As we all know soccer is a game that can be unofficially enjoyed in various forms and in places. One can practically play almost everywhere, from beaches and streets to even in your garden. All you need is a football and you can simply let your imaginations run wild. However, playing soccer properly on an official team is a whole contrasting matter. Strict rules and regulations are involved not only in the game but also in the soccer uniforms. For larger and established clubs, the guidelines provided by FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association/ International Federation of Association Football), are followed. Here are some of the most common attire and equipment worn by soccer players.
Soccer Jersey
One of the most important parts of a custom soccer team uniform are soccer jerseys. Soccer teams usually provide their players with proper Soccer Jerseys in their respective club or team colors. These jerseys contain a number at the back. Different numbers are given to different players that also make up their identity. Soccer jerseys are usually short sleeved so that they don’t restrict the players’ movements in any way; however modern fibers have enabled players to wear long sleeves that deliver the same comfort and ease. It’s really is up to the players whether they want to wear a short sleeved jersey or a long sleeved one. The goalkeepers’ jersey is always of a different color than the rest of the team. This is because goalies are allowed to use their hands inside the box while the other players aren’t, and the different color jersey helps the referee identify the keeper and prevent any sort of foul play. The key features of the soccer jerseys are that they are lightweight yet durable; they have amazing sweat absorbent properties and dry quickly. These jerseys are also stain-resistant and do not get dirty easily.
Soccer Shorts
Outfield players are always required to wear proper soccer shorts. These shorts are made of lightweight materials and quite elasticity in them. These shorts are sturdy and mostly have the number of the player embellished on it. It is the same number that’s also present on the back of the Soccer Jersey. Players are also allowed to wear compression shorts inside the regular soccer shorts, but they always have to be of the same color. Along with the shorts, goalkeepers are permitted to wear tight padded trousers as well.
Socks and Protective Gear
Socks and protective shin guards are a must-wear equipment for all soccer players. Soccer socks and long and generally styles with the club or team logo or initials. These socks are long (typically knee length) and hold the players’ shin guards in place. As soccer is a game that involves a lot of tackling and sliding socks protect the legs of the players from grass burns and the shin guards protect them from nasty injuries to the shin. Governing bodies forbids players to wear protective items that may cause injury to other players. Special face masks and head protection gear made of soft materials are allowed. The referees inspect all the protective gear and if they feel some equipment may harm other players, they have the authority to ask the player to remove them.
Soccer Shoes
Soccer shoes are by one of the most important pieces of equipment players wear. Although they come in a variety of styles and grips, the players playing on grass typically use cleats. Cleats are studs molded onto the bottom of shoes and help provide grip and stability on the grass surfaces. These cleats dig in the grass and prevent players from slipping and provide a solid base for players to accelerate and stopping. The cleats can be made of plastic or metal. Another quality of soccer shoes is their shape and material. These shoes are designed in a way that enables soccer players to control and shoot the ball with immense accuracy.
