Soccer goalie equipment list. Essential Soccer Goalkeeper Equipment: A Comprehensive Guide

What equipment do soccer goalkeepers need to buy. Which goalkeeper gear is essential and which is optional. How to choose the right goalkeeper gloves, boots, and protective gear.

Goalkeeper Gloves: The Most Crucial Piece of Equipment

Goalkeeper gloves are undoubtedly the most important item in a goalkeeper’s arsenal. They provide essential grip, protection, and confidence when handling the ball. But what features should you look for in a quality pair of goalkeeper gloves?

• Palm material: Look for high-quality latex for optimal grip
• Cut: Negative cut, roll finger, or flat palm depending on preference
• Backhand: Padded for protection and punching
• Wrist closure: Secure strap for a snug fit
• Finger protection: Optional spines to prevent hyperextension

Investing in a reliable pair of gloves like the Rectrix 1.0 can significantly improve your performance. These gloves offer excellent grip, comfort, and durability at a reasonable price point, making them suitable for both amateur and club-level goalkeepers.

Goalkeeper Footwear: Choosing the Right Boots

While there aren’t many goalkeeper-specific boots on the market, selecting the right footwear is crucial for optimal performance. How do you choose the best boots for goalkeeping?

• Comfort: Look for boots that feel light and comfortable
• Quality: Opt for reputable brands known for durability
• Stud configuration: Match the studs to your playing surface

The type of studs on your boots can significantly impact your performance and safety. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of football boots:

1. Firm ground (FG): Ideal for dry to slightly wet natural grass pitches
2. Soft ground (SG): Designed for wet, muddy conditions
3. Artificial ground (AG): Best for 3G and 4G artificial pitches
4. Astro Turf: Suitable for older-style artificial surfaces
5. Indoor: For hard, dry surfaces like sports halls

Having the right boots for your playing conditions can prevent slips and injuries, allowing you to perform at your best.

Protective Gear: Safeguarding Against Impacts

Goalkeeping involves diving, sliding, and colliding with both the ground and other players. How can goalkeepers protect themselves from injuries?

Padded shorts or trousers are essential for protecting your hips and thighs from cuts, grazes, and burns when diving on hard or artificial surfaces. Look for gear with reinforced padding in key areas like the hips, tailbone, and knees.

Some goalkeepers also opt for additional protective equipment such as:

• Knee pads: For extra protection when diving on hard surfaces
• Elbow pads: To cushion impacts when landing
• Compression shirts with padded ribs: For protection against collisions

While not all of these items are essential, they can provide peace of mind and reduce the risk of injuries, especially for goalkeepers playing on challenging surfaces.

Goalkeeper Jerseys: Comfort and Visibility

A goalkeeper’s jersey serves multiple purposes beyond just team identification. What factors should you consider when choosing a goalkeeper jersey?

• Visibility: Bright colors to stand out from teammates and opponents
• Comfort: Breathable materials for temperature regulation
• Padding: Optional elbow padding for protection
• Fit: Loose enough for movement but not baggy

Many goalkeepers prefer long-sleeved jerseys for additional protection against abrasions when diving. However, short-sleeved options are also available for warmer conditions or personal preference.

Optional Goalkeeper Equipment: Enhancing Performance

Beyond the essential gear, there are several optional items that goalkeepers may find beneficial. How can these additional pieces of equipment improve a goalkeeper’s game?

Goalkeeper Glove Accessories

• Glove wash: Prolongs the life and grip of your gloves
• Glove bag: Protects gloves during transport
• Grip enhancers: Temporary solutions for wet conditions

Training Aids

• Reaction balls: Improve reflexes and hand-eye coordination
• Agility ladders: Enhance footwork and quickness
• Portable goals: For individual practice sessions

Recovery and Maintenance

• Foam rollers: Aid in muscle recovery after training
• Resistance bands: Strengthen specific muscle groups
• First aid kit: For minor injuries and maintenance

While these items aren’t necessary for basic goalkeeping, they can help dedicated goalkeepers refine their skills and maintain peak performance.

Goalkeeping on a Budget: Prioritizing Essential Equipment

For goalkeepers on a tight budget, it’s crucial to prioritize the most important pieces of equipment. How can you get the best value for your money when building your goalkeeper kit?

1. Invest in quality gloves: This is the one area where you shouldn’t compromise
2. Choose versatile boots: Opt for firm ground boots that can handle various conditions
3. Prioritize protection: At minimum, get padded shorts or trousers
4. Look for deals: Watch for sales or consider slightly older models of equipment
5. Maintain your gear: Proper care can extend the life of your equipment

Remember, expensive gear doesn’t automatically make you a better goalkeeper. Focus on developing your skills and techniques, and upgrade your equipment gradually as you progress.

Seasonal Considerations for Goalkeeper Equipment

The changing seasons can significantly impact a goalkeeper’s equipment needs. How should goalkeepers adapt their gear for different weather conditions?

Summer Goalkeeping

• Lightweight, breathable jerseys
• Firm ground boots for dry pitches
• Gloves with ventilation features
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Winter Goalkeeping

• Thermal base layers
• Soft ground boots for muddy conditions
• Gloves with additional grip for wet balls
• Neck warmer or snood

Adapting your equipment to the season ensures comfort and optimal performance regardless of the weather conditions.

The Psychology of Goalkeeper Equipment

Beyond its practical functions, goalkeeper equipment can also play a psychological role in performance. How does a goalkeeper’s gear impact their mental game?

• Confidence: Well-fitting, quality equipment can boost self-assurance
• Ritual: The process of putting on gear can help focus the mind
• Intimidation: Distinctive gear can create a commanding presence
• Comfort: Familiar equipment allows goalkeepers to focus on performance

While the psychological impact of equipment shouldn’t be overstated, feeling comfortable and confident in your gear can contribute to a positive mindset on the pitch.

In conclusion, building a comprehensive goalkeeper kit involves balancing essential items with optional equipment that can enhance specific aspects of your game. By investing wisely in quality gear and maintaining it properly, goalkeepers can create a solid foundation for improving their skills and performance.

Remember, the most important asset for any goalkeeper is their skill and dedication. Equipment can support your performance, but it’s your training, technique, and mental strength that will ultimately determine your success between the posts.

As you continue to develop as a goalkeeper, regularly reassess your equipment needs. What worked for you as a beginner may need to be upgraded as you advance. Stay informed about new technologies and innovations in goalkeeper gear, but always prioritize what works best for your individual style and needs.

Goalkeeping is a unique and challenging position that requires specialized equipment. By understanding the essential gear needed and the optional items available, you can create a personalized kit that supports your performance and helps you reach your full potential as a goalkeeper.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your game to the next level, investing in the right goalkeeper equipment is a crucial step in your journey. With the right gear and a commitment to continuous improvement, you’ll be well-equipped to face any challenge that comes your way on the soccer field.

What Equipment Do Goalkeepers Need To Buy? — Full List – Top Goalkeeping

What goalkeeper equipment do you really need to buy? What equipment is optional?

Some goalkeeping equipment is essential — but there’s also a whole range of extras you may also be interested in. So I’ve divided the following goalkeeper equipment list into two sections:

1. Essential goalkeeper equipment. The bare bones. Stick with these to save yourself money.
2. Optional goalkeeper equipment. Invest if you’re looking to improve specific areas of your game.

This post should save you both time and money.

Essential Goalkeeper Equipment

1. Goalkeeper Gloves

Gloves are, by far, the most important item of goalkeeping equipment. Investing in decent goalkeeper gloves is a necessity.

So what should you look for in a pair of GK gloves?

For goalkeepers starting out, right up to the higher levels, I recommend the Rectrix 1. 0 Goalkeeper Gloves. They provide maximum comfort, grip, flexibility — and value for money. They’re perfect for both amateurs and club goalkeepers looking to improve their game.

All orders come with free delivery (next day for Amazon Prime members), and can be purchased directly from Amazon or RectrixSport.com.

Rectrix GK Gloves are just £29.97 from Amazon, and come in White or Black. Free delivery.

Buy On Amazon »

Full Rectrix Review »

SPONSORSHIP: Rectrix are currently running a "buy 2 pairs, get a third FREE" sponsorship promotion on gloves purchased through Amazon. Terms & conditions apply. Full details are published on the Rectrix Sponsorships page.

Rectrix 1.0 Glove Specification

• Negative cut (stitched on the inside)
• Contact latex palms & Dumbo Foam backhand
• Quick-use Latex strap (Velcro)
• Includes additional slits for enhanced hand and finger flexibility
• Complimentary zip case
• Designed alongside academy keepers
• Superior quality & value to leading sports brands
• Comes in White or Black

Rectrix 1. 0 gloves are produced from premium, long-lasting materials.
Buy the complete set for just £29.97 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

Full Rectrix Review »

Check out my detailed goalkeeper glove top 10 list for 2020.

Whatever gloves you decide to buy, bare in mind that there’s no substitute for good technique. Gloves will improve your grip — but won’t ‘supercharge’ your overall skill level!

2. Football Boots

There aren’t too many specialist goalkeeper football boots. The ones advertised online as ‘GK boots’ tend to just be generic football boots marketed to keepers, or worn by pros. So your choice of boots is entirely down to preference.

I personally prefer the quality, feel, and lifespan of Nike and Adidas boots over Puma and other brands I’ve worn. I always aim for boots which feel light when I try them on — because when you traipse through mud on a match day you could do without the additional weight.

Like classic-looking boots?
The Nike Premier 2. 0’s (FG) are great value, light, and comfortable.
Just £48.50 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

If you have a higher budget (£60+), or prefer more snazzy designs, check out the Nike Vapor range.
These are one of my favourites pairs.

The Importance of Studs

When it comes to football boots, it’s vitally important for keepers to wear the correct studs for the conditions they’re playing on.

We’ve all seen it when footballers (including pros) slip multiple times during a game. Just imagine the consequences of the goalkeeper continually losing their footing.

The main types of football boots are as follows:

• Firm ground (FG): by far the most popular type. Designed to give maximum grip and comfort on natural grass pitches in dry to slightly wet conditions (e.g. summer, frozen pitches in the winter).
• Soft ground (SG): designed for wet, rainy match-days. There are two main variations of this type — the traditional 6-stud configuration (e. g. Puma King), or the modern mixed sole (e.g. Nike Mercurial).
• Artificial ground (AG): designed for increasingly popular 3G and 4G artificial pitches. They’re a safer and more comfortable option than FG or Astro Turf.
• Astro Turf: designed for sand or water based surfaces (old style artificial pitches).
• Indoor: for hard-floor dry surfaces (e.g. sports halls). They include soles made up of a non-marking rubber. Typically used in small sided games — such as 5-a-side or futsal.

Depending on what conditions you train/play on, you’ll most likely need 1-2 types of boots. It’s best not to cut corners on your footwear; it’s dangerous to wear boots incompatible with the surface (e.g. using soft ground studs on an artificial pitch).

Check out the video I’ve featured on my Goalkeeper Mud Guide to fully appreciate the importance of using the right studs..

3. Padded Shorts or Trousers

Diving onto hard ground or artificial surfaces can cut, graze — even burn — your exposed skin. Goalkeeper trousers and shorts are designed to protect you from high-impact landings, in the toughest of playing conditions — from grass to astro turf, to 3g pitches.

I highly recommend investing in some padded trousers and/or shorts. Personally I’d play matches in shorts, as rain and mud adds weight to your clothing and hinders movement. Save the trousers for training.

Adidas Men’s Tierro Goalkeeping Trousers are my favourite.
At £17-24 with free delivery they’re great value.

Buy On Amazon »

Club branded goalkeeping shorts can be a bit flimsy.
But for less than £20 with free delivery, Uhlsport provide a good quality, padded pair.

Buy On Amazon »

You can also buy goalkeeper shorts and trousers from goalkeeping outlets such as Just-Keepers.com. We’ll be looking to stock our own Rectrix padded trousers in the near future, too.

4. Padded Jersey

The majority of professional goalkeepers wear a long-sleeved padded jersey to offer protection to their arms, elbows, and sometimes shoulders. If it’s brightly coloured, it also makes it easier for your team mates to see when you’re coming (e.g. to claim a high ball).

When playing on dry or hard surfaces, you have to feel confident that when you hit the ground you’ll be protected by your clothing. Otherwise, instinctively, you may try to protect your body before making the save.

If your team doesn’t provide a jersey with adequate protection — invest in one yourself.

Unfortunately many padded tops are hideous. This one from Puma is smart, though.
Less than £30 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

5. Water Bottle

A sports water bottle has made my list of essential goalkeeper equipment for a few reasons:

• On a bone-dry hot day you may need some moistness on your glove palms to improve the grip of the latex. I prefer to have my gloves very slightly damp to touch.
• In murky conditions you may need to rise off some thick excess mud from your gloves or boots.
• You might get thirsty during a game!

I must admit, I’ve played in some awful conditions. Keeping a sports water bottle by the post was a good habit to get into.

Sports water bottles are surprisingly expensive (and prone to leaking!).
Here’s one that’s good quality for less than £5.

Buy On Amazon »

6. Glove Towel

Glove towels help keepers maintain grip on their gloves throughout the game. It makes it onto my list of essential goalkeeping equipment because there’s really no good reason not to have one. In fact, any soft lint-free towel will suffice — there’s nothing particularly unique about a glove towel.

The idea is that in extremely wet, muddy conditions you can wipe your gloves clean whenever you have a spare moment. I recommend hanging it in the side netting for quick access.

After all, the last thing you want is for the ball to feel like a bar of soap whenever you try to catch a shot at goal, or a cross played into the box.

While you don’t need a specialist branded towel, you can pick up on Amazon for just over £17.

Buy On Amazon »

An alternative product for goalkeepers in the USA. $18.99 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

7. Socks & Shin Pads

Football socks are a necessary item of goalkeeper equipment; regular sports socks won’t protect your feet from blisters.

It’s also crucial, and mandatory, that you wear shin pads. They’re especially important for goalkeepers who dive at the feet of attackers (and therefore get kicked and studded on a regular basis).

Most popular brands of socks and shin pads will do fine. I prefer to use shin pads with built-in ankle protectors. With so many crunching 1v1’s, keepers benefit from having that extra layer.

I’ve worn Nike Charge 2.0 shin pads for three years.
They’re less than £15 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

Adidas provide football socks for all sizes.
You can pick most popular colours up for less than £5.

Buy On Amazon »

8. Waterproof Jacket

The final piece of ‘essential’ goalkeeper equipment to make my list is a waterproof training jacket. Wearing one ensures that you’ll (at least) start games feeling a warm and fresh — rather than slippery, wet, and heavy.

You don’t have to spend a fortune on a goalkeeper training jacket. You can pick up one for £15+ at specialist online stores.

I recommend the Nike Park18 Rain Jacket for keeping warm and dry before games.
Prices start at just £18 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

Optional Goalkeeper Equipment

1. Agility Ladder

Use agility ladders for footwork and fitness training in the garden, over the park — even indoors if you have enough space. It’s practically an essential item of goalkeeper equipment.

Your GK coach will almost certainly provide agility ladders in training. They’re a great low investment for any goalkeeper.

Agility ladder + 4 stakes (which keep it secured to the ground), 10 cones, and carry bag.
The full set is just £15.99 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

2. Cones

To setup simple drills yourself, purchase a set of cones (or the above agility ladder set, which includes cones).

Use cones to practice footwork, fitness and to create match-like deflections. Take a look at my post How Can Goalkeepers Improve Their Reflexes? to see how cones are used in training.

A set of 50 football cones, complete with a carrying mask, is only £12.97 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

An alternative product for goalkeepers in the USA. $19.95 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

3. Knee Pads

If you’re keen to wear shorts (recommended for real games), then you leave your knees exposed to hard ground.

Luckily there’s some light-weight & unobtrusive knee pads designed for all sports. You might decide to wear them in training, or if your knees are particularly sensitive and require some extra protection.

Elastic Junior knee protectors can be purchased for £11.99 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

Alternatively, Bodyprox makes another (bulkier) product. £12.99 on Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

4. Finger Tape

Many goalkeepers use finger tape to give them a little extra strength and protection.

I’ve never personally felt the need for it — but then again I played with fingersave gloves for long spells. Finger tape offers an equivalent level of protection without loss of hand flexibility.

Heletic sports tape is made of 100% cotton fabric, is waterproof, breathable and completely latex-free.
£16.98 from Amazon (Europe)

Buy On Amazon (EU) »

An alternative, similar product for goalkeepers in the USA:

Buy On Amazon (US) »

5.

Protein

This one’s for the older guys.

Do you feel the need to bulk up a little? Are you lacking the strength needed as a keeper?

I recall the shock of going from U18 into men’s football. The game was far more physical. I went from being one of the most physically developed, robust players on the pitch to taking heavy knocks in almost every fixture. I had the height and physique — but lacked the natural strength that comes with age. Protein intake, accompanied by the right gym workouts, certainly would’ve helped.

TheProteinWorks is one of Europe’s fastest growing Sports Nutrition Brands.
All fitness requirements are catered for by their extensive, innovative product range.

Also eligible in Non-UK Countries:

Germany »
Ireland »
France »

MyProtein provides a range of over 2,500 premium quality supplements.
Everything is produced in-house, guaranteeing the highest possible quality.

Visit MyProtein »

6.

Wrist, Ankle, & Elbow Supports

Supports are used to assist with recovery from moderate ligament and tendon injuries.

If you’re fresh back from an injury then joint supports will provide a bit of additional stability, and help make you feel more confident in training and/or games.

A thin wrist & thumb support can fit underneath your gloves if you go up a size or two.
Only £9.99 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

7. Baseball Cap

Every keeper has experienced the sunlight shining in their eyes. And it’s a nightmare to play with.

Outfield players can afford to misjudge the high ball when they’re blinded by the sun. But when a Keeper experiences the same issue, the consequences are fatal. You can’t afford to let the weather conditions get the better of your performance.

Despite a baseball cap looking slightly unorthodox out on the football pitch, it can be a life-saver.

Uhlsport offer a baseball cap with an easy-to-use velcro strap.
Only £8.95 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

8. Glove Wash

Glove Wash is another item that came close to making my list of essential goalkeeper equipment.

Without glove wash, your goalkeeper gloves will dry out, offer less grip and become more prone to tearing. Specialist glove wash fluids are designed to maintain the performance of your gloves and improve their lifespan.

Precision’s glove wash works wonders. It restores the grip of goalkeeper gloves with ease.
£10.79 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon »

Also check out my Goalkeeper Glove Care Guide for more information on prolonging the life of your gloves.

9. GPS Tracker Vest & App

If you’re keen to work on your fitness, nutrition, and in-game positioning, then you could invest in the latest innovation in football training: GPS tracking vests.

The Playr GPS vest is designed to analyse and improve your game. It provides advice for preparation, performance and recovery with expertise on training and nutrition from Premier League coaches.  

Using the app you’re able to analyse speed, sprint, distance, and positioning via heatmaps, to gain a full understanding of your game. Compare your numbers against friends and professional players to see how you match up.

The Playr GPS vest is increasingly being used by players and coaches.
It holds 5* reviews on Amazon, and costs £159.99.

Buy On Amazon »

10. Rebound Net

Rebound nets are used as a training aid for volleys, first touches, headers and — most importantly — goalkeeping saves.

You can add a challenging and unpredictable element to your training drills, as demonstrated in my Goalkeeper Reactions & Reflexes post. A great piece of equipment, if you have the space.

The RapidFire rebounder provies excellent bounce, and is made of a sturdy yet manoeuvrable fold-away frame.
It’s £89.99 from Amazon.

Buy On Amazon (UK) »

Buy On Amazon (US) »

11. Ball Launcher

Launchers provide excellent (and consistent) service to goalkeepers practicing high balls, low fast balls, penalties, shots on goal, backpasses and several other drills.

The patented Powapass machine is remote controlled, portable and rechargeable. It features adjustable angles and speeds, a four hour battery life, and a high power motor capable of shooting up to 20m (or a total passing zone of up to 45m). It comes with 5x balls.

Adult supervision required for use by under 16’s. It’s £950 on Amazon (European countries only).

Buy On Amazon »

12. Training Goals

If you want to train at home in the garden or over a local park, then you might be interested in purchasing your own goal.

There are many excellent training goals on the market to suit all requirements and budgets. For the majority of Keepers, a mid-sized goal would offer the optimal balance of size, portability and value for money.

I recommend the Samba range of mid-size goals which start at just £69.95.

Buy On Amazon »

Also see: Review of the Best Training Goalposts.

I’ll continue to add to this list of goalkeeper equipment as new items hit the market.

Related

The Soccer Goalkeeper Checklist | PRO TIPS by DICK’S Sporting Goods

Your opponent is charging down the field and putting your team’s defenders on their heels. One of their forwards takes control of the ball in open space and sends a cross to a teammate waiting in front of the net. As a goalkeeper, this is your time to shine.

Now it is just you and them. You are the last line of defense. Blink and you might miss your opportunity. Will you be ready to make that game-deciding save?

Few experiences in sports are as intense as playing goalkeeper in soccer. In order to work toward making all the big saves, you’ll want to come to the pitch ready with all the right gear.

This starts with what you wear.

Goalkeepers wear a jersey specifically designed for their position, which needs to be a different color than everyone else on the field. Since the goalkeeper is the only player who can touch the ball with their hands, referees need to be able to distinguish them from the rest of the players. When choosing a jersey color, many goalkeepers will go with a brighter color as they feel it attracts an opponent’s eyes when they are aiming their shot, but there are a variety of colors and designs to match your own personal style.

Goalkeepers will stop at nothing to make a save, and that includes diving for the ball. In order to help prevent scraping up your arms and legs, you can choose to wear long-sleeve goalie jerseys or goalie pants.

Another important part of the goalkeeper ensemble is sliding shorts. Designed to fit under your uniform, they feature a compression fit and padding in areas like the hips, thighs and knees for extra protection. There are also some compression undershirts that have padding for the upper body and moisture-wicking properties.

Goalkeeper gloves may be the most important piece of equipment for a goalie. When you go for a save or to grab a loose ball, gloves will help serve as protection and can improve your grip on the ball as well. Keeping your gloves in a specifically designed glove bag can help them stay in game-ready shape all season.

Keep a hand towel in your bag to take with you on the field. Keep it with your water bottle as it can help dry or clean your gloves during play. You can also use it to wipe the sweat off your face when the game gets heated.

Always keep safety in mind when protecting your team’s goal. Like other players on the field, goalkeepers need to wear shin guards. It’s important to remember that some leagues require players to use the same color shin guard tape as their socks, so be sure to check with your coach or league officials.

Mouthguards are a must-have safety accessory to wear on the pitch. Knee guards, arm guards and leg guards are all optional if you’re looking for additional safety gear. There are even goalkeeper helmets made of latex and foam that have started to gain popularity.

With all of this gear in your arsenal, a goalkeeper bag can definitely come in handy. Not only can a bag help keep you organized, it can also help you transport your equipment to and from the field more easily. Always keep sunscreen and bug spray in your bag as well.

And finally, don’t forget your water bottle. You not only want to stay hydrated during practice and games but you can also pour some water on your goalie gloves to help increase their grip.

Now that you know what you need to best defend your team’s goal, you’re ready to take on the season. Good luck!

*Click to enlarge and print

Gear to Improve Goalkeeping Skills – Portable Sports Coach

How many times have you watched the heroics of a goalkeeper?

Whether it was Peter Schmeichel, Iker Casillas, Manuel Neuer, David de Gea or any other goalkeeper – one thing’s for certain, there are very few things more exciting to watch than a goalkeeper on top of their game.

But how do they get to this point? How do they develop the reflexes of cat, the focus of a monk and the skills needed to save 3 shots on goal in as many seconds?

By training, practicing and showing dedication to their craft.

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Soccer Goalkeeper Equipment List

On a basic level, there are few key areas goalkeepers need to work on. They are; handling, footwork, positioning, saves (catching, deflecting, parrying) and their physical and psychological conditioning.

Now, a lot of these areas can be improved with a minimal amount of equipment involved….a pair of decent gloves and the right clothing will suffice.

There are a few additional pieces of equipment however, that are not only recommended to improve a goalkeepers all round game but extremely fun to use as well.

First, let’s have a look at some of the basics…

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Clothing & Protection

Jersey: You used to have to buy a whole range of tops, fit them over one another and jump out onto the pitch – failing that you could’ve worn oversized top handed down from your Dad. These days you’re pretty much spoilt for choice. Goalie jerseys now tend to be made from more durable, padded material to give the body extra protection – while not adding too much weight.

Pants: Again, the same sort design and materials are used for pants. This time protecting the knees and hips.

Cleats: Like any soccer player you’re also going to need a pair of decent, comfortable and durable pair of soccer cleats. 

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Gloves

While they are a simple piece of equipment – When looking for a pair of goalie gloves it’s important to not over-simplify what a pair of goalie gloves are and how they benefit the whole team let alone the goalkeeper.

To really understand and know what you’re buying it helps to have a little knowledge on the anatomy of the glove;

• Backhand: The backhand part of the glove helps support the wrists and is especially useful when it comes to punching the ball.
• Palm: The palm of the glove is made primarily so a keeper can safely catch the ball. In order to do this manufacturers use a variety of different materials and uniquely designed textures and dimples that determine the quality of the grip.
• Closure: The opening that you place your hand into to get your gloves on and the bit that goes round your wrists is called the closure. Most gloves come with Velcro strap that wraps around the wrist to keep the gloves in position and stop them coming loose. You’ll want to look for a pair of gloves that has a closure that doesn’t restrict the moment of your wrist while also allowing adequate air in to keep your hands cool
• Fingers: Although you’d be hard pressed to catch a ball without the other parts of your hand – the fingers are one of the most important parts to focus on. When looking for a pair of gloves ensure that;
  • a) The gloves fit snug enough around each of your fingers
  • b) Your fingers are protected from bending backwards

To learn the basics of being a goalkeeper, check out this article.  

The overall price of any gloves you see on the market is usually determined by the how well the backhand is made and the quality of the grip in the palm.

Here are a few gloves to check out if you’re interested;

adidas Fingersace Junior Goalie Gloves

Here’s a pair of youth specific gloves from adidas. You’ve got a choice of 9 color designs with sizes 3 right through to 8 available. They come complete with a good wrist and finger support and can hold their grip in all-weather condition.

Sale

Renegade GK Removable Pro Fingersave Gloves

Here’s a popular pair from Renegade GK. They come in both adult and youth sizes and you’ve got the choice of 3 different cuts; flat cut, negative cut and roll cut. They’re also very reasonably priced and sizes range from 5-11.

Sportout Youth & Adult Goalkeeper Gloves

If you’re you looking for a slightly cheaper pair of goalie gloves then these Sportout pair might be a better option. They come in 2 designs; black and white / red and white and have most youth and adults covered with sizes ranging from 5-10

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Soccer Goalie Training Equipment

With the basics covered, there are a few other pieces of equipment that are regularly used by goalkeepers to help them not only improve as individuals but ultimately help their team win more points.

Cones / Markers: These are usually found in most coaches ‘lockers’. They’re great for providing a visual cue to; change direction, start and end points for conditioning work, can be used as smaller targets for accuracy drills and arte super lightweight and easy to pick up and move. Cones and markers come in a slightly different shapes but the most common types you’ll find are the following;

Mini Traffic Cones (Coast Athletic Brands Training Cones)

Although you can get bigger cones, these are usually the types of ‘traffic’ cones that most coaches opt for. The biggest downside to these cones is that they’re pretty easy to knock over – that said however, this can actually be positive thing depending on the types of drills you’re doing. These types of cones might be better for younger players as they are easily seen from a distance.

Disc Cones (Perfect Sports Pro Disc Cones: 50 pk)

These types of cones are by far the most popular types of cones. They essentially can’t fall over as they sit so close to the surface of the ground. They also tend be super durable. I’ve had these types of cones for 10+ years with no issues what-so-ever. I will say however, these aren’t the best types of markers to be used indoors.

Spot Markers (Champion Sports Spot Markers)

Spot markers offer a whole different way of training. Firstly, if you’re just using them as pitch markers then they work great indoors as they don’t slip and slide away as easily as disc cones for example. Second, these can be used with great affect when developing fundamental movements skills such as jumping and hopping. Again, like the other two types they can also be used as targets but bear in mind that because they are flat (like a pancake) they can be harder to see from a distance.

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Goalie Rebounder: The first time I ever saw a rebounder being used was with two young goalkeepers.   While most of the rebounders on this page here are primarily used for outfield players they can also be used to help develop the fundamentals of any goalkeeper’s game. To start out with however, I’d recommend one of the more handheld rebounders as the portable nature of the rebounder with give you more freedom. Here’s one that’s used across almost all sports that involve some sort of throwing and catching…

Crazy Catch Freestyle

I was absolutely hooked the first time I used this rebounder. Super-lightweight, easy to handle and can be used with most sized balls from a baseball to soccer.The Crazy Catch product range included nets with a ‘sane’ rebound net that returns the ball in predictable way and an ‘insane’ side that return the ball in an unpredictable way. To start without though, I’d recommend just picking up the handheld freestyle net.

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Soccer Goals: While any goalkeeper can certainly improve without the need for a soccer goal at some point you’re going to need some sort of goal to add realism and help develop fundamentals such as positioning.

You could for sure use the goal posts down your local park but they’re not the most portable – in fact, they’re not portable at all. One avenue I’d recommend would be purchasing some sort of portable soccer goal. I’ve gone into more detail here if you’re interested. That said, here’s one that’s durable, really popular and comes in different sizes

QuickPlay Pro Match-Fold Soccer Goal

The QuickPlay Pro comes in 6 sizes; 12×6, 16×7, 18.5×6.5, 6×4, 8×5, 3x2m (Futsal) – which has all age groups and soccer styles covered. Each goal easily folds up and can be moved in and out of the training field quickly. The goal comes complete with a carry bag.

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Conditioning Equipment: Being in the right condition isn’t just something outfield players have to constantly work on. It’s important that goalkeepers are not only physically fit to play the game but also have the necessary reflexes, reactions, power, agility and other necessary soccer specific skills too. Again, a lot of these types of skills can be learned without the need for any equipment, but at some point you’re going to want to progress the challenge, add variety or simply try something new. Here are a few pieces of equipment to help you…

• Agility Ladders
• Agility Ball
• Parachuites
• Reaction balls
• Skipping Ropes
• Sleds
• Sandbags

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Overall, to wrap this up it’s important to remember that you don’t actually need much equipment to develop the skills needed to excel in arguably the most important position on the pitch.

But, as I mentioned above, it does help to have some equipment in your ‘arsenal’ to ensure drills are progressing not only in a developmental way but also in a way that keeps goalkeepers engaged and focused for longer.

It also worth mentioning again, that while most keepers don’t need the same level of physical conditioning that an outfielder may have – staying in top shape will help not only help them develop their all-round game but also help keep them focused and ready for when they need it most.

So with that said – what piece of equipment will your next purchase be?

All the best,

FLASH SALE: Passing & Receving eBook

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15 goalkeeping equipment items you need but probably don’t have.

Here is a checklist of goalkeeping equipment ( apart from the obvious ones ) that all goalkeepers should have.

Goalkeeping hat – Used less these days but important none the less. The use of a goalkeeping hat

with a long visor is important to keep you from having to frown throughout the game. Used primarily when the ball is in the oppositions half.

Thermal undergarment – A dedicated goalkeeper will be practicing and playing in all weathers. It is important that you are able to perform to your best at all times, and if you are freezing cold, this is hard to do.

Storelli also provides a GK specific padded undershirt – You can get 20% off the order by adding “Leon” to the coupon code.

Compression Baselayer leggings – Worn by all my college goalkeepers and also seen when watching pro’s train. These compression leggings provide a good base layer for all conditions to protect muscles and restrict abrasions from the floor surface.

Baseball slider shorts with padding – Essential for any goalkeeper playing on turf or rough ground. These can be used instead of goalkeeping pants or in addition to. The tight fit stops abrasions on the upper leg.

Our partnership with Storelli enables you to get 20% off each purchase with “Leon” in the coupon code – See here for their selection of padded shorts.

Electric tape – Used over socks to keep shin guards in place, and to stop them from slipping down to the foot which then affects kicking.

An alternative is also the body shield leg sleeve by Storelli

Sweet spots – For goalkeepers that struggle to keep laces done up or those that find that the loops of the laces are so big that it could lead to tripping.

Thin sweatshirt – Not only does this long sleeve garment keep you warm during those colder days, the extra layer under the goalkeeping shirt adds bulk to make you feel physically bigger. The extra padding that the sweatshirt provides also helps take the sting out of those harder point-blank shots. Ensure that you can still move freely, however.

Glove Glue – After being skeptical, I have to say that it serves its purpose of revitalizing partially worm gloves. 

Squeezy bottle – reviewed here. Vital for keeping gloves damp and ensuring mouth is moist for communication.

Exercise ball – One of the best pieces of fitness equipment for goalkeepers. Great for core strength and upper body. See a list of 10 ball exercises here. https://www.beachbodyondemand.com/blog/exercise-ball-workouts

Foam roller – I love my foam roller. Great for getting into tight hip-flexors used when kicking and glutes used when diving. Great for stretching out the back and the IT band which every sports player suffers from tightness.

Soccer Pump – Practice as you mean to play. If you are practicing with a flat soccer ball, it does not relate to how you would save in a game and reduces the effectiveness of the practice. Be ready to pump other people’s balls up too.

Muscle roller stick – Small enough to fit in a kit bag. Roll out those tight hamstrings and quads on the go either before, during or after a game or practice to invigorate and stretch out a couple of the biggest muscles in the body

Stretching strap – Every goalkeeper I have coached has tight muscles. This strap is perfect for all sorts of stretches, not just the hamstrings which seems to be the tightest. 

Surgical gloves – A very cheap way to keep hands dry during wet and cold conditions

If you are looking for gloves or a new goalkeeper kit, check out www.L1Goalkeeper.com 

L1 Goalkeeper is the official glove and apparel provider to Goalkeeper HQ

Soccer Equipment List

Soccer is the world’s most watched sport. Two teams of eleven face off on a field that is over 100 yards long and 50 yards wide for ninety minutes of precision passing, endless sprinting, and astonishing goals. From young school children to old-timers reliving their glory days, almost everybody has played or watched soccer at one point in their lives.

While everybody can enjoy soccer and it’s a relatively low-cost game, there’s still a lot that goes into ensuring player safety and comfort. Not only do players need to have a ball and a field, they need to have matching uniforms, the right kinds of shoes and shin protectors, and that’s not even including what’s needed before and after the game

Soccer Equipment

If you’re interested in soccer, but are looking for help because you don’t know what to buy (or how to buy it) in order to play, then you’ve come to the right place! Read below for information on all kinds of soccer equipment, including the right kind of water bottle to buy, what you need to look for in the right shoes, and what in the world an agility ladder is.

Accessories

Soccer accessories are everything that you need to play the game aside from yourself and the other players! From uniforms and practice kits to shin guards, shoes and more, each accessory is an important part of a soccer player’s arsenal. Some accessories are more necessary than others, and they can be very cheap or wildly expensive. Read below for more information on all of the different kinds of soccer accessories!

Agility Ladders

Agility ladders are cloth-and-plastic ladders placed onto the ground, through which players can run and perform drills during practice or before a game. By running over the rungs of the ladder in different patterns, players use various muscles and motions that will help them in games. Agility ladders can help improve footwork, balance, coordination, and speed.

When purchasing a ladder, be sure to find one that is durable and easily stored. If possible, getting one with adjustable rungs will help you create different drills that test different foot movements. Agility ladders tend to run about $20, so while they aren’t the cheapest, they’re still relatively affordable, and are an important part of an athlete’s training room.

Athletic Tape

Athletic tape is a kind of tape made from a polyester and cotton blend that is used for injury rehabilitation and prevention. The tape is wrapped strategically around the injured area, restricting the motion of an injured joint or muscle and providing reinforcement to the healing area. It is best to be taped by a trainer or physician, but because that’s not always possible, make sure you understand how to properly apply the tape to the affected area and consult with a professional before doing so yourself.

Although some brands offer specialty tape such as KT Tape, any plain roll of tape will do. Most online stores offer bulk deals on athletic tape at around dollar a roll, so that is most likely your best bet.

Benches

The soccer bench is where players sit when they aren’t actively playing on the field. They’re placed on one side of the pitch and both teams get their own separate bench. A player on the bench might be used as a substitute for a starter when they get tired, or they might be an injured player cheering on their teammates. The bench is also where most teams congregate when play is stopped to come up with and talk about game plans. If buying a bench, make sure that you get one large enough to fit your whole team. You don’t want to make some of your players stand because there isn’t enough room!

Cages

Cageball is a kind of soccer that can be played when there is only limited space available, like in a city, or when there is too much snow covering the ground to play a full game . The game is played inside of a small cage, with an outer wall rising about 3 feet from the ground and covered with netting or fencing above, which keeps the ball in play at all times.

Buying a soccer cage is a big investment, as they are often quite expensive and can require a lot of maintenance. However, if cageball is something that you are interested in, some facilities offer cages that can be rented out, so check in with your local sports complex to see if they have one.

Captain’s Armband

The captain’s armband is a cloth band that is worn on the arm of a soccer team’s captain. It is used to help distinguish the captain from other players on a team, which is often helpful for referees, who can relay information through team captains, and fans, so they know who is leading the team on the pitch. It is important that the armband is bright and easily visible, so that the captain will stand out even from a far distance.

Armbands are usually made with the team colors on them, to match the player’s uniform. Armbands are easy to come by, and can be bought for around $4 online.Most local sports stores will have similar prices as well.

Clipboard

The clipboard is important for all coaches in any sport. A clipboard can hold important documents and information like rosters, player movements, and scouting reports. Some more expensive clipboards have dry-erase diagrams of the soccer pitch on them, which come in handy when a coach is trying to show a team a certain play. Other clipboards are simple wood and are used only to keep hold of vital pieces of paper. Most clipboards can be bought for very little cash, so it’s well worth it to get one if you can! Keeping everything all together in one place can save you time and stress.

Cones

Soccer cones can be used to define boundaries in games or set defined spaces for drills in practice. Cones are often used by coaches to denote distances and points to which players should run or complete their drills. Traditional cones are taller, and are usually used to mark the edges of things like scrimmage fields, while flat cones are used more often for agility drills.

If you’re looking to buy cones, make sure that they’re easily visible. Dark colored or green cones might not stand out enough once put onto the ground, especially if players are moving quickly and not paying attention!

Field / Pitch

The soccer field (or football pitch) is the field of play. A full-sized field is between 100 and 130 yards long and 50 to 100 yards wide, but each field is allowed to vary in size. While professional teams play in massive stadiums, most people can play in public spaces like parks, which usually have soccer fields already set up with lines drawn on the grass. If there isn’t a pitch nearby, you can always make your own. All you need is a way to measure the field and cones to set up the boundaries!

Goal Net

The soccer goal net is a mesh network of interweaving rope braids that catch the soccer ball when a player scores a goal past the goalkeeper. Nets are made of many different materials, but the most common is braided twine, a tough and thin rope-like material. The net attaches to the goalposts, and can be replaced when it gets old or damaged. Removing and changing the net is much easier than replacing the entire goal, and it’s much cheaper! Nets can be many different colors, and they also come in varying sizes depending on the goal. Make sure that you’re purchasing a net that will fit your particular goal before you buy it.

Goalie Gloves

Goalie gloves are important pieces of technology that save the goalkeeper’s hands from getting hurt every time they block a shot on goal. Different types of gloves are better for different people. For example, a thicker glove will offer more protection, but a more lightweight one will allow for more technique and finger movement, and a glove with stickier palms will help the keeper catch balls and hold onto them more easily.

When buying gloves, it’s important to keep in mind what your specific needs are. For instance, if you need confidence to jump in front of a hard-kicked ball, then maybe thicker gloves with less movement are right from you. Goalie gloves can be expensive, with some pairs selling for over $50, but getting a good pair that fits and feels great is vital to your long-term success. Retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Nike will offer a wide variety of options for any budget. While you can get gloves online, going into a store is recommended because it’s important to try on a pair before you buy, or else you may find yourself having to return an ill-fitting pair!

Goalie Jersey

The soccer goalie jersey is similar to a normal jersey, except that it is a different color than everybody else’s on the field. Goalies wear different colors to distinguish themselves from the other players, which is important because they play by different rules, like being allowed to use their hands.

Since a goalie’s jersey isn’t allowed to match another player’s, the best jerseys are ones with uncommon colors, such as neon green, bright yellow, and blue. Goalies usually have multiple jerseys so that they can switch colors if their jersey conflicts with the opponents’ jerseys.

Indoor Shoes

Indoor shoes are a kind of shoe used by soccer players for play on hard surfaces, such as a gym or blacktop. They are usually low-cut, with the upper part of the shoe ending below the ankle bone. They also have hard, flat bottoms that help cushion and give some traction. Indoor shoes have the advantage of being allowed on any surface, but they are not ideal for grass play because there is not enough traction on the bottom of the shoe to be helpful on the slick surfaces of turf and grass.

There are so many excellent brands out there for soccer footwear, you’ll be able to find one that fits you well. Nike, Adidas, and Puma all offer great options, ranging anywhere from $30 to $150 dollars. It will be best for you to go to a store nearby so that you can get fitted and try on different pairs in-person to find the one that feels the best.

Kits And Uniforms

The soccer uniform, or kit, is a vital part to any team’s identity. A uniform not only helps fans and players alike tell teams apart on the soccer pitch, but can also create a sense of family and community. Uniforms can be iconic for teams, like the easily recognizable blue and white of Manchester City or Brazil’s historic yellow-and-green jersey.

Most teams have two or more uniforms that are worn at different times. The main jersey tends to be worn at “home” games, and an alternate is worn when the team plays “away.” Uniforms give the team a sense of unity, and a good-looking uniform can go a long way towards making a team feel great.

Long Socks

The long sock has been a part of the soccer kit since the early stages of the sport. Soccer socks are so long for two main reasons. The long length helps provide warmth, crucial for the late fall and early spring. The added length also helps secure shin guards or pads, which get held in place by an elastic, tapered portion near the top of the sock. Game socks match the rest of the player’s uniform, but practice socks often don’t, and it can be hard to know what kind to buy.

These days, soccer socks can come with all sorts of fancy technology, like sweat control and DryFit, but you don’t need those things if you don’t want to spend the extra money on them. As long as they’re comfortable, they’re good to go.

Long-Sleeve Shirt

While soccer jerseys are usually short-sleeved, long-sleeve shirts are also options for cold or rainy weather. Having a shirt with long sleeves can be more comfortable than wearing separate compression sleeves when it’s cold out, and many professional teams provide their players with long-sleeve options in addition to the usual jerseys.

Wearing a long-sleeve can also provide performance advantages aside from simply being more comfortable. In cold weather, wearing a long-sleeve will raise your overall body temperature, meaning that less blood has to be sent from your heart to warm your arms and more of it can be put towards your legs and feet, which you’ll be using more when playing soccer!

Mouth Guards

A mouth guard is not a required piece of the soccer kit, but it can be helpful in avoiding lost teeth nonetheless. Not everybody likes to wear mouth guards when playing soccer, but some advocate for their use because of the high cost of dental procedures that could be avoided if you use them. Soccer mouth guards protect not just your teeth and gums from the outside, but they can also protect other people from your teeth! Yes, they can be bulky and make speaking difficult, but they can save you in the long-term from an unplanned dental visit the next time you go up for a header.

Penalty Cards

Penalty cards are small, rectangular plastic cards used by referees to enforce the rules of the game and sometimes serve punishment to a player who has severely broken the rules. The two main penalty cards are yellow and red.

A yellow card indicates a strong warning to a player, and is usually issued if a player has been overly aggressive or has made a series of minor game infractions. Two yellow cards will result in the player getting a red card. The red card is used only when a player has made a serious mistake, like intentionally hurting an opponent. If you get a red card, you’re suspended for the rest of the game and for the following game in the season.

Practice Clothes

Practice clothes are worn by the players during training. Unlike uniforms, these clothes are meant to be worn often, and are much cheaper in price because they don’t need to have any logos or be custom made. In fact, aside from not having soccer socks, you probably already own a full set of practice clothes! Most players practice in shorts and a tee shirt when it’s warm, and a long-sleeve when it’s colder. You can also wear a hat and gloves if it’s really chilly outside. For practice, wear whatever feels best and most comfortable.

Referee Clothing

The soccer referee’s uniform includes shorts and a brightly-colored jersey, along with a whistle, flags, and penalty cards. The referee’s shirt has to be brightly colored and easily recognizable, because the referee plays an essential role during any game. The most common colors are red and yellow, but different leagues have their refs wear different colors.

If you’re refereeing, be sure to consult with your league on what to wear if they don’t provide a jersey for you. Referees also wear long socks, just like the players, and they wear the same footwear as the players because they too need to run across the pitch quickly.

Referee Flags

The referee flag is used by the assistant referees of a match, whose jobs include determining if players are offside or out-of-bounds, if a goal has been scored, who has possession of the ball, or if a foul has occurred. The flag is used to garner the attention of the center referee and is used as an extension of the arm when signalling. Referee flags are brightly colored, usually bright yellow checkered with bright red for easy visibility.

Shin Guards

Because soccer involves kicking around a ball on the ground, your legs can get quite beat up! Shin guards are plastic plates that protect a player’s shins from getting bruised and hurt, and are important for any player to wear. They fit on the front of the lower leg, between the ankle and the knee. Ankle shin guards are best for youth players because of their added ankle protection and easy-to-put-on nature.

Each position has slightly different needs, and should get different guards accordingly. Heftier guards with ankle protection are best for defenders, while light and flexible guards are better suited for forwards, who need to move quickly and change directions at a moment’s notice. Shin guards will tend to run anywhere from $15 at the lower end to $40 for the top-of-the-line adult guards and pads.

Shin Pads

Shin pads are essentially the same thing as shin guards. The only difference is that shin pads do not come with an ankle attachment, and are instead worn on their own inside of the sock. Most adult and experienced players prefer shin pads because they are lighter and provide greater mobility than the ankle shin guard.

A well-fitting shin pad should cover the entire front of the leg, almost from knee to ankle, and should be comfortable and snug.

Snacks

Snacks are a vital part to recovery, and getting the right nutrition after training and games is important to making sure that your body is healing and getting better. A good snack should supply calories and electrolytes to replace what was lost during activity. However, a snack shouldn’t be too big, because that might decrease appetite for the next meal, which is just as important to recovery!

Some good post-soccer snacks include bananas, apples, and oranges. Granola bars and small, easy-to-make sandwiches like peanut butter and jelly are also good options. Be cautious of allergies, especially if you’re sharing snacks, and most of all, choose something that tastes good to you!

Soccer Bags

The soccer bag holds all of the player’s essential equipment and clothing for practice and games. Some teams provide their players with bags complete with the team colors and logos, while other teams have players buy their own.

If you’re looking for a bag, finding the right one can be tricky. If you need one that will hold a lot of gear – like balls, multiple uniforms, cones, or warmups – you might want to go with a bigger duffle bag. On the other hand, if you only need something simple to carry a change of clothes and some food for after practice, a backpack is a good way to go.

The two kinds of bags also differ in price. A backpack will be a bit more expensive at around $50 to $80, whereas a duffel will tend to cost you closer to $35 because it has less pockets and generally doesn’t have as many convenience-related features.

Soccer Balls

The soccer ball might be the most important piece of equipment in the game! After all, you can’t play without a ball. Soccer balls come in a lot of different sizes and styles, with different leagues and age divisions using differently sized balls. The professional-sized ball is known as size 5, and has a 28 inch (68 cm) circumference. It is used in leagues whose players are 12 years of age and older.

A ball is one of the first pieces of equipment you should buy if you want to get into the sport. Make sure you find one that is durable and has an appearance that appeals to you, as you’re the one who’s going to be playing with it! While some special-edition balls are going to cost you upwards of $200, you can get any plain old for less than 20 bucks, so if you don’t care for the fanciest designs, there’s plenty of good options for you.

Soccer Cleats

Soccer cleats are worn when playing on grass fields. They have bladed and cone-shaped studs on the bottom to provide ample traction for the slippery surface of a grass field. There are many different kinds of cleats, but the most common is the firm ground cleat. Soft ground cleats are used when the grass is muddy and sloppy, and they have longer studs for improved movement.

It’s important to know that not all shoes can be used on the same surfaces. For example, most indoor facilities don’t allow players to wear cleats, and instead players must wear special turf shoes. Be sure that you have the right type of shoe for the right surface, and ask your coach or facility if you aren’t sure what kind of shoe to buy.

Just like with indoor shoes, Nike, Adidas, and Puma are considered top-of-the-line for cleats. However, cleats are going to be much more expensive, with a price range of $90 to over $200 for a new pair. If you have a small budget, you can always get a used pair of cleats for way less than a brand-new pair.

Soccer Jerseys

The soccer jersey is perhaps the most recognizable part of an athlete’s uniform. A team’s jersey usually has its primary colors on it, as well as a team logo. Most jerseys have the player’s number on the back, and depending on the team, your name might be on the back as well.

Since you’ll be wearing your jersey any time that you’re on the pitch during a game, make sure that it fits well and is comfortable, allowing a full range of motion.

Soccer Shorts

Soccer shorts are another vital part of the soccer player’s uniform. A player’s shorts will often be a simple primary color that matches the player’s jersey, and will usually have a small logo on the side.

Soccer is a running game, so what you wear on your legs is of critical importance! Make sure that your shorts aren’t too loose or too tight, and make sure that they’re breathable, letting you sweat and feeling light on your body as you sprint towards the ball. Different players prefer different length shorts, so go with whatever makes you feel the best, whether that’s close to the knees or higher towards the hip.

Most soccer shorts can be bought for under $20 at your local sporting goods store or big retailer, but if you want the best and flashiest ones out there they’ll obviously cost a few extra dollars.

Stopwatch

Stopwatches are used by referees in games to keep track of the running game time, and by coaches in practice to structure drills and activities. A stopwatch is incredibly helpful because it can have features that keep track of time better than a traditional wristwatch.

A stopwatch with a lap/split function will allow you to keep track of not only the total time of a game or practice, but also the time of a particular part of practice. Some stopwatches also let you keep a running time of multiple things at once, which can be helpful for coaches having their players run different drills simultaneously.

Studs

Soccer studs are the little bits of rubber or metal that are on the bottom of soccer cleats and shoes to help provide traction. Firm ground cleats (“traditional” cleats) come with slightly shorter and usually permanent studs, while soft ground cleats often have longer, replaceable ones that can be changed out when they become dull or damaged. Detachable studs are usually made of metal and are most often used when the ground is muddy and the added stud length is needed to give the required traction.

You can get studs anywhere that you can buy soft ground cleats. It will be best to get them at the same time as you buy your cleats, so that you’re sure you’re getting ones that will fit in your shoes. They should end up costing you roughly $15 for a pack of replacements.

Training Balls

Training balls are just like any other soccer ball, except that they are smaller and are used mostly for developing skills and footwork. These balls are also called “minis.” The smaller size allows players to learn new skills with ease because the ball is lightweight and will move through the ground and air with less effort than a full-sized ball would.

Turf Shoes

Turf shoes are a kind of soccer shoe that can be used on either grass or turf fields. While they can be used on grass, they will give less traction than cleats, so they are best suited for turf play. Turf shoes have a tough rubber outsole that helps gather traction on turf and grass blades. Instead of having the big studs on the bottom like normal soccer cleats, they have a series of small bumps called “nubs” that are best suited for turf.

Make sure you get fitted before you buy a pair, because they can run up the price tag, and you don’t want to have to buy multiple pairs. Turf shoes are cheaper than cleats, but a bit more expensive than your average indoor shoe, with prices tending to fall near the $60 range.

Warmup Clothes

Warmup clothes are worn before practice or a game over your uniform and help keep your body warm so that you don’t become stiff waiting for play to begin. Warmups can also be worn at half time, when there’s a long break between play.

There are a variety of different kinds of warmups, but most players have a warmup top like a jacket, windbreaker, or sweatshirt and a pair of warmup pants or sweatpants. Comfort and mobility are most important when warming up, so make sure that your warmups fit well and leave you feeling ready to play your hardest. If you don’t want to spend the money for specialized soccer warmups, a jacket can cost between $80 and $100 on its own, you can wear gear that you already own, like a rain jacket or sweatshirt.

Water Bottle

Proper hydration is key for performance. Dehydration can cause cramps, headaches, and fatigue. The best way to make sure you get enough water is by keeping a water bottle close at hand, and drinking from it throughout the day and during breaks at practice and games.

Water bottles come in all sizes, but any simple one will do. 16 and 32 ounce bottles are best because they won’t require as frequent trips to the water fountain and aren’t so big that they’re a hassle to carry around. Depending on quality and brand, water bottles can cost between $5 and $35.

Whistles

In soccer, whistles are usually used by coaches and referees. In practice, a coach will use a whistle to call his players to attention or as a tool during drills and sprints. Referees use their whistles to start and stop play, like at the start and end of each half or as a result of a penalty.

Luckily, whistles don’t tend to be very expensive (you can get them for under ten bucks), so if you’re a coach, it should be easy to get a hold of one. Just be sure that it’s loud enough to be heard over the entire pitch!

Goalie Equipment | Goalie Gear

The goalie is an important player on any soccer team and the right goalie equipment makes all the difference. Goalies block shots, keeping the opposing team from scoring and getting points. It’s a position that comes with its own risks for injury that requires unique protection.

Fully equip and protect yourself with a goalkeeper jersey, shorts, goalie pants, goalie gloves, keeper pads, socks, goalkeeper glove bags and more at Soccer Garage.

Goalkeepers are the only player that can touch the ball with their hands and arms. The hands are used to block shots that are often coming hard and fast. Goalies also use their hands to protect themselves when a hard-kicked ball is coming at them. Because of the risk of injury to the hands, goalkeeper wear special padded gloves.

Use our gloves for a better handle on the soccer ball as you guard your goal. Our selection of gloves includes styles with textured and padded palms for added durability and comfort. We have goalkeeping gloves for men, women and youth players, with kids’ goalkeeper gloves becoming one of our best sellers over the last few years.

In addition to using their hands, goalkeepers also risk injury from diving on the ground and colliding with other players. Padded goalie shorts, pants and jerseys are worn to help keep the player safe. At SoccerGarage.com, we pride ourselves on carrying one of the largest selections of high quality goalkeeping gear anywhere in the world. Our line of goalkeeper gloves includes Reusch, Adidas, Sells, Aviata, Brine, Diadora, Vizari and more. Our best sellers include Reusch gloves, which revolutionized the industry with their Ortho-Tec gloves featuring finger savers that minimize finger injuries and breaks.

The goalkeeper is an important player for any soccer team. Help keep him or her safe while they are protecting the goal today with quality goalie equipment and protection at Soccer Garage.

The Lacrosse Goalie Gear Guide: Everything you need to play goalie

This post was initially published in October 2015 and since then lacrosse companies have released a lot of new pieces of gear that I’ve been able to play with. I updated this post in May 2019 with the latest and greatest items that I recommend to beginner goalies. 

Want to take this goalie gear guide to go? Click here to download my entire lacrosse goalie toolkit including this guide!

This post is a guide which will explain all the lacrosse goalie gear, both mandatory and optional, that is needed to play this amazing position.

I’ll also provide my recommendation for specific pieces of gear that I like.

As goalies we want to be as protected as possible without limiting our movement. So the gear that I prefer typically offers a high level of protection and functionality while still permitting freedom of movement.

Luckily for us, lacrosse goalie gear (and lax gear in general) has made tremendous strides in just the last 10 years. I mean consider this is what lacrosse helmets looked like not too long ago –

With the explosion in popularity of the sport, many lacrosse companies have invested heavily in research and development to create new lacrosse gear that’s lighter while also safer than its predecessors.

There are lots of great options for every single piece of equipment. Just because I recommend and like a specific helmet, doesn’t mean that there are not others that work great. Same with chest protectors, sticks, gloves, etc.

If you’re a brand new lacrosse goalie or a parent wondering what gear your child will need to play goalie, this post will help you understand all of the lacrosse goalie equipment that is needed to play in the cage.

Here’s a table of contents of the lacrosse goalie gear in case you want to skip directly to that part of the page:

Mandatory Equipment

Optional Equipment

• LexiShield
• Arm Pads (mandatory at the youth level, U15)
• Shin Guards (mandatory for women, high school and below)
• Lacrosse Goalie Pants (mandatory for women, high school and below)
• Knee Pads
• Protective Shirts and Sleeves

Additional Equipment

• Lacrosse Bags
• Sizing Notes

Without further ado, here’s my recommended lacrosse goalie gear:

MANDATORY LACROSSE GOALIE GEAR

Today’s helmets are extremely light and yet offer more protection and style then helmets of the past. Goalies are going to get hit in the head with the ball so it’s extremely important to use a newer style helmet to avoid concussions.

There is no difference between a goalie helmet and the helmets used by attackman, defenseman, and middies. The only slight difference is we add a throat guard to the goalie helmet.

There is also no difference between the helmets used by male and female goalies. Just ensure you always get the right size.

If you play for a school team, they may provide the helmet. However if you’re playing for a club or traveling team you’re often on your own.

The helmet I recommend: Cascade R. It’s a pretty sweet looking helmet to boot. I love the matte version.

For more info on this helmet, checkout the full Cascade R helmet review that I wrote.

Cascade offers a newer version called the Cascade S and an even newer version called the Cascade XRS. Those are also a great options but will cost you about a $100 more new. But if you want the best in style and performance, here it is:

The throat guard attaches to your helmet via screws and protects your throat from shots.

When you have this device on always be sure to check that it fully covers your throat area as getting it in this region could cause serious injury.

I think the clear version looks the coolest but Cascade also makes it in black and silver.

In fact with certain helmet colors, the black Cascade throat protector can look pretty saucy too.

The throat guard I recommend: Cascade Goalie Throat Guard.

There 2 ways to attach the throat guard to the helmet. By drilling a holes on either side of the helmet and using the screws:

Or attach with string or zip ties:

For more info check out the post on all the lacrosse goalie throat guard options.

Lacrosse Goalie Stick

Your lacrosse goalie stick, aka your wand, aka your save maker, aka the most important piece of equipment when it comes to you ability to make saves.

I’ll split the stick up into 3 different areas – the head, the mesh, and the shaft. Complete goalie sticks will come all 3 together as a package or you can pick and choose different ones to create a perfect goalie stick.

There are literally thousands of different head, mesh, and shaft combinations that you can use to create your goalie stick. Just look at the all variations used by today’s MLL goalies, NCAA Men’s Goalies, and NCAA Women’s Goalies.

What I’ve listed below happens to be my favorite.

Goalie Head – STX Eclipse II

It took STX 18 years to release a second version of the STX Eclipse but it was worth the wait.

The sequel provides all the things you loved about the original – lightweight, great face shape, awesome ball scooping ability – and combined it with great new features.

The STX Eclipse II is stiffer than the original while maintaining basically the same weight. They added tons of sidehole stringing options so the stick ninjas can put in amazing pockets.

And they finally enhanced the plastic grip on the bottom for those goalie who like to setup with their top hand gripping the plastic.

Checkout my full review of the STX Eclipse II head.

Goalie Mesh – 12 Diamond

Of all the mesh sizes I recommend 12 diamond. The larger diamonds ‘grip’ the ball better and provide less rebounds while making outlets easier.

When you check NCAA and MLL stick setups the majority use 12 diamond and I think this setup works very well for beginners too.

There are a few companies producing amazing mesh these days so you can’t go wrong. Here are two great options from East Coast Dyes.

HeroMesh 12 Diamond Semi Hard or HeroMesh 12 Diamond Semi Soft

The Semi Soft is harder to string but will break in faster and ultimately give you fewer rebounds.

Goalie Shaft – StringKing Metal 2 Goalie Shaft

I prefer a shaft that is as light as possible. This makes the overall stick setup extremely light and gives the goalie faster hands when it comes to attacking a shot.

At 142 grams, the StringKing Metal 2 is one of the lightest and strongest shafts out there. It’s also durable so it won’t be damaged as you hit the pipes checking your position. I wish I had this one back in my early playing days.

There’s a goalie length but I just prefer to use an attack length shaft. If you’re trying to decide, I wrote a full post on the ideal length for a goalie’s shaft.

Check out my full review of the StringKing Metal 2 goalie shaft here.

Goalie stick setup I recommend for beginners:

With the new chest protector rule that went into affect 2021, there are currently only 5 options for goalies when it comes to chest pads.

Here they are:

The chest protector is going to protect our chest, heart, stomach and shoulder area. Like the helmet, we’re going to be taking shots off of the chest protector so it’s important you buy one of these approved chesties because they also have reinforced heart protection to fight commotio cordis.

My favorite of those 5 is the Warrior Nemi Pro. I think it gives a tremendous amount of mobility while still providing nice protection.

When it comes to the female goalies, STX used to offer the Sultra which was specifically designed for women. However it is currently not approved.

I’ve heard from a few females goalies (or their parents) that the Warrior Nemesis Pro is also a great option for the girls.

I wrote a full review of the Warrior Nemesis Pro here. The STX 600 is also a solid option.

My recommended chest protector: Warrior Nemesis Pro (both men / women).

It’s important that you purchase lacrosse goalie gloves as opposed to just a normal pair of lacrosse gloves.

The goalie gloves have additional padding as well as a reinforced thumb to help protect our hands and avoid any injuries.

I broke my thumb while in college after a close-range shot hit it directly. This was before I had lacrosse goalie gloves. It’s painful and something you want to avoid at all cost.

For an even deeper explanation of what to look for in goalie gloves be sure to check out my lacrosse goalie glove guide.

My current recommendation for beginner goalie gloves are the STX Shield 500 goalie gloves.

You can read my full review of these STX Shield 500’s here.

I used to wear just a simple athletic cup. Then I got hit square in the package.

If I would have had a mobile phone on me, I would have ordered a reinforced goalie jock right from the field. This jock provides the most protection and is well worth the investment. Given what’s at stake, this is my favorite piece of lacrosse goalie equipment that I own.

As you can see in the picture above, this type of athletic cup offers some additional hip padding in addition to protecting your entire groinal zone.

Obviously, this piece of equipment is more valuable for us male goalies. Female goalies might feel sufficiently protected in this area with the lacrosse goalie pants.

My athletic supporter of choice: Powertek Barikad V3.0 Ice Hockey Goalie Goal Cup & Supporter Jock

Another solid option that many lacrosse goalies swear by is the Nutty Buddy.

I wrote a full Nutty Buddy review here and if you’re looking for a little more mobility but high protection on direct hits, that is an amazing choice.

Whether you go Nutty Buddy or ice hockey goalie cup, you’re going to be well protected in that most sensitive of areas!

I recommend using cleats on grass fields. Unlike the other equipment they’re not going to have a tremendous impact on your game so really any pair of cleats will do.

Getting a pair of high tops will give you additional ankle and foot protection in the event a ball strikes this area. This recommended pair is by Warrior however a similar type of football cleat will totally suffice.

I would stay away from soccer cleats since they don’t offer as much protection as lacrosse and football cleats do.

Cleats I use: Warrior Second Degree 3.0.

If you play your home games on turf, I recommend buying a pair of turf shoes. Some players simply wear their grass cleats on the turf field and that works fine.

For me however, I felt like I had better traction and responsiveness using the turf shoes while on turf. Even on some grass fields where the crease was extremely hard, I’d opt to use the turf shoes.

Same with the cleats, I prefer high tops to provide more protection to my foot and ankles.

Here’s the pair I like: Nike Huarache Lax Turf Shoes.

The mouthpiece is a mandatory piece of equipment in lacrosse. Everyone, including the goalies, must wear one.

Since goalies are constantly talking to communicate to the defense, many (including myself) don’t like to use mouth guards. But they are extremely important to reduce concussions from a laser shot to the head or from getting hit while outside the crease. They’re also mandatory according to the rulebook.

My recommendation is to get a custom fit one from the dentist. I grind my teeth at night anyway so this actually killed two birds with one mouthpiece for me.

If you go the dentist route, make sure the dentist creates it with colored plastic because clear mouth guards are illegal according to the rulebook.

In the event you don’t want a custom guard, Shock Doctor makes good mouth guards that you can fit to match your bite: Shock Doctor Gel Nano Mouthguard.

A couple of Lax Goalie Rat readers have strongly recommended the mouth guards by SISU.

They appear to be really configurable and come in a ton of different colors.

The next few pieces of equipment are not required by rule but are definitely legal to use and recommended by me so that you can feel safe and protected while in the goal.

Back in the days, ice hockey goalies used to wear barely any equipment. In the late 50’s they didn’t even wear helmets or masks! After Jacques Plante, a goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens was hit in the face, injuring his cheek and nose, he returned wearing a self-made fiberglass mask. He was ridiculed by his team with most everyone questioning his toughness. All for wearing a mask on HIS FACE.

Today many goalies view this extra goalie gear as akin to Plante’s face mask in the 50’s. But I see lacrosse heading in this direction with goalies, especially youth, opting for these optional pieces of equipment and eventually facing less ridicule and questioning of mental toughness.

If anyone teases for using extra protection, tell them to step into the cage and see what its like.

There’s no reason why you can’t wear this equipment to feel confident and protected in the cage. Some of these pieces of lacrosse goalie gear are even mandatory, as noted.

Even if you don’t use this optional equipment during games, you might want to use it during practice when you receive more shots then you would in a game situation.

Additional Head Protection – LexiShield

Unfortunately, with as fast as players can shoot nowadays, shots taken to a goalie’s forehead or facemask can still result in a concussion.

I recently interviewed an MLL goalie who had suffered over 4 concussions throughout his career and that story is not uncommon for us goalies.

Thus it makes sense to add some aftermarket concussion protection in the form of a LexiShield.

This device attaches to your helmet and helps reduce the chance of concussions. You don’t even feel it when it’s attached so it’s really a no-brainer for use in practice.

Check out my full review of the LexiShield or pick up on on Amazon.

Another option for additional head protection is a piece of gear called the Guardian Cap.

Like the LexiShield, this is an aftermarket device that attaches to the goalie’s lacrosse helmet and provides some additional protection against concussions.

At the youth level (Under 15 and below), arms pads are a required piece of equipment for all goalies.

The idea here is that youth player’s bones are still developing and thus we want to take all precaution to prevent injury.

At all other levels, they are permitted but not required.

Required arm pads for youth goalies make zero sense by the way. I never played with arm pads and never once did I take a shot to elbow from a shot. The padding needs to be on the other side to protect the forearm and bicep where I did take plenty of blows.

Arms pads are the one piece of equipment I actually discourage goalies (other than youth) from wearing. I think they limit our movement of the arms so much that they hinder our ability to make saves.

For youth, be sure to get Youth arm pads like these: Brine Youth Uprising II.

There’s no way to sugar coat this – Getting hit in the shins with a lacrosse ball sucks! It can knock the wind out of a young goalie’s sails and ruin the rest of the entire practice.

Some goalies claim shin guards slow them down but that’s why I recommend a super light pair that doesn’t restrict the ankle or knee movement.

There’s no reason not to wear shin guards except for pride then. So put pride aside and strap on shin guards.

I used to recommend STX goalie specific shin guards but I don’t think they’ve perfected the product yet. So the best bet is just getting a pair of lightweight soccer shinguards that will protect the shins and still allow great mobility.

For women goalies at the high school level and below, shin protection is required.

Do NOT use ice hockey or baseball catcher shin guards as these are going to restrict movement too much. Also, by rule padding that excessively increases the size of body parts is illegal.

Here’s what I recommend: Franklin Sports Superlight Shinguards.

If these shin guards slide around too much you can always fix them in place with long socks or a few revolutions of white athletic tape.

Another solid option for goalie shin guards are these from G-Form. Meant for motocross, they’re on the ex (albeit on the more expensive side but offer great protection and flexibility.

Goalie pants are another piece of optional equipment that I recommend especially during practice.

I remember a specific drill one practice where I took a crank shot to the thigh. It hurt but so it goes with being a goalie. I shook it off. Then in the next play of the same drill, I took another crank shot literally to the exact same spot. I thought my leg was going to fall off as the muscle started spasming uncontrollably.

All that to say – I wish I was wearing goalie or football pants. I ended up taping an extra goalie glove to my thigh with athletic tape and continuing the practice haha.

These pants are going to protect your thighs and hips. Most importantly they’re going to reinforce the feeling of being protected which will help instill confidence in our young goalkeepers.

Like shin protection, for women goalies at the high school level and below, thigh protection is also required. Just ensure it doesn’t excessively increase the size of your legs (i.e. no field hockey pads) to remain legal.

If you decide to use goalie pants, be sure to get a pair that doesn’t restrict your range of motion.

I like these goalie pants which are extremely light and offer a great range of motion: Brine Ventilator Lacrosse Goalie Pants.

The other option is to use football pants. If your young goalie is hesitant to pad up for macho reasons, let him know even top goalies at Syracuse have used the football pants to add some additional protection.

The football pants are going to give you additional thigh and knee protection. And in my opinion, I think they look damn good while they do it.

You can remove the hip and tailbone pads, unless of course you like them. But I find they cut down mobility too much.

There are a lot of versions of football pants out there but this pair comes with integrated pads:

Check them out on Amazon here.

As a goalie, I was hit in the knees many times with shots and never received anything more than a bruise.

But for youth players wanting to feel extra protected, I often recommend lightweight knee pads to help shield the kneecap from injury while still allowing the knee to bend and move with limited restriction.

If you’re using football pants that protect the knees then you obviously do without the kneepads.

I recommend a lightweight pad like those used in volleyball: Mizuno Volleyball Kneepad

If you want a little more protection, many brands offer padded under shirts or protective arm sleeves that can help serve this purpose.

I find these pieces of gear to be light enough that they do not limit our movement while they do add to the feeling of being protected which boosts confidence in the cage.

Especially during practice, I recommend the EliteTek Padded Compression Shirt and a pair of McDavid Hexpad Arm Sleeves.

Finally you’re going to need a bag to carry all your lacrosse gear.

Some schools have team bags so you won’t have a choice in which bag to go with. However if you’re looking for your own bag, here are my two favorite options.

Maverick Lacrosse Monster Bag 

At 40 x 15 x 15 inches this bag is large enough to fit all the standard lacrosse goalie equipment plus your extra gear. Also comes in a bunch of colors so you can pick your school or club team’s colors.

Adrenaline Lacrosse TacPack Backpack

It’s a little bit of a squeeze but if you’re looking for a backpack option try the Adrenaline TacPack. The exterior stick holder and helmet pocket give you just enough room to fit your other equipment into the backpack’s main pouch.

You’ll have more room with the Maverick Monster bag but if you’re looking for portability and easy transport, the backpack may be the way to go.

Looking for other non-essential items for goalie bag – check that post.

For every single piece of goalie gear recommended above, be sure you get the right size.

All pieces of equipment should fit snugly so that it doesn’t move on our bodies as we’re making saves. But not too tight that it hurts or limits our range of mobility.

Loose fitting equipment can be extremely dangerous as a chest protector may slide and leave an area unprotected. Or loose fitting helmet could hit against our head causing a concussion.

Make sure you review size recommendations for each product and then adjust them to fit snugly. If they’re too big or too small return them for a different size.

The number one piece of advice I offer new goalies is: Get Protected!

While you may think its macho and cool to wear very little padding, wearing the right amount of pads will make you more confident in the cage

Unfortunately, playing goalie in lacrosse is not cheap. I wrote a full post on how much all this goalie gear will cost.

The various pieces of lax goalie gear required to outfit a new keeper can add up fast. Thus always look to buy used gear at a local sports store if possible.

The pieces I recommend in this post are certainly not the only pieces of lacrosse goalie equipment that are functional and awesome, however it’s what I like and what I encourage others to get when they ask me.

Until next time! Coach Damon

Want to take this goalie gear guide to go? Click here to download my entire lacrosse goalie toolkit including this guide!

NOTE: Most of the above links are affiliate links meaning I get a small percentage with no additional cost to you in the event you decide to buy through my page. Even though these are affiliate links, I thoroughly recommend every piece of lacrosse goalie equipment that’s listed. If you’ve enjoyed the free content I’ve put together on this blog I’d be honored if you purchase through those links to give me some support. I’ve also had nothing but great experiences with LacrosseMonkey.com every time I’ve used them to buy my lax gear.

What’s your favorite piece of lacrosse goalie gear? Any additional questions about a specific piece of lacrosse goalie gear? Let me know in the comments. 

90,000 Lev Yashin goalkeeper biography and personal life briefly – Go-Sport

Biography of Lev Yashin

21 March 2020

Yashin is the best goalkeeper of the 20th century according to FIFA and France Football.
Photo: gettyimages.com

Lev Yashin is a legend of Soviet and world football, the only goalkeeper in history to receive the Golden Ball award. We recall the main milestones in the biography of the great goalkeeper and list his achievements.

Yashin’s childhood fell on the war years

Yashin was born in Moscow on October 22, 1929.Yashin’s mother worked at the Krasny Bogatyr plant, which produces rubber products, and his father worked at a defense plant.

Yashin lost his mother early, Anna Mitrofanovna. She died in 1935. Leo was brought up by the second wife of his father Ivan Petrovich – Alexandra Petrovna.

As a child, Yashin played a lot of football. The teams gathered on a trampled field – a platform where the gates were marked by piled stones. Yashin and his comrades played football from spring to late autumn. In winter, the boys themselves filled the rink and played ball hockey.Yashin also played rounders, and in winter he jumped on skis from the “springboard” – the roofs of sheds.

Traumatic games taught Yashin to control his body and helped develop coordination of movements. It was the lack of active games, according to Yashin, that was the reason for the massive injuries of the major league players in the 70s: “They did not run much, jumped, fought, played football, skated, climbed trees in childhood and now they are paying for it with insufficient strength , elastic, elastic muscles, insufficiently strong backbones, insufficiently strong nerves ”.

Leo was 11 years old when the Great Patriotic War began. The plant where Yashin’s father worked was evacuated near Ulyanovsk, and the family had to move. Initially, there was not even a room for a plant near Ulyanovsk. The workers had to take over the equipment in the open air and participate in the construction. Children also worked at the construction site.

In 1943, several workers went to the front. There was no one to replace them, and the father took Lev as a locksmith’s apprentice. Then Yashin was 13 years old. Leo worked on a par with his father, sometimes in two shifts.

Shop foreman Mikhail Ovsyankin trained Yashin at the plant. He was responsible for the implementation of the plan, protected and looked after the underage workers of the plant. Thanks to his help and training, Yashin became a mechanic of the 3rd category even during the location of the plant near Ulyanovsk.

At a plant near Ulyanovsk, Yashin began to smoke makhorka. His father himself offered him a cigarette, fearing that Leo would fall asleep on the night shift and get injured at work. Lev did not give up the habit when he became a goalkeeper, and smoked all his life.Yashin constantly smoked before matches and in between meetings.

At the beginning of 1944, when the plant was returned from evacuation, the Yashins returned to Moscow.

Yashin played football in the youth team of the plant, after – in the army team

There were two adults and a youth football team at the plant. Adult teams took part in the Tushino championship and the Moscow region championship. Yashin began playing in the youth team of the plant, coached by Vladimir Checherov. Checherov never played football professionally.He was a master of sports in table tennis. This did not prevent him from celebrating Yashin’s talent. Checherov was the first to put Yashin at the gate, based on the height of Leo at that time – 186 cm.

By the age of 18, Yashin had a working experience at a factory and a medal “For Valiant Labor in the Great Patriotic War”, was a planer, mechanic, grinder. Working at the factory from the age of 13, accumulated fatigue and increased workload led to a nervous breakdown. Because of him, Yashin quit his job and left home. Then one of his friends in the adult factory team advised Yashin to join the army.

Yashin took the advice and entered the service in one of the Moscow units. He did not give up playing football – he trained in the football section and played in the championship of the city council “Dynamo”. Yashin stood at the gate in the third command of the internal troops. When the goalkeeper of the second team of the unit was injured, Yashin was offered to replace him. He agreed and conceded only one goal – in the 10th minute of the meeting. In that game, Yashin was noticed by Arkady Chernyshev.

Arkady Ivanovich Chernyshev for 28 years coached the Moscow hockey Dynamo, was the head coach of the USSR national hockey team.Under his leadership, the USSR national team won gold medals at the World Championships 9 times in a row: from 1963 to 1971. Chernyshev started out with football. He played in the Moscow Dynamo, twice won the national championship, once – the Cup. Until 1950, Chernyshev headed the Dynamo youth football team.

Chernyshev invited Yashin to the youth team, and later recommended him to the main team to the head coach of Dynamo Mikhail Yakushin.

Yashin was the first of the goalkeepers to start going beyond the goalkeeper’s limits

While training under the leadership of Arkady Chernyshev, Yashin himself noted the shortcomings in his game.Lev told Chernyshev about them and tried to correct mistakes. The head coach of Dynamo Mikhail Yakushin at first treated Yashin with distrust. Yakushin thought the goalkeeper’s manner of play was strange. At that time, the goalkeeper was not supposed to go far beyond the goalie. Yashin, on the contrary, often went out of the goalkeeper’s box into the penalty area and beyond, frustrating the opponent’s attacks. Later, Yashin’s free and cold-blooded play at the exits will become the goalkeeper’s hallmark.

Yashin is one of the first goalkeepers in the world who has mastered the game extensively at the exits and throughout the penalty area.Photo: bbc.co.uk

Yashin behaved in a peculiar way at the gate. He played confidently on the outs and moved around the penalty area with ease, acted as a “free defender”. Yashin organized most of the team’s attacks, introducing the ball with his hand immediately after the opponent’s attack was disrupted. For the penalty area, Yashin often knocked the ball out with his head.

Yashin’s goalkeeper talent manifested itself not only on the football field. Yashin played hockey professionally and often water polo, which was part of the training program at the football Dynamo.According to eyewitnesses, Yashin was a good water polo goalkeeper.

Failures at the start of his career led Yashin to a double

In March 1950, Yashin appeared at the gates of the Dynamo team of masters in a test match. Yashin’s debut failed. The opponent’s goalkeeper knocked the ball far away, and Yashin ran from the goalkeeper’s room to pick it up. At the exit, Lev did not notice the Dynamo defender and collided with him. Yashin and the defender fell, the ball went into an empty net. On July 2, 1950, Yashin again had to take a place at the gate in the match against Spartak.Then the main goalkeeper of “Dynamo” Alexei Khomich was injured, and his replacement Walter Sanaya was sick. Yashin came on as a substitute and conceded again, having faced one of the Dynamo players – midfielder Blinkov at the exit.

On July 6, Yashin was assigned to the main squad against Dynamo from Tbilisi. That game ended in failure for Yashin. He had a good first half, conceding one goal. In the second half of the meeting, Lev conceded three goals in 15 minutes. Muscovites won with a score of 5: 4, but Yashin was not forgiven for productive mistakes.He was sent to the backup team.

From the double, Yashin got into the hockey “Dynamo”

In 1950, Arkady Chernyshev again played a big role in Yashin’s fate. He invited Yashin to try his hand at ice hockey. Yashin, as in football, took a place at the goal, despite the fact that Chernyshev offered him to play in attack. It was difficult for Yashin to get used to hockey, largely due to the peculiarities of the equipment. Then goalkeepers played without masks and traps. It took a lot of work for Yashin to learn how to catch a flying puck.During training, he often broke his hands in blood.

Yashin’s teachers in hockey “Dynamo” were Arkady Chernyshev and the main goalkeeper of the team Karl Liiv. Photo: sport-express.ru

In the fall of 1950, Yashin began playing for the hockey “Dynamo”, at the same time playing for the double of the football “Dynamo”. Lev managed to take a place in the main team of the hockey club, win silver in the USSR championship and win the USSR Cup in 1953. Hockey victories brought Yashin the title of master of sports. In 1954, Yashin had to choose between a career in hockey and football.At that time, Lev received a call to the USSR football team and chose football.

In 1953 Yashin returned to the main team of Dynamo. In 1954 – won the gold of the USSR championship

Yashin succeeded in returning to the main team of football “Dynamo” in May 1953. After a break of 3 years, he played his first match for the base against Lokomotiv Moscow. Then the blue and white won 3: 1.

In the 1953 USSR championship, Yashin played 13 matches out of 20 and chalked up the first dry streak.Lev kept the blue and white goal intact in three games in a row. Yashin first caught up with Walter Sanaia, Alexei Khomich’s understudy, in terms of the number of appearances for the club, and then firmly took his place at the base.

In total, during his career, Yashin spent 160 clean sheets in the USSR championships. In one of his best seasons in 1963, Yashin conceded only 8 goals in 29 matches of the championship and the USSR Cup.

The 1954 season was for Yashin one of the brightest in his career. He boldly acted on the outs, played confidently with his feet, knocked the ball outside the penalty area with his head, and often made decisive saves.At the end of the season, Dynamo became the champion of the USSR. In 1954, Yashin went abroad with the team for the first time. Yashin played with Dynamo in Austria, France, Switzerland.

Yashin made a great impression on the foreign press. After the meeting with Austria, the Viennese newspaper Di Presse wrote: “Goalkeeper Yashin did not make a single mistake.”

Yashin won 8 trophies with Dynamo and became a legend of Soviet football

At the beginning of Yashin’s career, the weekly Sovetsky Sport wrote about the goalkeeper: “He still needs to work a lot to eliminate the shortcomings – reckless, imprudent exits from the goal”.Photo: sport-express.ru

Throughout his career, Yashin defended the colors of Dynamo Moscow. With blue and white, Lev became the USSR champion five times, won the Cup three times. Yashin also won silver in the USSR championship five times and bronze once.

Yashin played 358 matches for Dynamo, conceding 276 goals. During his professional career, Yashin was included in the list of 33 best football players of the season in the USSR 16 times.

Yashin made his debut for the national team in 1954 and played in it for 14 seasons in a row

The first success awaited Yashin at the Olympic Games in Australia in 1956.Then in Melbourne the USSR national team won gold medals. At that tournament, the Soviet Union team played five matches: with the United German team, Indonesia (two meetings), Bulgaria and Yugoslavia. In three of these five games, Yashin kept the goal clean, in two – conceded one goal each.

For his black uniform, plasticity of movements and jumps, Yashin was nicknamed “Black Panther”, for his ability to get even the most difficult balls – “Black Spider” and “Octopus”. Photo: rbth.com

In 1960, together with the USSR national team, Yashin won the European Championship.At the tournament, the Soviet Union national team played two matches: in the semifinals they beat Czechoslovakia 3: 0, in the final – Yugoslavia 2: 1.

With the national team, Yashin reached the playoffs of the world championships three times. The highest achievement for Yashin at the world championships is the fourth place at the 1966 World Cup.

Yashin first played in the world championship in 1958. The USSR national team finished second in the group with the Brazilians, British and Austrians. The Soviet Union team reached the quarter finals. Yashin conceded two goals in both matches against Brazil and in one of the games against England.In the second match against the British, Leo showed an outstanding game and kept the goal intact. In the match with Austria, Yashin saved one penalty.

1962 was one of the hardest years in Yashin’s career

The 1962 World Championship in Chile was a test for Yashin. The USSR national team reached the quarterfinals, reaching the playoffs from the first place. In the group with the Soviet national team were the teams of Yugoslavia, Uruguay and Colombia. The group stage was not easy for the USSR national team. In the match with Colombia, the Soviet Union team conceded 4 goals.

In the quarterfinals, the USSR national team lost to Chile 1: 2. The match began for Yashin not easy: at the beginning of the game he received a concussion, but continued to play. In the case of the first goal, Yashin was unable to reflect a twisted kick into the upper corner of the goal from a free kick. During the second scoring attack, Yashin did not have time to react to a long-range strike from midfielder Rojas. Rojas shot without preparation, and the goalkeeper, not expecting a blow, jumped too late for the ball.

Since the 1962 championship was not televised, print media and radio were the only source of information on the national team’s performance.The championship was covered by journalists accredited in Chile, from “Soviet Sport”, “Football”, “Komsomolskaya Pravda”. After the defeat to Chile (1: 2), Yashin and striker Valentin Ivanov became the culprits of the unsuccessful performance. Ivanov lost the ball in the opponent’s half of the field, which led to a counterattack by the Chileans and the second goal. In particular, the authors of “Soviet Sport” wrote about Ivanov’s mistake. Yashin was accused by officials who looked through the collective correspondence from Chile.

During the 1962 World Cup, authors accredited for the world championship, in addition to articles, sent correspondence to the USSR.They were evaluated by officials. In correspondence about the match with Chile, officials left a postscript about Yashin: “It is unforgivable for him to miss such balls.” This phrase was announced on the radio and formed a negative opinion about the goalkeeper’s game.

Unfair assessment of Yashin’s game in the media led to the persecution of the goalkeeper. Already at the airport, upon arrival of the national team, a group of hooligans was waiting for him. Lev was booed at Dynamo matches, insults were written on the windows of his car. A couple of times, fans broke the windows in Yashin’s apartment.

The goalkeeper took the bullying hard and thought about retirement. Then Yashin was helped by Dynamo coach Alexander Ponomarev. He advised Leo to rest and consider the decision to leave football. Yashin left for the village, from where he returned with determination to play, despite criticism from fans and the press.

In 1963, Yashin played in the “Match of the Century” and won the “Ballon d’Or”

In 1963, Chile’s coach Fernando Riera, who headed the FIFA national team, invited Yashin to play in the “Match of the Century” against England.The England – FIFA match took place on October 23, 1963 and was broadcast around the world. Yashin spent the first half on the field and impressed partners and rivals with his play. During the break, Yashin was replaced by Milutin Shoshkich, who conceded two goals. As a result, the FIFA national team lost to the England national team 1: 2.

In that match, Eusebio and Ferenc Puskas played on the same team with Yashin, and against Bobby Charlton.

After Lev’s speech in the “Match of the Century” British newspaper Evening News wrote: “Tall, flexible Yashin proved that he has no equal among goalkeepers.”Photo: bbc.co.uk

1963 was one of the most successful years in Yashin’s biography. Dynamo became the champion of the USSR, and Yashin was recognized as the best goalkeeper in the country. In 27 matches of the season, Lev conceded only 8 goals. In the fall, Yashin took part in two landmark international matches – for the FIFA national team against England and in the return leg of the 1/8 finals of the European Championship against the Italian national team.

Yashin missed the first game of the 1/8 final against the Italians due to preparation for participation in the “Match of the Century”. In the return game with Italy, Yashin conceded only one goal – in the 89th minute.Throughout the match, Yashin showed an excellent reaction. In the 57th minute, he deflected a penalty. The meeting ended with the score 1: 1. The Italians’ forward Angelo Domengini said after the match: “Yashin is the devil! It is impossible for him to score. ”

In 1963, Yashin’s excellent performance made him one of the nominees for the Ballon d’Or by the French sports weekly France Football. This was not Yashin’s first entry into the France Football roster. Yashin became the fifth in the poll of the weekly based on the results of 1956.In 1963, the rivals of the Soviet goalkeeper were Eusebio, Bobby Charlton, Giovanni Trapattoni, Uwe Seeler. Yashin won a landslide victory, 17 points ahead of his closest rival Gianni Rivera. Yashin is the first and only goalkeeper to receive the Golden Ball.

Yashin was handed the Golden Ball before the second leg of the European Championship quarterfinals in Luzhniki. In that meeting, the USSR national team won against Sweden with a score of 3: 1 and reached the 1/2 finals. Yashin stood at the goal of the Soviet national team and conceded the only goal in the 78th minute.

Yashin was recognized as the best goalkeeper of the 20th century, and France Football instituted an award in his honor

Golden Ball – just one of Yashin’s many individual awards. He was recognized as the goalkeeper of the XX century by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFIS), was included in the list of the greatest footballers of the XX century by the British football magazine World Soccer. Yashin was twice included in the UEFA national team based on the results of the European Championships. Pele recognized Yashin’s merits and called him the best goalkeeper in the history of world football.After the death of Yashin, Eusebio constantly came to his grave when he came to Moscow.

Pele was unable to attend Yashin’s farewell match. On May 26, Pele was supposed to play together with Santos in the match in Bolivia. Photo: twitter.com/OldFootball11

In 2019 France Football decided to establish the Yachine Trophy named after Lev Yashin. The nominees include Chelsea’s Kepa Arrisabalaga, Liverpool’s Alisson Becker, Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer, Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak and Barcelona’s Marc-André Ter Stegen.On December 2, 2019, the award was presented to Alisson Becker at a ceremony in Paris.

Eusebio, Charlton and Muller participated in Yashin’s farewell match

Lev Yashin’s farewell match took place on May 27, 1971. In this game, the team of Dynamo clubs from Moscow, Kiev and Tbilisi met with the team of FIFA stars. The stars of world football came to the match: Eusebio, Bobby Charlton, Gerd Müller. Yashin himself met the guests at the airport.

In the first half, Yashin made a save after hitting Charlton and was reliable on the outs.In the 51st minute, with the score 2: 0 in favor of the Dynamo national team, Yashin was replaced by Vladimir Pilgui. The meeting ended in a draw 2: 2.

After completing his football career, Yashin graduated from the school of coaches and was the head of the Dynamo team from 1971 to 1975. Photo: sports.ru

Yashin met his future wife 4 years

Yashin married on December 31, 1954. Valentina Shashkova became the goalkeeper’s wife. At the time of their acquaintance, Valentina studied at the Polygraphic Institute and worked in the Tushino city radio editorial office.Yashin and Shashkova met at dances and met for 4 years before the wedding.

Valentina only once attended Yashin’s training session with Dynamo, but she constantly attended matches with her husband. Valentina also watched the matches with Yashin, which she could not attend. So, in 1963, she watched the “Match of the Century” on TV at work, in the radio committee.

Yashin raised two daughters, and his grandson was a goalkeeper

Lev and Valentina had two daughters – Irina and Elena.In childhood, both went in for sports: Elena – swimming, Irina – volleyball.

Yashin’s grandson Vasily Frolov defended the doubles of Dynamo Moscow, Dynamo St. Petersburg, Zelenograd. Now he works at the Dynamo Academy named after Lev Yashin and trains future goalkeepers. Yashin has a granddaughter Natalya and a great-grandson Lev, who was named after his great-grandfather.

In 2019, at the opening match of the renovated Dynamo stadium, Yashin’s daughter Irina Frolova struck the first ball. The whistle for the first blow was given by Vasily Frolov, the goalkeeper’s grandson.

In the last years of his life, Yashin lost both legs

Even at the Olympics in Melbourne in 1956, Yashin experienced an exacerbation of a stomach ulcer. Yashin’s passion for smoking and a half-starved childhood led to the disease. During his life near Ulyanovsk, Lev ate only what he could exchange for things unnecessary to the family: potatoes, rutabagas, oatmeal. The exhausting work in three shifts at the plant, and frequent physical activity on the football field also led to the illness. Yashin could hardly cope with the pain before the matches, tried to treat the ulcer with soda, which only provoked further complications.

In the early 80s, Yashin suffered a heart attack and stroke, but did not go to the hospital. In 1984, Yashin lost his right leg. The leg had to be amputated due to progressive gangrene that developed as a result of vascular obstruction. Yashin suffered for a long time due to wearing an uncomfortable Soviet prosthesis. This was learned by a friend of Yashin, then the editor of the German sports magazine Kicker Sportmagazin Karl-Heinz Heimann. Thanks to Heimann’s help, Yashin received a comfortable titanium prosthesis. Another prosthesis was presented to Yashin by the Finns, to whom Lev was brought to full board after amputation.

By 1988, Yashin had difficulty walking and held on to pain-relieving injections, later he lost his second leg.

A few days before his death, Yashin was awarded the Gold Star of the Hero of Socialist Labor. A close friend of the goalkeeper Gennady Khazanov attended the presentation of the award and later said: “On the couch lay half the body of this famous athlete. He had both legs amputated, he was hopelessly ill, he was kept on painkillers. ”

After losing his leg in 1984, Yashin was diagnosed with stomach cancer.The oncology was caused by a chronic ulcer. The disease progressed rapidly. By 1990, Leo no longer appeared in public. On March 20, 1990, Yashin died. He was 60 years old.

Mini-football ground in the country. How to equip?

Mini-football ground at the dacha for adults and children.

Mini-football is considered an active team game, which is enjoyed by both men and women, and in terms of the degree of emotionality, sharpness and entertainment it takes first place in the world.The number of fans of this sport is growing every year. If you are interested in mini football and want to equip your own mini football field for playing mini football, then you need to decide what equipment and inventory you need. Please note that this game requires a lot of space.

What should be the area of ​​a mini football field?

The playing court must be at least 25 meters long, at least 15 meters wide, and have the shape of a rectangle.It is better to choose a place for placing the field with a long side along the east-west line so that the sunlight does not blind the players. You should pay attention to the coating, it must be even. If there is a possibility of artificial turf, then it is better to give preference to it. Next, you need to apply the markup. Choose permanent paints. Reflective compounds will also look good under artificial lighting in the evening.

Fencing of a mini football field

When choosing a place, keep in mind that the ball can fly out of it.Therefore, it is better to protect the field with a high barrier mesh from several sides. Not every neighbor will be happy with a ball and loud sounds on the fence. When choosing a mesh for a mini football field, consider several recommendations:

1. The mesh should be 100×100 mm.

2. Minimum thread thickness 4.0 mm, for a long service life.

3. The height of the fence is at least 3 meters.

We have compiled a list of sports equipment for playing mini-football:

1.The main important element on the field is the goal, without them you can go anywhere. The dimensions of soccer gates for mini football are 3×2 m. Folding or stationary ones are suitable for the dacha. In the first case, it is convenient to move them around the territory and store them, but for such gates, counterweights will be needed to give stability. The material of the gate is steel or aluminum, here it already depends on the allocated budget. Aluminum are more expensive, but the advantage is the lightness of the product. The goal is to be placed in the center of the goalkeeper’s line on the court.

2. An important element is the net for mini football goals. When choosing a mesh, pay attention to the material, mesh and thread thickness. It is better to choose a knotless polypropylene mesh, mesh 100×100 mm, thread thickness from 3.0 mm. The mesh can be easily attached to the posts.

3. To protect the main net, we recommend purchasing a blanking net.

4. Football ball. Choose the size of a mini soccer ball 4, the diameter of the circle is 62-62 cm.

All equipment must be safe, durable and resistant to atmospheric factors.

Guide for choosing a goalkeeper uniform

When you look at a football team playing, one of the first things that catches your eye is how the goalkeeper looks in comparison to other players on the field. Most often, the goalkeeper attracts attention with his brightly colored uniform. The FootballStyle online store offers new items in the category of goalkeeper uniforms in Ukraine – equipment of famous football clubs at loyal prices.

Goalkeepers wear uniforms in a different color to the rest of their team so that referees and fans can instantly distinguish them from the rest of the players on the pitch.The goalkeeper’s uniform has a special lining to protect against quick hits. For example, a goalkeeper’s jersey usually has long sleeves and a special lining over the elbows, chest and shoulders to minimize the force of the shot. goalkeeper shorts are usually lightly padded as well. Goal defenders also wear long, padded gaiters that protect their feet from impacts during skirmishes near the goal.

List of goalkeeper equipment

Goalkeeper Gloves

Gloves are by far the most important piece of goalkeeper equipment.Investing in decent goalkeeper gloves is a must. Find out which type of latex provides the best grip on the balloon. For novice goalkeepers, up to players of a higher level, goalkeeper gloves from Joma, Nike are recommended. They provide maximum comfort, grip, flexibility – and value for money. They are ideal for both amateur and club goalkeepers looking to improve their game.

Thermal underwear

A professional goalkeeper will train and play in any weather.Compression leggings provide a good base layer for all conditions to protect muscles and limit hypothermia.

Shorts with inserts

An essential piece of equipment for any goalkeeper playing on turf or uneven ground. Can be used in place of or in addition to goalkeeper pants. The snug fit prevents damage due to the soft structure.

Slim sweatshirt

Not only does this long-sleeved garment keep you warm on colder days, an extra layer under the goalkeeper’s shirt adds volume to protect against impacts.

Sports Drinking Bottle

An irreplaceable attribute for maintaining vitality and quenching thirst during training.

Fixing strap

Each goalkeeper has elastic bands for fixing and tightening the muscles. This belt is ideal for all types of stretch marks, not just the hamstrings.

Football boots

Football boot soles vary. Each particular shoe style has rounded cleats around the heel and sole, and the shape, length and composition of the cleats depends on your outer surface.For example, padded (SG) cleats may have removable metal cleats to grip muddy ground. Others modify their cleats in addition to conventional ground (FG), hard ground (HG) for dry grass, or artificial ground (AG).

The highest quality training equipment is a must for goalkeepers of all levels. The goalkeeper spends long hours on the training field, so the equipment must provide safety and comfort. Goalkeeper training equipment has been designed to develop critical defense techniques.From agility training to agility training, the range of football equipment in the FootballStyle catalog will turn you into a top-notch player in no time.

Lev Yashin – photo, biography, personal life, cause of death, football player, goalkeeper

Biography

Lev Yashin is a legendary Soviet football goalkeeper who played for Dynamo Moscow and the USSR national team. He was the first Soviet player to receive the most prestigious Golden Ball award, and is still the only goalkeeper to receive this honorable sports award.

Childhood and adolescence

Lev Ivanovich was born in the Bogorodsky district of Moscow. Father Ivan Petrovich worked as a mechanic at a factory, and mother Alexandra Petrovna was also a foreman. The boy received his first football lessons in the courtyard of his home. When Leo was 11 years old, the Great Patriotic War began.

Goalkeeper Lev Yashin

Together with his family, he was evacuated to Ulyanovsk and went to help the elders as a loader. Soon, the teenager received the qualification of a locksmith and began to manufacture military equipment.

After the war, the Yashins returned to Moscow, Lev continued to work at the plant, and in the evenings he played for the amateur team “Red October” from Tushino. Professional coaches drew attention to the young man when he served in the army. Yashin chose the Moscow club Dynamo and became the goalkeeper of the youth team.

Football

Soon he became the third after the famous goalkeepers Alexei Khomich and Walter Sanay in the main team. Since then, Lev Yashin has played only for Dynamo, having spent 22 seasons in the shirt of this club, which is considered a unique achievement.Yashin became so attached to this team that even in the matches for the national team he came out with the letter “D” on his chest.

Football player Lev Yashin

Few people know that at first Lev Yashin played both football and hockey at the same time, and in the game with the puck he also showed good results. For example, in 1953 he became the champion of the USSR and even was a candidate for the national team, but by this time he had decided to focus exclusively on football.

The goalkeeper began to use innovative methods of playing in the penalty area, using not only his hands, as was customary among the goalkeepers of the time, but also played with his feet.The coaches of Dynamo and the USSR national team often had to listen to dissatisfied statements from the Ministry of Sports, whose leaders did not understand why Yashin did not play “the old fashioned way” and called his manner “circus”.

Read also10 best footballers of all time – then and now

The next innovation introduced by the Dynamo goalkeeper was hitting the ball instead of the obligatory fixation. It was a natural breakthrough in football, because a heavily launched “shell” is difficult to catch tightly. And Yashin began to beat him to the side or transferred over the crossbar to the “corner”.Lev Ivanovich was tall (189 cm), moreover, his jumping ability and long arms helped him in the game, which can be seen today in many photos of that time.

In the world, the Soviet goalkeeper was called the Black Panther for flexibility, and the Black Spider for his instant movement along the goal frame. The color of these nicknames was due to the black goalkeeper jersey that Yashin always wore. Thanks to the goalkeeper, Dynamo Moscow became the national champion 5 times, won the cup three times and took prizes many times.

Monument to Lev Yashin

In 1960, Lev Yashin, together with the national team of the Soviet Union, won the European Championship, and before that won the Olympic Games. But there were also failures in the career of a football player.

In 1962, at the World Championships in Chile, the USSR national team was defeated. The goalkeeper was blamed. The head coach of the national team was also replaced: together with Nikolai Gulyaev, Konstantin Beskov became him. It seemed that Lev Ivanovich’s stay in the team had been given up. But a year later, Yashin regained his former glory, becoming the best football player in Europe according to a poll by France Football.

Read alsoLev Yashin: achievements outside of football

For goalkeepers, Lev Yashin remains the same unique example as for field players Pele, with whom the Soviet footballer, by the way, was friends. The Brazilian himself noted that he felt like a real striker only after he scored the ball into the goal of the Soviet goalkeeper in 1965. Although before that, Pele had already become world champion twice.

The goalkeeper’s achievements include the fact that he played 100 games without conceding a single ball.Total clean sheets during his career were 207 out of 438 played. Interestingly, the goalkeeper was short-sighted, so it was not easy for Yashin to follow the ball. Sometimes he asked the team players to let the enemy get closer to the goal in order to correctly assess the situation.

Lev Yashin with the “Golden Ball” award to the best player in the world in 1963

The last match was played on May 27, 1971. It was a farewell duel between the Dynamo team from different cities and the team of world stars. Englishman Bobby Charlton, German Gerd Müller, Portuguese Eusebio and other high-class footballers of that time came to Moscow.

At the end of his career, Lev Yashin became a coach, but in this field he did not achieve much. He worked with children and youth.

According to international media and football federations, Lev Yashin is considered the best goalkeeper of the XX century, and is also included in the list of the greatest football players in the history of sports No. 1.

Personal life

Lev Ivanovich Yashin was married for many years. His personal life developed happily in his youth. The wife of footballer Valentin Yashin gave the hope of Soviet sports two daughters, Irina and Elena.

Lev Yashin and his wife Valentina

The Yashins’ grandson, whose name is Vasily Frolov, was also the goalkeeper of Dynamo Moscow, like his grandfather. And then he played for the St. Petersburg teams Dynamo and Zelenograd.

Lev Yashin loved fishing and could spend many hours sitting at a fishing rod, contemplating the water surface in calmness and silence.

Death

Leaving sports negatively affected Yashin’s health. The athlete’s body, accustomed to exertion, began to fail when the training stopped.Lev Ivanovich survived heart attacks, stroke, oncology and even leg amputation.

Read also7 stars whose death is associated with smoking

Most of his diseases were also associated with addiction to smoking. While still an athlete, Yashin could not give up his addiction. Cigarettes often opened up stomach ulcers and took baking soda all the time to soothe the pain.

On March 18, 1990, the footballer received the title of Hero of Socialist Labor, but lived with him for only 2 days.On March 20, Lev Ivanovich Yashin died. The cause of death of the goalkeeper was complications associated with smoking, as well as a relapsed gangrene of the leg.

Memory

In memory of the famous player, many streets and a number of stadiums were named, monuments and monuments were erected, and the International Football Federation founded the Yashin Prize, which is awarded to the best goalkeeper of the final stage of the World Cup.

Alexander Fokin as Lev Yashin (still from the film “Lev Yashin. The goalkeeper of my dreams”)

The name of Lev Ivanovich began to perpetuate not only after his death.Even when he was a player, such poets as Vladimir Vysotsky, Robert Rozhdestvensky, Yevgeny Yevtushenko and others dedicated their lines to the goalkeeper. Yashin also appears in the popular “chants” of Dynamo fans.

The image of the goalkeeper first appeared in the cinema in the year of the 90th anniversary of his birth. The film “Lev Yashin. The goalkeeper of my dreams. ” The main character of the biopic was played by 3 actors: Elisey Tarasenko in childhood, Alexander Fokin in his youth and Alexander Ermakov in adulthood.The first screening of the film took place in cinemas in Russia on November 28, 2019.

Achievements

• 1953, 1967, 1970 – USSR Cup winner with Dynamo
• 1954, 1955, 1957, 1959, 1963 – USSR champion with Dynamo
• 1956 – Olympic champion with the USSR national team
• 1960 – Winner of the European Cup as part of the USSR national team
• 1960, 1963, 1966 – Goalkeeper of the Year
• 1963 – Winner of the Golden Ball as the best football player in Europe according to France Football
• 1964 – Silver medalist of the European Cup as part of the national team USSR

Joma football uniform.Equipment Joma

Joma online store . SOCCER-SHOP – TM Joma official representative in Ukraine . The Spanish company Joma (or as it is often called Homa or Yoma ) is one of the leaders in the production of sportswear. Founded back in 1965, today it has offices in more than 70 countries around the world. Has its own research center, which helps her keep up with the times. Sponsors over 40 professional sports teams and over 500 athletes.You can buy Joma products in Ukraine by visiting online store SOCCER. Here you will be pleased not only by the huge range of products of this brand, but also by the quality of service.

Joma online store

The Spanish company Joma (or as it is often called Homa or Yoma ) is one of the leaders in the production of sportswear. Founded back in 1965, today it has offices in more than 70 countries around the world.Has its own research center, which helps her keep up with the times. Sponsors over 40 professional sports teams and over 500 athletes.

You can buy Joma products in Ukraine by visiting online store SOCCER. Here you will be pleased not only by the huge range of products of this brand, but also by the quality of service. You can place your order directly on the website, or by phone, and in addition – by visiting the store in Kiev on Petrovka .We always meet customers and constantly improve the quality of service. There is a possibility of exchange and return of goods, no prepayment is required, the order is carried out as quickly as possible. The client’s wishes are always a priority. It is not surprising that this store is one of the leaders in the Ukrainian market for online stores of sports equipment. Our store values ​​its reputation and each of its clients.

Special offers for teams from SOCCER-SHOP!

In SOCCER-SHOP you will find a huge assortment of various shapes for every taste and color.It is sometimes problematic to buy a uniform for a whole team, but not from us! We not only offer a great price for team kits, but we also give a lot of gifts! Choosing a uniform for your team has become even easier thanks to the catalog of special offers! In it you will find useful information, a range of available offers, current prices. You will be able to choose a shape taking into account your size, as well as familiarize yourself with all promotional offers and bonuses. Please note that the catalog is periodically updated and supplemented!

Joma is a renowned manufacturer of sporting goods.The wide range of the Spanish brand can satisfy the needs of any person who is into sports goods, clothing, footwear or accessories. Joma, like all global manufacturers, renews, complements and discontinues its collections. We try to follow the news and offer you current collections and delight you with attractive prices for popular products. To view all Joma catalogs, we suggest opening a list of Joma catalogs with a description. Catalogs are available for you: Sportswear Joma 2019, Shoes Joma 2019, Joma textiles 2018, Shoes Joma autumn-winter 2018.In them you can see the products you are interested in and learn about the full range and possible colors.

Joma official website

Official site Joma-SOCCER – works with the official representatives of “Joma Ukraine”, has all the necessary certificates for products that can be presented at the first request of customers. It works exclusively legally, giving everyone the opportunity to purchase an original and high-quality product.

Buy Joma in Kiev

You can buy the products of the Spanish brand directly in our store in Kiev by choosing and trying on the goods on the spot.Here you can also pick up your order made through our website or by phone. If you do not have the opportunity to come to our store, we can arrange delivery by Courier or New Mail company throughout Ukraine, where there is a representative office. For the convenience of our clients, we work seven days a week and without interruptions from 9:00 to 19:00. You can order Joma , like any other product you like, through the website around the clock. You can also call any of the phones on our site and get advice from managers and place an application verbally.

Equipment Joma

Equipment Joma is becoming more and more popular among athletes. The Joma uniform at various times was official at such clubs as: Valencia, Seville, Watford, Carpathians and many others. You have a great opportunity to buy Joma sportswear on our website. In addition to the football uniform, we recommend paying attention to such popular brand products as: winter jackets Joma and demi-season jackets Joma in various models: from shortened for spring-autumn to warming in the coldest weather; Joma tracksuits are also offered in a variety of options and will delight not only in quality, but also in colors; Joma thermal underwear is an irreplaceable item for everyone who leads an active lifestyle.And also: Joma windbreakers; Joma sweatshirts ; Joma sweatshirts; Joma pants; Joma polo shirt; Joma leggings .

Shoes Joma

Among sports shoes of different brands, Joma takes its rightful place and is one of the best-selling. The Joma sneaker is a great choice for both sports – the Running Speeds model, as well as for everyday wear – a good option for light and stylish C.TORNADO.

Of special note are the Joma football shoes: the Joma multi-studs (centipedes), the Joma gym shoes (futsals) and the Joma Joma boots, , which are increasingly popular with football players around the world. Here the top model is Top Flex , made of genuine leather. The new Joma Top Flex collection, which was released recently, is made using the latest developments. Taking into account taste preferences, it is presented in both trendy and classic colors.

Joma Accessories

The choice of Spanish brand goods is very large, the assortment and quality can pleasantly surprise even the most demanding customer.

Among other things, there are also soccer balls . You can choose from both budget ball options and balls suitable for the highest level games under the auspices of FIFA (with the FIFA Approved mark).

Among such popular goods as sports bags , Joma Estadio backpacks, which are very versatile and suitable not only for sports, but also become an indispensable companion for study, work, and recreation, are of the greatest interest among buyers.

Football kit Joma

Football kit Joma in Ukraine 10 years ago was little-known and difficult to obtain. What now? Everything turned upside down. After the national team of Ukraine appeared in Joma, everyone immediately dressed in the Spanish manufacturer. According to experts, this brand occupied 90% of the football uniform market. The highest, first and second leagues of the Ukrainian Football, Futsal Championship are dressed in Joma. You can buy the Joma form in the SOCCER-SHOP online store in Kiev and with delivery throughout Ukraine.The selection of Joma products is very wide. The collections are very diverse and the desire to buy the Joma uniform will increase even more. The numbers and logos look great and decorate it. Let’s try to understand the different models of the Joma form to make the right choice.

Joma Emotion soccer jersey. Ref: 100402. Excellent durable seams that will not chafe when playing football. How is this form remembered? Well, at least the fact that the Romanian national team was equipped with this model. There are not many colors to choose from.Adult size chart only. Technology is all there.

Joma Essential Football Kit. Item number: 101105. In the design, a stripe of a color different from the main shape is visible on the side of the shoulders. A 100% interlock is used, which has proven itself in other models.

Joma Fit One soccer jersey. Article: 119998. The form was discontinued. Simple solid color design. Due to its low price, it was a success.

Joma FLAG jersey. Article: 100682. Obviously, the designer of this kit was impressed by the performance of the Croatian national team and the design of the checkered kit in different colors.Although the form was invented before the bright 2nd place of the national team at the World Championship. Round neckline. Sublimation paint application is used. DRY MX and Micro-Mesh mesh did not disappoint.

Joma Galaxy soccer jersey. Article: 100236. The design of this form is presented in the form of two multi-colored stripes in the front in the chest area. One is thinner, the other is thicker. Form in the middle price segment. The fabric breathes, but we are already used to it. Everything is stylish and level.

Joma GRADA football kit.Article: 100680. The design of the GRADA uniform is made in a retro style. Collar like a shirt. Vertical thin stripes are also visible. The technologies are standard and do not cause complaints when washing and wearing.

Joma Rival soccer jersey. Article: 100004. Simple yet popular model! How did you manage it? Relatively low price and a large selection of colors. The shape is very comfortable for any body shape. High comfort. Polyester 100%. The fabric removes moisture well and air passes easily, thereby preventing the player from overheating.

Joma Silver football shirt. Article: 100651. Everything here is already very fashionable and not without technology. The double collar is very interesting. Solid color fabric and elasticated insert on the inside. Coquette color drawing in silver color. The price is not high, but very worth the money.

Football kit Joma STANDARD. Article: 100159. The excellent price is immediately evident. The design is made in the form of horizontal double thin stripes. Cooling system technology. Buy and you will not regret it.It shouldn’t be too difficult to match shorts and leg warmers with this design.

Joma Tiger soccer jersey. Article: 100945. It is getting more and more interesting. Sublimation patterns are increasingly seen in the production of Joma molds. Vertical stripes, embroidered logo. Round collar. Used in polyester material. The price is not cheap, but worth your attention. This model will be produced until 2021.

Joma Toletum soccer jersey. Article: 100653. The fairly high price immediately catches the eye.Let’s figure it out. Breathable mesh side panels. Interesting intricate gate. The uniform is professional and has special fastening pockets for sensors, pins, which convey various parameters of the player. Yes, this is the 21st century!

Joma Triple soccer jersey. Article: 100282. Collar in the shape of the letter V. The T-shirt has a simple solid color. Material: polyester. The fabric is nice. Removes moisture. Ironing is better inside out. Useful for amateurs and pros.

Joma Victory football jersey.The model has already been discontinued and we are already tired of it. This model made so much noise that horror. For a great price, the customer received an original design in the form of the Joma logo on the shoulder. The material does not cause suspicion or criticism. Everything is well washed and worn. We look forward to continuing.

Joma Winner soccer jersey. Vendor code. 100946. Medium price range. In the upper part there is an insert made of material of a different color. The emblem of the team on such a design will stand out very well. Everything is done very well.The material is solid, stitched tightly. If you like it, then take it and do not hesitate.

Football kit Joma PISA 5. Article: 100439. Not many kits are presented in Joma collections. It is very convenient when you can buy a T-shirt, shorts and leggings in one set at a good price. The design has already become classic – vertical stripes in two different colors. V-neck collar. The material is the usual polyester, which is not satisfactory.

Football kit Joma 50Y.Reference: 1000964. Interesting model of the Joma shape with a V-collar with a drawstring. If the ball hits the lace itself, it will surely hurt. This is the only drawback of this form, if you can call it such. This model is already in the upper price segment.

Joma ACADEMY soccer jersey. Article number: 101097. This model name has been present in the Joma Catalog for a long time. In the chest area, a white stripe is a characteristic feature of this model. But now the form has become more modern.And Micro-Mesh technology makes it more breathable. A good choice for amateurs and professionals at a relatively good price.

Joma Campus II football kit. Article: 100417. This model does not differ in its complex design. All ingenious is simple! But Campus II has received many colors. The uniform will undoubtedly be decorated with beautiful sponsor logos, numbers, a bright team emblem. The form is very suitable for Teams, where the emphasis needs to be on the application, and not on the form itself.

Joma Champion II football kit.Article: 1196.98. A very popular form model. Uses DRY MX and Micro-Mesh technology. The cut is in the style of “slim fit”, that is, slightly tapered. Looks very stylish. The stripes on the forearm distinguish this model from others. Relatively low price.

Joma Champion III football kit. Article: 100014. A distinctive feature of the form is the side curly stripes, which are located top-bottom. Very graceful appearance. An excellent continuation of the Champion line. Large selection of T-shirt colors.

Football kit Joma CHAMPION IV. Article: DRY MX technology for moisture removal. A very well thought-out cut and a successful model make CHAMPION IV almost the most popular in its segment. A distinctive feature is the inserts of a different color in the armpits in one color with the edging of the collar. Everything is stylish and nothing more. We are waiting for the continuation from the Spanish manufacturer.

Joma Combi football jersey. Article: 100052. Everything is simple again. Doesn’t have a delightful design. Drymax gives a feeling of dryness, Cooling system – excellent ventilation.The seams are made so that they do not interfere with or chafe the skin. Cross-grain fabric is used.

Joma CREW soccer jersey. Article: 100224. Joma CREW T-shirt with short sleeves. Again drymax, cooling system, smooth seams. Joma has already accustomed us to such technologies. In the upper part of the T-shirt there is a two-tone insert that distinguishes this model from all the others. If these colors are appropriate for your Team, then generally great. It is enough to apply the numbers and the form will look beautiful even without the sponsor’s logo and coat of arms.

Football kit Joma CREW II. Article: 100611. Continuation of the CREW line. Even more stylish and memorable. It is worth noting that the entire Joma CREW II collection looks very stylish. There is a two-tone insert on the front of the chest. All technologies are the same as those of its predecessor. In our opinion, the forms are one of the most beautiful among the entire Joma line of forms.

FindSport – Children’s football school “Football MSK” conducts …

? It seems that all the halls are already on our website, but each time there are new ones) even a swimming pool:

? Vorobyovy Gory Beach Sports Center ?? https: // findsport.ru / playground / 4063
▫️4 beach volleyball courts 40×32, fenced on all sides with a net to prevent the balls from flying away.
▫️Possible transformation into football and rugby.
▫️ Tribunes for 600 seats.
▫️Changing rooms and showers.
▫️For spectators, a recreation area with ottomans has been prepared.
▫️Parking is paid.
▫️Working hours: from 07:00 to 23:00.
?Price: from 1200 rub / hour.

? Dance hall 80 sq.m. “Crown Dance” on Michurinsky Prospect ??https: //findsport.ru/playground/4061
▪️There are yoga mats, ballet barre, radio, Wi – FI.
▪️2 air conditioners are working.
▪️Changing room.
▪️Free parking.
▪️Hours of operation.
?Price: from 700 rub / hour.

? Brick hall 50 sq.m. on Kurskaya ?? https://findsport.ru/playground/4066
▫️ Suitable for dancing, yoga and other group activities.
▫️ Inventory: rugs, pillows, yoga birches, pillows, chairs, flipchart.
▫️Changing rooms, showers.
▫️Operation mode: from 07:00 to 22:30
?Price: from 500 rubles / hour.

? Swimming pool of FC “Manhattan” on Dmitrovskaya ?? https: // findsport.ru / playground / 4067
▪️6 lanes 23 m long and 2.5 m wide.
▪️Available to rent 1 or more lanes in the pool for group and individual training.
▪️Bottom markings and signs for back turns.
▪️Access to the baths: Finnish and Turkish.
▪️Own inventory for use: swimming boards and bowls.
▪️Coilers with drinking water in changing rooms.
▪️Parking is paid.
▪️Working hours: from 07:00 to 24:00.
?Price: from 2500 rub / hour.

? Football arena 35×19 “Bars” in the village of Misailovo (Residential Complex “Prigorod Lesnoe”) ?? https://findsport.ru/playground/4012
▫️Arena, 10 km from the Moscow Ring Road, with artificial grass of the latest generation. Changing rooms, showers, cafes.
▫️Inventory: shirt-fronts, whistles, chips, goalkeeper gloves, children’s gates, soccer balls.
▫️Free parking.
▫️Working hours: from 07:00 to 24:00 (rent at night by agreement).
?Price: from 4000 rub / hour.

? Dance hall 10×7 “Bars” in the village.Misailovo (Residential Complex “Prigorod Lesnoe”) ?? https://findsport.ru/playground/4069
▪️ Spacious and bright room for group and individual lessons.
▪️Inventory: rugs, skipping ropes, gymnastic mats.
▪️Changing rooms, showers, cafes, air conditioning.
▪️Free parking.
▪️Working hours: from 07:00 to 24:00 (rent at night by agreement).