Soccer Shorts

Most decisions about soccer apparel are based on personal taste, but there are some factors to consider. The most important thing to think about is comfort. You want something that fits, but isn't so big or small that it makes it hard for you to move comfortably.

Materials:

100% Polyester - Thanks to the 100% Polyester material shorts have excellent moisture management capabilities, breathe very well, and are quite light. The material is also surprisingly durable despite its light weight.

Moisture Managing - Shorts made of this material usually cost a bit more than normal 100% Polyester, and rightfully so.  These shorts are constructed of materials that are great at "wicking" moisture away from the skin. By doing so, the moisture can evaporate more quickly, cooling the body while keeping the body dry and comfortable. Most manufacturers are producing some sort of moisture managing material, such as adidas's ClimaCool and ClimaLite, Nike's Dri-Fit, Diadora's DiaDry, and Admiral's Active/Dry.

Blended - Some other types of shorts will have a blend of materials.  Most shorts of this type are made with polyester and some other fabric.  These fabric combinations are used in order to give a different feel, but usually are very similar to 100% polyester shorts unless the blend is extremely weighted in favor of the supplemental material.

Inseam:

Short inseam is a very important consideration for both style and performance. The inseam is the length of the short from the crotch to bottom of the leg. Inseam length has grown considerably over the years. Typical inseams for soccer shorts are about 5 inches.

Sizing:

Sizing for soccer apparel is simple. Sizes range from Youth Small (YS) to Extra Large (XL), but vary by individual style. You should make the same sizing decisions you make with all your other clothes. One thing to remember, though, is that you will be active in your soccer apparel, and it shouldn't be too big or too small and affect your ability to move comfortably.