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Must Have Soccer Gear for Toddlers: A Quick Guide

Chelsea’s forward line is headlined by Christopher Nkunku, the club’s highest-earning attacker at £195,000 per week. Nkunku’s injury troubles in his debut season limited his impact, but the Frenchman remains a pivotal figure for the team. Joao Felix, who joined permanently from Atletico Madrid, earns £170,000 per week. Pedro Neto, a summer signing from Wolves, takes home £160,000 weekly despite concerns over his injury record. Cole Palmer, who impressed with 33 goal contributions last season, earns £130,000 weekly. Jadon Sancho’s arrival from Manchester United sees Chelsea covering £100,000 of his wages, while Mykhailo Mudryk also earns £100,000 per week. At the lower end, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke earn £65,000 and £50,000 weekly, respectively, with 18-year-old Marc Guiu also on £50,000. Chelsea’s midfield is led financially by Enzo Fernandez, who earns £180,000 per week. Signed for a British-record fee, the Argentine is seen as a long-term leader in the heart of midfield. Moises Caicedo, another marquee signing, earns £150,000 per week, making him the second-highest earner in this department. Carney Chukwuemeka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Romeo Lavia also command significant wages, with the latter two earning £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively. Cesare Casadei, a promising talent who thrived under Enzo Maresca on loan, earns a modest £7,500 weekly. Chelsea’s back line boasts some of the highest earners at the club. Club captain Reece James leads the pack, earning a staggering £250,000 per week. His fellow full-back, Ben Chilwell, is close behind with a weekly wage of £200,000. Despite their struggles with injuries, both players are considered among the best in their positions when fully fit. Summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo earns a solid £120,000 per week, benefiting from his status as a free transfer. Levi Colwill, heralded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in England, earns £100,000 weekly after a stellar season and international appearances. On the lower end of the spectrum, Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto earn £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively, while Renato Veiga is one of the lowest earners at £25,000 weekly. Chelsea’s goalkeeping department is led by Robert Sanchez, who reclaims the starting position after Djordje Petrovic's departure. Sanchez, earning £60,000 per week, is the highest-paid goalkeeper at the club, a reflection of his role as the primary shot-stopper. Other goalkeepers include Filip Jorgensen, who earns £50,000 weekly despite limited appearances, and Marcus Bettinelli, who takes home £35,000 per week with just one senior appearance for the Blues. Youngster Lucas Bergstrom rounds out the list, earning £5,000 per week as he awaits his senior debut.

As a parent of two preschoolers, I know how exciting it is to introduce your toddlers to soccer. Watching their faces light up as they kick a ball around for the first time is priceless.

However, ensuring they have the right equipment can make a world of difference in their experience.

Be it your little one is joining a toddler soccer league or just wants to have some fun in the backyard, the right gear will elevate your child’s enjoyment and comfort.

The following section provides an overview of essential soccer gear for toddlers and their recommended specifications in detail.

Contents
  1. Why Does Soccer Gear Matter for Toddlers?

Why Does Soccer Gear Matter for Toddlers?

Chelsea’s forward line is headlined by Christopher Nkunku, the club’s highest-earning attacker at £195,000 per week. Nkunku’s injury troubles in his debut season limited his impact, but the Frenchman remains a pivotal figure for the team. Joao Felix, who joined permanently from Atletico Madrid, earns £170,000 per week. Pedro Neto, a summer signing from Wolves, takes home £160,000 weekly despite concerns over his injury record. Cole Palmer, who impressed with 33 goal contributions last season, earns £130,000 weekly. Jadon Sancho’s arrival from Manchester United sees Chelsea covering £100,000 of his wages, while Mykhailo Mudryk also earns £100,000 per week. At the lower end, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke earn £65,000 and £50,000 weekly, respectively, with 18-year-old Marc Guiu also on £50,000. Chelsea’s midfield is led financially by Enzo Fernandez, who earns £180,000 per week. Signed for a British-record fee, the Argentine is seen as a long-term leader in the heart of midfield. Moises Caicedo, another marquee signing, earns £150,000 per week, making him the second-highest earner in this department. Carney Chukwuemeka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Romeo Lavia also command significant wages, with the latter two earning £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively. Cesare Casadei, a promising talent who thrived under Enzo Maresca on loan, earns a modest £7,500 weekly. Chelsea’s back line boasts some of the highest earners at the club. Club captain Reece James leads the pack, earning a staggering £250,000 per week. His fellow full-back, Ben Chilwell, is close behind with a weekly wage of £200,000. Despite their struggles with injuries, both players are considered among the best in their positions when fully fit. Summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo earns a solid £120,000 per week, benefiting from his status as a free transfer. Levi Colwill, heralded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in England, earns £100,000 weekly after a stellar season and international appearances. On the lower end of the spectrum, Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto earn £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively, while Renato Veiga is one of the lowest earners at £25,000 weekly. Chelsea’s goalkeeping department is led by Robert Sanchez, who reclaims the starting position after Djordje Petrovic's departure. Sanchez, earning £60,000 per week, is the highest-paid goalkeeper at the club, a reflection of his role as the primary shot-stopper. Other goalkeepers include Filip Jorgensen, who earns £50,000 weekly despite limited appearances, and Marcus Bettinelli, who takes home £35,000 per week with just one senior appearance for the Blues. Youngster Lucas Bergstrom rounds out the list, earning £5,000 per week as he awaits his senior debut.

Soccer is one of the most accessible sports. It requires very minimal gear to get started, yet having the right gear makes a big difference for toddlers in ensuring their safety, confidence, and enjoyment of the game.

Not necessarily expensive gear, but just age-appropriate, quality gear to fit the bill.

With that in mind, let’s look into details of the gears toddlers need to get started with soccer.

SEE ALSO | 10 Vital Soccer Skills for Kids With Basic Drills

Must-Have Soccer Gear for Toddlers

1. Toddler Soccer Jersey

Chelsea’s forward line is headlined by Christopher Nkunku, the club’s highest-earning attacker at £195,000 per week. Nkunku’s injury troubles in his debut season limited his impact, but the Frenchman remains a pivotal figure for the team. Joao Felix, who joined permanently from Atletico Madrid, earns £170,000 per week. Pedro Neto, a summer signing from Wolves, takes home £160,000 weekly despite concerns over his injury record. Cole Palmer, who impressed with 33 goal contributions last season, earns £130,000 weekly. Jadon Sancho’s arrival from Manchester United sees Chelsea covering £100,000 of his wages, while Mykhailo Mudryk also earns £100,000 per week. At the lower end, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke earn £65,000 and £50,000 weekly, respectively, with 18-year-old Marc Guiu also on £50,000. Chelsea’s midfield is led financially by Enzo Fernandez, who earns £180,000 per week. Signed for a British-record fee, the Argentine is seen as a long-term leader in the heart of midfield. Moises Caicedo, another marquee signing, earns £150,000 per week, making him the second-highest earner in this department. Carney Chukwuemeka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Romeo Lavia also command significant wages, with the latter two earning £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively. Cesare Casadei, a promising talent who thrived under Enzo Maresca on loan, earns a modest £7,500 weekly. Chelsea’s back line boasts some of the highest earners at the club. Club captain Reece James leads the pack, earning a staggering £250,000 per week. His fellow full-back, Ben Chilwell, is close behind with a weekly wage of £200,000. Despite their struggles with injuries, both players are considered among the best in their positions when fully fit. Summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo earns a solid £120,000 per week, benefiting from his status as a free transfer. Levi Colwill, heralded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in England, earns £100,000 weekly after a stellar season and international appearances. On the lower end of the spectrum, Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto earn £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively, while Renato Veiga is one of the lowest earners at £25,000 weekly. Chelsea’s goalkeeping department is led by Robert Sanchez, who reclaims the starting position after Djordje Petrovic's departure. Sanchez, earning £60,000 per week, is the highest-paid goalkeeper at the club, a reflection of his role as the primary shot-stopper. Other goalkeepers include Filip Jorgensen, who earns £50,000 weekly despite limited appearances, and Marcus Bettinelli, who takes home £35,000 per week with just one senior appearance for the Blues. Youngster Lucas Bergstrom rounds out the list, earning £5,000 per week as he awaits his senior debut.

    A soccer jersey is more than just clothing; it’s an emblem of team spirit and identity. If your toddler is part of a soccer team, their coach may provide a team jersey.

    Otherwise, you’ll need to buy one.

    What to Look For:

    • Material: Opt for breathable fabrics like polyester that wick away sweat.
    • Size: Ensure the jersey fits snugly but isn’t too tight. Toddlers grow quickly, so consider sizing up.
    • Design: Bright, playful colors that your child will love.

    Recommendations:

    Amazon has a huge selection of fun-designed toddler jerseys. Adidas and Nike are great options, but there are some budget-friendly options as well. For authenticity, read this detailed Soccer Jersey Guide.

    2. Soccer Shoes or Cleats

      Many people debate whether or not cleats are necessary for toddlers. Most of the time, toddlers do not need cleats. There are soccer shoes that can be worn that accommodate the child with the right amount of grip and comfort without the hard painful studs of cleats.

      Why No Cleats for Toddlers?

      • Cleats restrict movement on hard surfaces and uneven surfaces.
      • Toddlers usually play on grass or inside where cleats are not necessary to have on.

      Recommendations:

      • Soccer Shoes: Lightweight, flexible-sole shoes.
      • Brands to Consider: Stride Rite and Adidas offer toddler-friendly soccer shoes with excellent support.
      • Sneakers: If you’re playing casually, a good pair of sneakers will suffice.

      Pro Tip: Wait until your child is around 5 years old to introduce cleats, as their feet will be more developed.

      3. Toddler Soccer Ball

      Chelsea’s forward line is headlined by Christopher Nkunku, the club’s highest-earning attacker at £195,000 per week. Nkunku’s injury troubles in his debut season limited his impact, but the Frenchman remains a pivotal figure for the team. Joao Felix, who joined permanently from Atletico Madrid, earns £170,000 per week. Pedro Neto, a summer signing from Wolves, takes home £160,000 weekly despite concerns over his injury record. Cole Palmer, who impressed with 33 goal contributions last season, earns £130,000 weekly. Jadon Sancho’s arrival from Manchester United sees Chelsea covering £100,000 of his wages, while Mykhailo Mudryk also earns £100,000 per week. At the lower end, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke earn £65,000 and £50,000 weekly, respectively, with 18-year-old Marc Guiu also on £50,000. Chelsea’s midfield is led financially by Enzo Fernandez, who earns £180,000 per week. Signed for a British-record fee, the Argentine is seen as a long-term leader in the heart of midfield. Moises Caicedo, another marquee signing, earns £150,000 per week, making him the second-highest earner in this department. Carney Chukwuemeka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Romeo Lavia also command significant wages, with the latter two earning £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively. Cesare Casadei, a promising talent who thrived under Enzo Maresca on loan, earns a modest £7,500 weekly. Chelsea’s back line boasts some of the highest earners at the club. Club captain Reece James leads the pack, earning a staggering £250,000 per week. His fellow full-back, Ben Chilwell, is close behind with a weekly wage of £200,000. Despite their struggles with injuries, both players are considered among the best in their positions when fully fit. Summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo earns a solid £120,000 per week, benefiting from his status as a free transfer. Levi Colwill, heralded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in England, earns £100,000 weekly after a stellar season and international appearances. On the lower end of the spectrum, Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto earn £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively, while Renato Veiga is one of the lowest earners at £25,000 weekly. Chelsea’s goalkeeping department is led by Robert Sanchez, who reclaims the starting position after Djordje Petrovic's departure. Sanchez, earning £60,000 per week, is the highest-paid goalkeeper at the club, a reflection of his role as the primary shot-stopper. Other goalkeepers include Filip Jorgensen, who earns £50,000 weekly despite limited appearances, and Marcus Bettinelli, who takes home £35,000 per week with just one senior appearance for the Blues. Youngster Lucas Bergstrom rounds out the list, earning £5,000 per week as he awaits his senior debut.

        Skill development and coordination-a toddler needs a soccer ball, preferably of Size 3, specifically meant for children below the age of 8.

        The Five Soccer Ball Sizes in Detailed Chart

        Soccer BallSize:Ages:
        Size 118 – 20 inches3 and under
        Size 220 – 22 inches3 – 5 years old
        Size 323 – 24 inches5 – 8 years old
        Size 425 – 26 inches8 – 12 years old

        What to Look For:

        • Material: Lightweight, soft balls will be easy to work with.
        • Color: Brilliant colors can provide some vibrancy in making it all appealing.
        • Durability: Can stand regular playing without dislocating anytime soon.

        Recommendations:

        SEE ALSO | What Size Soccer Ball for U12 Kids?

        4. Shorts and Long Socks

          You will need shorts and long socks to complete the soccer attire. These provide comfort, especially if your toddler will be wearing shin guards.

          How to Choose Shorts:

          • Match them up with the jersey color to create a uniform look.
          • Look for elastic waistbands for ease of wear.

          Why Long Socks?

          • Long socks are necessary to wear over the shin guards to hold them in place.
          • Moisture-wicking materials will help keep your toddler’s feet dry.

          Recommendations:

          • Socks: Nike and Puma both make long socks that are very elastic and comfortable.
          • Shorts: Adidas’ toddler line includes some lightweight, quick-dry options.

          5. Shin Guards

            Shin guards are optional for toddlers, but recommended. They protect your toddler’s legs from accidental kicks and bumps, which can be painful and even injure them.

            How to Choose Shin Guards:

            • Size: Get the size based on a measurement of your toddler’s shin for proper fitting.
            • Style: Slip-in shin guards will be much easier to manage for your toddler.
            • Comfort: Find padded designs to avoid irritation.

            Recommendations:

            • Adidas Youth Shin Guards: Lightweight, with easy-adjust straps.

            Pro Tip: Allow your toddler to practice wearing the shin guards around the house before hitting the pitch so they can get comfortable with them.

            SEE ALSO | Why Is Cinderella Bad At Soccer?

            6. A Goal

              Having a soccer goal at home is just about the best way to encourage practice and play. It’s also an amazing way to bond with your child as you cheer them on or act as the goalie.

              What to Look For:

              Size: Compact, toddler-friendly goals are best suited for backyard use.

              Portability: Light, easy set-up goals will be a big plus.

              Durability: The frame and net should be able to hold up to regular use.

              Recommendations:

              • Franklin Sports Mini Goal Set: Includes small goals and a ball.
              • Pop-Up Goals: Quick to assemble and store.

              At What Age Can Toddlers Start Playing Soccer?

              Chelsea’s forward line is headlined by Christopher Nkunku, the club’s highest-earning attacker at £195,000 per week. Nkunku’s injury troubles in his debut season limited his impact, but the Frenchman remains a pivotal figure for the team. Joao Felix, who joined permanently from Atletico Madrid, earns £170,000 per week. Pedro Neto, a summer signing from Wolves, takes home £160,000 weekly despite concerns over his injury record. Cole Palmer, who impressed with 33 goal contributions last season, earns £130,000 weekly. Jadon Sancho’s arrival from Manchester United sees Chelsea covering £100,000 of his wages, while Mykhailo Mudryk also earns £100,000 per week. At the lower end, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke earn £65,000 and £50,000 weekly, respectively, with 18-year-old Marc Guiu also on £50,000. Chelsea’s midfield is led financially by Enzo Fernandez, who earns £180,000 per week. Signed for a British-record fee, the Argentine is seen as a long-term leader in the heart of midfield. Moises Caicedo, another marquee signing, earns £150,000 per week, making him the second-highest earner in this department. Carney Chukwuemeka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Romeo Lavia also command significant wages, with the latter two earning £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively. Cesare Casadei, a promising talent who thrived under Enzo Maresca on loan, earns a modest £7,500 weekly. Chelsea’s back line boasts some of the highest earners at the club. Club captain Reece James leads the pack, earning a staggering £250,000 per week. His fellow full-back, Ben Chilwell, is close behind with a weekly wage of £200,000. Despite their struggles with injuries, both players are considered among the best in their positions when fully fit. Summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo earns a solid £120,000 per week, benefiting from his status as a free transfer. Levi Colwill, heralded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in England, earns £100,000 weekly after a stellar season and international appearances. On the lower end of the spectrum, Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto earn £80,000 and £45,000 per week, respectively, while Renato Veiga is one of the lowest earners at £25,000 weekly. Chelsea’s goalkeeping department is led by Robert Sanchez, who reclaims the starting position after Djordje Petrovic's departure. Sanchez, earning £60,000 per week, is the highest-paid goalkeeper at the club, a reflection of his role as the primary shot-stopper. Other goalkeepers include Filip Jorgensen, who earns £50,000 weekly despite limited appearances, and Marcus Bettinelli, who takes home £35,000 per week with just one senior appearance for the Blues. Youngster Lucas Bergstrom rounds out the list, earning £5,000 per week as he awaits his senior debut.

              The ideal age for a toddler to be able to play soccer is from 2 years old.

              Children of this age start understanding simple instructions and like structured games. However, this is not a full game but fun and to develop coordination.

              Activities to Try:

              • Kicking the ball into a goal.
              • Simple dribbling exercises.
              • Playing “tag” with the ball.

              Advice for Parents

              • Prioritize Fun: At this stage, soccer should be enjoyable and stress-free.
              • Be Patient: Toddlers may lose interest quickly; keep sessions short and engaging.
              • Safety First: Ensure all equipment fits properly and provides adequate protection.
              • Encourage Teamwork: If your child joins a team, emphasize sharing and cooperation.
              • Stay Involved: Play alongside your child to motivate and guide them.

              SEE ALSO | How Long is a Soccer Game for 13-Year-Olds?

              The Benefits of Soccer for Toddlers

              Soccer has many physical, social, and emotional benefits when it comes to young children. Here’s why it is such a great choice:

              Physical Development

              • Coordination: Kicking, dribbling, and running enhance motor skills.
              • Strength: Develops leg muscles and overall fitness.
              • Balance: Assists toddlers in learning to control their bodies during movement.

              Social Skills

              • Teamwork: Playing together teaches cooperation and sharing.
              • Communication: Encourages interaction with peers and adults.
              • Confidence: Success on the field boosts self-esteem.

              Emotional Growth

              • Discipline: Following the rules inculcates self-discipline in them.
              • Resilience: Challenges help them to persevere.
              • Joy: Playing is the simplest yet very efficient way to enjoy time and dissipate stress.

              FAQs

              What should my 3-year-old wear to soccer?

              The items required may vary depending on the choice, but generally, you will need a uniform (consisting of a shirt, shorts, and socks), a soccer ball (preschoolers often use a smaller and lighter ball), shin guards, and cleats (although children can also wear sneakers while playing).

              What are 3 things you need for soccer?

              To begin your kid’s soccer journey, you only need three fundamental pieces of equipment: a ball, cleats, and guards. Nevertheless, it is of utmost importance to buy the appropriate gear that fits well and is suitable for them.

              At what age can toddlers kick a ball?

              According to the normal developmental timeline, toddlers can make contact with a ball by lifting their feet around 15-16 months of age.

              By the time they reach 20 months, they can kick a ball forward by approximately 3 feet and will gradually enhance their ability to kick the ball without it veering off the midline by the age of 24 months

              What age is small shin guards for?

              Kids Shin Guard XS Size fits Most Kids Ages 3-5.

              Should I put my 2-year-old in soccer?

              By adhering to some basic guidelines, two-year-old kids can enjoy playing soccer while developing their motor skills.

              As soon as they are able to walk, they can have a great time and learn to handle a soccer ball.

              What age is late for soccer?

              While there is no specific age limit for playing at the highest level of the sport, if you are over your mid-20s, you only have a limited window before your performance begins to decline.

              Do kids need soccer socks?

              When kids engage in competitive soccer, they must wear soccer socks that cover their shin guards.

              This is necessary not only to comply with regulations but also to provide advantages to young soccer players.

              It is important to select the appropriate type of soccer sock and ensure that it fits correctly.

              How should shin guards fit toddlers?

              Try to find the protrusion just below your kid’s knee. The upper edge of a shin guard should be positioned approximately one inch below that bump.

              The lower edge of the shin guard should end about one to two inches above their ankle.

              How do you know if your kid is good at soccer?
              • Your child is the swiftest player on the field.
              • Possesses remarkable endurance.
              • Exhibits extraordinary speed.
              • Physically strong.
              • Excels in high-pressure situations.
              • Quick reflexes.
              • Your child consistently scores goals.
              • Your child is unbeatable on defense
              What do kids like in soccer?

              Although kicking the ball and scoring goals are basic aspects of soccer, there are other reasons why kids love sports beyond the game itself.

              Children also derive joy from wearing a new jersey, cleats and gears, close bonds with their teammates, the laughs, the memories and all of which are integral parts of the soccer experience

              Final Thoughts

              Soccer is a great sport to introduce your toddler to; it’s an excellent avenue towards physical activity, teamwork, and love for the game. An investment in proper gear will make sure your little one’s experience is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.

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