Get The Fit Right And Your Shin Guards Will Never Move Again
The KCKPRO Shin Guard Sleeve works because of its integrated compression fit. The silicone grip band locks your shin guard in place — but only when the sleeve fits correctly. Too loose and it won't grip. Too tight and it'll be uncomfortable for 90 minutes.
Getting your size right is the single most important step before you buy. This guide makes it simple.
Why Fit Matters More With KCKPRO
With a standard shin guard sleeve, fit is about comfort. With KCKPRO, fit is about performance.
Our integrated sleeve system relies on compression to activate the silicone grip band. When the fit is correct, the sleeve hugs your leg, the grip band engages, and your shin guard stays exactly where you put it — through every sprint, tackle and sharp turn.
When the fit is wrong, even slightly, the grip band can't do its job properly. The result? The same slipping problem you were trying to fix in the first place.
Get the fit right once and you'll never think about your shin pads again.
Step 1 — Take Your Measurements
You'll need a soft tape measure. If you don't have one, a piece of string and a ruler works just as well.
Take three measurements:
Total leg length (shin)
Measure from the bottom of your knee to just above your ankle bone. This tells you which sleeve length is right for you.
Top circumference
Measure around the widest part of your calf — usually about halfway between your knee and ankle. This is the most important measurement for fit.
Bottom circumference
Measure around the narrowest part of your lower leg, just above the ankle bone.
Write all three down before consulting the size guide below.
Step 2 — Find Your Size
| Size | Age Guide | Total Length | Top Circumference | Bottom Circumference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 5–9 years | 27cm | 18–22cm | 10–13cm |
| S | 10–13 years | 28cm | 22–28cm | 13–16cm |
| M | 14+ years | 29cm | 26–32cm | 16–19cm |
| L | Adult | 30cm | 28–34cm | 18–21cm |
Match your measurements to the table above. Your top circumference is the most important figure — prioritise this when choosing your size.
Step 3 — Check The Age Guide
The age guide is a helpful starting point but measurements always take priority. Every player is different — a tall 12-year-old might measure into a Medium while a petite adult might fit better in a Small.
Always trust your tape measure over the age guide.
Who Each Size Is For
XS — Ages 5 to 9
Designed for young players just starting out in grassroots and mini football. The XS sleeve provides full shin coverage for smaller legs without bunching or restricting movement. Perfect for Under 7s, Under 8s and Under 9s youth football.
S — Ages 10 to 13
Built for junior players in youth football leagues. The S sleeve suits most players in Under 11, Under 12 and Under 13 age groups. If your child is particularly tall or stocky for their age, check the measurements and consider sizing up to Medium.
M — Ages 14 and above
The Medium is our most popular size — designed for teenage players and adults with a standard build. Suits most players in Under 15, Under 17, sixth form and adult recreational football. If you play Sunday league or five-a-side and have an average build, Medium is likely your size.
L — Adult
Designed for adult players with larger or more muscular legs. If you have a top circumference above 30cm or play at a higher physical level where leg strength is greater, Large gives you the compression fit you need without restricting blood flow or movement.
Between Sizes? Here's What To Do
If your measurements fall between two sizes — for example your top circumference is 28cm which sits at the top of Small and bottom of Medium — you have a choice based on personal preference:
Size down if:
- You prefer a tighter, more compressive feel
- You want maximum grip from the silicone band
- You're an active player who sprints and changes direction frequently
Size up if:
- You prefer a looser, more comfortable feel
- You're buying for a child who is still growing
- You'll be wearing thicker football socks underneath
Our official recommendation: if you are between sizes, or prefer a more compressive fit, size down.
Buying For Your Child? Read This First
Buying shin guards for a growing child is always a balance between fit today and value over time. Here's our honest advice:
If your child is at the bottom of an age range — for example a 5-year-old buying XS — the sleeve should fit well for at least one full season.
If your child is at the top of an age range — for example a 9-year-old who measures at the top of XS — we'd recommend sizing up to Small now so you get two full seasons of use.
Always measure rather than guessing by age. Children's leg proportions vary enormously — particularly between ages 8 and 13 where growth spurts can change measurements significantly over a single season.
How To Check The Fit When Your KCKPRO Arrives
When your KCKPRO sleeve arrives, try it on before your first training session:
1. Put the sleeve on your bare leg first
Before inserting your shin guard, slide the sleeve on alone. It should feel snug but not painful. You should be able to slide two fingers under the top of the sleeve — if you can't, size up.
2. Check the length
The top of the sleeve should sit just below your knee. The bottom should finish just above your ankle bone. If there's significant bunching or the sleeve doesn't reach your ankle, check your measurements again.
3. Insert your shin guard
Slide your existing shin guard inside the sleeve pocket. It should sit flat against your shin with no movement. If it feels loose inside the pocket, the sleeve may be slightly too large.
4. Walk and jog on the spot
Move around for 30 seconds. The sleeve should stay firmly in place with no slipping or bunching. If it moves, try the next size down.
5. Sprint and change direction
Do a short sprint and a sharp turn. The sleeve and guard should move with your leg as one unit. This is the KCKPRO guarantee — if it's the right size, it won't move.
Still Not Sure?
We're a small UK brand and we read every message. If you're unsure about sizing — particularly for a child or if you're between sizes — get in touch before you order and we'll help you get it right.
📧 Contact us via kckpro.com
We'd rather help you choose the right size first time than process a return.
Order With Confidence
Every KCKPRO order comes with:
- 📦 Free UK shipping
- ↩️ 30-day money back guarantee
- 🔒 12-month product guarantee
If the size isn't right when it arrives, we'll exchange it. No fuss.
Ready to find your size? Shop the KCKPRO Shin Guard Sleeve at kckpro.com
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