Why Are Soccer Shin Guards Important, and Which Ones Work Best?
Find the Best Soccer Shin Guards
The primary purpose of soccer shin guards is to prevent injury to the front of the lower leg. Some possible injuries include damage or fracture of the tibia. The tibia is the large bone in the front of the lower leg. Its orientation and the fact that it is located very close underneath the skin provide ample opportunity for serious and painful injuries during a game. Other areas that a shin guard protects are the muscles on either side of the tibia, and usually the guard provides some protection and support for the ankle.
Way back in the mid 1800’s soccer matches were played with out any shin guards. And it wasn’t until around 1874 that wearing shin guards was allowed in as part of the rules of the game. So no doubt there were some serious lower leg injuries during these periods. The shin guards started off as a cut down pads used from the game cricket. This kind of pad was heavy and restrictive, so it soon became clear something better was needed, something lighter, that would allow for freer movement. So gradually different materials were tried, including leather, wood and metal plates. There was not much padding with these early shin guards, but today things have improved substantially.
The primary way that a shin guard protects the leg is by spreading out the force of an impact from a ball or a kick. The better the shin guard’s design, the further the force is spread out and hence the less the impact is felt, and the less chance there is for injury. Manufacturers’ who make soccer gear pay some attention to these facts, but at the same time they try to make their product look appealing to the eye. So if you want the best protection, you will want to pay close attention to how a shin guard is designed, and what materials are used before you buy it.
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With that in mind hear are a few things to look for when selecting a shin guard. Shin guards that are primarily composed of plastics typically provide the least protection and shock absorption. Good shin guards, in addition to a plastic shell, typically will have a couple of layers of a shock absorbing foam. One popular foam that works well is EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), it is light weight, has good shock absorbent properties, and good resistance to stress cracks. Pockets of air either between the plastic layer and the shock absorbing foam, or inside the shock absorbing foam itself are also good methods for shock absorption.
Weight is also something that all soccer players will want to think about when it comes to their gear. Usually the forwards and the goalies wants to find the lightest shin
protection available. The mid fielders can use slightly heaver shin guards, and the defensive players want the heaviest that they are comfortable in. The defensive players need this extra protection as they often receive the most punishing blows.
With all these ideas in mind you can see why soccer shin guards are important pieces of equipment for the game. And with a little knowledge of how they work, hopefully you can be guided to a shin guard selection that will fit you position, needs, and give you the best protection.
