One of the most obvious advantages of flag football is how inexpensive it is to play. Without the aspect of tackle and contact, the expensive equipment, like helmets and shoulder pads, are no longer required. However; whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned professional, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that every player needs. This will vary from flag football team to team and league to league.
Just like with many things, your (and your team's) budget should be considered before asking your team to purchase equipment that is unnecessary. Let's take a look at some of the essential equipment.
FLAG FOOTBALL EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST
Footballs: It's safe to say that a football is still needed. In fact, three or four may help with your organized practice. Also, be aware that there are youth and adult sized footballs depending on the age of your team.
Flag football flags and belts. Players wear belts with flags that hang along their sides and opponents attempt to pull the flags off of the ball-carrier's belt. There are a variety of belts and flags depending on your flag football league's rules. Some require three flags while others allow two flags.
Jersey. You will want to provide a jersey to your league or team members.
Shorts. Flag football is normally played while wearing shorts. Shorts with pockets are not recommended and often not allowed. This is a safety precaution so that fingers don't get stuck when attempting to remove the flag.
Mouthguard. It's flag football but just as in most competitive sports, there is a chance of contact. Investing in a mouthguard is a smart move.
Football cleats. Cleats are purely optional. Many a flag football player has competed very well without them. They can be helpful depending on the surface you play on.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Gloves - Gloves can help with grip and ball control. They can even provide warmth in a cold weather setting.
- Soft-shell helmets - Some leagues require them, and they help protect your head from accidental collisions.
- Play-calling wristbands and wristband sheets - This is an often times overlooked item that can save you time and confusion with your team.
- Hydration - So make sure to fill a large, insulated bottle with ice water before game time. Sports drinks are a great alternative to replenish electrolytes
- Gear Bag - Kids and adults a like lose things when they travel. A gear bag can help your players keep up with some of the items above.
- Sunscreen or Bug Spray: Playing sports comes with a lot of time under the hot sun. Sunscreen and bug spray can protect you and your team from this.
WHERE TO GET FLAG FOOTBALL GEAR
- League Outfitters
- Shruumz Flag Football
- Dick's Sporting Goods
- GameBreakers Soft Shell Helmets
- Academy Sports
- Gopher Sport
FINAL THOUGHTS
When considering the best path for your flag football team's equipment needs, it's always smart to stop and look at factors like, budget, age of players and level of competition. You want your flag football league to have essential gear that allows your players to be play safely, correctly and to have fun. Anything above an beyond that is every individual coach or league director's choice.