Football Gear

At minimum, you need a helmet with a face mask, chin strap, mouthguard, shoulder pads, padded pants or a girdle, and cleats. Most players also wear rib protection and gloves, depending on position. If you’re just starting out or joining a league, ask your coach or equipment manager for a checklist - some schools or teams provide certain gear. Don’t skimp on helmet or mouthguard quality. You only get one head.

Practice gear takes more abuse - so you want durable, comfortable stuff that holds up to daily reps. Game-day gear is often lighter, more performance-focused, and sometimes even position-specific. Some players keep two sets: beat-up pads and cleats for practice, and cleaner, more dialed-in gear for game time. But if you’re on a budget, go for something that can handle both.

Some gear can definitely be reused - like pads and cleats - if they’re in good shape and fit right. But never mess around with used helmets. Once a helmet takes a hard hit or gets too old, it can lose its ability to protect properly. Always check the certification date and overall condition. Mouthguards should be new, no exceptions.
If you're on a budget, prioritize safety gear over extras. Coaches can often point you toward reliable second-hand options. Here at LAUX, we also offer open box and pre-owned gear. Every item in our used football gear section is inspected by people who actually know the game. We check for wear, safety, and functionality, and we’ll never sell something that’s not field-ready. It’s a solid way to save without putting safety at risk.

Don’t wait until game day. Practice in your full gear a few times before things get real. That includes your pads, helmet, cleats - everything. You want to know how it feels when you move, hit, and take contact. Adjust your straps, break in cleats on turf or grass, and make sure nothing’s rubbing or sliding. If something doesn’t feel right, deal with it early. Comfort matters when the clock’s running.

Air it out after every use. Leaving wet gear in a bag is a one-way ticket to stink and mold. Use a gear bag with ventilation if possible. Wipe down pads and helmet interiors occasionally with disinfectant wipes. Check screws and straps on your helmet every couple of weeks. And don’t toss your cleats in the washing machine - clean them with a brush and a damp cloth, then let them dry naturally.