A good shin guard is a significant investment, so you want to enjoy it for as long as possible. Yet in practice, we often see shin guards wear out far too quickly, simply because they are not properly maintained.
Fortunately, proper maintenance of your shin guard takes only a few minutes after each training session. In this article, we explain the best way to do it.
Why is maintaining your shin guard important?
During training, you sweat heavily, and that sweat soaks into the foam padding and the inside of your shin guard. If it stays there, the material will deteriorate more quickly, the foam will lose its cushioning, and—just as importantly—your shin guard will start to smell unpleasant.
With a few simple habits, you can make your shin guard last longer, keep it smelling fresh, and preserve its protective function.
Cleaning and airing your shin guard
1. Air it out immediately after training
Do not put your shin guards straight into your sports bag after training. Let them air-dry first, preferably not in direct sunlight or right next to a heater, as this can damage the material and Velcro.
2. Wipe it with a damp cloth
Wipe your shin guard regularly with a damp cloth and, if necessary, a mild soapy solution. Do not use harsh cleaning products, rubbing alcohol, or the washing machine: many shin guards cannot withstand these, and the padding may clump together.
3. Use antibacterial spray
Special sports sprays are available that neutralize odors and fight bacteria. Spray your shin guard with one after training and let it dry thoroughly before storing it.
4. Never store it while wet
Never put your shin guards in a closed bag while they are damp. This is the quickest way to develop mold and unpleasant odors. Let them dry completely first, preferably outside your sports bag.
Maintaining the Velcro and fastening
The Velcro on your shin guard will start to fray over time, causing the fastening to grip less securely. Clean the Velcro occasionally by using your fingers or an old toothbrush to remove loose fibers and hairs. This keeps the fastening tight and prevents your shin guard from slipping down while sparring.
What is the best way to store a shin guard?
- In a dry place at room temperature
- Not folded or underneath heavy items in your bag
- Not in direct sunlight, as this can dry out and harden the material
- Preferably separately from your other damp sports equipment
When should you replace your shin guard?
Even with perfect maintenance, a shin guard will not last forever. Does the foam feel hard or compressed, are there cracks in the material, or is the fastening no longer working properly? Then it is time for a new one.
