It may seem that football players, professional or not, simply cannot physically remain uninjured after a match. But in fact it is only a question of a well-designed training plan, preparation for the game and, of course, the correct selection of protective gear that significantly reduces the risk of trauma. The specialized equipment has been improved over the years, changing materials to become stronger and lighter. Now athletes don’t need to worry about their health, also feeling much more comfortable while moving around the playing field, performing maneuvers with the ball. Sometimes NFL matches are so exciting that sports fans wonder whether to make a bet on some of the events. We recommend learning about practices of responsible gaming that are constantly updated and help you not get lost in this world. In this article we’d like to discuss how to choose equipment for the game even if you’re not experienced and give you some tips.
The helmet – Your personalised brain shell
When it comes to gear there’s no more or less important elements, but our head is most prone to injury, so you should choose with special care. Especially when you’ll understand that there’s no universal piece of equipment that fits every athlete.
Quarterbacks, for example, need to see the field and understand where to throw the ball. That’s why their helmet would have a wider visor in most cases.
Linemen, on the other hand, need a helmet that can withstand repeated collisions without giving way. It’s a bit like wearing armour on your head.
Wide receivers and defensive backs often prefer a lighter model. They need to be able to turn their head quickly to catch the ball or avoid being tackled. It’s a bit like wearing a sports version of an astronaut helmet, but without the ability to float weightlessly.
Shoulder pads – Fashion meets bricklaying
Next stop on our tour through the wondrous world of football gear is shoulder pads. It’s all about finding the right balance between looking like the Hulk and still being able to move your arms.
Linemen love their shoulder pads big and sturdy. It’s a bit like carrying an entire moving truck on your shoulders, but without the ability to take a break and drink a beer.
Running backs and linebackers go for a middle ground. They want protection, but also want to be able to move without sounding like a crackling plastic bag every time they turn their torso.
Wide receivers and defensive backs favour the minimalist approach. They prefer shoulder pads that are so discreet you’d think they were drawn on with a marker. It’s all about being aerodynamic and fast, a bit like a cheetah at full speed, but with less fur and more bruises.
Footwear – Rubber meets grass
For some fashion might be the case, but it’s only a part of the reason behind the decision which footwear fits them. The most important for the athlete is to feel comfortable while this part of equipment helps them to be on top of their game.
Linemen need long studs because of their objectives on the field. If not these boots they won’t be able to restrain the opponents or even push them forward while keeping the ball for their team.
Wide receivers and defensive backs prefer shorter studs. They want boots that allow them to accelerate and change direction faster than a politician changing his mind during an election campaign.
Quarterbacks often choose a middle ground. They need both the stability to stand firm in the pocket and the flexibility to dodge rushers. It’s a bit like dancing ballet, but with a greater risk of being tackled in the middle of a pirouette.
Gloves – Fingers become super magnets
Last but not least, we have the gloves. For some players, they’re as important as their lucky underpants.
Wide receivers and tight ends love gloves that are so sticky they could almost catch a fly in mid-air. It’s like having superpowers, but without the ability to fly or become invisible.
Linemen go for gloves with extra padding. It’s a bit like wearing boxing gloves, but without the ability to punch someone in the face (at least not legally).
Quarterbacks are often puritans when it comes to gloves. Many prefer to play without, perhaps because they’re afraid the gloves will steal some of their magic. Others opt for thin gloves that give a small boost to grip without sacrificing sensitivity. It’s a bit like wearing invisible gloves, but without looking quite so silly.
The perfect combination
Football field is unforgiving, and being safe is better than being fashionable when it comes to protecting your health, believe us. Building your gear needs to meet a perfect combination of defending your body, performing to 100% and feeling comfortable while doing both.
Always ask yourself if anything is not ok with the equipment – boots are too slippery, helmet doesn’t fit or gloves can’t land to catch the ball. If you’ll be attentive enough to what you wear the risk of injuries will decrease dramatically, while your talent will have all the possibilities to unveil. Find the best gear, have fun and reveal your hidden potential!
