The main accessories for safe goal keeping in soccer games consist of helmet, gloves, elbow and knee pads, mouth, ankle and shin guards. Goalies also have apparels tailored to suit their preference.
Colorful jerseys are available for $20. Goalie shorts range from $13 to $20 depending on the brand and the material used. Padded compression shorts for both men and women are priced at around $30. Knicker pants, Long pants and Full trainer pants can also be obtained within a price range of $30 to $40.
There is tremendous choice with respect to the gloves. Sondico Pro Player made from German Latex and having Elastic with Velcro closure is probably the most reasonably priced at $10. Gloves with super soft palm foam marketed by Adidas, Lanzera Livorno and are a little over $100. For proper maintenance of the gloves, bags and gloves wash solution form an integral part of the gloves accessories.
Shin guards range from $6 to $35. The shin guards along with their accessories consisting of athletic, medical tape are important safety aids.
Footwear for the goalkeeper depends on the firmness of the ground. Nike, Adidas and Kelme Master specialize in customized footwear for hard ground. These provide maximum speed, stability and ball control. Along with these companies, footwear from Puma, Diadora and Umbro X300 cater to games on soft ground.
Goals of various sizes form the most important part of training sessions. These include futsal and indoor goals as well as lightweight and pop-up goals. 6 foot pop-up goals and the portable, adjustable, folding goals are most convenient for a game anywhere.
One of the best methods for keepers to increase the strength in their forearms and fingers is the use of hand grip gels. Originally developed for mountain climbers these are fast becoming popular among aspiring goal keepers. Not only are they great stress-busters, the soft hand grip gels are also terrific finger and hand strengtheners.
There is a wide variety of books and videos available elucidating the various strategies involved in goal keeping. Who wouldn’t want to watch a DVD of ‘202 Great Saves’ for just under $27? The breath taking maneuvers are quite possible to effect in a field game. All it takes is to meticulously follow the drills and exercises specified in the training software designed for beginners and intermediates. The Soccer GoalKeeper - a set of 3 tapes for $71 lists out a series of exercises exclusively for goal keepers to increase their fitness level as well as master the technique of goal keeping!
Written By: Dana Bradley
