4 years ago

How do I choose the best shin guards?

An essential part of your football outfit are your shin guards. Without shin guards, there's a chance you'll come out of a match or training bruised and battered. Nowadays, there are so many different types of shin guards that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we discuss several aspects of modern shin guards and highlight different types of shin guards with the help of a video, so you can make the right choice.

In the past, there was basically only one type of shin guard, which you would fasten around your calves with a Velcro strap. It was common for this strap to stretch out, affecting the fit of your shin guards. Today's shin guards come in various shapes, sizes, and types.

What types of shin guards are there?

Our collection of shin guards includes various models, ranging from lightweight and flexible options to sturdier models with extra protection. Below, we explain the different types.

Shin guards with ankle protection

These shin guards outperform other models in width, featuring an integrated footpiece for ankle protection and equipped with a convenient Velcro strap. They offer excellent stability and provide more protection compared to other shin guards. However, they appear somewhat bulky and are not particularly lightweight.

Shin guards without ankle protection and sleeve

These shin guards surpass other models in width, featuring an integrated footpiece for ankle protection and equipped with a convenient Velcro strap. They offer excellent stability and provide more protection compared to other shin guards. However, they appear somewhat bulky and are not particularly lightweight.

Shin guards with sleeve without ankle protection

Made from high-quality lightweight materials, such as carbon, these shin guards are both lighter and more expensive. You can hardly feel them while wearing them, making them an ideal choice if you wear football boots with an integrated sock. The sleeve not only provides extra support but also allows for a closer fit of the shin guards. It’s important to note that these shin guards do not provide specific ankle protection and offer less protection due to their shorter design. Tip: if the shin guards still feel too loose, use sock stoppers or sock tape to secure them more tightly.

Shin guards and sleeve in one

These shin guards feature an integrated flexible sleeve that offers an innovative approach to protection on the football field. The shin guards adapt to the contours of your leg, providing a snug and comfortable fit. The integrated design eliminates the need for traditional straps and closures, making them easy to wear. As a result, you get not only optimal protection but also maximum freedom of movement during the game.

Where does the price difference come from?

There is quite a price difference between shin guards, but what makes these shin guards different? It primarily depends on the type of shin guard. A shin guard with a Velcro strap is cheaper than a shin guard with a "sleeve." Additionally, the material used for the shin guards and, if applicable, the sleeve plays an important role. In a more expensive shin guard, for example, the sleeve is made from a sturdier material, ensuring it stays in place better and provides more protection.

How do I choose the right size?

There is quite a price difference between shin guards, but what makes these shin guards different? It mainly depends on the type of shin guard. A shin guard with a Velcro strap is cheaper than a shin guard with a "sleeve." Additionally, the material used for the shin guards and, if applicable, the sleeve is important. In a more expensive shin guard, for example, the sleeve is made from a stronger material, ensuring it stays in place better and offers more protection.

PUMA Ultra Light Sleeve shin guards with compression socks

The size charts for shin guards vary by brand, but generally range from size XS to XL. PUMA shin guards are an exception in this regard. All PUMA shin guards are designed for both children and adults. The smallest size for PUMA shin guards is XXS, intended for players ranging from 75 to 95 cm tall, the real beginners aged 4 to 5 years old. The largest size is XL, meant for players taller than 1.75 meters. So make sure to check the size chart if you plan to order PUMA shin guards.

PUMA maattabel

Size	Length (CM)
XXS	75 - 95
XS	95 - 115
S	115 - 135
M	135 - 155
L	155 - 175
XL	> 175

In addition, we have also created a size chart for other brands, both for children and adults, which can be viewed under each product when selecting your size. Below, you can see the size chart for kids' and adults' shin guards from adidas. These size charts are based on your height. For example, if you are between 1.40 and 1.60 meters tall, choose size L for adidas kids' shin guards.

adidas size chart kids

Size	Length (CM)
S	100 - 120
M	120 - 140
L	140 - 160

adidas size chart adults

Size	Length (CM)
XS	120 - 140
S	140 - 160
M	160 - 175
L	175 - 185
XL	185 - 195
XXL	> 195

Below, we have outlined the size chart for kids' and adults' shin guards from Nike. For example, if you are 1.77 meters tall, choose size L for Nike shin guards.

Nike size chart kids