Some football players wear additional rib protection on top of the base layer, which can be worn under the jersey to safeguard the ribs from impact.

The ribs are particularly vulnerable to hits and tackles to a Sports Wear , so it’s important to protect them during gameplay. A rib protector or rib guard provides extra cushioning and support to the ribs, reducing the risk of injuries such as bruising or fractures.

The best protectors are typically made from lightweight, rigid plastic with foam padding. They can be worn under the jersey without causing discomfort or restricting movement. They're also contoured to fit the shape of the ribs, ensuring a snug and secure fit during play.

Some rib protectors also feature additional padding along the sides to offer further protection against impacts from various angles. If you don’t need a lot of protection, you can choose a football base layer that comes with integrated padding on the chest area.

Get Comfortable in an Integrated Girdle

As a football player, you must wear thigh and knee protection on the field as part of the base layer. Most professional players wear football pants, usually an integrated girdle that includes hip, thigh, and sometimes knee pads.

Football pants provide vital protection to the lower body during intense gameplay. Here's how the various parts of football pants offer enhanced protection and comfort:

Although you can buy football pants and protective pads separately, most people today opt for integrated versions of the base layer due to their built-in flexibility. It allows for unrestricted movement, which is crucial for executing plays effectively.

Stay Safe With a Sports Cup

Football players who go into the field without this vital piece of gear are asking for the worst.

Most male football players wear a protective cup, also called an athletic supporter or jock cup, to protect the groin area when playing football.

The jock cup is a rigid, bowl-shaped device made of plastic, polycarbonate, or even metal that covers the genitals and protects them from impact injury. With this kind of safety, you can focus on your football games without worrying about potentially severe testicular injury.

Despite the rigid material, the right cup should fit snugly and comfortably. A good cup comes with foam or gel padding that allows for a firm, secure fit and complete freedom of movement.

Protect Your Teeth With a Mouthguard

Although not strictly mandatory and often a pain in the jaw, mouthguards are an essential accessory worn during games and practices to protect your teeth and mouth.

When you get the inevitable impact on your head and face, a mouthguard acts as a barrier and shock absorber that helps to prevent dental injuries, jaw fractures, and lip lacerations.

A mouthguard even cushions blows to the face, reducing the risk of concussions by absorbing some of the impact.

When choosing a mouthguard, choose a custom-fit one from your dentist or a boil-and-bite option for a snug fit. Make sure it's properly fitted to guarantee it stays in place during intense gameplay.