In most soccer leagues, shin pads are a mandatory piece of equipment. They are essentially used to protect your shin and ankle areas against the studs and boots of opponents when they are tackling you. Players have often been gashed in the legs after a hard tackle and that can even happen while wearing shin pads. The pads should be lightweight and keep you cool, but should be well padded. Most pads are made with synthetic padding or foam padding, which is covered by an outer layer of hard plastic or composite material and the hard plastic could also be covered by material. The soccer shin pads fit under your socks and most can be strapped to your legs. Make sure they fit you well and don't move around while playing. Shin pads come in various materials, styles, sizes and colors.
