Soccer Goalkeeper Gear Guide
No player on the soccer field needs more protection than the goalkeeper. Essential gear is crucial for them to stay at the top of their game, confidently facing powerful shots and making match-winning saves. Our Experts put together a guide of the essential soccer goalie gear, so you can be prepared for every pass.
The Essentials: Your Core Gear
Gloves
A goalkeeper’s most important piece of equipment is their gloves. Goalie gloves are designed for a better grip on the ball, making it easier to catch and throw in during a game. Many gloves have extra padding on the palms and fingers, absorbing impact so your hands stay safe, even after tough saves.
Jersey
With long- and short-sleeve options, goalkeeper jerseys act as more than part of the uniform; they also offer additional reinforcement for the upper body. Short-sleeve jerseys provide key ventilation and mobility, while long-sleeve jerseys often have padding integrated in contact areas such as the elbows.
Pants & Shorts
Leggings, pants, and shorts can be paired with padded base layers to add another element of protection or worn on their own. Pants and leggings are ideal for cooler weather and shielding against turf burn, while shorts offer more mobility and are better for warm weather.
Shin Guards & Socks
Like the other players, shin contact is unavoidable. Shin guards protect the lower leg from high-speed shots, diving, and any chaos that breaks out at the goal. With a range of types of shin guards, from slip-in, socks, ankle, and more, each goalie can choose what works best for them and stay protected on the pitch.
Cleats
Goalkeepers need to be prepared to take off in any direction quickly, so finding the right pair of cleats with support and grip is crucial. The best soccer cleats for goalkeepers provide excellent traction on grass or turf, helping you push off powerfully when making a save.
Gear to Enhance Performance
While your core gear is essential and required to wear on the pitch, there is also non-essential gear that many goalkeepers wear to improve their performance.
Impact Base Layers
Many goalkeepers choose to wear padded head guards and base layers under their jerseys and shorts for added protection. These base layers provide cushioning on the hips, thighs, and elbows, protecting your body when you hit the ground. Many padded shirts and shorts are designed to wick away sweat, helping you stay comfortable during tough matches, and fit snugly, letting you move freely without bunching under your gear.
Mouthguard: It is strongly recommended to wear a mouthguard during practice and matches to protect your teeth from damage.
Headband: Whether you have long or short hair, a headband helps to keep sweat and hair out of your face.
Glove Cleaning: Keeping your gloves in top condition makes a difference in performance. Using a high-quality care kit makes this process simple!
Q-Collar: The Q-Collar applies light pressure to the sides of the neck, helping to protect the brain from impact.
Feel confident and prepared when stepping onto the pitch with the best soccer goalkeeper gear. Whether just starting or gearing up for another season in goal, our selection of goalie gear will keep your performance up match after match. If you have additional questions on choosing soccer gear, visit your local SCHEELS to speak with a Soccer Expert!