Why Choose Woven Over Knit Soccer Shorts
As a parent shopping for your budding soccer star, you’ll notice two main types of soccer shorts: woven and knit. Woven shorts have a structured feel and hold their shape better, while knit shorts stretch and move more with the body. When it comes to kids playing sports, woven soccer shorts tend to be the better choice for a few key reasons.
For starters, woven shorts are more durable. The structured fabric stands up to repeated washing and doesn’t lose its shape over time. Kids are rough on their clothes, so you want something that will last through practices, games and inevitable grass stains. Knit shorts tend to stretch out, sag and wear down faster.
Woven soccer shorts also provide a better range of motion as kids run and kick. The shorts don’t cling to the legs as much, preventing restriction. This freedom of movement helps them learn skills and play their best. For the same reasons, woven shorts are also more breathable as air circulates rather than getting trapped against the skin.
When it comes to absorbency, woven soccer shorts hold up better as well. They dry quicker after getting sweaty or wet and won’t weigh a child down during a game. The smooth, stiff fabric also won’t chafe or irritate the skin when damp. For comfort and preventing rashes, woven is the way to go.
Style-wise, you can find woven soccer shorts in all sorts of fun colors, prints and patterns to suit your child’s personality. Many brands make matching jerseys so you can get the complete uniform. For clubs and leagues, it’s easy to find custom woven shorts to add names, numbers and team logos.
Popular brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour offer high-quality woven soccer shorts for kids. Look for shorts made of 100% polyester or nylon with an elastic waistband for maximum comfort. Consider the climate too – some woven shorts are better for warm weather while others allow more airflow for cooler conditions. Focus on performance and durability when shopping.
You can find great deals on woven soccer shorts by shopping end of season clearance sales or checking out outlet stores. For convenience, shop online at retailers like Soccer.com or Dick’s Sporting Goods. Or buy in bulk for the whole team through Amazon or uniform shops.
Woven soccer shorts also make great gifts for birthdays, holidays or the end of season. Stock up so you always have extras on hand for practices and pick-up games. Hand-me-downs between siblings can help save money too.
While knit shorts work fine for casual wear, most kids and parents prefer the durability and performance of woven shorts for youth soccer. The structured feel supports freedom of movement and wicks away sweat better. So do your soccer star a favor by choosing woven over knit next time you shop for shorts.
With the right pair of woven soccer shorts, your child will look and feel like part of the team. Their skills and confidence will grow as they run around the field unrestricted. Investing in high-quality woven shorts sets them up for success and keeps them playing their best game after game.
Key Features to Look for in Youth Soccer Shorts
When shopping for youth soccer shorts, pay close attention to the features that matter most for performance and comfort. Here are the key things to look for:
The fabric is one of the most important considerations. Look for 100% polyester or nylon woven shorts that are lightweight and breathable. The shorts should have some structure and stiffness but still allow free movement. Reinforced seams and hems add durability.
An elastic waistband with a drawcord is ideal for providing a snug yet comfortable fit. Kids are constantly moving and don’t want their shorts falling down during play. Some shorts also have a back yoke and partial elastic waist for enhanced coverage and stretch.
For length, soccer shorts should hit right above the knee or slightly longer for optimal coverage and range of motion. Avoid shorts that are too baggy or long that could hinder agile play. The leg opening should be wide enough to allow free kicking. Slits up the side seams can also help.
Moisture-wicking and quick-drying are must-have features for sweat management during games. Look for built-in briefs or liners made of moisture-wicking material to keep kids dry. Mesh ventilation in key areas further enhances airflow and cooling.
Pockets are handy for kids to store small essentials, but should be streamlined to avoid added bulk. One zippered side pocket or angled back pocket is sufficient. Some shorts add zippered thigh pockets too.
When it comes to color, you’ll find youth soccer shorts in all different shades and patterns. While this is mostly personal preference, bright colors and fun prints help kids stand out on the field. For clubs, custom shorts allow adding numbers, names and team logos.
Reflective details like piping or screenprints boost visibility in dim light. This enhanced visibility helps kids play safer on dusk or overcast days. Some parents also like shorts with UV protection built in.
With the right combination of fabric, fit and features, soccer shorts do more than just look great – they’ll help any young player feel like a star out on the field!
Popular Brands Known for Quality Woven Soccer Shorts
When it comes to youth soccer shorts, you can’t go wrong with the big athletic brands known for their performance gear. Here are some of the top names in woven soccer shorts to consider:
Nike is synonymous with soccer and offers a huge selection of woven shorts. From their Pro Combat line to Strike options, expect lightweight durability, sweat-wicking fabrics and streamlined designs. The Nike Pro shorts provide compression support while the Club shorts have a classic look.
Adidas is another leader in soccer gear. Their woven shorts come in youth sizes and feature Climalite or Aeroready moisture management. The Condivo and Tiro lines offer stretch for play while still being structured. Adidas is ideal for custom team uniforms.
Under Armour’s woven shorts are made to handle activity with HeatGear and ArmourVent fabrics that disperse heat. Features like anti-odor technology and four-way stretch maintain comfort. The UA Blurr short has side slits for better range of motion.
Puma offers options like the Evopower shorts made of 100% polyester with dryCELL moisture control. Their woven soccer shorts are designed for complete maneuverability with side slits, stretch waistbands and quick-dry materials.
Diadora is an Italian brand crafting soccer uniforms since 1948. Their woven shorts promote airflow and movement while remaining lightweight and durable. Expect minimal seams and an athletic tapered fit.
Uhlsport soccer shorts provide ventilation through strategic use of mesh fabrics. Thermocool and airwhel technologies actively cool and vent. An elastic waist with inner drawcord allows adjustment.
Select makes high-quality woven soccer shorts for every position including goalies. They utilize sweat-wicking and antibacterial fabrics. The Hydroshort 2.0 is a popular quick-drying option.
For great quality at affordable prices, brands like Ginga, Sondico and Mitre offer woven soccer shorts for youth. Comfort-designed while still being hardy for play.
Ask your soccer coach if they recommend a certain brand. Checking reviews from other parents can narrow options too. With the right shorts, your kid will have the confidence to play their best!
What Size Should You Get for Your Child?
Choosing the right size soccer shorts for your kids is important for comfort and safety during play. Here are some tips on determining the best size:
Consult the size chart for the specific brand of shorts you’re considering. Size can vary quite a bit between manufacturers, so don’t rely on general age/weight guidelines. Check the waist, hip and inseam measurements against your child’s dimensions.
Factor in room for growth, especially for younger kids. You generally want to size up if they’re between sizes to allow for a few months’ wear. Oversized is better than undersized for free movement.
Try shorts on in person whenever possible. Comfortably fitted is best – not too compressed but also avoiding a sloppy, baggy fit. Waistbands should be snug but not pinch; length should hit just above the knee.
Consider how sizes run in that brand overall. Some brands like Nike and Adidas run smaller, so size up. Others like Under Armour tend to run true to size or even big. Getting the right fit depends on the cut and stretchiness.
Inspect the waistband and ties/drawcords. Kids with narrow waists may need to cinch in shorts with a drawcord. Stretch waistbands accommodate growth spikes better.
Have your child move around and practice kicks. Shorts shouldn’t restrict movement – riding up or sagging down. Do some wall sits and knee lunges to test comfort and range.
For goalies, allow room for pants underneath. Fitted is still best for mobility, but size up if wearing sliding pants regularly.
Match shorts length to your league rules. Many require at least a 4″ inseam. Longer lengths allow growth but avoid knee-length shorts restricting play.
Shop a few weeks before the season starts to allow time for exchanges. Bring socks and shin guards to test overall fit.
With the right soccer short size, your kid will feel confident dashing around the field. Don’t hesitate to exchange if the fit isn’t right – comfort enhances performance.
Matching Jerseys: Get the Complete Uniform
What’s a soccer uniform without the jersey? After picking out some stellar woven shorts, complete the look with a coordinating jersey for a fully unified team appearance.
Matching jerseys and shorts boost team spirit and togetherness. Your kid will feel like part of the squad decked out in their outfit from head to toe. A cohesive uniform looks professional and intimidating to rivals!
Many major brands like Nike and Adidas sell shorts and jerseys together as a set. This takes the guesswork out of matching on your own. Opt for sets made from the same moisture-wicking polyester material in corresponding colors.
You can also mix and match separates. Having multiple shorts and jersey options allows variety. Just be sure the colors and styles complement each other. Contrasting jersey and short colors (like black and white) can look sharp.
For clubs and leagues, custom jerseys allow adding names, numbers and team logos to match custom shorts. Nothing bonds a team quite like uniforms with their individual names on the back.
Get creative with accessories that tie looks together. Matching soccer socks, headbands, armbands and bags reinforce the unified style. Consider bold cleats that pop against the uniforms too.
In warm climates, shorts and jersey sets are a classic look on their own. In chillier weather, long sleeve jerseys pair well with shorts and tall socks. Layer on jackets, sweatpants and long sleeves as needed.
Stick to one dominant jersey and short color that represents your club. White, black, navy and red always look sleek. Accent with secondary colors on details like stripes, collars and side panels for distinction.
With matching jerseys and shorts, kids can dash around the field outfitted for optimal movement while still looking like a cohesive crew. The right uniform inspires confidence and gives off a professional vibe.
Consider Climate – Woven Shorts For Warm vs Cool Weather
The climate where you live and time of year makes a difference when picking the best woven soccer shorts. Here’s what to consider for warm vs. cool conditions:
In warm climates or summer months, look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester or nylon blends. Opt for shorts made with open mesh panels to improve airflow on hot days. Darker colors also help hide sweat stains.
Some features that keep kids cooler include wicking liners to disperse moisture and ventilated waistbands that allow air circulation. Under Armour HeatGear and Nike Dri-FIT are great sweat-wicking technologies for heat.
The cut of the shorts matters too – avoid longer baggy styles and go for a streamlined fit that won’t stick to the legs and chafe. Stretchier fabrics maintain range of motion as kids overheat.
For protection from the sun, choose woven shorts offering UPF/UV blocking. Lightweight, breathable options prevent overheating better than thick UV blocking shorts.
In colder climates or winter months, look for shorts made with insulating and heat-retaining materials. Fleece-lined or brushed polyester woven shorts maintain warmth while still breathing.
Prefer shorts with a flat waistband over elastic – the looser fit layers better over leggings and sweatpants for warmth. Zippered side pockets keep hands warm too.
Pair woven shorts with tall socks that cover the calves and wick moisture away from the skin. Thermal underwear and leggings under the shorts add warmth without restricting movement.
Some brands like Nike make woven pants in coordinated colors for a streamlined layered look. Matching jackets and hoodies complete the uniform top-to-bottom.
No matter what the weather, the right woven soccer shorts keep kids comfortable while still performing at their best. Focus on breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics and strategic ventilation for unrestricted play.
Custom Team Shorts: Add Names and Numbers
Nothing makes a kid feel more like part of the team than seeing their name and number on their soccer shorts. Custom shorts take team spirit to the next level.
Many brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour allow customizing youth shorts with a player’s name, number and team logo. This gives a unified, professional look for clubs.
Names are typically printed on the lower back of one leg in a contrasting color. Player numbers go on the opposite leg, often on the front thigh. Keep fonts and details consistent.
The team crest or logo can be printed on the front left leg for a polished appearance. Consider putting mascot symbols, slogans or the city name elsewhere as accents.
When designing custom shorts, keep the overall look sleek and legible. Focus on key elements like names, numbers and logos. Avoid too much text and clutter.
Coordinate custom shorts with matching jerseys for a cohesive look. Use the same player names/numbers on both for consistency. Offer long sleeve options for cooler weather.
Get input from the players on preferred colors, logo placement and design elements. Make sure numbers are correct and names spelled properly!
For clubs on a budget, custom iron-on name and number kits allow DIY customization. Heat press vinyl logos and details at home for inexpensive team shorts.
Order extra blank shorts as back-ups for new players. Providing the shorts shows you’re invested in players as part of the club.
With custom shorts your kid will feel like your team’s star player. Personalization makes a bold team statement at games and breeds club loyalty.
Care Tips to Make the Shorts Last
Investing in quality youth soccer shorts is worth it if you take proper care to maximize their lifespan. Here are some useful care tips:
Always check the care label and follow washing instructions. Most synthetic woven shorts should be machine washed cold and tumble dried low. Avoid high heat in both washing and drying.
Wash soccer shorts inside out to protect the fabric and any prints/logos on the outside. Zip up pockets and velcro closures to prevent snagging in the wash.
Pre-treat any tough stains like grass, mud or blood before washing. Spray with stain remover or scrub with a brush and detergent, then let sit.
Use a gentle, mild detergent without dyes or fragrances that could irritate skin. Powder detergents tend to work better than liquid on athletic fabrics.
Air dry shorts when possible rather than machine drying. Lay flat and smooth out the fabric to prevent wrinkles or shrinkage issues.
Inspect shorts after each wearing and wash any dirty pairs promptly. Don’t let sweat, dirt or stains set in.
Spot clean shorts as needed between wears. Wipe down with a damp cloth, treat stains and air out instead of washing after every practice.
Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets which can leave residue on shorts over time. They can also reduce moisture wicking abilities.
Fold shorts neatly or hang up to store. Don’t just shove them in a pile which can stretch out the waistband and legs.
Make shorts last longer by having multiple pairs to rotate for games and practice. Avoid over-wearing the same shorts twice a week.
With proper care, quality woven soccer shorts can easily last multiple seasons as kids grow! Handle with care for the best longevity.
Best Places to Buy Woven Soccer Shorts Online
Shopping for soccer shorts online provides convenience and a wide selection of styles and brands. Here are some of the best places to buy youth woven soccer shorts online:
Soccer.com is one of the largest online retailers dedicated specifically to soccer gear. They carry all the top brands in a range of sizes and colors. Expect lots of options along with reviews and buying guides.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has an impressive selection online of major brands like Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, etc. Frequent sales and coupon codes make for good deals on shorts.
Amazon provides the convenience of fast shipping and easy returns. Browse their soccer store for a huge assortment of shorts. Check reviews before buying lesser known brands.
Manufacturer websites like Nike.com, Adidas.com and Puma.com allow buying soccer shorts directly. Get the newest releases and customize options through their online stores.
Soccer Post is a dedicated online soccer retailer carrying everything from uniforms to equipment. Search shorts by brand, size, color and style for a tailored selection.
eBay can yield discounts on closeout styles and past seasons’ shorts. Vintage styles emerge here too. Just beware of potential sizing issues with used items.
DICKS Sporting Goods offers frequent online promos like 20% off or free shipping minimums. Sign up for their email list to get alerted of deals.
Don’t forget local sports stores often match online pricing. Check their websites and call to inquire about price matching policies.
Shopping online makes finding the perfect woven soccer shorts for your kid easy. Compare styles and prices with the click of a button!
Shop Clearance Sales and Outlet Stores
Why pay full price for quality woven soccer shorts when you can save big by shopping sales and outlets? Here are some smart tips for scoring deals:
Check brand websites for online clearance sections to browse discounted shorts. Nike, Adidas and Under Armour often run end-of-season sales on last year’s styles.
Sign up for email alerts from your favorite brands to get notified immediately when sales go live. Be ready to snap up popular sizes and styles.
Hit up outlet stores like Nike Factory Outlets and Under Armour Outlets to save on shorts year-round. Mall locations offer in-person discount shopping.
Shop holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day when sportswear brands run major sales both online and in-stores.
Comb through retailer discount sections in late summer as they clear out warm weather gear. You can often stock up on shorts for the next year.
Peruse resale sites like Poshmark and Mercari for steeply discounted second-hand shorts. Gently worn and new with tags items pop up.
eBay is another source for clearance shorts as sellers empty their inventory. Search by exact brand, size and style for best selection.
Amazon Warehouse has open-box apparel and customer returns at reduced prices. Optimal for trying new styles without paying full retail.
Check local discount sporting goods stores for budget bins of shorts and closeout deals other retailers offload.
With some dedicated shopping, you can save big on quality woven soccer shorts. Don’t pay full price when discounts are out there!
Buy in Bulk for the Whole Team
Outfitting an entire soccer team with matching uniforms is much more affordable when you buy quality woven shorts in bulk. Here are some tips for big team orders:
Look into wholesale pricing and bulk discounts from major brands. Companies like Nike offer price breaks on large team orders with customization.
Online uniform retailers like Soccer.com and Soccer Locker specialize in team orders and often offer price incentives on bulk purchases.
Talk to your local sports retailers about team discounts if ordering through them. Negotiate pricing for a large bulk order.
Consider buying a few core colors like black, white and navy to mix and match. Then supplement with smaller quantities of accent colors.
Don’t forget smaller accessories to complete the uniforms like socks, bags and warmups. Ask about bundle pricing.
See if your league or organization has partnerships with certain brands for discounted team pricing.
Split bulk orders with other teams in the club or league to meet minimum quantity discounts. This also ensures matching.
Order extra shorts in the most common sizes needed to have back-ups on hand for new players.
Check for coupons and seasonal sales when placing large orders. Saving per short adds up fast.
Buying woven soccer shorts in bulk for the team saves a ton over individual retail pricing. Work those deals for big savings!
Give Soccer Shorts as Gifts for Birthdays and Holidays
Looking for a gift idea that active kids will love? Quality woven soccer shorts make great presents for birthdays, holidays and end-of-season.
Since kids go through shorts quickly, replenishing their supply makes for useful gifts. Opt for their favorite brands, colors and styles – personalized if possible.
Holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah and Eid al-Fitr are perfect times to gift new uniforms. This ensures they’re ready for spring seasons.
Birthdays spread throughout the year are another opportunity. Keep tags on sizes to exchange if needed after gifting.
Team shorts also work for coaches and parents – get the whole club matching! Or try other accessory gifts like socks, bags, headbands, etc.
Wrap up a few pairs at once for an exciting reveal. Or surprise with one special custom or name-brand pair they’ve wanted.
Pair shorts with complementary gear like shin guards, water bottles or headbands for a ready-to-play gift set.
For coaches, gift personalized whistles, visors, hoodies along with shorts to outfit their ensemble.
Presenting shorts in gift bags or with tissue paper and ribbon makes even basic gifts feel special and festive.
Soccer kids are always thrilled to tear open gifts revealing fresh uniforms for the new season. Make them smile on any occasion!
Make a Statement with Bold Colors and Patterns
While soccer shorts traditionally come in basic colors like black, white or navy, today’s styles allow kids to make a bold statement on the field. Here’s how to rock colorful or patterned shorts:
Look for bright shades like neon yellow, electric lime or crimson that pop against the grass. Vivid colors help kids stand out from the pack.
Fun prints like florals, camo, zigzags or tie-dye offer personality. Just be sure busy patterns don’t clash with the jerseys too much.
Two-tone colorblock shorts provide visual interest. Opt for contrasting color combos like navy and hot pink or purple and black.
Metallic shorts in shades like silver, gold and rose gold add flair, as do shiny foil prints. Just save ultra-flashy looks for practice.
Look for shorts with colored piping or striping for a bold accent against otherwise plain shorts. Contrast stitching works too.
Let goalies get flashy! Since they wear different kits, boldly colored and patterned shorts show off their personality.
Buy uniforms in both neutral and statement colors to switch up looks. Kids can show their style while staying team-coordinated.
Emphasize your club colors. Use hot pink shorts to complement black and white kits for a fierce look.
Bold and colorful shorts are on trend while boosting morale and looking cool. Let kids show their style with fun uniforms!
Opt for Comfort with an Elastic Waistband
While some woven shorts feature a flat waistband, most brands design youth soccer shorts with a comfortable elastic waistband. Here’s why it’s ideal for kids:
Stretchy elastic provides a close, stay-put fit without restricting movement or digging in. It flexes freely as kids run and kick.
An elastic waist accommodates growth spurts and fluctuations in weight without needing to size up frequently. The shorts adapt.
Elastic covered with the short fabric looks clean while remaining comfortable. Some also have an inner drawcord for adjustable fit.
It prevents shorts from sliding down during play. Elastic ensures shorts stay up and in position without needing consistent readjusting.
The softness and give of elastic makes it comfortable against bare skin. Less risk of irritation or scratches versus stiff waistbands.
No belt or buttons to fuss with. Elastic pull-on waists allow easy on and off. Great when kids need potty breaks!
Spandex or lycra woven into the elastic provides stretch and flexibility. This supports dynamic movement during play.
Designed not to pinch or bind. Smooth, ribbed or flat elastic optimizes comfort and bounce-back fit.
Elastic waists work well layered over leggings and base layers in cooler weather too.
For the best comfort and unrestricted play, look for woven soccer shorts with a partial or full elastic waistband.
Focus on Performance and Durability
When shopping for youth soccer shorts, two key factors to focus on are performance and durability. Here’s what to look for:
Performance is about unrestricted mobility and comfort. Seek shorts made with lightweight, breathable fabrics that wick moisture and allow free kicking.
The shorts shouldn’t limit range of motion or chafe. Opt for an athletic cut and stretch materials so kids can dash and play.
Durability equals shorts that hold up to summer after summer of practices and games without tearing, stretching out or fading.
Look for abrasion-resistant woven polyester or nylon shorts made to handle activity. Reinforced seams add longevity.
Washing, drying and regular wear shouldn’t affect the fit or function. Well-constructed shorts will outlast flimsier models.
Pay close attention to reviews when choosing brands and styles. Look for feedback on real-world performance and durability.
Quality athletic brands engineer their youth shorts for sport-specific movement. This shows in small details like gussets and stretch panels.
The right pair of shorts empowers – not hinders – your kid’s play. Don’t compromise on performance and durability.
Shop end-of-season sales to get the previous year’s tried-and-true styles at a discount. New doesn’t always mean better.
With the top brands, you pay for expertise in fabrication and construction. This quality ensures lasting performance season after season.