Starting Soccer? Here's the Must-Have Clothing and Equipment

All the Clothing and Equipment You Need When Starting Out as a Soccer Player

For millions of people, girls and boys, all around the world, soccer is a lot more than just a sport… It's a passion, a community, a religion even - and for some, it's the ultimate dream of one day playing professionally and maybe even seeing their name linked with the biggest teams in the Premier League odds.

But before you start worrying about the big leagues and having your own superstar moments, every aspiring player needs to start at the beginning, with the basics. You need to have the right clothing and equipment. Whether you're thinking of joining your local club, school team, or you're just kicking a ball around with your friends in the park, getting the right gear won't just help you to look the part, but if you invest properly, it can help you perform better, stay safe, and enjoy the beautiful game even more.

And you're in the right place. Here, we're going to break down all the essentials for you, from jerseys and boots to shin guards and training gear… plus a few extras that we think will give you the edge.

The Kit… Shirts, Shorts, and Socks

First things first, you'll need the standard soccer kit. Most clubs and teams (if you're joining one) will provide you with your match-day uniform, but for training, you'll want to get yourself a few sets of comfortable, breathable shirts and shorts. Go for ones made from moisture-wicking materials like polyester blends, as these will help to keep the sweat away from your body. You also need to make sure it fits properly - it should be loose enough for freedom of movement, but not too baggy so it distracts or annoys you.

High socks are a must. Not only do they look the part, but they're also practical as they are designed to hold your shin guards in place. You should invest in a few pairs, as they can wear out quickly, especially if you're playing a lot and washing them a lot.

Quality Soccer Boots

Just like a runner prioritises their trainers, as a soccer player, your boots are probably your most important piece of kit. The type you choose depends on where you play most often. Firm ground boots with moulded studs are great for standard grass pitches. But, if you play more on artificial turf, go for turf boots that have smaller rubber studs. If you play indoor soccer, you should opt for flat-soled indoor shoes.

Ultimately, footwear can make or break your performance, and comfort is key. If your feet hurt, your game will suffer. Make sure your boots feel snug and supported, but not too tight. Ideally, they should feel like an extension of your foot. It's always a good idea to try on a few pairs and walk around the store before you decide which ones to buy. Popular brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Mizuno all have great options for both beginners and more advanced players.

Shin Guards

In soccer, as sure as the sun rises in the morning, you're going to get a kick to the shin. And it hurts! That's precisely why shin guards are mandatory for any organized match - and they're also strongly recommended for training. Choose a pair that offers decent coverage but where you still feel able to move around freely. Some players like slip-in guards held there by socks, while others like the ones with ankle protection attached. Give a few styles a go to see what works for you."

Training Tops and Layers

Soccer training happens in all weather… The cold or wet won't stop a proper soccer player. You just need to make sure you have a few extra layers for training. A lightweight, water-resistant training jacket and track pants are ideal for staying warm during warm-ups or rainy sessions, and thermal base layers are great when you're playing or practicing in winter as they'll keep your core temperature up without restricting your movement.

Goalkeeper Gear… If You're Playing in Goal

If you're thinking about trying your luck between the posts, you'll need a few extras. You'll need a well-padded goalkeeper jersey to protect your elbows when you're diving to the floor. Of course, you'll also want to invest in goalkeeper gloves with good grip and finger protection, as that ball can be hard when it's flying at you full pelt.

And don't forget to replace worn-out gloves! Good gloves can make all the difference when it comes to catching or parrying shots.

The Right Ball

It might sound obvious, but you'd be surprised how many new players don't actually own a proper, high-quality soccer ball. When you're training and practising at home, you should have a ball that matches the size and weight of a proper match ball.

For adult players, it's usually a Size 5. And brands like Adidas and Nike make excellent match-quality balls that are both durable and well-balanced. Also, make sure it's kept pumped to the right pressure so it feels right when you're dribbling or striking.

Bag

And don't forget to invest in a sturdy sports bag, which is a must-have to carry your kit, boots, water bottle, and any extras. Go for a bag that has separate compartments for muddy boots… as whoever is doing the washing will thank you for it! Some players also use mesh bags for wet or sweaty gear to keep it separate from clean clothes.

Optional But Helpful Training Equipment

Want to level up your game at home? Then you can get yourself some of this equipment to help:

• Cones or markers for practising your dribbling drills.

• A speed ladder that you can use to work on your footwork and agility.

• Resistance bands are great for strength training.

• A rebound net for passing and shooting practice when you're training alone.

Hydration and Recovery

OK, it might not be 'gear' in the traditional footballing sense, but if you have a quality reusable water bottle, you should use it. If you want to perform at the highest level, hydration is essential. Also, maybe throw in a protein snack or recovery shake for after training, so your muscles can rebuild stronger. Proper food and drink should never be overlooked!

Peak Performance

You don't need to earn a fortune to get started, but if you can invest in high-quality essentials, it can make your experience a lot more enjoyable and help you reach your goals even quicker. From comfortable and suitable boots to properly fitted jerseys, protective shin guards and a few props for training, you'll be hitting the back of the net in no time!