10 Best Shin Pads UK 2024 | Adidas, Nike and More

While many of the shinnies in our ranking could have taken the top spot, we wanted to choose some that suited the most players while still providing protection and manoeuvrability. The Everlites by Adidas are certainly that pair, especially as the sizes on offer are made to fit anyone from 3 ft 11 all the way up to 6 foot 5.

They're also known for being super solid, which is excellent when that 15-stone labourer from the introduction comes flying in. Plus, although heavier than most, they still allow for a good range of motion and flexibility. Lastly, they're probably the best lookers on the list, which never hurts.  

The Nike Charge 2.0 will give you the confidence of complete protection every time you step out onto the football pitch. They have pull-on ankle protectors and elastic straps to make sure they remain where they're most comfortable for you, all while providing safety against reckless challenges. 

Now, unlike other ankle protectors, the outer layer of these shinnies have additional grooves. This provides a little more range of motion, which is a clever touch, especially with this particular style. Therefore, if you want the most protection with better movement, these are a solid option. 

These shin pads from Puma are pretty loud with their gold (or bright orange) and black finish. So, if you're the type of player who is brave enough to wear bright pink boots to a five-a-side, then you might have the sort of skills required to back the selection of these shinnies.

They're the sleeve type with pads that are anatomically shaped to ensure a good fit. In addition, they incorporate the sought-after inner EVA lining for additional comfort, support and protection as well.  

Under Armour has become more and more prominent in the football world over the last few years, and these shin pads are the standout in the company's range. The slip-on options here are durable and flexible, but with plenty of holes (something that you won't want in defence) for ventilation.

Furthermore, these are some of the lightest shin guards in our ranking, weighing in at just 80 g – and that's including a nice thick inner layer with 3 mm of foam. All of this makes them perfect for the speedsters. 

Not everyone has the budget or plays regularly enough to justify splashing out on some top-of-the-line shin pads. So, we dug deep and tried to find the most versatile option we could for as little money, and we happened upon these wonders. 

The strap-on design offers both robust protection and lightweight manoeuvrability making them ideal for a range of different positions. Plus, they're an absolute bargain coming in at under £5! 

Next up, we have the mighty Adidas with their first outing in the ranking. These are their Ghost Club ankle protectors, which are best suited to those who are looking to put in some crunching tackles whilst wrestling the game away from their opponents. 

The shinnies have a single strap closure at the top, as well as strapping around the ankle to ensure that they're secure and stay in place as you play. Plus, they too have an EVA inner lining for extra comfort and shock absorption. 

While we might not have heard of Saekeke in the same way we have Nike and Mitre, their shin pads do have one desirable material that ensures people should take them seriously. The inner layer is made from the ever-popular EVA, which is not only tremendously comfortable but also shock-absorbing. 

Not only that, but the outer layer is a strong polypropylene and features perforations for ventilated comfort. The 'large' size of these pads is noted as being best for heights up to 5 foot 9, so taller players may have to look elsewhere. For young adults or anyone under this though, they're a good one to consider. 

Here, we've another pair of shin guards from Mitre. This time they're of the slip-on variety, meaning they're much more lightweight and ideal for those nippy players that like to get up and down the pitch. The main appeal, though, is the striking angular design that is shaped to keep stud contact away from the skin. 

Inside the guards, you'll find contoured foam, which has a decent amount of airflow and breathability. Again, they are known to come up a bit small, so you'll want to consider your height and possibly measure against the various sizes.

Nike's Mercurial range includes many different pieces of football gear, from boots and gloves to shin pads. These are a sleeve-style design with snug socks and flexible pads, so they bend around the tibia and have a natural fit. The 'Lite' of their namesake makes them ideal for goalies and attackers. 

Additionally, the durable outer shell of the pads has a foam padded inner liner for further comfort. The sleeved socks are known to be rather tight, though, so you might want to stretch them out a little before wearing them. 

Mitre might not be as recognisable as they once were, but they were a big company in the 90s, even supplying the Premier League with the official match ball, the Mitre Pro Max. With that in mind, it's easy to trust these guys when it comes to well-made football gear. 

This is their take on the ankle protector pads, which are made from top-quality materials and extra-cushioned dual-density foam. However, the most welcome inclusion is the number of holes for breathability, set to keep you comfy for the full 90 minutes. Just be warned that they are on the small side, so you might want to go a size up from the guide.