The Basic for Kids
Thankfully you don’t need a lot of equipment to play soccer. Here are some of the basics to get started.
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Soccer Balls
Size matters here.
The recommended soccer ball size for kids in MSYSA depends on the player's age, as follows:
Size 1: For skills training at any age, this ball has a circumference of 18–20 in.
Size 3: For players under 8 years old, this ball has a circumference of 23–24 in.
Size 4: For players aged 8–12, this ball has a circumference of 25–26 in.
Size 5: For players aged 12 and up, this ball has a circumference of 27–28 in.
Soccer Cleats
Cleats are used for natural grass outside.
If you are playing on artificial turf - whether inside or outside, consider turf shoes (below).
If you are playing on hard surface, like a gym/futsal court, use indoor flats (further below).
There are a ton of knock-off cheap brands, but I like to stick to the classic brands for soccer shoes (Adidas, Puma, Nike to name a few).
Not sure what the difference is between soccer footwear? Visit this blog post that breaks down the differences!
Kids’ Adidas Goletto Cleat
Kids’ Puma Attacanto Cleat
Shin Guards
Required at all levels of organized soccer. Most have a personal preference of slide-in guards. Just slide them right into your soccer sock, no other sleeves necessary, but they do sell compression sleeves you can use if it is too loose, or you just like it snug.
Some really like the additional ankle protection. I think it gets in the way and is uncomfortable more than it helps.
Kids’ Slide-In Shin Guards - no sleeves
Kids’ Slide-In Shin Guards with Sleeves
Soccer Socks
Knee high length socks that can fit over a shin guard. If you’re playing on a hard court/gym surface, like futsal, having them long enough to pull up over your knees is beneficial in preventing court burns if you fall on your knees, or if you want to be like Rose Lavelle, which is not a bad thing.
