Shred Shin Guards

Properly fitted shin guards protect your lower legs from repeated gate impacts while allowing unrestricted movement through the course. Choosing the correct length is largely a matter of personal preference, but the guard should provide adequate coverage without interfering with your ski boots or skiing technique.

Measure from the top of your kneecap to the point where you want the shin guard to end.

How to Measure for Shin Guards

Put on your ski boots before measuring. Measure from the top of your kneecap to the point where you want the shin guard to end, most commonly covering the first buckle of your boot. This measurement provides a good starting point for selecting the appropriate shin guard length.

There is no single correct length. Most racers choose a length based on how much protection they want and whether they prefer maximum mobility or additional coverage over the boot. Many ski racing shin guards can also be trimmed to length, allowing you to purchase a slightly longer guard and customize the fit to your preference.

How Shin Guards Should Fit

Shin guards should wrap securely around the front and sides of your lower leg without shifting during skiing. They should remain comfortable while flexing forward and moving through slalom gates.

• The guard should sit comfortably at the kneecap without restricting knee movement.
• Elastic straps should hold the guard securely without creating pressure points.
• The guard should not rotate or slide while skiing.
• The lower edge should provide the desired amount of boot coverage without interfering with forward flex.

Choosing Your Coverage

Racers generally choose between two common fit preferences.

• Above the Boot: The shin guard ends just above the top of the ski boot. Many racers prefer this setup because it eliminates the possibility of the guard contacting the boot buckles during aggressive forward flex.
• Over the Boot: The shin guard extends over the upper boot buckles to provide additional protection from repeated gate impacts. This setup is common among slalom racers who prioritize maximum shin protection.

Common Shin Guard Fit Mistakes

• Choosing guards that are too short to provide adequate protection.
• Selecting guards that interfere with boot flex or buckle operation.
• Wearing straps too loosely, allowing the guards to shift while skiing.
• Choosing length based solely on age rather than actual measurements.

Race Place Fit Notes

• Shin guard length is largely based on personal preference and racing style.
• Most slalom racers prefer longer guards for increased protection during gate contact.
• Always try on shin guards while wearing your race boots to verify proper fit and coverage.
• Many ski racing shin guards can be safely trimmed with scissors to achieve a custom length. Always follow the manufacturer's cutting guidelines before modifying your guards.
• Comfort, secure positioning, and unrestricted movement are the keys to proper fit.