There are a couple things we like to use to play soccer with in the backyard. Of course, a soccer ball, but also a soccer trainer for single person practice, and a soccer goal to have soccer games or multiple player practice. We’ve spent a lot of time and money finding the gear that works best, and here it is.
Soccer Trainer
My favorite soccer trainer is the PodiuMax Portable Soccer Trainer (link to Amazon). We’ve only used a couple of these in the past, but this one is by far the best for the money. It gets used mostly as a rebound net to help improve passing and scoring. It makes practice more effective when you don’t need to spend a whole bunch of time chasing the ball all over the yard.
Soccer Goal
This is not a professional level regulation size net by any means. It’s more like the size your kids will use if they play on a local team. But it’s great for a quick backyard game of soccer. I recommend the QuickPlay Qfold Backyard Soccer Goal (link to Amazon) to anyone who wants to practice or play soccer in their backyard.
We’ve used the metal frame nets before, and they worked fine while they lasted. But none were as easy to put away and pull out as this one is. The company selling these prides themselves on the fact that the soccer net and frame fold up in under 30 seconds. And it’s true, it does. We got rid of the bulky metal frame goal and freed up some space in the garage with this folding version.
Soccer Cones
Really any set of cones will work, they’re just used to mark the boundaries of the field or to set up practice drills with. When first starting out, I used old shirts or pieces of cloth as cones. Now I use these Super Z Outlet Bright Orange Round Cones because they’re cheap and easy to tote around.
Shin Guards
I don’t typically wear shin guards when we’re just practicing or performing training drills. But when playing an actual game, shin guards will help protect your legs. Some games, even local games for kids, require that you wear shin guards. I like these Vizari Malaga Soccer Shin Guards found on Amazon.
Soccer Cleats
The important thing about soccer cleats is that they feel comfortable to you while running, and that they have good traction with the field. I can’t even count how many different cleats I’ve tried over the years.
For adults I recommend these Adidas Performance Men’s Ace (link to Amazon). I have found other cleats that work just as well, or maybe even a little better than these. But for the price, these are the best cleats in my opinion.
For kids I recommend these Adidas Performance Conquisto Firm (link to Amazon). For between $20 and $35 depending on size, these are a great cleat for kids. They grow so quickly, you don’t want to be spending a fortune on new cleats every year. These are comfortable cleats and at a good price.
Soccer Ball
I’ve gone with the cheap soccer balls found in a department store plenty of times so don’t get me wrong here. They can work, especially just for practice or fun games in the backyard. But my all time favorite soccer ball is the Select Numero 10 Soccer Ball (link to Amazon).
Another very popular option is the Baden Perfection Elite Soccer Ball on Amazon. I’ve used this ball before too, and can attest to it’s value. Either of these soccer balls are very high quality and will last you a long time.
