Keeping Up With the Soccer Dads
July 07, 2011, By William Busse 0 comments
The popularity of soccer in America continues to grow with every new generation. As youth participation in the sport expands throughout the country, the kids learn to appreciate the strategy, tactics and amazing individual skills of the world’s best players. It’s time to recognize that soccer is here to stay.
For the soccer dad, that means outfitting each player in the family with the latest soccer gear while picking up a few necessary accessories for himself. Fortunately, soccer is a game that doesn’t require a substantial upfront investment in equipment.
Soccer Cleats
Much like basketball, soccer is all about the shoes. Commonly known as “cleats,” soccer shoes that are made for grass surfaces are available in a variety of styles and prices. Simulated leather and molded outsole cleat patterns are fine for beginners, but serious club players usually prefer real leather for better ball control and comfort. Bladed cleat patterns provide advanced players with firmer traction for clean cuts and changes in direction.
For artificial surfaces, turf shoes have much smaller individual cleats but far more of them. Wearing shoes designed for grass on a turf field is not recommended because the cleats can become caught in the turf and result in serious ankle or knee injuries.
Soccer Balls
Selecting the right soccer ball is relatively easy because the balls are numbered and age specific. A size three ball is designed for ages eight and under, size four is for ages eight to 12, and a size five ball conforms to international standards and is for ages 12 and up.
Soccer balls are made from a variety of materials, but a softer ball with more cushioning is preferred for younger players since it has less potential for causing impact injuries. A FIFA approved stitched ball will be more than adequate for the experienced player. Don’t overspend on balls since at least one will be lost every season.
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