Ball
Ball size by age group.
Read guideSoccer
Soccer Gear Size Guide for Kids
Soccer sizing is often straightforward, but the right ball, shin guard, and cleat fit can make practice more comfortable and less frustrating.
BallShin GuardsCleatsGoalie Gloves
Photo: Matthew Osborn / Unsplash
Gear categories
Shin Guards
Coverage by height.
Read guideCleats
Youth cleat sizing and surface notes.
Read guideGoalie Gloves
Goalkeeper glove size chart.
Read guidePopular age-based guides
Soccer
GuideSoccer Ball Size by Age
Which soccer ball size to buy for youth players.
Starts with
U6/U8
Best use
First-size check
What you will measure
Measure in socks or the base layer your child will actually wear.
Soccer
GuideShin Guard Size by Height
How to choose youth soccer shin guards by height and coverage.
Starts with
Under 4 ft
Best use
First-size check
What you will measure
Measure in socks or the base layer your child will actually wear.
Soccer
GuideYouth Soccer Cleat Size Guide
Youth soccer cleat sizing for grass, turf, and beginner comfort.
Starts with
Natural grass
Best use
First-size check
What you will measure
Measure in socks or the base layer your child will actually wear.
Soccer
GuideGoalie Glove Size Chart
Youth soccer goalie glove sizing basics.
Starts with
Small youth
Best use
First-size check
What you will measure
Measure in socks or the base layer your child will actually wear.
Age guidance
Soccer gear by age
Use these age pages for parent-friendly checklists, likely starting points, and common mistakes.
Recommended starter gear
$adidas / Soccer ball
adidas Starlancer Club Ball
Recreational practice when parents need to choose size 3, 4, or 5 by age and league.
Why we surface this
Recreational practice when parents need to choose size 3, 4, or 5 by age and league.
Measure first
League ball size by age group and inflation range.
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$$Select / Soccer ball
Select Classic V21 Soccer Ball
Players who need a more durable practice ball after confirming league size.
Why we surface this
Players who need a more durable practice ball after confirming league size.
Measure first
League ball size by age group and inflation range.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$$$Nike / Soccer ball
Nike Academy Soccer Ball
Families comparing higher-quality touch, panels, and durability.
Why we surface this
Families comparing higher-quality touch, panels, and durability.
Measure first
League ball size by age group and inflation range.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$Nike / Shin guards
Nike Charge Kids' Soccer Shin Guards
Kids who need simple shin coverage after checking height-based guard sizing.
Why we surface this
Kids who need simple shin coverage after checking height-based guard sizing.
Measure first
Height-based guard size and strap versus sleeve preference.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$$adidas / Shin guards
adidas Tiro Match Shin Guards Kids
Players comparing sleeve and strap styles after checking height.
Why we surface this
Players comparing sleeve and strap styles after checking height.
Measure first
Height-based guard size and strap versus sleeve preference.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$$$G-Form / Shin guards
G-Form V2 Soccer Shinguard
Players who want flexible coverage and a more fitted feel.
Why we surface this
Players who want flexible coverage and a more fitted feel.
Measure first
Height-based guard size and strap versus sleeve preference.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$DREAM PAIRS / Cleats
DREAM PAIRS Youth Firm Ground Soccer Cleats
First-season players checking fit and field surface.
Why we surface this
First-season players checking fit and field surface.
Measure first
Current shoe size, sock thickness, and playing surface.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$$adidas / Cleats
adidas Predator Elite Firm Ground Soccer Cleats Kids
Players comparing common firm-ground cleats and familiar sizing.
Why we surface this
Players comparing common firm-ground cleats and familiar sizing.
Measure first
Current shoe size, sock thickness, and playing surface.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$$$Nike / Cleats
Nike Jr. Tiempo Maestro Academy FG/MG
Families comparing better materials, touch, and traction.
Why we surface this
Families comparing better materials, touch, and traction.
Measure first
Current shoe size, sock thickness, and playing surface.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
Soccer parent guides
Buying checklists and fit troubleshooting for the questions parents ask before checkout.
soccerbuying guide
What Size Soccer Ball Does My Child Need?
A clear soccer ball size guide for parents buying for practice, team play, or a first soccer season.
5 min read
Updated Jun 11, 2026
soccercomparison
Youth Soccer Cleats vs Turf Shoes
How parents should choose between soccer cleats, turf shoes, and indoor shoes for youth players.
6 min read
Updated Jun 11, 2026
soccercomparison
Soccer Ball Size by Age Chart
A quick parent chart for soccer ball sizes by age group, plus what to do when backyard practice and league play differ.
5 min read
Updated Jun 12, 2026
FAQ
What soccer ball size do most kids use?
Many younger players use size 3 or 4, while U13 and older commonly use size 5. Check your league rules.
How should shin guards fit?
They should cover the front of the shin without digging into the ankle or knee.
Related sports
Ready to narrow the size?
Choose a sport, add age and measurements, and get a beginner-safe starting recommendation.