Children's football, from the first training to the match

Getting a child ready for football school: the essentials

For a first licence, three things really matter. First, the shoes, chosen according to the club's pitch: moulded studs for grass, AG or FG/MG soles for artificial turf, and flat soles for indoor play. Next are shin guards, mandatory in matches just like for adults, and a breathable outfit.

For the little ones, aged three to six, opt for Velcro closures and soft shafts that can be put on without help. The jersey and shorts sets in the colours of a big club also make for training kits that children wear with pride.

Shoes, goalkeepers, teams: children's football by category

Each family has its own page. Children's football shoes are sorted by brand and sole, from the Velcro of the tiniest to the studs for U15s. Young goalkeepers find their children’s goalkeeper gloves and children’s goalkeeper gear, from padded trousers to long-sleeved jerseys. Aspiring supporters pick their club from the jerseys and kits of the teams, while the latest children's items showcase the newest models and children's promotions offer discounted products.

What size jersey for a child aged 4 to 14

Children's sizes are indicated by age or height. At adidas, for example, size 128 corresponds to a 7-8 year old around 128 cm tall, 140 for 9-10 years, 152 for 11-12 years, and 164 for 13-14 years. Other brands label their sizes with letters (XS, S, M, L), on a scale specific to juniors: a child’s M is not the same as an adult’s M.

Measure your child's height rather than relying on their age, and choose the next size up if they are between two sizes: a supporter version jersey fits slightly loose and will accommodate a year of growth.

Club and national team jerseys for young supporters

Children's jerseys feature the colours and crest of major clubs, from Real Madrid to Bayern Munich, Arsenal to Liverpool, including OM, Juventus, and the two Manchester clubs, as well as those of national teams like Spain, Italy, or Argentina. Home, away, or third, they are available in supporter versions, with a comfortable fit and breathable fabric, along with long-sleeve options for winter.

The sets combine a jersey and shorts, sometimes with socks, for a complete outfit. Adding a name and number, whether the child's or their idol's, personalizes the gift.

Back to school, Christmas, sales: equipping children at the right time

The Black Friday and the end-of-year holidays concentrate football gifts, with player-printed jerseys at the top. Winter sales allow for replacing shoes that have become too small during the year, the French Days for kids mark the spring, and the summer sales prepare for the back-to-school season, when training resumes and new licences arrive. Don’t forget about children’s promotions and clearance sales, which are very helpful when feet grow quickly.

Young goalkeepers: gloves in the right size and protected gear

A child taking their place in goal needs goalkeeper gloves that fit: too large and they won’t grip the ball; too small and they’re tight and tiresome on the fingers. Junior sizes generally range from 4 to 7, to be selected according to the width of the hand measured at the palm, and models with finger protection safeguard still fragile joints.

For dives on artificial turf or hard ground, a padded trouser at the hips and knees and a long-sleeved jersey with elbow pads prevent burns and bruises.

Frequently asked questions

What does a 5-year-old need to start playing football?

A pair of Velcro shoes suited to the club's pitch, shin guards of the right size, a light outfit, and a water bottle are sufficient. Clubs often provide the match jersey, but a set in their favourite team’s colours really motivates the younger ones.

How to wash a printed football jersey?

Turn it inside out, wash it in cold water or at a low temperature without softener, and let it dry flat, away from the tumble dryer. The printing does not tolerate heat well: never iron directly on it.

What’s the difference between a set and a jersey alone?

The set includes the club jersey and shorts, sometimes socks, in the same size and design. It’s the easiest way to get a complete outfit for little ones; the jersey alone is suitable for children who pair it with shorts already purchased.

At what age should they switch to screw-in studs?

Not before adolescence, and only if the child plays on thick natural grass. Moulded studs and FG/MG soles are more than sufficient for young players, and some categories ban screw-ins: check with the club before investing.

How can I tell if their football shoes are too small?

Push on the toe of the shoe with the child standing: there should be about a centimetre between the big toe and the front. If they complain of sore nails or redness, or if the heel does not fit without forcing, it’s time to go up a size.