Equipment Guide for Outdoor Soccer

Soccer does not require a ton of equipment, but the equipment it does require is essential to the safety and skill development of a player.

3 Main Types of Equipment Needed for Soccer 

1. Shin Guards
2. Footwear - Cleats or Runners
3. Jerseys / Comfortable, Weather Appropriate Clothing

Additional items to bring: Water, snacks, umbrellas for rain or sun,
chairs or blankets for each spectator to sit on, blankets, gloves and other warm gear for the colder days.
Because soccer takes place outside in the spring and it is such a short season you will need to be prepared for all types or weather, including: snow, rain, wind, heat. Should lightening become a factor, play will be cancelled.

1. SHIN GUARDS

It is mandatory for Whitecourt Minor Soccer players of ALL LEVELS to wear shin guards to protect their lower legs from impact injuries. 

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT SHIN GUARDS:
There are 3 basic types of shin guards:

1. Slip-in Shin Guards - Recommended for older youth players
They are portable and lightweight. You can wear them right under your socks. You may need to use tape or compression sleeves to keep slip-ins secure under the sock. However, some socks have a snug fit that can hold slip-in shin guards in place. Ideally, slip-in shin guards are best reserved for more experienced players. These are the players who prefer a greater degree of flexibility and movement. They aren't recommended for younger kids, they are more suitable for older youth players.

2. Ankle Shin Guards - Recommended for players ages 12 & under
Offer more protection than slip-in shin guards. They usually come with extra padding on both sides of the ankle. Ankle shin guards also have stirrups that slide under the feet as well as a strap or elastic band to place around the calf for a secure fit. Ankle shin guards are the standard and recommended choice for youth players. They offer an ideal balance of protection against kicks and impacts, while still allowing for adequate movement. 

3. Shin Socks 
Look like socks but have the built-in padding of traditional shin guards. That makes them convenient and ergonomic. They’re a good option for youth players and take the hassle out of proper placement. You simply put them on and that’s it - you’re good to play.

SHIN GUARD SIZING
Shin guards should cover the area from 2 inches below the knee to just above the bend of your ankle when you flex your foot. See diagram below.





See video below to for more information on shin guards.

2. FOOTWEAR - CLEATS & RUNNING SHOES

U5 may wear either running shoes or cleats for outdoor soccer.

Cleats are highly recommended for U7-U11 outdoor house teams, due to the fact that they provide better support and traction, but running shoes are accepted.

Cleats are mandatory for all outdoor travel teams (U13+ and the U11 travel team).

Wherever possible, soccer shoes should be worn to offer comfort and support for the required actions when playing. Running or other ‘sport’ shoes will not give the same support.

Soccer cleats allow players to grip the ground and move in agile ways while protecting their bodies, especially their feet, from injury. Soccer cleats provide both traction and friction for soccer players when they are making quick turns on the field and sprinting with the ball.

Soccer Cleats - what you need to know

 3. UNIFORMS / JERSEYS / CLOTHING

Uniforms
Jerseys will be provided by Whitecourt Minor Soccer for the season.
House team players will be required to return jerseys after each practice.
Travel teams have a refundable jersey deposit that will be returned at the end of the season when the jersey is returned in good shape.

Comfortable Clothing
Depending on the weather and your child's preferences, athletic pants or shorts and a comfortable shirt are recommended for all players. It is best to dress your player in layers as it can be cold at the start of play but players will warm up as the practice or game progresses.