The Ultimate Back-to-School Shopping List for Football and PE

It’s nearly that time of year again: the end of the school summer holidays and the beginning of a new term. But before the big return to education, it’s important to plan a back-to-school-shopping list—particularly when it comes to PE and football equipment. 

To ensure your child doesn’t have to miss out on any school-based sports action this September, this ultimate back-to-school shopping list for football and PE essentials could prove invaluable.

Grassroots Football Essentials

Whether your child plays football recreationally or for the school team, it’s a good idea to ensure they’re ready for action from day one. Here are a few must-have items to remember:

Football Kit

Quality, hard-wearing and affordable – they’re the priorities you should be looking for when searching for football and PE kit. Of course, you may not have a choice if there are uniform requirements in place. However, wherever possible, shop around online to find the best products at the best prices. Shirts, shorts and football socks should outlast a child’s need for them!

Compression Wear

Compression shirts and shorts are designed to fit snugly against the body, offering multiple performance benefits. These garments help reduce muscle fatigue by improving blood circulation, which in turn accelerates recovery after intense physical activity. Compression wear also provides support to the muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injuries. It also helps with temperature regulation by wicking away sweat – keeping the body cool and dry during exertion. 

Football Boots/Trainers

The right football boots or trainers are critical for performance and safety on the field. They must be chosen based on the playing surface –whether it's firm ground, soft ground or artificial turf. Each type of booth is designed to provide optimal traction and stability, preventing slips and enhancing a player's ability to change direction quickly. 

Always buy your child’s football boots in person. Yes, you can get an accurate foot size at home these days, but different brands deliver different fits and feels. Nothing beats slipping a foot into a boot in order to check its suitability. 

Shin Pads

Shin pads are mandatory equipment for footballers, as they provide crucial protection against potentially damaging kicks to one of the leg’s most vulnerable areas. Players can choose between slip-in shin guards, which are lighter and more flexible, or ankle-guard styles that offer additional protection for the lower leg. 

Goalkeeper Gloves

Goalkeeper gloves are essential for children who want to play in goal. And while gloves will usually be supplied a school, it never hurts to have a spare pair in your child’s kit bag.

The best gloves provide grip and padding, which are crucial for catching or deflecting the ball during play. The gloves are designed to absorb the impact of the ball, reducing the risk of injury to the hands and fingers. 

Equipment and Accessories

Yes, schools and local football clubs have most of these items. However, as times are tougher than ever for public and local organisations, it’s often a great idea to contribute with a few, carefully selected items of football equipment. Let’s start with the essentials – and they don’t get more essential than a football. 

Footballs

The size of the football you use should be appropriate for the age group and level of play. Typically, Size 3 footballs are used for players under 8 years old, Size 4 for ages 8-12, and Size 5 for ages 13 and older, including adult matches. 

The correct ball size is crucial for developing skills and ensuring safety during play. Younger players benefit from using smaller balls to enhance control and learn proper techniques, while older players use standard Size 5 balls to match competitive standards.

Football Bags

A football bag is essential for carrying gear to and from practices and games – particularly for children who tend to lose things at school regularly! When choosing a football bag, consider features like multiple compartments for organising items, durability to withstand regular use, and the appropriate size to hold essential equipment such as boots, shin pads and extra clothing. 

Some bags come with separate sections for wet and dry items, making it easier to keep gear clean and organized. Durability is very important, as the bag needs to handle heavy loads and rough handling. Kids tend to throw their kit bags down pretty violently at school, so something from a premium brand such as Mitre is a good investment.

Water Bottles

A sturdy, easy-to-carry water bottle ensures players can keep hydrated throughout physical activities. Look for bottles with a secure, leak-proof lid and a capacity that meets your hydration needs. Some water bottles come with motivational markers to encourage regular drinking, while others feature insulated designs to keep water cool during hot conditions. 

Towels

A towel is an essential accessory for any football player, useful for wiping off sweat during games and drying off after practice. Choose a towel that is absorbent and quick-drying to ensure it stays fresh between uses. Towels made from materials like microfiber are particularly good, as they are lightweight, compact, and can absorb a large amount of moisture.

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is a vital part of any football team’s equipment. It should contain basic supplies for treating minor injuries that commonly occur on the field, such as cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Essential items include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, gauze pads, and scissors. 

Yes, this kind of stuff will always be provided by schools and local clubs, but what harm can it do? After all, you never know when or where an accident might occur. Having first aid essentials close at hand could save time and a lot of stress!

PE Gear

When selecting a uniform, it's important to choose one made from comfortable and breathable materials like cotton or moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics. These materials help regulate body temperature and keep students comfortable during physical activities. 

A good pair of multi-purpose trainers or ‘sand shoes’ is essential for PE classes, as they provide the necessary support and versatility for a range of activities, from running to playing sports. Look for shoes that offer good cushioning to absorb impact and protect joints, as well as proper arch support to prevent foot strain. 

Sports socks are more than just a basic item; they play a key role in comfort and performance. Opt for socks with cushioning in key areas, like the heel and ball of the foot, to reduce impact and friction. 

Final Back-to-School Shopping Tips for Parents

You can find the perfect balance of affordability and quality when it comes to your child’s football back-to-school shopping list, but it might take time and a little effort. 

Shop Smart

When it comes to purchasing football gear, it's important to balance quality and cost. Look for deals and discounts at sports stores or online retailers, especially during sales events or half-term holidays. Prioritize quality over quantity to ensure that the gear is durable and safe.

Label Your Child’s Gear

Labeling all clothing and equipment is crucial in preventing loss, especially in environments like schools where multiple students may have similar gear. Use permanent markers, labels, or iron-on tags to clearly mark each item with the student's name. This simple step can save time and money by reducing the chances of items being misplaced or taken by mistake. 

School Policy Check

Before making any purchases, it's essential to review the school or team’s gear requirements. Some schools have specific guidelines regarding colours, brands, or styles. Ensuring that all purchased items comply with these requirements will prevent any last-minute issues or the need for costly replacements. Checking the policy also helps in making informed decisions about what is necessary versus what might be optional.

Perform Regular Gear Checks

Scheduling regular checks throughout the season is key to maintaining the condition and fit of the gear. Children, especially younger ones, may experience growth spurts that can make last season’s gear too small or uncomfortable. 

If you’ve ever sent a child to school with a uniform or a PE kit, you’ll know how easy it is for them to come back home with someone else’s stuff. Regularly check your child’s school bag to ensure there’s nothing missing and that everything in there actually belongs to your child!

Start Your Back to School Shopping for Football and PE Kits Today!

The sooner you have all your child’s football gear and equipment in the bag – quite literally – the sooner you can relax and look forward to a break from the summer holidays! Stock up on essentials today at The Soccer Store. 

It might also be a good idea to stock up on some essential football equipment as well. Portable football goals for the garden, for example, can give your child the opportunity to practice before a big school match