In competition, even a minor detail can mean the difference between victory and defeat. For goalkeepers, this could mean being a little warmer or cooler throughout a game or being able to move more freely.
To make sure you’re as comfortable as possible between the posts, you’ll need to pick the right kit for the job. Below you’ll find some helpful information about picking out goalkeeper clothing that maximises your potential.
The Fabric Counts
Cotton is a great fabric for everyday clothing, natural and breathable. However, it can get heavy and soggy with sweat and impair your performance during a long game.
Today’s synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, are much more suited to long stints on the pitch. Polyester has moisture-absorbing qualities and won’t retain sweat, so you’ll stay dry during the entire game.
Polyester jerseys and trousers are also durable and have a reputation for being ideal athletic wear. Some people do find that 100% polyester chafes a bit, in which case a 50/50 polyester/cotton blend works like a charm.
The Jersey
Goalkeeper jerseys aren’t overly complicated, they come in long-sleeve and short-sleeve models.
The one rule of thumb you should keep in mind is about sizing. It’s often better to select a jersey that’s one size too big rather than a tight-fitting one. The extra room to move in the jersey will allow for extra mobility in the arms, which is a crucial factor.
Trousers or Shorts
Whether you want to wear shorts, trousers, or ¾ trousers is ultimately a personal preference. Each has its pros and cons.
Trousers are a little too restrictive for goalkeepers who like to feel completely free to move. Sometimes, that can be a purely psychological factor, but it’s no less important. However, a padded goalkeeper trouser offers much better full-leg protection than shorts.
A happy middle ground for many is the ¾ trouser. They offer protective knee padding, while still not covering the entire length of your leg.
Socks
Synthetic fabrics are great for the upper body, but they’re not ideal for your feet. Ideally, your socks should have a smart combination of fabrics that will help them fit perfectly and provide adequate ventilation.
You’ll also want a flat toe-seam which helps you through long stretches of play without hurting your toes.
Trusox brand socks are specially made for athletic use. Trusox uses high-performance non-slip pads placed strategically around the sock to prevent your foot from shifting inside your football boots. The added grip is a feature many players love.
Pick Clothes That Work as Hard as You Do
During a game, the last thing you want to think about is whether or not your clothes fit properly. The basic principle is to make sure that you’re comfortable in your goalkeeper clothing. And you can find the best variety and quality at Just Keepers, specialists in goalkeeping equipment.
About the Company
Just Keepers is one of the UK’s leading specialists in goalkeeper equipment and accessories. They have an excellent reputation and are a reliable choice for both beginners and elite professionals. All orders come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, next day delivery is guaranteed on all UK purchases made before 1 pm, and you even get free delivery on orders costing £20 or more.
