5 Common Shin Pad Mistakes Players Make — And How to Fix Them

5 Common Shin Pad Mistakes Players Make — And How to Fix Them

Alright, let’s be honest — shin pads aren’t exactly the flashiest bit of kit in football. They don’t score goals, they don’t make highlight reels, and they definitely don’t get the glory. But here’s the thing: get them wrong, and you’ll feel it — quite literally. From rubbing against your leg to slipping down mid-match, a bad shin pad setup can throw off your whole game.

1. Wearing the Wrong Size

You’d think it’s simple, right? Small legs, small pads. Big legs, big pads. But so many players — even experienced ones — get this wrong. Too small, and your shins aren’t protected properly; too big, and you’ll be running like you’ve got cardboard strapped to your legs.

Fix it:
Always measure your shin from just below the knee to just above the ankle. Your pads should cover that space snugly, without digging in. And don’t forget, every brand sizes slightly differently — it’s worth checking their size guide rather than guessing. A good pair of Futeza Shin Pad Sleeves, for instance, are designed to hold pads in the right position so you’re never worrying about slippage.

2. Letting Your Pads Slide Around

You know that annoying moment when your shin pad starts creeping down mid-game? Yep — not only does it look messy, but it’s also risky. A misplaced pad won’t do much if you catch a boot to the leg.

Fix it:
This one’s all about secure placement. Traditional tape can work, but it’s a faff and leaves sticky residue everywhere. Instead, grab a quality sleeve that’s designed to hold pads firmly in place. Futeza’s compression-fit sleeves are a brilliant shout here — sleek, comfy, and they keep everything locked in without cutting off your circulation. You’ll thank yourself later.

3. Ignoring Comfort for the Sake of Style

We get it. You want to look sharp on the pitch — socks pulled high, kit crisp. But if your pads are rubbing or digging in, you’ll be thinking more about your sore shins than your next pass.

Fix it:
Don’t compromise. Comfort and style can go hand in hand (or leg in sleeve). Look for sleeves with breathable, stretchy fabric that moulds to your leg. That’s where Futeza steps in — designed to feel like a second skin, not an extra chore to wear.

4. Wearing Them Wrong (Yes, It Happens)

You’d be surprised how often players stick shin pads on the wrong leg or upside down. Not only does it feel awkward, but it also reduces protection — and can even cause bruising.

Fix it:
Most pads are shaped to fit the contours of your shin — wider at the top, narrower near the ankle. Always double-check before sliding them in. Once they’re in place, make sure your sleeve (again, something like Futeza’s fitted ones) keeps them perfectly aligned. No shifting, no guessing.

5. Not Cleaning or Maintaining Them

Here’s a grim truth — shin pads collect everything: sweat, dirt, bacteria. If your pads smell like they’ve been through a war, they probably have. And worse, that grime can cause skin irritation or rashes.

Fix it:
Give them a regular clean. Wipe the pads with a damp cloth after training and let them dry naturally. Don’t chuck them in the washing machine unless the label says so. And wash your sleeves regularly too — especially if they’re compression-style ones like Futeza’s, which hold up perfectly wash after wash.