Goalkeeper Equipment Insights

How to use the senaptec strobe glasses Goalkeeper Diving Drills and Reaction Training with Senaptec Strobe Glasses. The goalkeeper diving drills and training with the Senaptec Strobe Glasses can be done in the backyard with a developing goalkeeper or used by professionals.  Each of these soccer goalie diving drills can be used as a warm exercise. Each of the goalie diving drills started off easy and built as the goalkeeper developed confidence. Serve the ball from the hands or feet depending on the level of the server and the goalkeeper. Decrease the reaction time and visual information by increasing the difficulty with the Senaptec Strobe Glasses.  Goal of the session: Increase the goalkeeper’s decision making speed. Improve the goalkeeper quickness and reflexes. Increase goalkeeper diving technique and body control. Increase and challenge the ability to concentrate.  Progression 1: Serves (Hand or feet)  Goalkeeper sits on the ground.  Drive hands, head, and body towards the ball.  Head and hands project forward to attack the ball.   Progression 2: Goalkeeper trains from the knees and speed/difficulty of service is increased. The stroboscopic level on the glasses can also be increased. Progression 3: Goalkeeper trains from the feet. Focus on clean footwork and projecting the head and hands toward the ball. The glasses will make it increasingly difficult for the goalkeeper to locate and catch the ball. Progression 4: Introduce angles as visual cue of where to drive their head and hands. The off angle shot will force the goalkeeper to make another reaction decision. The glasses will remove vital information that forces the keeper to quickly make the correct dive or handling technique. The goalkeeper should find it a lot easier to locate, track and catch the ball once the glasses are removed. We have now strengthened and improved the connection between the eyes and the brain. Using the glasses a couple of sessions per week, should result in a marked improvement in the goalkeepers technique. The Senaptec Strobe - is designed to train the connections between an athlete and goalkeeper's eyes, brain, and body. Using liquid crystal technology, the lenses flicker between clear and opaque, removing visual information and forcing the individual to process more efficiently. The Senaptec Strobe can be integrated into goalkeeper catching or reaction training to improve their efficiency and performance. The Strobe glasses will help a soccer goalie concentrate and catch more as well as save more shots.    

The Goalkeeper Show: Best Finger Protection Technology and Why Goalies Should Use It Before we can dive into the best finger protection glove options, it’s important to understand why finger protection should be used, especially in youth and developing goalkeepers. When goalkeepers are developing strength or technique, it is very important to consider using finger spines for the added protection. Youth or developing goalkeepers don’t have the hand strength or the proper technique yet, therefore mistakes in their game could lead to injury, especially when playing against stronger and more talented players. Finger protection gloves are the perfect option for new goalkeepers as they learn the game. They’re not only for younger goalkeepers, many older goalkeepers use finger protection as well. Goalkeepers often look for added protection when playing in an indoor setting because players are ripping shots from 5 to 10 yards away. Goalkeepers playing against advanced, strong players in a short-range setting need to set themselves up for success by avoiding finger injuries and hyperextensions.              The obvious positive in buying finger protection goalkeeper gloves is the added protection that increases injury prevention, however there are some things to keep in mind when buying finger protection gloves. In order to provide increased protection, flexibility has to give a little. The finger protection molds your hand into a preset position, which can feel different and uncomfortable to goalkeepers that are used to the fit and flexibility of non-finger protection gloves. With the lack of flexibility, goalkeepers may find that it is more difficult to catch the ball based on the preset position shaping the hand. Additionally, the lack of flexibility affects impact absorption. Finger protection stops your fingers from giving in to the ball when absorbing the shot. The spines in each finger prevent the backward movement that absorbs the impact. With this in mind, it is important to make sure developing goalkeepers are still focusing and concentrating on the catch and the technique behind it, rather than letting the ball hit off their hand. Finger protection is meant to protect your fingers, but it shouldn’t be at the expense of other aspects of your game, like giving up more rebounds. All these notes are great to keep in mind, but at the end of the day it all comes down to preference. Some goalkeepers like the security of having less flexibility, while others don’t like the rigid structure of some of the finger protection options. All finger protection gloves fit and feel differently so it is left to the goalkeeper to decide what style and brand they like the best. Now to the good stuff. What are the top of the line finger protection goalkeeper gloves? The experts at Keeperstop have narrowed the best options down to the Uhlsport Bionik System and the Reusch Ortho-Tec System. For goalkeepers that don’t wear finger spines very often, a more flexible and comfortable finger protection glove will be preferable. The Uhlsport Bionik system offers a variety of gloves that are less rigid and more flexible, while still providing protection. These features make this system perfect for goalkeepers who don’t normally wear finger protection because it feels like a part of your hand. Specifically, the Bionik+ Absolutgrip is a favorite of the goalkeeper glove experts at Keeperstop. The Bionik+ has finger spines in all of the fingers, including the thumb! The finger spines are set up in a 1-piece finger spine system with 4 spines across the backhand. This design disperses the energy of the shot across the backhand, reducing the chance of injury. Of course, this glove is much more flexible and forgiving than other finger protection options, so again it all depends on the preference of the goalkeeper.  Keeperstop experts also love the Reusch Ortho-Tec System. This system is offered in higher end gloves, allowing for the finger spines to be removed from the glove if necessary. These finger spines are much more rigid and structured than other glove options, like the Uhlsport system. Right out of the package the spines are very rigid, however they can be broken after a couple of sessions. Although the Reusch system is a more rigid option, the finger protection still shapes well, making it feel like a part of the goalkeeper’s hand. The latex on the backhand holds the finger protection in place so it doesn’t buckle up as you make a fist. Additionally, flex fabrics in different parts of the glove allow it to be flexible where it’s necessary. What sets the Reusch finger protection apart from other options is the dual density, 2-piece system. This allows the spines to act very similarly to the knuckles on your finger, ensuring a longer life than the less expensive 1-piece systems that provide some support, but often break.  Reusch and Uhlsport are without a doubt are the top two finger protection options, however the Reusch offers slightly more when looking at protection. The rigidity of the system just does a fantastic job of decreasing the risk of hyperextension, which is usually the main goal for young goalkeepers and their parents. But again, it all comes down to the personal preference of the goalkeeper!This article was written as part of the Goalkeeper Show from our YouTube page. You can watch that full video below!   

The Best Goalkeeper Equipment for Protection and Performance The Goalkeeper Show Episode 4 Goalkeeper Training is hard on the body due to the repetitive impact with the training ground.  Many of train and play on turf which has become better but is still terrible on the skin and your equipment.  Turf is riddled with bacteria from players sweating, spitting, bleeding on the surface; it is abrasive, and can be hot.  Have you ever watched a professional keeper train?  Their legs and arms are covered.   To reduce or eliminate bruising and abrasions here are our top goalkeeper gear suggestions.   The Must Have Soccer Goalie Equipment from Elite Sport USA, Joma Kits, Reusch Padded Pants, and Storelli Bodyshield. What and Why: Goalkeeper Compression Shorts: A goalkeeper’s hips take a beating during training and game play.  We all play on different surfaces that can be abrasive on the skin and rough on the muscles and bones. A padded compression short from Storelli or Elite Sport can reduce the amount of injury sustained during high impact dives or abrasive breakaway save situations. These compression shorts are designed to fit under your regular keeper shorts and will provide the keeper with more confidence and security in the goal.  Choose a flexible low profile padded goalkeeper compression short like the Storelli GK Slider or Impact Slider. Goalie protection is also available in female cuts and sizes for youth and women goalkeepers from Storelli Women. It’s easy to bruise a hipbone when diving over and over in training. Goalkeeper Leggings: Goalkeeper Leggings are necessity since they protect the full leg against abrasions and scraps such as with the Storelli Men's BodyShield  or Elite BaDS - Padded Compression Leggings. Padded goalkeeper leggings.  These will save your legs!  You may even burn a hole in them coming out low and hard on a breakaway. Better than your skin.    Goalkeeper Padded Pants or 3/4 Pants: Goalkeeper Pants or ¾ Pants are an exceptional option if goalkeeper leggings are not your thing…  Wear them indoors, on turf, during training.  Padded goalkeeper pants are typically less expensive an offer more durability against the abrasiveness of the turf or hard ground. On a training day that I know I am going to be hitting the ground a ton and the weather is warm I may just use a ¾ pant such as Reusch Alex 3/4 Breezer Goalkeeper Pant available in youth to adult sizes. Harder training days, on turf, indoors, or colder weather  I may use the Storelli BodyShield 3/4 Goalkeeper Legging with its best in class high end padded protection.   Goalkeeper Jersey: Long or Short Sleeve goalkeeper jerseys add an exctra layer of protection between you and the ground. The majority of keeper jerseys are made with moisture management polyester, which is a more durable fabric. This can hold up to the rigors of repetitive diving and high impact slides. The moisture management fabric keeps the goalkeeper more cool and dry than regular old polyester blend. Jerseys such as the Gladiator from Storelli Sports also feature impact absorbent military grade foam on the elbows and forearms to reduce the risk of injury too. The Joma Zamora Goalkeeper Kit includes a light weight matching shirt, short, and socks for games or training.  Other suggestions for more padded protection during training or to keep warm. Goalkeeper ¾ Undershirt is an exceptional piece to have in your goalkeeper wardrobe.  As a goalkeeper that personally uses the Storelli BodyShield 3/4 Goalkeeper Undershirt 95% the time I play except on exceptional hot days I love the functionality. It offers compression to keep the blood flowing properly in the body during use.  Padded protection with padding on the forearms, ribs, and chest for diving and the abrasive nature of turf when sliding out. IF you want to be number 1 you must train like it. Our suggestions are to keep you on the field, practicing your diving and breakaway techniques.  These are things that we have or do wear throughout the year to play and train.  If you have any questions on what goalkeeper equipment is right for you or your purchasing goalie gear for your developing youth goalkeeper call or email.   At Keeperstop.com we are all goalkeepers so know what you need to play your best and stay protected during training. Happy to help on sizing goalkeeper pants and shorts.  If you have any questions on goalkeeper equipment for your youth or advanced GK please contact us.   

How To Beat The Heat As A Goalkeeper:  What Equipment To Wear. Goalkeepers train and play hard that is a given.  During the hot summer months it is important to take precautions when training and playing.  Turf fields and hard grounds are abusive to the body in best of conditions.  Oppressive heat compounds the playing difficulties especially on turf field. Here are a few strategies to help a goalkeeper stay safe. Wear proper goalkeeper equipment.  A short sleeve goalkeeper shirt will provide more relief than a long sleeve goalie jersey. We suggest at keeperstop.com to use UV resistant and light weight sweat wicking materials to draw moisture away from the body. Synthetic materials don't retain moisture like natural fabrics do. Try not to double up with a T shirt since it will insulate the body. Many goalkeepers wear a goalkeeper protection such as a padded compression shirt to protect the body from the abrasiveness of turf and hard ground.  Select a synthetic base layer that incorporates mesh and other breathable materials.  Turf can leave unprotected goalkeepers with dangerous cuts and abrasions.  Imagine what hot turf will do to the skin. 90 + degree temperatures may be too hot for goalkeeper camps and games on turf.  Wear Storelli arm guards, leg guards, Reusch goalkeeper long socks, and compression shorts to protect high impact sensitive areas. Hydration should start the night before your training and match.  Stay away from sugary or caffeinated drinks that can aid to dehydration.  Water is you best resource. Select times of day to train or play games that are traditionally cooler.  Try scheduling games or goalkeeper training in the early morning or at night.   Call or email keeperstop.com with any questions proper soccer goalkeeper equipment for camps or summer training.

Sizing youth soccer goalie gloves can be challenging. Junior goalkeepers can be tall and slender for their age or smaller than their peers. Youth gloves from the top companies such as Adidas, Reuch, Nike, Uhlsport, Elite Sport, and more can vary in length and width as well. The video shows examples of youth goalkeepers and how we derived at the correct youth goalkeeper glove size and cut. When sizing and purchasing junior goalie gloves the following are important: Length of the hand: Measure with a tape measure or ruler the length of the hand from tip of the middle finger to the end of the palm until the first crease of the wrist.  This measurement will help approximate the correct size based on the accurate length. Measuring the width does not help with the length of the hand but does determine the correct cut. Height and Weight: The body type can help determine which cut may fit better.  A youth goalkeeper with long fingers and a narrow palm may require a more slender cut such as a negative cut or roll palm goalkeeper glove. A junior goalie that is shorter in height with a bit more meat on their bones may need a wider cut such as a flat palm and a wider easy entry closure to pull the keeper glove on and off with ease. Finger Protection: Of course parents want to protect their goalkeepers fingers.  Youth goalie gloves with finger protection is a personal choice.  It may help protect the fingers and thumb of a developing youth goalkeeper but it does add rigidity. Goalie gloves with fingersaves impact the overall comfort of the glove. Soccer gloves that are too tight may rub against the keeper’s backhand. If the soccer glove is sized too big the youth goalie may loose control of the finger stays. Goalkeeper gloves with finger protection should feel comfortable and part of the hand. The size of the glove and price of the glove lends very much in the overall comfort. Budget: There are a wide range of price goalkeeper gloves. There is a goalkeeper glove for every goalkeeper at every price point. It is important to select what is most important to you in the sizing and purchasing process. Are you looking for the best finger protection for youth goalkeepers such as with Reusch Ortho Tec or Uhlsport Finger support. Value soccer goalie glove manufacturers such as Elite Sport and The One Glove will have may size ranges from 4 to adult size 11 and sizing would need to be adjusted.  Sizes 4, 5, 6, and even 7 are considered youth sizes but they can fit larger in full size ranges. Only a glove that has junior or youth in the product title is considered a true youth option.   Additional Information and Caveats:  Goalkeeper glove manufacturers fit different than one another.  They can even fit different from year to year if they switched factories or changed designs.  To be more difficult a Reusch youth goalie glove size 7 fits different than Reusch in adult size 7.  Rounding up and adding an inch to youth gloves does not work since the resulting size will be way too big.  Soccer gloves that are too big break down quicker and are more difficult to control especially if they have finger protection. Sizing youth goalie gloves is not an exact science.  Watch the Keeperstop.com Goalie Glove Video on youth glove sizing.The examples are also listed below. Example 1: Smaller 10 year old goalkeeper. Reusch Prisma SG Finger Support Junior, Measured 5 5/8ths inches.  Some sizing guides suggest rounding up over ½ an ich.  In a size 5 this is difficult since the sizing jump is too large.  In the Reusch youth glove she still had a ¼ to ½ inch room in each of the fingers which is very manageable.  The One Glove option with its full sizing range that included junior sizing did not work since it was too big.  Great glove but did not work for out smaller goalkeeper. Example 2:  Average sized male 12 year old goalkeeper with strong hands and arms.  Youth size 6 fit better.  Youth size 5 gloves his fingers were close to the end and the glove was difficult to slide on.  In the Elite Sport I rounded down to a youth size 5 since the Coraza is youth and adult size run. Example 3:  Tall and slender youth female goalkeeper with long fingers and a more narrow palm. Length measures 6 ¾ inches.  When a length is above 6.5 inches we can start to consider the higher sizes in youth goalkeeper gloves such as junior size 7 or 8 as well as adult size 7 gloves.  A youth size 7 goalie glove fits smaller than an adult size 7. For our female goalkeeper we rounded up to 7 and added a size to junior size 8.  The Reusch youth glove in size 8 fit her appropriately with a finger nail length room at the top of the gloves. In the Elite Sport Club goalkeeper glove a size 7 fit well. Adult sizing is easier.  Round up and add a size. Sizing youth goalkeeper gloves is not as accurate and consistent.  The above examples are to help parents, coaches, and goalies during the sizing and purchasing process. Contact keeperstop.com with any goalkeeper glove sizing questions. We are happy to help.

The correct fit of a soccer goalie glove is determined by the amount of room in the finger tips, palm side, backhand, and side of the gk glove.  Is the extra room or tightness in the goalkeeper glove manageable? Does it help control the save or does it hinder it?  A finger nail length or 1/4 of an inch is optimal in the finger tips. A little more or less can also work.  A goalkeeper just does not want 3/4 of an inch or more since the goalie glove will be harder to control and wear incorrectly.  The sides of the finger should also feel manageable.  Is it too tight or does it feel like your fingers are sliding around inside the finger and finger patches. The hand and glove should feel like one and comfortable during the save. It is important not to have excess room or bunching in the palm, backhand, side, or wrist closure. If a Goalkeeper gloves has finger protection too much room can make the fingersaves feel awkward. Conversely make sure the glove is not too tight when trying to pull it on or take it off.  If a glove is too tight the goalkeeper glove could rip in the palm, in the seams, or at the wrist closure. Sizing soccer goalie gloves can be difficult since goalkeepers come in all shapes and sizes; manufacturers may have different sizing; and keeper have their own priorities.  Contact keeperstop.com in the USA regarding adidas, Reusch, Uhlsport, Elite Sport, Storelli glove size questions.

Choosing the correct cut of a goalkeeper glove is very important. The right cut helps determine the amount of room in the fingers and backhand adding to the overall comfort and control of the goalkeeper glove. Goalkeepers with wide or slender hands will require different cuts.  The basic goalie glove cuts are flat palm, roll finger, negative cut with potential hybrid variations. Flat and Roll cuts are becoming less available as the industry popularity has moved toward Hybrid and Negative cuts. Research shows this is what the Pro goalkeepers prefer.  As hybrid cuts become more popular, brands such as KPR Goalkeeping are pushing the limits to design, test and bring to market new and more innovative cuts that fit the hand as best as possible. The YouTube video below is one we produced a few years ago, so features some older style gloves but the cuts (Flat, Roll, Negative and Hybrid) are all covered:  Flat Palm: Flat palm cut for goalkeepers with a wider hand. Flat palm gloves will have stitching on the outside edges of the palm providing the widest finger pad for the save. The Backhand pattern will also have visible stitching and material. Flat palms traditionally give the widest room in the wrist closure; overall width and body of the glove; and finger tip area.  Not all Flat cuts are super wide. Reusch and Uhlsport use flat cuts as the base but add features to shape their goalie glove to be more ergonomic. A flat palm glove that fits correctly will not have extra material making the fit sloppy. Examples of a Flat Palm Glove:  Elite Sport Warrior - Youth Goalie Glove example. There are many others to choose from Here Reusch Attrakt Grip - A budget friendly option for goalkeepers of all talent levels. Reusch Attrakt Infinity Finger Support - The Infinity latex is a popular turf and indoor option for a wide range of goalkeepers.    Roll Finger:Roll finger gloves can offer more latex to ball contact based on the shape of the glove for the right goalkeeper.  In a roll finger goalkeeper glove the palm latex is stitched up at the backhand creating the roll feature.  If the whole the finger is a roll the goalie glove will have seams at the base of the middle and index finger.  No matter which way the save twists and turn the latex the goalkeeper will have latex on the ball.   Variations:West Coast Raptor Typhoon - Wrap/Negative hybrid at the top of the fingers with a flat cut at the base of the fingers.  True Roll Finger:Elite Sport Black Real - True roll cut with seam at base of middle and ring finger.   Negative Cut: This cut is ideal for goalkeepers with slender hands, or goalkeepers who prefer a tighter fitting glove. Negative Cut goalkeeper gloves are the tightest of all the cuts. The cut is characterized by having the palm and backhand seam stitched inside pulling the material closer to the hand creating a noticeably tighter feel.  If the glove is stitched correctly you will not feel the stitching on the inside.    West Coast Goalkeeping Aero Range - This glove range features a true negative cut for a snug fit and finish on the hand. No wasted space!One Glove OG1 Midnight - More and more brands are switching to true negative cuts as that is what their Pro athletes prefer, such as Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United in the EPL. This is his signature glove meeting his exacting standards.  Variations:Uhlsport Half Negative - Extremely popular negative cut that also incorporates some roll characteristics. This is the most popular cut in the Uhlsport range of goalkeeper gloves. Elite Sport Supreme - One of the most popular gloves ever sold on Keeperstop.com Reusch Evolution Negative Cuts -  Shown here on the Pure Contact Range of gloves from Reusch. More of a hybrid of multiple cuts.  Choosing the best goalkeeper glove is very subjective.  There are many decisions that go into it and the cut is very important when refining your search.  When a goalie glove fits a goalkeeper correctly it will last longer and be more comfortable.   Questions To Ask Yourself: Is my palm wide, fingers thick, with a big wrist and forearm?    Do I have long fingers and Narrow palm? Then contact keeperstop.com with any questions regarding sizing and fit on the phone at 860904.7679 or via email Paul@keeperstop.com

What To Bring To Goalkeeper Camp! Goalkeeper camps are physically challenging and mentally exhausting. A goalkeeper must wear proper equipment to maximize performance and protection.  A breakaway or diving session could have a goalie diving 100s of times which cause bruising and abrasions if not done properly.  These injuries can keep goalkeepers on the sidelines while others train. Appropriate goalkeeper gloves can survive the rigors of training as well buidl confidence while reinforcing proper goalkeeper techniques and decisions. As a goalkeeper and director of goalkeeper camps this is my list of essential, often neglected, goalkeeper gear to protect the goalkeeper from the nagging bumps and bruises that could sideline a goalkeeper during camp week. Multiple pairs of goalkeeper glovesEvery goalkeeper needs at least two pairs of gloves.  An overnight goalkeeper camp  could be 6-8 hours of training per day or 3 sessions.  That is a lot of goalkeeping; sweat and dirty; and wear and tear.  Having two pair would give the goalkeeper a back up pair as well as the ability to rotate gloves.  The goalkeeper gloves that you bring to camp don’t have high end game quality but that is choice is yours.  Gloves are perishables and will break down with every use. Choose a glove based on your playing need such as turf or increased durability and budget. A few examples: More durable Reusch range of goalkeeper gloves:   There a FEW high quality value goalie gloves options such as Elite Sport and One Glove. These brands offer excellent value for money. The Elite Sport Supreme is one of the best all round goalkeeper gloves in terms of quality and price. There are so many choices depending the goalkeeper’s size, playing surface, and budget.  Goalkeepers and parents are encouraged to email or call keeperstop.com, paul@keeperstop.com, for suggestions. Compression and Padding:A goalkeepers body will take a beating.  It is important to wear goalkeeper protection that matches the session topic and temperature. A youth goalie during a diving session may dive 100s of times on one side.  Without proper protection the repeated impact on the hips and shoulders can cause bruising and swelling.  With bruising and inflamation a goalkeeper will do anything not to hurt the injury which can reinforce bad technique or have a keeper sit out a session which costs money. For diving sessions we recommend padded compressions shorts by Storelli. Storelli Bodyshield Slider Shorts    Some training days goalkeepers don’t need or want a thicker protective hip padding. Goalkeeper may choose a ¾ goalkeeper pant or leggings for breakaway sessions when sliding on soft grass or well-padded turf.  ¾ goalkeeper pant have a low density or thinner foam in the hips and or the knees.  A Polyester or a blend of Polyester is what protects the keeper’s knees, legs, and hips from abrasions from the harsh scratchy surface.   Depending on the session or conditions goalkeeper will definitely switch between padded compression shorts and ¾ pants.  Without proper protection and covering a goalkeeper will develop scraps, raspberries, and cuts that bleed and ooze for the remainder of the week. Protective Leggings The summer camp and training months can be hot.  Goalkeepers will try to stay as comfortable and light as possible by wearing short sleeves during training.  I wear and suggest wearing leg pads or elbow sleeves during training to prevent scraps and injury caused by repeated diving or sliding.  Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after training as well as wearing loose lighter weight material will help goalkeepers manage the heat.  Suggestions to reduce swelling or bruising during particularly tough days of camp: Storelli Bodyshield Arm Guard  Storelli Bodyshield Knee Guard   Socks, Socks, and more socks.  There is nothing more uncomfortable than putting on dirty wet socks. Drying them out on a fan between sessions may help if they are wet.  Now you are wearing crusty dirty bacteria laden. Bacteria can cause and spread foot fungi.  Professional goalkeepers often pull their socks up as high as possible and over the knees to protect the side of the lower leg and knees.  Goalkeepers attending camps should do the same to prevent scraping of the leg and outside of the knee with repeated diving.  Teach your goalkeeper to do a load of wash. Send them away with quarters and detergent.  At least one wash during the week will keep the clean goalkeeper coming and stave off mildew and the horrid smell parents experience during pick up. Suggestions: Goalkeeper Socks  The additional goalkeeper gloves, padded compression shorts, ¾ goalkeeper pants, and socks will keep your goalkeeper out of the athletic trainers tent and on the field training. If you have any specific needs or questions please contact christian@keeperstop.com. We have been campers and directors of goalkeeper camps and understand what it takes to train and play hard.