Goalkeeper kits Uhlsport

Why Uhlsport is one of the goalkeeping specialists

Founded in 1948 in Balingen, in southern Germany, Karl Uhl's company initially made leather football boots, then soles for other brands. The turning point came in 1958, when it decided to focus solely on football. Goalkeepers then became its primary audience, to the point that the name Uhlsport remains associated with the number one position in both amateur and professional clubs. Their goalkeeper kits benefit from this experience: designed for ease of movement, protections placed where the goalkeeper touches the ground, fabrics that wick away sweat during play.

Other brands of goalkeeper kits

For a different aesthetic, Givova goalkeeper kits feature long-sleeved shirts and shorts, while Hummel kits focus on lightweight materials. All manufacturers are represented in goalkeeper kits.

Progressive, Score, Reaction, Offense: which Uhlsport kit to choose

The Progressive is the most protective kit: its junior version has padding at the elbows and hips to cushion falls on the ground, and its Smartbreathe Lite fabric remains lightweight and breathable; the adult version features a close fit that allows for great freedom of movement. The Reaction is available in a children's version, including with long sleeves, for young goalkeepers starting on hard pitches. The Score and Offense complete the range in adult and child sizes, providing a second outfit in a different colour for when the opponent wears the same shade.

Protecting elbows and hips with a padded goalkeeper kit

A goalkeeper touches the ground dozens of times per session, and it’s the elbows and hips that take the impact. On soft grass, a lightweight kit is usually sufficient; on synthetic, stabilised or frozen ground, padding prevents burns and bruises, especially for youngsters still learning to fall. If your kit doesn't have padding, wearing padded undershorts or elbow pads underneath serves the same purpose. The important thing is not to sacrifice mobility: well-placed padding should not hinder arm extension or the push-off on the non-dominant leg when diving.

Equipping a goalkeeper in Uhlsport at the right times of the year

An Uhlsport kit under the Christmas tree always makes an impression: Black Friday and the holiday season are the first occasions to give one. The winter sales allow for replacing worn kits from the autumn matches, and the French Days for goalkeeper gear heat up the spring. During the summer sales, as training resumes, check the promotions on goalkeeper equipment and the clearance section, where the Uhlsport colours being replaced are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an Uhlsport kit run small?

The Progressive has a fitted cut that follows the body: if you are between sizes or wear a base layer underneath, take the larger size. For other kits, your usual sports shirt size is fine.

From what age should you buy a Uhlsport goalkeeper kit?

As soon as the child takes to the goal, usually around six or seven years old at football school, a goalkeeper kit helps them identify with the position. Uhlsport children's kits are chosen according to their height in centimetres, with sleeves that stop at the wrist.

Can you wear an Uhlsport kit with trousers instead of shorts?

Yes, the shirt can also be worn with goalkeeper trousers, which are very useful in winter or on hard ground. Choose them in a colour close to the shirt, as Law 4 requires the goalkeeper to wear an outfit that clearly distinguishes them from other players.

How to care for the breathable fabric of an Uhlsport kit?

Wash it inside out, at thirty degrees, without fabric softener, which clogs the fibres and reduces sweat wicking. Let it air dry, as padding like prints do not handle the heat of a tumble dryer well.

Why do goalkeepers often wear bright colours?

A bright colour can be spotted quickly by defenders and referees, and it stands out from most club shirts. It's also a simple way to comply with Law 4, which requires a goalkeeper to wear a distinctive outfit from the other players.