The Importance of Shin Guards

Reprinted with permission from The Penn State Sports Medicine Newsletter.

Soccer Shin Guards

Shin guards worn during soccer matches can reduce the force delivered by a kick to the leg by 44-77%, depending on the type of protective guard worn. A study conducted at the Institute for the Preventative Sports Medicine and reported in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine concluded that shin guards can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

The shin is the third most common area of the body injured in soccer (after the ankle and the knee). Blows to the shin commonly occur when players kick each other instead of kicking the ball. Bruises and fractures are the likely injuries resulting from being kicked in the leg.

The researchers tested 22 types of shin guards, using a pendulum striking device and crash dummies similar to those used in auto safety tests. All of the shin guards demonstrated at least a 40% reduction in the force delivered and several of them resulted in a force reduction of more than 70%. Guards made from soft materials did not necessarily reduce the applied force more than rigid devices.

The guards weighed from 2.0 to 6.5 ounces. Although heavier guards provided the greatest reduction in force delivered, some lighter guards approached them in protective ability. Lighter guards also make it easier for the player to maneuver. Look for a shin guard heavy enough to provide protection and light enough to allow for the leg movement needed to perform well in the sport.