Goalkeeper shorts, padded or match

Padded shorts or match shorts worn over a base layer

The padded shorts come with built-in protection. The padding from Hummel protects the side of the thigh, and the Hex shorts from McDavid feature small hexagonal foam cells that move with the hip.

The other approach separates the roles: a technical base layer worn underneath, like the Goalkeeper Tights from Uhlsport made from polyamide and elastane with foam pads, and a lightweight match short on top, for example, the unpadded Bionikframe from Uhlsport. This combination is popular with goalkeepers who want a loose short for freedom of movement and a close-to-skin protection.

Goalkeeper shorts by brand and for children

To target a brand, the Uhlsport page gathers base layers and shorts from the Balingen specialist, the adidas page has goalkeeper shorts from major clubs and national teams, and the Reusch page showcases shorts from the Metzingen brand. Young goalkeepers can find their sizes among the children's goalkeeper shorts, and goalkeeper pants take over when the cold weather arrives.

Club goalkeeper shorts, in the colours of the last line of defence

Law 4 requires that the goalkeeper wears different colours from the other players and the referees. Clubs therefore design a complete goalkeeper kit, including shorts, in their home and away colours.

Thus, we find the AS Monaco goalkeeper shorts by Kappa, in both standard and Pro versions, the Olympique de Marseille shorts by Puma, or the Arsenal shorts by adidas, available in children's sizes. These shorts replicate the match cut and finishing of the official kit: a logical choice for fans who guard the goal for their amateur club and want to wear the colours of their favourite goalkeeper.

Choosing the length and size of goalkeeper shorts

The padding of a goalkeeper's shorts should cover the side of the hip, the bony protrusion that touches the ground first during a dive to the side. Shorts that are too short or too big allow the protection to ride up on the waist or slide backwards.

For children, Uhlsport, Errea with the Cayman, Kappa with its Goalkeeper, and Hummel with the Padding offer junior versions that replicate the foam placement. Choose the size based on waist and height instead of age, and ensure that any base layer worn underneath does not extend beyond the shorts.

The right time for new goalkeeper shorts

Goalkeeper shorts are often prepared for spring: the French Days of goalkeeper equipment and the summer sales are key moments. The Black Friday, the year-end holidays, and the winter sales, visible on the goalkeeper promotions page, allow for anticipation, and the resumption of training boosts demand. Clearance of end-of-line items occurs during stock clearance.

Frequently asked questions

Does the padding of a goalkeeper's shorts hinder running?

Very little with current, thinner foams placed on the side rather than in front. The independent cells from McDavid, for example, flex with the thigh instead of forming a rigid plate that would slow down the stride.

How to wash padded goalkeeper shorts?

Turn them inside out, wash at thirty degrees on a delicate cycle, without fabric softener, and air dry. The tumble dryer compresses the foams and may deform the pads.

Can you play as a goalkeeper in shorts without a base layer?

Yes, if the shorts are padded or if you're playing on soft grass. On a hard pitch or synthetic surface, match shorts alone leave the hip and thigh exposed to bruises and burns.

How to know if a padded short is suitable for a child?

Start with their waist measurement and height, then check that the foam sits correctly on the side of the hip when they are standing. Shorts that are too big will cause the protection to slide down towards the knee and lose their effectiveness.

Is a professional club goalkeeper's shorts padded?

Not necessarily: it prioritises the cut and colours of the match kit. If you want cushioning, wear a padded base layer underneath or choose a technical model with built-in protection.