At the simplest level, all a soccer team needs is a flat space to play and a ball. But many types of equipment can help a soccer team achieve its potential. Before buying soccer equipment, consult the league manual to ensure that your purchases comply with regulations concerning equipment and safety, which vary among different leagues and age levels.
Footwear
Soccer players execute quick changes in direction while they sprint from one end of the field to the other, so it's important for players to have as much traction as possible. Soccer cleats provide the best traction, though leagues often have strict regulations concerning type. Basic soccer cleats have ribbed soles or molded cleats, which are typically made of rubber. Screw-in cleats are dangerous because players might attach metal spikes, which pose a safety risk to other players.
Goalkeepers
Goalkeepers have special safety gear to protect them from speeding shots and to help them perform goaltending responsibilities. A longsleeved goalkeeper shirt protects the upper body and arms, and thick goalie gloves protect the hands. Goalkeeper gloves have specially treated palms that improve the goalkeeper's grip, making it easier to catch quickly moving balls.
Safety Gear
Appropriate safety gear varies among leagues and skill levels, but typical safety gear includes shin guards that minimize lower leg injuries and special soccer socks to hold shin guards in place. Mouth guards minimize damage to the teeth, cheeks, lips and tongue in the event a player receives a blow to the head. Wearing an athletic cup is also an effective safety measure.
Soccer Ball
Soccer balls come in many sizes. Typically, size 3 is for children under 8 years of age, size 4 is for children between the ages of 8 and 12, and size 5 is for players of ages 13 and older. The least expensive balls are covered with PVC material. They are durable, but harder than synthetic soccer balls, which are typically the most expensive. Polyurethane balls feel similar to synthetic soccer balls and are almost as durable as PVC balls.
Field and Goals
Soccer goals vary in size based on age levels and league requirements. The smallest goals are for the youngest players and typically measure about 4 to 4-1/2 feet by 6 to 9 feet. The largest goal size, 8 feet by 24 feet, is appropriate for players 12 years of age and older. A soccer team also needs a field that meets a league's size specifications and has appropriate markings, such as a clearly delineated penalty area, goal line and half line.
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