players have different needs and preferences on soccer shin guards. Youth soccer players need to pay special attention in wearing soccer shin guards, because it offers them the needed protection. To determine what shin guards to actually wear, I hope you checked our reviews for these five shin guards properly. And I hope it helped you make your purchase decision. Good luck!
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