Don't Waste Your Money is supported by our readers. When you purchase an item through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Soccer Shin Guards

Last updated on February 29, 2024
Best Soccer Shin Guards

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in a category.

If your kids play soccer, you likely have some basic equipment you’re required to buy before the start of the season. One item that’s a must before hitting the field is a shin guard for each leg. Soccer players can take pretty tough blows to the shin area, whether through aggressive kicks from other players, tackles or the ball itself. The correct shin guard can protect against injury.

But it’s important to find a shin guard that does its job effectively. The shield must be made of a material that can absorb shock and withstand a few knocks, but that material won’t be comfortable against the skin. For that reason, many shin guards feature material like foam that rests against the skin to keep the player comfortable.

FIFA doesn’t just require shin guards. The organization also has very strict standards for how they’re made. They need to be designed using a “suitable material,” as well as provide “a reasonable degree of protection.” Additionally, shin guards must be covered completely by a player’s stockings.

Before you buy, check your own organization’s regulations regarding shin guards. Although safety is a top priority, you’ll also need to make sure they meet uniform requirements. Once you’ve gathered those requirements, pay close attention to the material used to protect the shins. Polypropylene is a popular material for the shield part of the shin guard due to its ability to absorb the shock of an impact.

Lastly, there’s the fit of the shin guard. Make sure it covers the length of the shin and that it has straps that will adjust to ensure a snug fit. Some guards are built ergonomically to ensure they conform to the leg. You should also look for a shin guard that will protect the ankle as well as the shin.

Our Picks For The Top Soccer Shin Guards

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Vizari Malaga Foam Padded Backing Soccer Shin Guards

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Vizari

Malaga Foam Padded Backing Soccer Shin Guards

These soccer shin guards for kids have adjustable straps and many color options to provide ultimate customizability. Despite its comfortable, lightweight build, the outer shell is built using high-quality polypropylene plastic to easily take hits without weakening. The shin guard also helps stabilize and protect the player's ankles to prevent injur...

Overall Take

Lightweight and ComfortableThese soccer shin guards for kids are lightweight with foam padding inside for a more comfortable fit than shin guards typically provide.

 Runner Up

Geekism Kids’ Streamlined Soccer Shin Guards, 2-Pack

Geekism

Kids' Streamlined Soccer Shin Guards, 2-Pack

Get ready to crush it on the field with these durable soccer shin guards. They're available in black, white and blue and feature adjustable straps for a custom fit every time. Parents will love the high-strength PP shell, as it offers maximum protection during play.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly OptionYou'll find these soccer shin guards are one of the most affordable options on the market.

 Strong Contender

Bodyprox Ergonomic Waterproof Soccer Shin Guards

Bodyprox

Ergonomic Waterproof Soccer Shin Guards

Since these soccer shin guards are waterproof, you won't have to stop play when the rain starts. The shin guards are easy to use, as they simply slide into place. Thanks to the built-in silicone grips, the sleeves stay in place no matter how fast you run or how hard you play.

Overall Take

Best All-Weather OptionCaring for these soccer shin guards is a breeze, as they are machine washable.

 We Also Like

Noper Child’s Sure Fit Soccer Shin Guards

Noper

Child’s Sure Fit Soccer Shin Guards

These soccer shin guards are unique in that they are contoured to fit around your child's shins. They are made with a hard outer shell for protection and come with a breathable sleeve for comfort. Available sizes include small, medium and large.

Overall Take

Choice of ColorsYou'll find this set of soccer shin guards comes in multiple colors, including green, orange, blue and white.

What to Look For

  • Shin guards attach using straps. Pay close attention to how these work and make sure the shin guard will stay firmly in place, without moving around, even with knee bends and twists.
  • In addition to safeguarding the shin, many shin guards are designed to protect the ankle. Make sure it’s built to keep the ankle stable to prevent twisting.
  • Some shin guards provide great protection, but they do so at the expense of comfort. Keep in mind that a heavier shin guard can be uncomfortable and distract from gameplay. Lightweight, yet strong, is best.
  • Getting the shin guard on and off can be complicated, especially if you’re dealing with straps that attach in the back. Having straps that fasten in front can be a big help for children. They may even be able to put on and take off their shin guards without help.
  • Shin guards come in a variety of colors and designs, which will help you find one that fits your own player’s preferences.
  • Some shin guards extend all the way up to the knee, offering additional protection on the field.
  • Foam padding between the shield and the leg does more than provide comfort. It can also help absorb shock, increasing the protection shin guards offer.
  • Shin guards typically aren’t one size fits all, even if there are straps to adjust the fit. You may want to take measurements to ensure that the one you’re buying is the right one for your child’s height and shin length.
  • The straps play an essential role in ensuring the shin guard doesn’t slip around while your player is in action. Multiple straps can help with that, but a snug fit is essential, too. As your player sweats, especially while playing on hot days, shin guards can become uncomfortable. A mesh sleeve can help with that, offering the breathability necessary to stay cool.

More to Explore

For youth playing sports, injuries are always a concern. Protective gear can go a long way toward keeping your little ones safe without getting in the way of having fun. But there are a few other ways children can prevent injury while participating in athletics. One is to warm up before every practice or game, then take time to do stretches to cool down after. If your child does suffer an injury, it’s important to stop playing until cleared by a doctor to prevent further injury or, worse, permanent damage. Lastly, it’s essential to stay hydrated during any activity that causes exertion. Coaches should schedule water breaks throughout practices and games and make sure kids are drinking fluids every 15 to 20 minutes, as well as before and after the activity.

More to explore