What Does My Kiddo Need to Play Soccer?

The first things to consider are your budget and how serious your kiddo is about soccer. They are growing like the proverbial weed, so if you purchase equipment now, it will likely not be right for them next year.  

There are 4-5 basic pieces of equipment that they’ll need for game play.
 
 1. A Soccer Ball
While they likely won’t need one for the game, they will need a soccer ball for practice at home and with the team. Soccer balls are sized for the age of the player. Look for a number on the package; 3, 4, and 5. Size 3 is for kids under 8 years old, size 4 is for kids ages 8 – 12 years old, and size 5 is for kids 12 years and older. Follow the package instructions for inflation pounds per square inch - don’t over or under inflate the ball (says Tom Brady…lol). 

2. Cleats
New or used cleats will do the trick. If your budget is tight, try searching for used cleats that are in good condition before investing in a new pair. There are several types of cleats. Some are for football (the other kind), while others are for soccer when played on artificial turf, or soccer for grass fields. Unless you’re kiddo is playing winter soccer inside an arena, they will likely be on a grass field. Look for new cleats that match the environment. Your local sporting goods store should be able to match your kid to a new pair.

I found a decent pair of New Balance cleats that my son loved at Play it Again Sports. If you’re shopping for used cleats, look for an outsole (the bottom of the cleat) that is not worn, make sure there is plenty of space for toes in the toe box, you may have to go up a half size, and make sure the laces are in good condition and will tighten so that the shoe is secure on the athlete’s feet. The key is that your kiddo is comfortable in them and can run freely.

3. Shin Guards 
Your league likely requires shin guards in order for your kiddo to play in a match. There is a wide variety of shin guards at various price points. The key is to make sure those legs are protected. If they are a casual player, don’t destroy your budget on this equipment – get something that fits an protects. My son was fine with the type that insert into the knee-high soccer socks. Here’s a great Good Housekeeping article (yeah, I know I was surprised, too) on the various types of shin guards at all price points:

4. Goalie Gloves
If your kiddo is playing goalie, I highly recommend a pair of goalie gloves (actually our kid’s coach recommend them to us). Goalkeeper gloves are reinforced with metal behind each finger to help prevent the ball from overextending the digit (reducing the number of tears on the field is key!). Hands come in various sizes and so do these gloves. If you’re ordering online, check out the size chart and measure your kid’s hands to find gloves that fit. 

5. Water Bottle
Soccer is an intense cardio sport and your kiddo will need to stay hydrated. Make sure they have a full bottle of water on the sideline to enjoy before, during, and after the match. This is an essential piece of equipment. 

Extra Tip – Just like school, camp, or anywhere else, write your kiddos name on their equipment. Parents tend to buy locally and the field will be full of similar looking items.