Why Wear Football Equipment?
Quality, well-maintained football equipment that fits properly keeps players ready for practice and game day. The football side of the sporting goods range brings together gear built around the game, for you or your children. No matter your position, or your standing as a super fan, the right gear gets you ready for football season.
What Can You Find in Football Gear?
Football cleats, football gloves, football helmets and protective gear form the core of the selection. Beyond cleats and a helmet, these items round out the kit for the sidelines, practice and game day:
- Shoulder pads: Sit under the jersey and add padding over the shoulders.
- Mouthguards: Cover the teeth during contact and are part of the basic gear for contact play.
- Receiver and lineman gloves: Receiver gloves use tacky palms to help with grip on the ball, while lineman gloves add thicker padding over the hands.
- Arm and leg sleeves: Add compression and a layer of coverage between the skin and the turf.
- Polycarbonate visor (eye shield): Covers the eyes and cuts glare; check your league's rules on clear and tinted visors before game day.
- Padded uniforms and girdles: Add padding over the hips, thighs and legs.
Footballs and practice goals round out your supplies for the season. Spectators are covered too: if you are cheering on a flag footballer or a high school superstar, the range also includes fan gear such as a replica jersey, plus stadium seating.
How to Pick the Right Football Kit
A few decisions narrow down what you need before the first practice, and players who also suit up in soccer gear or baseball gear should plan a separate pair of cleats for each sport, since each one builds its cleats for different moves.
- Position: Let your role set the extras. Players who handle the ball lean toward grip and light coverage, while players in the trenches lean toward more padding.
- Field surface: Look at what sits under the shoe. On natural grass, a molded cleat plate with studs built into a stiff outsole lets the foot dig in for grip.
- Condition: Check pads, straps and the helmet shell before every season, and follow each manufacturer's care and replacement guidance.
How Should Football Equipment Like a Helmet Fit?
Fit is the first job of every piece of football equipment. Pads that are too loose shift during contact, and pieces that are too tight restrict movement, so try everything on before the season starts and follow the manufacturer's fitting instructions for each helmet and pad. Store staff can help with fitting cleats, gloves, helmets and protective gear.
A properly fitting helmet matters most, whether it is for yourself or your budding NFL star. Keep these points in mind:
- Measure first: Measure the athlete's head circumference, then compare it with the size chart for the exact helmet model.
- Follow the fitting guide: Use the manufacturer's fitting instructions for that model, including where the helmet should sit and how to fasten the chin strap.
- Ask a trained fitter: A coach or trained equipment fitter can check the fit before the season starts.
No helmet removes the risk of injury, so recheck the fit during the season and follow the manufacturer's inspection and replacement guidance.
Key Terms for Football Gear
- Girdle - Compression shorts with pockets that hold hip, thigh and tailbone pads in place under football pants.
- Polycarbonate visor (eye shield) - A clear or tinted shield that clips to the facemask to cover the eyes and cut glare.
- Molded cleat plate - A stiff outsole with studs built in, so the foot can dig into grass for grip.
- Replica jersey - The fan version of a team jersey, with the same colors, logos and design as the one players wear.
Football Member Benefits
Members also enjoy Free Shipping for Members, Free 60 Day Returns, and rewards that stack up fast. Earn $10 for every $200 spent, plus 15% off for new rewards members.
Football Equipment FAQs
How Does a Football Cleat Differ From a Soccer Cleat?
A football cleat is built for acceleration, lateral cuts and contact, and many add a toe stud at the front of the sole. A soccer cleat leaves that stud off, since many soccer leagues do not allow it.
What Does a Tackle Football Player Need to Wear?
Tackle football calls for a helmet, shoulder pads, a mouthguard, pants with pads and cleats. Gloves depend on the position, and each league sets its own equipment rules, so check the list before the first practice.
How Do You Put On Football Equipment?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for each piece. Players usually start with a compression layer and padded pants, then put on shoulder pads under the jersey, and finish with the helmet, mouthguard and gloves.
Do Football Helmets and Pads Fit True to Size?
Sizing can vary from one model to the next, so check the Hibbett size chart before you order. For helmets and pads, measure the athlete and use the manufacturer's size chart for the exact model.
How Do You Clean Football Gear?
Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush, then wipe the gear with a cloth dipped in warm water and mild soap. Remove laces and insoles from cleats first, and let everything air dry away from direct heat.
