The rules of football include regulations covering protective equipment. The equipment is designed to protect players from head to toe against the tackling, blocking and contact encountered during practice and games. Along with reducing the risk of injury, football equipment can maximize performance with the proper fit and design.
Helmets
Football helmets might be the most important piece of equipment. The helmet provides protection for the head and is available in a variety of sizes, padding configurations and face mask styles to accommodate different head sizes and positions. For example, skill positions, including wide receivers and running backs, use lightweight helmets with small face masks to maximize vision. Linemen and linebackers have full face masks for maximum protection.
Shoulder Pads
Shoulder pads also can be customized to match the individual position. Sizing for shoulder pads is generally based on size to allow mobility and torso movement. Similar to the design of the helmets, linemen and linebackers have the biggest shoulder pads to absorb the constant blocking, contact and tackling. Skill positions, however, choose compact, lightweight shoulder pads to maximize speed and agility.
Cleats
Cleats are worn to improve traction on various playing surfaces for speed and agility. Youth football shoes are generally molded cleats, while high school, college and professional cleats feature removable studs. The removable studs have different lengths to match the condition of the playing surface. For example, longer cleats can be used for wet, muddy conditions, while short cleats might work better on artificial surfaces.
Accessories
Additional equipment and accessory padding is up to individual players. It is based on injuries, playing styles and personal preference. Rib vests can be added to the bottom of the shoulder pads for additional protection to the ribs, lower back and abdominal area. Hip, tailbone, thigh and knee pads are placed in a girdle that is worn under the pants. Gloves are also worn by different players for hand protection and improved grip on the football.
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