Good kids soccer backpacks can grow with your young player for many years, if you think ahead when you buy. If you plan to only play for your high school, and have no desire to take your game to a travel league or into college play, then you will have very different needs from someone who decides to hit the road. Learning what makes a good soccer backpack will help you find an excellent option that will last for many years.
Storage Solutions
The next time you’re sifting through a soccer backpacks clearance sale, be sure to check how many pockets the pack has. Good packs have a pocket for basically everything you’ll need to take with you. The larger compartments will be for storing the practice ball, as well as your cleats, but there should be smaller pockets as well. Common items your child might carry throughout the season include:
- Towels
- Water bottles
- Extra studs
- Practice accessories
- Snacks
- Phone and wallet
It’s not necessary for your pack to have a pocket for all these items, but they become more useful depending on how often you rely on your pack. Those in a travel league, for example, will require pockets for an extra change of clothes, and will appreciate convenient wallet and document storage.
Material
Material plays a significant role in what makes a good soccer pack. The new trend is to use waterproof materials for the bottom of the bag. Condensation contributes quite a bit to material breakdown in soccer packs. It’s also a good idea to seek out backpacks that have padded straps, especially if you travel. That extra padding will come in handy transferring equipment from airplane to bus to pitch.
Also, you’ll notice several bags have netting for ventilation. This is good for keeping your equipment dry after practice, which is helpful but not necessary. Without those vents, your bag may acquire some odors over time, though, so be prepared to disinfect it.
Size
Small or large? It’s really up to you, and what you intend on using the bag for. Also, some small bags are very inexpensive and make good companions when you need to practice. Some drawstring bags are so useful, you’ll find yourself carrying them around while you’re out and about.
Remember this advice as you shop soccer backpacks on sale, and you’ll be sure to find something that will work well for you this season and for many more to come.