Sport & Fitness

Soccer

4 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of soccer — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Soccer gifts usually go to kids and teens who already play, whether that's in a house league, on a school team or at the park after dinner. The gear that gets used most is simple: a good soccer ball that's the right size, and a small backyard goal so practice doesn't need a trip to the field. Shin guards and goalkeeper gloves make sense once you know the player's position and league. Think about where and how often they play. A gift that fits their age and how they actually play gets used all year, not just at Christmas.

Kind 1 of 4

A soccer ball in the right size

A ball is the easiest soccer gift, and it gets used the most. Size matters more than most people expect. Size 3 suits young kids, size 4 is common for roughly ages 8 to 12, and size 5 is the standard for teens and adults. Check which size their league uses before you buy. Think about the surface too. Grass, turf, pavement and gym floors all wear a ball differently, so choose one made for where it will be kicked most. The adidas Trionda Training ball comes in sizes 3, 4 and 5, so it works across age groups.

  • Representative kids passing a soccer ball on a frosty backyard lawn with a house behind them

    Curated pick$25–$50

    adidas Trionda Training ball

    The durable training version of the 2026 World Cup ball, in sizes 3 to 5 for kids through adults.

  • Representative photo-style image of durable outdoor soccer ball — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Durable outdoor soccer ball

    A classic gift for any player, this ball is perfect for practice sessions and casual games on various surfaces.

Kind 2 of 4

Backyard and portable goals

A goal turns kicking a ball around into real practice. Pop-up and folding goals suit kids who want to shoot in the backyard, at the park or at the cottage. Measure the space first, and remember a goal that's too big for the yard ends up in the garage. Look at how quickly it sets up and folds away, whether it can be pegged down on grass, and how well the net and frame hold up in the weather. A set of agility cones pairs well with a goal for simple drills.

  • Representative photo-style image of compact portable soccer goal — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Compact portable soccer goal

    Perfect for backyard practice or impromptu games, this goal offers easy setup and breakdown for convenience.

  • Representative photo-style image of agility training cones set — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually under $15

    Agility training cones set

    Versatile markers for setting up drills, improving footwork, and enhancing speed and agility on the field.

Kind 3 of 4

Shin guards that fit

Most organized leagues require shin guards for games and practices, so they're a practical gift for any player on a team. Kids outgrow them often, which makes a new pair a welcome gift each season. Sizing usually goes by height, so check the player's height against the size chart. Decide between slip-in guards worn under the socks and styles with ankle coverage or straps, which younger players often find easier to put on. Ask whether the player has a preference, since some find certain styles more comfortable.

  • Representative photo-style image of soccer shin guards — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Soccer shin guards

    Essential safety gear, these guards offer crucial protection against impacts during intense play and tackles.

Kind 4 of 4

Gear for the goalkeeper

Goalkeepers need their own gear, and gloves matter most. This is a good gift for a player who has settled into the position or keeps volunteering for it. Glove sizing depends on hand size, so check the size chart or compare with the pair they have now. Look at the grip surface, how the wrist closure fits, and whether the gloves are meant for grass, turf or indoor play. Keepers go through gloves quickly, so a fresh pair is rarely wasted.

  • Representative photo-style image of padded goalkeeper gloves — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Padded goalkeeper gloves

    Specifically designed for shot-stopping, these gloves provide superior grip and cushioning for goalkeepers.

How to choose soccer as a gift

  • Confirm the player's age and league before buying a ball, since the wrong size is the most common soccer gift mistake.
  • Ask a parent or coach what gear the team requires so the gift fills a real gap.
  • Match the gear to where they play: grass, turf, pavement or indoor floors each call for different choices.
  • For kids who are still growing, choose gear that adjusts or is easy to replace next season.
  • Measure the yard before buying a goal so it fits the space and gets set up often.

Usually safe to skip

  • Full-size goals for small yards usually take up too much space and rarely get set up.
  • Novelty or decorative balls often don't bounce or wear like a real ball, so they end up on a shelf.
  • Goalkeeper gear for a player who doesn't play in net tends to go unused.

Questions people ask about soccer

What size soccer ball should I buy for my child?
Size 3 suits young children, size 4 is common for roughly ages 8 to 12, and size 5 is standard for teens and adults. Leagues set their own rules, so check with the coach or the league website to be sure.
Are shin guards a good gift for a kid who plays soccer?
Yes, especially for players on a team, since most leagues require them. Kids outgrow them regularly, so a new pair sized to their current height is useful. Ask whether they prefer slip-in guards or a style with ankle straps.
What is a good soccer gift for a teenager?
A quality size 5 ball, a portable goal for extra practice, or new goalkeeper gloves if they play in net all make practical gifts. Pick gear that matches how and where they play most often.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All soccer picks

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