Shinpads

Shinpads are the only protective guarding a soccer player wears while he is on the field. They should be worn as much as possible. Shinguards were not only used to reduce the bumps, breaks, and bruises of legs, but they have now been placed as mandatory equipment (by FIFA) to help reduce the spread of STD's.

There are two basic types of shinpads:

1) The first type is the deluxe model. This shinguard usually has awesome frontal shin protection, ankle support & guards, along with velcro holding straps. This model is perfect for anyone from a beginner to a pro because of its simplicity and its awesome protectional value.

2) The second type are commonly called 'cheaters'. This shinguard is usually a thin piece of plastic with a foam backing. The guard is held in place by tape that the player has to apply before each use. This type of guard is made for the players who don't care about protection and are more concerned with the feeling of the ball.

Soccer cleats

Soccer cleats are very important because they act as a second pair of feet with traction. There are 2 types of soccer cleats: multi-studded and 6-studded.

6-studded cleats are primarily used for wet or damp fields. The cleats have 6 large studs on them (4 on the sole, 2 on the heel) which gives them a better grip.

Multi-studded cleats are used on hard or dry fields and contain multiple small cleats (around 13).

Both styles of cleats can be made using different materials in the upper portion of the shoe. If you are just a recreational or beginner soccer player who doesn't plan on spending a ton of money on their cleats, I would recommend buying a synthetic leather cleat (costing up to $70 CDN). If you are serious about playing soccer I would strongly recommend buying a true leather cleat (from $70 to $200 CDN). True leather gives you the uncompromising feel of the ball. There are all different types of leather out on the market, but if you have the great fortune to buy a top of the line boot; kangaroo leather is the only way to go. So before you hit your local soccer store, figure out what kind of fields you play on and what level of soccer you consider yourself to be playing at. And remember, your cleat should feel like a glove on your foot.