How to Dress for Goalkeeper Training

Stay Protected, Comfortable, and Ready to Dive

Being a keeper isn’t just about the gloves — what you wear to training matters too. A bad choice can mean turf burns, blisters, soaked socks, or even avoidable injuries that sideline your progress.

Here’s what every young goalkeeper (and parent!) should know about dressing the part — from head to toe.

1. Base Layers Are Your Best Friend

Under your kit, wear fitted base layers — especially if it’s chilly or you’re training on turf.

• Long sleeves protect against turf burn and abrasion

• Compression leggings help reduce muscle fatigue and give you a layer of protection for dives

• Moisture-wicking material keeps you dry and comfortable (ditch the cotton!)

Pro tip: Brands like Nike Pro, Under Armour, or even soccer-specific gear like Storelli are great options.

2. Long Sleeves > Short Sleeves (Yes, Even in Summer)

When diving, your arms are the first to make contact. A lightweight long sleeve goalkeeper jersey:

• Helps reduce scrapes and turf rash

• Protects against sunburn

• Makes you look and feel like a proper keeper (confidence matters!)

You can always roll sleeves up for drills where diving isn’t involved.

3. Wear the Right Cleats

Cleats should match the surface:

• Firm Ground (FG) for natural grass

• Artificial Ground (AG) for turf (better shock absorption)

• Turf Trainers for older, hard turf or indoor surfaces

Avoid wearing worn-out cleats! Poor traction = higher risk of knee and ankle injuries.

🦿 4. Shin Guards — Don’t Train Without Them

Yes, even for goalkeepers. You’re still in tackles. You still take hits. Shin guards help:

• Prevent bone bruises from accidental kicks or hard landings

• Build a habit of full protection for game situations

Slide-in shin guards work great for keepers — just make sure they stay in place.

💧 5. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

What you wear won’t matter if you’re not fueling your body right. Especially in cold weather, young players forget to drink water.

• Bring a water bottle to every session

• Sip before, during, and after training

• In summer? Consider electrolyte tabs to stay balanced

6. Cold Weather = Layer Up (the Smart Way)

Winter training? Don’t overdress — layer smart.

• Thermal base layers

• Lightweight hoodie or quarter zip

• Gloves + headband/beanie for extremities

• Stay away from bulky jackets that restrict movement

The goal is warmth without sacrificing mobility.

Final Word

Your gear should protect your body, not get in its way. Proper training wear helps prevent injury, boost performance, and shows your commitment to improving. Don’t sleep on it.

💬 Not sure if your kid is training in the right gear? Bring it up at your next session — I’m always happy to help.