Soccer gear guide
What players actually need, from boots for each surface and the right ball size by age to shin guards, goalkeeper gloves and what the Laws say about equipment and jewelry.
What the Laws require
Law 4 of the Laws of the Game sets out the compulsory equipment for players: a shirt with sleeves, shorts, socks, shin guards and footwear. Shin guards must be covered by the socks. Players must not wear anything dangerous, which includes jewelry such as rings, necklaces and earrings; taping over jewelry is not allowed. Goalkeepers must wear colors that distinguish them from the other players and the match officials. Leagues and youth organizations may add their own rules, so always check yours. See the basics.
Boots (cleats) by surface
Choosing the right soleplate matters for grip, comfort and injury risk.
| Code | Surface | Sole |
|---|---|---|
| FG (firm ground) | Natural grass in normal conditions | Molded studs, the most common type |
| SG (soft ground) | Wet, muddy grass | Fewer, longer studs, often metal-tipped and screw-in |
| AG (artificial ground) | Modern long-pile artificial turf | Many shorter, hollow studs |
| TF (turf) | Short artificial turf, hard ground | Many small rubber nubs |
| IC or IN (indoor) | Indoor courts, futsal | Flat gum-rubber sole |
Fit tips: boots should feel snug without pinching, with about a thumb's width or less at the toe for growing children. Try them on with soccer socks. Break new boots in gradually rather than wearing them for a full match straight away.
Ball sizes by age
| Size | Circumference (approx.) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 58 to 61 cm | Young children, often under about 8 |
| 4 | 63.5 to 66 cm | Roughly ages 8 to 12 |
| 5 | 68 to 70 cm | Age 12 and up, and all adult matches |
Age bands vary by country and league, so check local rules. Futsal uses its own smaller, low-bounce ball. Inflate to the pressure printed near the valve.
Shin guards
- Slip-in guards are light and preferred by many older players.
- Ankle guards add protection around the ankle bones, popular for young players.
- Size by height, following the maker's chart. A guard should cover most of the shin from just below the knee to above the ankle.
Goalkeeper gear
- Gloves: latex palms grip well; softer latex grips best but wears quickly. Many keepers keep one pair for matches and an older pair for training. Some gloves have finger protection, which suits younger keepers.
- Padded clothing: padded shorts or pants help on hard ground.
- See goalkeeping basics for technique.
Training extras
| Item | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Flat cones or disc markers | Set up drills anywhere |
| Rebounder or a solid wall | Passing and first touch practice alone |
| Agility ladder or rope | Footwork drills |
| Water bottle | Hydration, especially in heat |
| Mini goals or pop-up goals | Small-sided games at home |
Spending sensibly
Expensive boots will not make a player better. For young players who outgrow boots quickly, mid-range models work well. Spend first on correct fit, the right soleplate for the surface and good shin guards.
Replace shin guards that are cracked, and boots with worn or broken studs. Mouthguards are optional in most leagues but some players choose them. For heading guidance in youth soccer, see heading safety.
