Essential Gear for High-Performance Salvo Soccer Club Players: Ages 13-19
As your child ages through youth soccer programs, you will start to notice their level of dedication and performance. If you have a child who is highly motivated to train and play soccer, it may be time to switch them from recreational leagues to club soccer, specifically high-performance programs.
At Salvo SC, we offer programs designed for high-performance soccer players, including both girls and boys, aged 13-19. If your child is interested in high-performance soccer, they will need the gear to support their aspirations.
With our extensive experience working with youth soccer players and a focus on trending soccer gear, we’ve compiled this guide to essential gear for your high-performing youth soccer player.
Soccer Cleats (Boots)
Soccer cleats tailored for specific playing surfaces are essential for high-performing soccer players. At this point in their career, they should have several pairs of cleats that they can swap out depending on where they are playing.
The different cleats for playing surfaces are categorized by:
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Firm Ground (FG): Works for natural grass fields that are dry and firm. These have molded studs.
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Soft Ground (SG): These cleats are ideal for wet, muddy natural grass fields, often featuring longer, replaceable studs for better grip.
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Artificial Ground (AG): Designed for synthetic turf with shorter, more evenly spread studs to reduce stress on joints and offer better grip.
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Indoor (ID/IN): For indoor soccer on hard surfaces like gym floors featuring flat, rubber soles.
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Multi-Ground (MG): Versatile options that can be used on various surfaces, including natural grass and turf.
When helping your child shop for cleats, ensure the cleats fit snugly but not uncomfortably. High-performance players often prefer lightweight cleats that offer a good ball feel and enhance agility.
According to online trends, youth soccer players are valuing colors and design elements in addition to how they feel. They view their cleats as essential to their playing style and an integral part of their personal identity.
While you should allow your child to choose cleat designs they love, make sure they’re also focusing on comfort.
Soccer Socks: A Trending Topic in Soccer Gear
Soccer socks have always been an important part of a soccer player’s kit bag. However, according to recent online trends, they have experienced a surge in popularity as styles and features evolve to meet the demands of modern soccer.
First, let’s examine the standard materials used for soccer socks.
Over-the-Calf
Long socks are essential for covering shin guards and holding them in place.
Moisture-Wicking Synthetics
The best moisture-wicking materials include polyester, nylon, or a spandex/lycra/elastane blend. These are important for keeping feet dry, preventing blisters, and regulating temperature. They offer durability, stretch, and breathability.
Avoid 100% cotton socks as they absorb moisture and can lead to discomfort and blisters.
Targeted Cushioning
Some high-performance socks offer strategic Cushioning in key areas, such as the heel, toe, and arch, for shock absorption and comfort.
Arch & Ankle Compression
Provides additional support and keeps the socks in place.
Current Trend: Grip Socks
Let’s take a look now at a new trend in soccer socks: grip socks.
Grip socks feature gripping pads on the outside and are fully integrated into the inside of the sock. This helps lock feet into cleats. Improved adhesive technology in grip socks makes changing directions easier and enhances shot control.
Some grip socks also have thicker soles for more cushioning. These socks also come in crew sock style and can be worn under team uniform socks.
Shin Guards
Shin guards are another essential type of soccer gear, and in this area, style, preference, and comfort take precedence. High-performance soccer players will also consider the balance between protection and mobility, seeking a balance between the two.
Slip-in Shin Guards
These are lightweight and less bulky, offering good protection without restricting movement. These are popular with experienced and professional players and are often held in place by compression sleeves or tape.
Ankle-Protection Shin Guards
Offer additional padding around the ankle, which provides more comprehensive protection, particularly for younger players or defenders who experience more contact. However, some older players may find them too restrictive.
Shin Socks
Socks with integrated protective armor on the front provide a comfortable and secure fit. Shin guards should cover the front of the lower leg and stay securely in place. They should not be too bulky or uncomfortable.
Additionally, look for durable materials that can effectively absorb impact.
Skill Building: Basic Equipment
It’s very likely your high-performance soccer player has these items, but just as a refresher, they will need:
Advanced Development Tools
As your youth soccer player advances, some of these more advanced and sophisticated pieces of equipment will help bridge the gap between basic skills and more advanced game applications.
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Soccer Rebounders: returns the ball at various angles to improve first touch, passing accuracy, and shooting techniques under pressure
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Agility Ladder: Develops footwork, coordination, and quick direction changes
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Training or Agility Poles: These vertical markers create slalom courses for dribbling exercises
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Soccer Mannequins: Stationary defenders simulate in-game situations, and help with practicing free kicks, passing around obstacles, and shooting accuracy.
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Futsal Ball: These are slightly heavier and smaller than a standard ball, but they improve close control and are ideal for technical training when space is limited
Support a High-Performing Youth Soccer Player With a High-Performance Team
If your young soccer player is showing signs of dedication and motivation, sign them up for Salvo SC’s high-performance soccer teams in Minnesota. Our coaches and staff will work closely with your child to help them develop into exceptional soccer players, which is essential if your child aspires to receive soccer scholarships or advance to advanced play.
We take pride in our athletes and want to help them grow, not only in their skills, but their discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Join Salvo SC today or call us at 612-503-4738 for more information.