Shin Guard Rash- Skin Dermatitis

skin guard rashI just learned that some kids can have a skin reaction, or skin dermatitis,  from wearing shin guards.  Seems like this is a common problem especially for lacrosse and football players.  Ouch!

After searching around on the internet I found a couple of basic recommendations…

1- CLEAN

First priority is keeping the shin guards and socks very clean.  It’s not rocket science to do that, but if you need some tips read my previous blog post- Cleaning Shin Guards.

2-SHIELD 

I found a product called “Shinnerz” which is basically an inner thin sock that is worn underneath your shin guards.  The company is in the UK, but they ship internationally.

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After searching around I also found these STX Rash Guard on Amazon for $9.95

But I think these “Kangaroo Guard Sleeves from Xara are the most awesome option of all!  We were discussing this exact issue at our tournament this weekend and one of the girls on LSG’s team uses these with great success.  I don’t know if you can see from the picture, but you actually slip the shin guards inside a front pocket and your skin is protected and the guards are held in place.  Great idea!

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In a pinch, it could also be worth a try to use the shin guard sleeves under the guards instead of over.

Has anyone else had any experience with this?  What worked??

13 thoughts on “Shin Guard Rash- Skin Dermatitis

  1. Actually my youngest has this problem. We have been able to manage it with clean shinguards, hydrocortisone lotion and lastly but most importantly; removing them right away after games and practices. Letting the skin “breath” afterwards had greatly reduced the skin irritation.

    1. So glad that’s working for you! Thanks so much for reading and commenting 🙂

  2. We haven’t had any problems with a skin rash, but my kids have always preferred to “double sock” – putting one sock under and one sock over the shin guard – similar to some of the options you mention above. I read something about cutting off the foot of an old sock so it’s more comfortable to wear under the shin guard, then a regular sock over.

    1. Good idea! Doesn’t that get hot though?? So funny- kids have all different preferences. Thanks for reading and sharing!

  3. My son had a horrible problem with the dermatitis/rash from shin guards. We tried using sleaves like the stx’s but he still had some rash. We got him a pair of Nike Mercurial flylite shin guards. The surface that touches the skin is a mesh that allows a lot of air flow. These have been very durable. He also says they are comfortable and have totally solved the problem of rash.

  4. Check out Hocsocx! They are a comfortable liner sick, won’t take up space in the shoe and protects against rash and rubs! Girls and boys have had great success with alleviating shin guard rash.

  5. My son has terrible contact dermatitis on his feet from his socks and shoes. We found a product from Rodan and Fields that has really helped his feet. Let me know if you would like more info.
    Thanks

    1. Hi Mindy, my son has the same problem. We have tried many products that have just helped but not gotten rid of it. What is the product you use from Rodan Fields? Thx!

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