Is your child showing a passion for soccer? That’s fantastic! Many parents ask themselves, what soccer equipment does my child need?
Nurturing their love for the game with the right soccer training equipment for beginners can make all the difference in their development and enjoyment.
But navigating the world of soccer equipment can be overwhelming. This guide will break down the essential equipment your young soccer player needs to get started, and continue learning, without breaking the bank.
Considerations When Choosing Equipment
- Start with the essentials. Don’t feel pressured to buy everything on day one. Focus on the essential soccer items. Get started with the equipment list and tips below.
- Consider your child’s skill level and age. Choose equipment that is appropriate for their size and ability.
- Look for quality, durability and affordability. Invest in equipment that will last, even with frequent use. Soccer can be expensive, but there are many affordable soccer equipment choices out there.
- Ask your child’s opinion. Let them pick out and try on the cleats, and choose a ball they like. This will make them more excited about practicing!
Top Sites to Find Soccer Training Equipment
1. Soccer Unleashed
This curated list of products has been tested by youth players and thoughtfully compiled by a soccer mom who is not only cost-conscious (most products are between $10-$40), but understands the challenges of finding the right gear.
From beginner essentials to equipment for advanced players, their list covers all stages of development. And the best part? By using this resource, you’re supporting a woman-owned business that provides free services to soccer parents – at no extra cost to you.
Related: 7 Best Soccer Training Apps
2. Amazon
Amazon has an extensive selection of soccer equipment that you can do your own search to find the right product. Make sure you read the reviews of its features, quality, and durability, then compare the costs of like products to get the best deal.
Side note, Soccer Unleashed saves you time with their tested, recommended and already researched selections, which are also found on Amazon.
3. Soccer.com
Specializes in soccer equipment and apparel, is a well-known and trusted soccer source. Based on my knowledge in speaking to many soccer parents, this site is a go-to for soccer cleats.
4. Dicks Sporting Goods and Walmart
Both of these large retailers are great options for finding soccer gear, but be sure you research the products, so you get your money’s worth. When my kids were really young, we bought our soccer balls from Walmart. They are great for young soccer players just starting out, and usually at a lower cost.
Essential Soccer Training Equipment for Beginners
Soccer Balls
We all know you need soccer balls, but what size and for what ages? Soccer ball size is based on age, so it’s important to choose the right one. For players ages 5-7, a size 3 ball is recommended. Players 8-11 should use a size 4, and teens and adults move up to a size 5 ball.
If you’re just getting started, the GoSports Premier Soccer Balls are perfect for training. For more advanced players, we recommend adding size 1 ball juggling to your training routine to improve ball control, touch, and coordination.
Tip: Consider buying two balls – one for their backpack and one for your car, for those impromptu soccer opportunities or for when they forget their ball at home.
Soccer Cleats
Cleats are also essential. There are options for different surfaces your player is playing on, grass or turf. Make sure the cleats are comfortable, are the right fit, and provide good support.
Tip: Don’t buy cleats too far in advance, as kids’ feet grow quickly! Purchase cleats about 2-3 weeks prior to the season. Buying a little early gives you time to slowly break them in to avoid blisters. You can try Facebook groups, friends, or Play it Again Sports, to find used cleats, but it may be hard to find the right fit cleat.
Shin Guards
Shin guards are required when playing soccer. They protect your child’s shins from becoming injured when kicked or colliding with another player. Make sure they fit snugly and cover the entire shin.
Tip: The new shin guard trend is to purchase them without the ankle sock. However, the ankle sock provides added protection that we recommend for at least the younger players. Teens generally prefer the ones without socks.
Training Cones
Cones are a basic tool used in at-home training. They can be used for a variety of drills, from dribbling and agility to passing and shooting practice. A set of basic plastic cones, preferably in different colors, is a great starting point.
Related: Player-Approved Soccer Products
We like the GSi Mini Cones for Sports – 40 Pack because they are durable, small, come in a variety of colors, and are affordable.
Agility Ladder
An agility ladder for soccer is a fantastic tool for improving foot speed, coordination, and agility. As your players ages, they will use the ladder for footwork as well. It’s a fun and challenging way to add variety to training sessions.
Tip: If you want an agility set for soccer that grows with your players’ skill level, consider buying the ladder that comes with other skill-building equipment such as cones, resistance bands, and more.
Soccer Goal
If you have the space, a portable soccer goal is a great piece of training equipment, and tons of fun, especially since most kids love to shoot. A goal allows players to work on their shooting and passing accuracy.
When choosing the right-sized goal for your player, consider sizing up, so you can get more years out of your investment. You can use cones inside of a goal to work on accuracy.
Final Thoughts on Soccer Training Equipment for Beginners
Equipping your soccer player with the right training equipment is an investment in their development and passion for the game.
By considering their age, skill level, and prioritizing quality and durability – and affordability, you can set them up for success on the field.
Remember, it’s not about buying everything at once, but grabbing the essentials and adding more equipment as they progress.
We recommend checking out Soccer Unleashed first for a curated selection of player-tested and soccer mom-approved equipment.
They took the guesswork out of finding soccer equipment by presenting a range of affordable options that meet the needs of young players, it’s a one-stop shop for everything soccer. We wish you a successful journey!
