21/11/2025
📣 St Mawgan Youth FC – Important Guidance on Micro (Mini) Shin Pads and the clubs position ⬇️
Dear Players, Parents & Coaches,
You may have seen recent headlines: more and more grassroots clubs across the country are banning micro (or “mini”) shin pads after serious injuries. These very small shin guards are becoming popular - partly because some professional players wear extremely slim pads - but at St Mawgan Youth we believe it’s important to think carefully about the risks as well as the practicalities.
⚠️ What are the risks of micro shin pads?
• Micro or mini shin pads cover only a small area of the shin, which increases the risk of injury due to significantly reduced protection.
• Many very small shin pads lack CE certification, meaning they may not meet UK safety standards for impact absorption.
• Their limited coverage leaves the shin more exposed to studs, tackles, and accidental impacts.
• A recent serious injury in non-league football involving a player wearing micro shin pads has led to renewed scrutiny across grassroots football.
• While lightweight and trendy, they are generally not designed for youth-level contact, where accidental collisions are more common.
✅ Why well-fitted, properly sized shin pads matter:
• Regulation-size shin pads are designed to protect the full length of the shin, from just below the knee to the top of the ankle — offering far better impact absorption.
• Safety guidance recommends pads that run “from just below the knee to the ankle bone” for effective coverage.
• Choosing CE-marked shin pads ensures they meet essential safety standards.
• There are many affordable, lightweight, well-fitted shin pads available that provide proper protection without being bulky.
• Proper coverage significantly reduces the risk of bruising, knocks, and more serious injuries - keeping our players safer and more confident on the pitch.
‼️ 📌 Our Club’s Position: Guidance, Not a Blanket Ban:
At St Mawgan Youth, we are not banning micro shin pads across the club. We understand that:
• Some families may struggle with the cost of replacing equipment in the current cost-of-living climate.
• Only a small number of our players currently use micro shin pads.
• Personal choice matters, and we believe in helping parents and players make an informed decision.
However, we strongly advise against using micro shin pads for training or matches. We encourage all families to:
1. Prioritise shin pads that offer full, proper coverage.
2. Check for CE certification.
3. Make sure pads fit securely and comfortably.
4. Speak with your team manager if you need guidance or recommendations — we’re here to help.
Importantly, each manager has been given full permission to ban micro shin pads within their own squad, whether for matches, training, or both. We will support their decision either way, based on what they feel is safest for their players.
💬 In Summary:
• Micro shin pads are a growing trend, but so are concerns about their safety.
• Full-size, well-fitted shin pads provide far better protection and remain the safest option for youth players.
• St Mawgan Youth will not impose a club-wide ban, but we urge all families to carefully consider the risks before choosing micro shin pads.
• Managers have the freedom to set clear equipment expectations within their teams.
Thank you for your support, understanding and commitment to keeping our young players safe ♥️🩵
