How to Wear Soccer Shin Guards

Overview

Shin guards aren't a luxury in soccer--they are a necessity. These pads are bound to get odorous as sweat is poured into them, but they also protect your shin bones while you play. The shins are the most commonly injured part of your body when it comes to soccer, and the high risk of injury has prompted most youth soccer leagues to require shin guards as part of their dress regulations. They might not be comfortable to wear, but they're a good safety measure.

Step 1

Take off any socks or shoes you are wearing. Your socks will go over the shin guards once you have put them on, as will your shoes if you are wearing shin guards that extend to your ankles.

Step 2

Slip your foot and ankle through the shin guard sleeve or straps--different models feature different methods of holding the shin to your leg. If you have a shin guard with an ankle or foot strap, pull the shin guard on all the way until the strap catches the part of your foot it is intended to hold. If you don't have one of these straps, pull the shin guard up high enough so that you can move your foot freely without being impeded by the shin guard.

Step 3

Tighten the straps on the back of the shin guard, if applicable. Some shin guards feature a latex or nylon sleeve that is form-fitting and doesn't require any adjustment.

Step 4

Pull your sock on over your shin guards, making sure to keep your padding in place as you move the sock. Put on your shoes and stand up to make sure the straps and shin guard are properly placed to allow free range of motion without too much discomfort. The shin guard itself will probably be a little uncomfortable, but the straps should be out of the way and not agitating your skin.