Soccer has a short required gear list. Here is what to buy and where to spend carefully.
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Cleats: buy these in person if possible, or at minimum know the brand sizing before ordering online. Soccer cleats fit narrower than sneakers. Molded rubber cleats work on most surfaces and are required at youth rec levels.
Turf shoes (flat rubber nubs) work on artificial turf. Metal studs are for older players on natural grass and are not appropriate for youth leagues. Budget $30-$80 for rec, $80-$180 if your kid is in a club program and training multiple times per week.
Shin guards: required and inspected by referees before games. They need to be worn inside the socks, not over them. Ankle guard shin guards (the ones with ankle straps) are easier for younger kids to keep in place.
Slip-in shin guards are lighter and preferred by older players. Used is fine. Buy a size that covers from just below the knee to just above the ankle.
Soccer socks: they need to cover the shin guards completely. Most leagues include a pair with the team kit. Buy a backup pair in a neutral color so you are not scrambling on game day when the team socks go missing.
Ball: your kid needs a training ball at home. Size 3 for under age 8, size 4 for ages 8-12, size 5 for ages 12 and up.
A $15-$25 ball is fine for training. You do not need a match ball for backyard practice.
Goalkeeper-specific gear: if your kid plays goalkeeper, add gloves ($30-$80) and padded goalkeeper pants for training sessions that involve a lot of diving work.
What to skip: expensive branded training gear, personalized ball bags, and premium ankle socks with special compression features. None of it changes performance at the youth level. Save the money for tournament fees if you move to club socce