Protecting your assets
Rather than hinder your on-field skills, wearing the right protective equipment will help you get the most benefit from and extend your playing days.
Shin pads
Shin pads can reduce the force delivered by a kick to the leg by 44-77%. Shin pads are compulsory in football and players need to get used to them in training.Shin pads need to provide a ‘reasonable’ degree of protection to the entire shin so a piece of cardboard won’t do! The shin pad should sit no more than 8cm (about 4 finger widths) below the knee cap. A pad with a built-in ankle guard provides additional support and protection.
Ankle protection
If you have a history of ankle injury or instability, strapping or taping your ankle, or wearing a brace is a good idea and can reduce the risk of another injury.Weight up the relative benefits to decide whether you should opt for strapping or a brace…
| Strapping | Brace |
|---|---|
| Cheap as a one off | More expensive at the outset but more cost effective over time - can be used over again. |
| Effective support is generally reduced after 20 mins | Maintains support for longer |
| Takes time and practice to apply | Many are simple and easy to fit |
Mouth guards
Injuries to the face and mouth can be painful and expensive. A mouth guard can reduce the damage caused and is a good idea, particularly if you’re a keeper. You don’t have to worry about not being able to communicate – modern designs are comfortable, quick to put in and take out, and allow you to talk normally.
Chest guards
A blow to the chest area can be painful, especially for female players, and the long-term effects are unclear. The Cool Guard chest protector bra is ideal for soccer. As well as protecting the chest area from impacts, the bra also provides the support found with any good sports bra. Contact New Zealand Soccer for more information.Footwear
What you wear on your feet can make the difference between a good game and a bad game and will definitely influence your enjoyment during and after play.What you wear off the pitch is also important. Run in running shoes, cross-train in cross-trainers and make sure your footwear fits correctly and is right for your foot type.
Goal keeping equipment
Goal keepers’ hands are at high risk of injury but the risk can be reduced by wearing good quality gloves. The gloves must fit well, be non-restrictive and have hard wrist protectors to prevent hyperextension of the wrist. Keepers should also wear shorts and a shirt with adequate padding on the hips, thighs, elbows and chest.All players should have plenty of layers and waterproof outer wear with them at all times.
