Looking to Gear Up for Football Season. Here’s 15 Must-Have Items to Equip Yourself

Looking to Gear Up for Football Season. Here’s 15 Must-Have Items to Equip Yourself

Helmet – Protect your head with a high-quality helmet certified for gameplay. Look for extra padding and advanced materials.

Football can be an exciting yet dangerous sport if you don’t have the right protective gear. When suiting up for game day, one of the most vital pieces of equipment is a sturdy helmet to shield your head from impacts on the field. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one? Let’s explore the key factors to consider when selecting a high-performance helmet designed to keep your head safe during gameplay.

First and foremost, look for a helmet that meets the latest certification standards set by organizations like NOCSAE. This ensures rigorous testing for impacts and durability. Many of the top brands like Schutt and Riddell manufacture helmets that pass these tests with flying colors. Opt for a model made in the last 5 years or less for cutting-edge materials and designs.

In addition to meeting safety certifications, you’ll want ample padding to absorb shock. Look for thick interior padding and even specialized inserts to customize the fit and cushioning around your head. Some leading brands offer removable inserts of varying thicknesses so players can dial in the right level of comfort and protection.

The helmet shell itself should utilize advanced materials like polycarbonate alloys that are both lightweight yet extremely durable. This helps disperse energy from collisions while remaining comfortable to wear. Additional features like air vents and face mask shock absorbers further improve the protective properties and wearability.

While the outside shell protects from external impacts, newer helmet technology focuses heavily on mitigating the risks of concussions from sudden head movements or twists. For example, many brands now use flexible visors and masks to allow some movement while maintaining integrity. This “give” can decrease the likelihood of concussions that stem from the brain hitting the inside of the skull.

Some cutting-edge designs even incorporate special padding or liquid-filled bladders that provide additional anti-concussion technologies. So if you have had head injuries in the past, investing in the most advanced helmet materials and constructions can provide peace of mind.

While you can’t remove all risks given the nature of football, choosing a helmet certified for your level of play with the latest protective features can give you confidence to play hard while minimizing major injuries. Don’t cut corners on protecting your head—visit a sporting goods store and get sized up by knowledgeable staff to find the perfect helmet for comfort, visibility, and most importantly, safety on the gridiron.

Shoulder Pads – Absorb hits and add protection with adjustable, lightweight pads designed for your position.

After protecting your head, securing high-performance shoulder pads is the next step to suit up safely. The right pads absorb shock, allow movement, and prevent injuries to your shoulders, collarbone and ribs.

Look for lightweight, breathable materials that won’t weigh you down. Pre-curved ergonomic designs move naturally with your body. For adjustable protection, seek out models with removable padding and options to customize fit for your body type and preferred shoulder mobility.

Valuable features include moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and segmented padding that isolate and deflect impacts. This focused protectionsafeguards vulnerable joints and bones.

While all positions require shoulder protection, specific designs cater to different needs. More compact pads work best for agile skill players that need to shed blocks, like wide receivers and defensive backs. Linemen, however, benefit from extended padding to fend off oncoming rushers.

No matter your position, new breakthroughs in carbon fiber plates and foam construction disperse direct hits for less pain and injury risk. Pair the optimal shoulder pads with a compatible helmet and integrated girdle for complete upper body protection.

With the improvements in modern materials, shoulder pads no longer have to be bulky and restrictive. A tailored, lightweight set absorbs blows and keeps you agile to perform your best on game day.

Cleats – Choose the right cleats for your field type, whether turf, grass, or indoor surfaces. Optimize traction.

As any seasoned football veteran knows, the right cleats can give you a decided edge on game day. With optimized traction for your field surface, cleats provide the control, acceleration and stopping power to play at your highest level.

Most importantly, match your cleats to the surface. Soccer-style molded cleats with numerous small studs work best for hard, synthetic turf fields. They provide grip while still allowing smooth pivots and cuts.

For softer natural grass, cleats with detachable studs are preferable. Longer studs dig into the ground for enhanced traction. Opt for studs made of durable metals for longevity.

Indoor fields like basketball courts demand cleats with maximum grip and little to no studs. Look for rubber or turf versions to stick to smooth floors.

Today’s cleats also offer technical features for comfort and performance. Mesh uppers, lightweight synthetics and flexible midsoles provide breathable support during intense gameplay. Ankle collars and asymmetrical lacing systems lock in your foot while allowing natural motion.

Don’t sacrifice safety for flashy colors or designs. Prioritize function first with stud configurations and uppers that are comfortable and keep you performing at a high level. Break them in at practices to ensure a game-ready fit.

With the wide selection of styles and brands available today, find the right cleats dialed in for your position, playing surface and personal comfort. Your feet will thank you!

Gloves – Get a grip on passes with receiver gloves. Look for breathable, flexible options.

In a game of inches, having sure hands can make all the difference. Enter receiver gloves, which give wide outs an edge in catching quick passes, battling defensive backs, and holding onto the rock.

The palm material provides next-level grip and tackiness to snag even the most difficult balls. Sticky latex or silicone layers allow you to catch cleanly without bobbling the pass.

At the same time, breathable mesh uppers ensure airflow to your fingers to reduce sweating. Compression fits add support while maintaining flexibility and dexterity to adjust to errant throws.

Many advanced receiver gloves also include padded protection over the fingers and knuckles to take the sting out of Impact. This boosts confidence going over the middle or sacrificing your body for leaping grabs.

While once reserved for elite wide outs, receiver gloves now come in styles and sizes for any position where enhanced catching is an advantage. Running backs use them to cleanly catch screens and swing passes out of the backfield. Even quarterbacks and defensive backs employ them in cold weather games for added grip.

So whether you’re the number 1 target or just want better hands, receiver gloves give you an edge with any catch. Break them in before game time and then let the passes stick!

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Football season is right around the corner, which means it’s time to gear up! Whether you’re a player, coach, or super fan, having the right equipment is essential. Here are 15 must-have items to get you ready for game day:

Arm/Elbow Pads – Safeguard your joints from bruising and impact. Slip-on padding offers lightweight protection.

As a player, protecting your joints from impact is crucial. Arm and elbow pads are an absolute necessity to prevent bruising and injury. Look for pads with lightweight, breathable materials that won’t restrict movement. Slip-on compression sleeves are great for providing a snug fit. Opt for pads with adjustable straps to ensure a customized fit. Major brands like Nike, Under Armour and Schutt make quality pads that offer full arm coverage.

For quarterbacks, wide receivers and defensive backs, elbow pads are essential for absorbing hits and providing shock absorption when diving for catches. Look for pads with molded plastic caps to deflect impact. Linemen require extra thick pads for grip blocking and absorbing repeated contact.

As a fan in the stands, consider slip-on elbow pads for resting your arms on bleachers and railing. They’ll protect your joints and soft tissue from bruising during exciting gameplay moments.

Football Cleats – Built for traction, speed and performance on the field.

Proper footwear is a football necessity. Cleats provide traction for quick cuts, acceleration and stop-and-go movements. For skill positions like running back and wide receiver, look for lightweight cleats that emphasize speed. Nike, Adidas and Under Armour make cleats with flywire cables and mesh for a locked-down fit. Consider cleats with interchangeable studs for customizing your traction.

For linemen, look for mid-cut or high-top cleats with ankle stability. Stud placement like Nike’s Tri-star configuration offers multi-directional traction for powering off the line. A durable carbon fiber plate provides a responsive feel underfoot.

For fans, casual football shoes and sneakers are perfect for stadium wear. Brands like New Balance and Asics make turf shoes with molded cleats for grip on slick surfaces.

Shoulder Pads – Broad coverage to protect against impact from all angles.

Shoulder pads are essential gear for players that provide protection to the shoulders, chest and back. Look for a molded design that allows range of motion. Major brands utilize materials like polyethylene armor for lightweight durability.

Skill players like running backs and wide receivers need smaller, low-profile pads for speed and agility. Look for thin padding and a wide range of motion. Defensive backs require maximum mobility as well.

For linemen, larger shoulder pads with thick padding across the midsection provide back support and absorb repeated blows. Powerful neck rolls and deltoid padding protect against helmet-to-helmet collisions.

As a fan, lightweight replica jerseys with built-in shoulder pads allow you to represent your team in style and comfort.

Protective Cups – Essential protection from impact and injury.

For male players, wearing a protective cup is non-negotiable. A direct blow to the groin can cause severe injury and pain. Look for designs with compression shorts and supportive inner pouches for active movement. Brands like Shock Doctor use innovative materials like gel-lined BioFlex cups and vented padding for comfort. Consider extra protection like hip and tailbone pads for linemen absorbing repeated impact.

Mouthguards – Prevent injury and absorb impact with custom dental protection.

Mouthguards are crucial for preventing dental injuries and protecting your teeth from hard hits. Custom moldable mouthguards provide the best fit and protection. After molding it to your teeth, look for thickness around the front teeth for absorbing impact. Major brands like Under Armour provide cases for easy storage.

Make sure to consider your state’s rules – some mandate mouthguards for youth players. Clear mouthguards are great for players like quarterbacks that need to communicate clearly on the field.

As a fan, having a mouthguard handy is advised for clenching during excitement and preventing dental damage if you take an accidental elbow on crowded bleachers.

Football Socks – Moisture-wicking and supportive, sized by shoe size.

A quality pair of performance football socks can make a big difference in comfort during games. Look for socks sized numerically by shoe size for the proper ankle fit underneath your cleats. Major brands like Nike and Under Armour use moisture wicking fabrics to keep feet dry and comfortable. Added cushioning provides support and absorbent sweat pads prevent slipping.

Consider taller crew-length socks for more ankle support and protection. For fans, team logo socks are the perfect accessory whether you’re in the stands or watching at home.

Jerseys – Represent your favorite player or team with an authentic design.

Game day jerseys allow you to represent your favorite team and players. For fans, look for screen-printed or embroidered designs matching the real jerseys your team wears on the field. They make great gifts too!

For players, performance fabrics and breathable mesh panels keep you cool under pads. Quality tackle twill numbers and letters stand up to contact. Opt for a jersey in your team’s colors with your preferred number.

Eye Black – Glare reducing stripes for enhanced vision and aim.

Eye black is an iconic football accessory used by players across all positions. Adhesive black strips reduce glare from sunlight for better vision. Major brands like Under Armour offer eye black pens for simple application.

For receivers, eye black helps spot and track passes. Quarterbacks use it for accuracy and aim. Defensive backs rely on it when locating and covering receivers. As a fan, you can use eye black for vision protection on bright days and achieving that game day look.

Soft Shell Helmets – Offer lightweight protection and an authentic look.

While youth leagues require official helmets meeting safety standards, soft shell helmets are a more affordable option for recreational play and fans. These helmets have a foam lining for head protection without the bulk of hard plastic. Look for officially licensed designs matching real NFL helmets.

For pick-up games, soft shell helmets allow friends to suit up and get in on the action while providing essential protection. Fans can rep their team in comfort and safety.

Hand Gloves – Tacky palms for all-weather catching and grip.

Quality gloves allow receivers to snag catches in all weather conditions. Look for tacky rubber gripped palms to secure the ball even in rain or snow. Major brands utilize materials like silicone strips for optimal grip and catching control.

Linemen rely on grip for fending off blocks and controlling opponents. A durable synthetic leather palm withstands play after play.

For fans, gloves allow you to toss the ball around ensuring a firm grip in cold weather.

Calf Compression Sleeves – Improved circulation and recovery between games.

Calf compression sleeves have become a go-to recovery tool among football players. Wearing sleeves after games or practice helps reduce muscle fatigue, soreness and cramping. Increased blood circulation to the calves aids recovery for the next day.

Look for compression ratings between 15-30mmHg for the ideal balance of support and comfort. Major brands like Zensah utilize kinesiology tape inside sleeves to target specific muscles. For fans, compression sleeves can aid recovery after an entire day of stadium walking and cheering.

Flags and Banners – Show team spirit with stadium-sized support.

Fan accessories like giant flags and banners let you proudly display team colors. Look for super-sized designs that extend nearly 10 feet, perfect for draping off stadium railings. High quality nylon materials withstand outdoor environments.

Team banners also make great accessories for at-home game day parties. Hang them off your patio or deck to show guests who you’re rooting for!

Face Paint – Show your true colors with team logos and spirited designs.

Game day face paint lets fans proudly display their passion. Stock up on team colors and logos to paint on little kids’ cheeks. Kits include stencils for perfect logo designs every time.

For adults, opt for temporary spray paint in team colors. These airbrush kits easily layer for full face coverage. Have fellow fans paint players’ numbers on your cheeks for the full stadium effect!

Portable Chargers – Stay charged to capture every moment.

Don’t run out of battery during a close game! Portable chargers allow fans to stay powered up for taking photos and videos throughout the action. Look for slim designs that fit easily into a pocket or bag. Power banks with 10,000 mAh and up provide multiple full phone charges.

For players and coaches, having backup power keeps devices ready for reviewing plays, videos and stats when needed.

Seat Cushions – Padded comfort for bleacher sitting.

Give your backside a break with a padded seat cushion for long game days. Look for lightweight cushions with carrying straps for easy transport into the stadium. Options like Coleman’s foam cushions provide hours of comfort.

For cold weather games, look for cushions with insulated pouch backs to keep your tailgate warm. Add-ons like cup holders keep refreshments secure.

As you can see, today’s football gear helps fans and players look the part both on and off the field. With the season getting underway, stock up on these must-haves for comfort, safety and team spirit. Let’s get ready for kickoff!

Football season is back, which means it’s time to get prepared! Whether you’re a player, coach or fan, having the right gear is crucial. Here are 15 must-have items for an epic football season:

Girdle/Pads – Combine tailbone, thigh, knee, and hip pads into one girdle for streamlined padding.

For players, a protective girdle brings together all your padding into one integrated piece. Major brands like Schutt and Rawlings make girdles with pockets for interchangeable thigh, knee, hip and tailbone pads. This eliminates bulky stacking and slipping.

Look for a padded girdle belt for comfort and security. Moisture-wicking compression materials keep you cool and dry under uniforms. Lightweight yet high-impact foam absorbs blows while allowing free movement.

Skill players like receivers benefit from lightweight girdles for speed. Linemen require maximum thigh and hip pads for absorbing hits. For fans, girdle-style belts with padding alleviate tailbone pain on bleachers.

Helmet Communication – Send play calls directly to helmets for instant adjustments.

In-helmet communication gives teams a strategic edge. Wireless headsets allow coaches to relay real-time play adjustments to quarterbacks and defenders. This quick communication eliminates hand signals while letting players focus on gameplay.

Look for coach-to-player headsets with encrypted channels and noise cancellation for clarity. Brands like Motorola utilize lightweight, low profile designs that won’t obstruct vision or impede movement.

As a fan, opt for stadium scanners to listen in on your team’s play calling and audibles for next-level insight.

Custom Wall Decals – Rep your team pride with removable graphics.

Wall decals let fans proudly display team logos and colors in their game rooms. Look for officially licensed decals like Fathead that replicate pro locker room graphics. Premium materials allow for easy peel-and-stick application and residue-free removal.

For super fans, opt for mural-sized decals with players and stadiums. Decorate kids’ rooms with miniature helmet logos and team name plaques for an authentic feel.

Tailgating Flags – Celebrate your team from the parking lot to the stadium.

Tailgating flags attach to vehicles to showcase team spirit on the way to games. Look for designs that clamp onto side windows and rear hatches to wave team colors proudly. Waterproof nylon and applique logos stand up to parking lot environments.

Compact sizes around 12” x 18” allow for visibility without obstructing views. Quick-release bases make setup and take down easy. Look for flag and pole combos available for all NFL teams.

Smart Helmet Sensors – Detect and measure big hits and impact force.

Today’s smart helmet sensors give teams insight into head impacts. Internal g-force sensors measure location, magnitude and frequency of big hits. This helps coaches better monitor player health and safety.

Sensors like Reebok Checklight work for contact sports from youth leagues to the NFL. Effective impact indicators change color to signal dangerous hits.collisons Data can be downloaded and reviewed later.

For parents and fans, these sensors provide peace of mind and help make the game safer for all.

Portable Chair Seats – Compact comfort that hooks onto bleachers.

Hook-on chair seats transform rigid bleachers into cozy perches. Lightweight seats clip and hang discreetly beneath bleachers, stowing away easily when not in use. Look for designs with padded cushions and backrests for all-game comfort.

Most stadium seats fold down into an easy-to-carry size. They’re ideal for older fans needing extra support and those with back issues. Added storage pockets are great for personal items too.

Hand Warmers – Stay toasty in cold weather stadiums.

Frigid game days call for hand warmers to keep fingers and toes thawed. Look for single-use heat packs that provide up to 10 hours of warmth when activated. Pocket warmers from brands like Zippo slide conveniently into mittens and gloves.

Adhesive toe warmers stick onto socks and insoles to keep your feet feeling toasty. Because circulation is crucial, be sure to follow usage directions to prevent skin damage.

End Zone Camera Lenses – Capture the action up close, even from afar.

Take your game day photography to the next level with a high power camera lens. Telephoto lenses allow fans to zero in on sideline and end zone action from seats high up in the stands. Look for options like the Olympus 150-400mm for up to 8x magnification.

Videographers use lenses with built-in stabilization to smoothly track gameplay. Shooting sideline footage? Opt for a wide angle lens to incorporate more background and get fans in the shot.

Team Travel Bags – Organize your tailgate and game day essentials.

Stay organized on the go with a team travel bag. Durable duffel bags have large main compartments for gear and separate pockets for valuables. Look for ventilated designs like Nike’s Brasilia Training Duffel for wet/dry storage.

Wheeled bags allow you to seamlessly transport equipment, beverages and snacks from the tailgate into the stands. Telescoping handles and smooth wheels navigate grassy parking lots and stadium steps.

Touchscreen Gloves – Keep hands warm and tech accessible.

Cold hands won’t keep you from posting game pics with touchscreen gloves. Conductive fingertips allow you to use phones and tablets without exposing fingers to the chill. Look for snug fit thumbs and index fingers for precision.

Players use them to review stats and videos on sidelines without fumbling with fingers. Coaches swipe through plays with ease. Fans snap selfies without freezing their fingers off!

So get out there and have an epic football season! With the right gear, both fans and players can focus on the action and creating lasting memories.