Shin Pads for Kids: A Sizing & Buying Guide
Shin pads are one of those bits of kit that's easy to get wrong — too big and they slip down inside the sock, too small and they don't cover enough. Here's how to get the size right, plus eight officially licensed club shin pads at £12.99 a pair.
In this article: What age range does my child need? · How should shin pads fit? · Picks for younger players (4–8) · Picks for older players (9–14) · Looking after shin pads · FAQ
What age range does my child need?
Junior shin pads are generally split into two age bands rather than precise sizes. Kids shin pads suit players roughly aged 4–8, with a shorter length built for smaller shins. Youths shin pads suit players roughly aged 9–14, with a longer shell and slightly more coverage for bigger, faster-moving legs. If your child is right on the edge of a band, go by their height and shin length rather than age alone — a tall 8-year-old may already need the Youths size.
How should shin pads fit?
A well-fitted shin pad should cover from just below the knee down to just above the ankle, with no gaps at either end. It should sit snugly against the shin without pinching, held in place by the ankle strap rather than relying on tight socks alone to keep it from slipping. If a shin pad is sliding down mid-match, it's very likely the wrong size rather than a fault with the pad itself.
What are good shin pads for younger players (ages 4–8)?
For younger players, look for something lightweight that's easy to get in and out of before and after training, without sacrificing the impact protection that makes shin pads mandatory in the first place.
FUSE KIDS (AGES 4–8)
Arsenal Fuse Kids Shin Pads
Impact-resistant shell and foam backing, sized for younger players.
£12.99 — Shop now →
Prefer a different club? The same Fuse Kids build is available in Spurs colours too.
FUSE KIDS (AGES 4–8)
Tottenham Hotspur Fuse Kids Shin Pads
A comfortable, easy-fitting first pair of shin pads in Spurs colours.
£12.99 — Shop now →
What are good shin pads for older players (ages 9–14)?
Once a young player moves into more competitive matches, a longer Youths shin pad gives better coverage for legs that are growing fast and taking harder knocks.
FUSE YOUTHS (AGES 9–14)
Liverpool FC Fuse Youths Shin Pads
Extended coverage and a secure ankle strap for competitive matches.
£12.99 — Shop now →
The same Fuse Youths build is also available in Manchester City colours.
FUSE YOUTHS (AGES 9–14)
Manchester City Fuse Youths Shin Pads
A close, lightweight fit built for older, faster-moving players.
£12.99 — Shop now →
How do I look after shin pads between matches?
Wipe down the plastic shell after muddy matches rather than letting mud dry and crack the foam backing, and let them air dry fully before packing them back in the kit bag to avoid a musty smell. It's worth checking the fit at the start of each season, since a pair that fit perfectly last year may already be too short.
Frequently asked questions
What age are kids shin pads for?
Kids shin pads typically suit ages 4–8, and Youths shin pads suit ages 9–14. Go by height and shin length rather than age alone if your child is on the edge of a band.
How should shin pads fit?
They should cover from just below the knee to just above the ankle, sit snugly without pinching, and stay in place using the ankle strap.
How often should shin pads be replaced?
Most players need a new pair each season as they grow, or sooner if the shell has cracked or the strap has worn out.
Are these shin pads officially licensed?
Yes. Every pair in this guide is officially licensed club merchandise, sourced through Junior Ballers.
Ready to kit out your young player?
Browse the full range of officially licensed shin pads across every major club.
Free UK delivery on all orders. Officially licensed club merchandise.