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Shopping For Football Season

Sep 02, 2008

Shopping for football equipment can be a pain in the butt if you don't know what you're doing. Fortunately for you, Kidzworld's got the 411 on what to look for when buying!

Cleats

Football shoes are designed differently defending on what position you play. Typically high-top cleats are made for linemen who need extra ankle support for lateral movements. Mid-cut shoes combine support with maneuverability for players like running backs, quarterbacks and corner backs. Low-cut cleats are the lightest and most maneuverable shoe and are used by wide receivers. Football shoes are also made for the type of field you play on. If you play on turf rather than grass, molded cleats are the preferred choice, whereas detachable cleats work better on grass. Buying the proper shoe for your position will help maximize your performance while reducing the risk of injury. Buying a used shoe is a possibility, but we advise you to get a new shoe and have a football expert recommend the appropriate shoe for you.

Helmet

It is very important that you pick a helmet that is big enough to give you a little room and fit you comfortably, but tight enough that it stay put and won't fall. The next step is choosing the right face mask. For lineman, you want a face mask with several bars for provide maximum protection. Wide receivers, running backs, quarterbacks and kickers should only use face mask with fewer bars for maximum visibility. Also choose a jaw pad and chin strap that will fit the size of the helmet. Helmets are probably something that you can buy used. Just make sure they are in good condition, because after all, this is your head we are talking about!

Pads

When you are buying shoulder pads, ask your coach or other store expert which shoulder pad types are right for your position. When it comes to picking hip pads, thigh and knee pads and tailbone pads, you should always choose those that fit your body perfectly perfectly. That means not too tight and not too loose. Quality is huge when buying pads. Whether you buy new or used, don't sacrifice quality. You want the best protection possible, even if it costs you a couple extra bucks!

Mouthguard

Do you enjoy having teeth? If you said yes, make sure you keep it that way by wearing a mouthguard. Although they are a bit uncomfortable, they are cheap and they protect your tongue and teeth. We also recommend you don't buy this used because who wants to chew on something that has been in somebody else's mouth?


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