Measure from two inches below the knee to just above the bend of your ankle. This is the area that your shin guard should cover. The length of this measurement determines the ideal size for your shin guard.
Slip-in Shin Guards. These are usually a protective plate inside a compression sleeve. They slip over the shin like a large sock. This style offers a wider range of motion but less protection. It is usually recommended for more advanced players. Ankle shin guards. This style consists of a protective plate that straps around the shin attached to padding that wraps around the ankle. These are usually recommended for younger or less experienced players because they offer more protection.
Shin guards can vary greatly in price. A general rule is that more expensive shin guards will offer better protection, but this isn’t always true. Beginner players usually don’t need the most expensive equipment, just adequate protection. A store employee should be able to talk you through your options and find the best pair of shin guards for the right price.
Try walking and running with the shin guards on. They shouldn’t get in the way or slow you down. Do the motions you would do while playing your sport. For example, if you play soccer, try kicking a ball. The shin guards shouldn’t impede your kicking at all.
If your foot starts to itch, swell, feel numb or discolor, your shin guards are probably too tight. Loosen them right away to avoid injuring your leg.
Slip-in shin guards have no straps and usually have to be taped at both ends. Wrap athletic tape around the top and bottom of your shin guards. Test your shin guards and make sure they don’t easily push up or down. [3] X Research source If your shin guards have straps, you should still test them. Push them around and make sure they are secure on your leg. If they move around, you can tape them up just like slip-in shin guards. [4] X Research source Keep extra tape with you during games. You may need to replace your tape during breaks or half time.
Pull your socks all the way up to make sure they’re snug enough. If you have fabric left that stretches above your knee, roll it down to further secure your shin guards.
How often you should wash your shin guards is really a matter of how often you use them. If you use them on a regular basis, cleaning at least once a month will be necessary to fight odor and bacteria buildup. [6] X Research source
