If you’re new to sports requiring shin guards, you may wonder how to choose the right pair. Shin guards are essential for protecting your shins from impact and injury during activities like martial arts. As such, you are able to concentrate better.
- Types of Shin Guards
There are two major types: slip-in and strap-on. Slip-in shin guards are designed to be worn directly against your skin or over a thin layer of socks. They usually have a foam or plastic shell that slips into a sleeve, which you pull over your leg. Slip-in shin guards tend to be more comfortable and less bulky than strap-on shin guards.
Strap-on shin guards, on the other hand, have adjustable straps that wrap around your leg to hold the guard in place. They typically have a more rigid shell and may offer more protection than slip-in shin guards. Strap-on shin guards can be more cumbersome and restrictive, but athletes who need extra security or choose a more secure fit often prefer them.
- Sizing
When it comes to shin guards, size matters, most shin guards come in sizes based on height, so be sure to measure your height accurately before making a purchase. A poorly fitting shin guard can shift around during play, leaving your shins vulnerable to injury.
To measure yourself for shin guards, stand up straight and measure the distance from the top of your anklebone to the bottom of your kneecap. This measurement will give you a good idea of what size shin guards you need. Remember that different brands and models may fit differently, so consult the manufacturer’s size chart before making a final decision.
- Materials
Shin guards can be made from various materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials used in shin guards are foam, plastic, and a combination.
Foam shin guards are lightweight and flexible, making them comfortable to wear. They are also less expensive than other types of shin guards. However, foam shin guards offer less protection than other materials and may wear out more quickly.
Plastic shin guards are more durable than foam shin guards and offer more protection. They are typically more expensive than foam shin guards and can be heavier and more rigid.
Some shin guards combine foam and plastic to provide the best of both worlds. These shin guards are often more expensive than foam or plastic ones, but they offer a good balance of protection, comfort, and durability.
- Additional Features
Some shin guards have additional features that enhance your performance or comfort. For example, some shin guards have ventilation holes or channels that help to keep your legs cool and dry during play. Other shin guards have ankle guards that provide extra protection for your ankles.
Investing in a high-quality pair of shin guards can help to prevent injuries and keep you in the game. You can focus on your performance and leave the worry behind with the right pair of shin guards. Buy the best one available!