For kids who love soccer, the Christmas season is a natural time for parents and family friends to add to a child's stash of gear and collectibles.
If you're looking for a soccer-related present around $10, here are five of the top items you can gift this year that are fun and affordable:
Glow-in-the-Dark Soccer Ball
Why not combine a child's love of glow in the dark and soccer by getting a night-time friendly training ball? Soccer balls come in three basic sizes: a 3 being for kids under 8 years old; a 4 being for kids ages 8 to 12; and a 5 being for youth 12 and up. For kids who are still learning the basics, choose a polyvinyl chloride covered ball, which will provide durability and cost-efficiency.
Try a Baden Nite Bright Glow-In-The-Dark Training Ball for $7.48, plus shipping, at SoccerSavings.
Patterned Shin Guard Sleeves
To add some pizazz to a little athlete's uniform, consider getting some high energy shin guard sleeves featuring fun and sassy patterns. A typical shin guard sleeve has two layers of fabric so that a player can place the plastic shin guard in between the fabric, providing comfort in addition to fashion.
Try Youth Shin Guard Sleeves for $9.79, plus shipping, at EpicSports. Choose between designs, such as Paint Splatter, Metallic Pink Dots and Tie Dye.
Soccer Kick Trainer
Kick trainers are ideal for young players trying to perfect the craft. The netting wraps around a soccer ball, often with an easy-to-use expandable bungee cord opening, and is connected to a cord with a rubber clip at the end. This training device helps kids be able to practice kicking in a realistic environment even when they're alone. The rubber clip can be held in one's hand or attached to the landscape for convenience.
Try a Sportcraft Hands Free Soccer Trainer for $9.99, plus shipping, at DicksSportingGoods.com.
Sack Pack
For carrying gear to and from practice or for even just having a holding place at home so nothing gets lost, consider picking up a soccer sack pack for your star in the making. For added fun and versatility, pick up a reversible bag.
Try a Adidas Block Reversible Sack Pack for $8, plus shipping, from SportsAuthority.com.
Soccer Book
Depending on where you live, the Christmas season may bring some soccer blues to your little friend because the cold weather prevents having as much outdoor practice time as desired. To combat uncooperative weather, give the soccer player a related book. You might even be able to trick non-readers into loving books when they realize the great subject matter at hand.
Try "The Everything Kids' Soccer Book: Rules, Techniques, and More About your Favorite Sport!" for $8.95, plus shipping, from Amazon.com.
