Best Gear and Accessories Every Skill Player Needs in 2024

Introduction

When you're out on the field, having the right gear can make all the difference. In 2024, skill players need equipment that boosts performance, keeps them safe, and looks good while doing it.

From helmets to cleats, every piece plays a role in helping you move faster, stay protected, and feel confident.

In this article, we’re going to dive into the best gear and accessories for skill players this year—helmets, face masks, gloves, and more.

Let’s break down what you need to dominate the game. Keep reading, and let's get you ready for 2024!

Helmets: Prioritize Safety

When it comes to playing football, safety starts with the helmet. For skill players, helmets are a must-have for keeping your head protected during every play. The first thing you should always consider when choosing a helmet is safety—nothing else matters more.

To make sure you’re picking the safest option, I recommend checking the Virginia Tech helmet rating scale. It’s a reliable guide to see which helmets are the best at preventing injuries. NFL helmet ratings might seem cool, but they’re not built for the hits you’ll face in high school or even peewee.

Some of the top helmets for skill players in 2024 include the Schutt F7, Riddell SpeedFlex, and the Riddell Axiom. These helmets are not position-specific, but they offer excellent protection and comfort.

So, find a helmet that fits well, keeps you safe, and fits your budget. Your head will thank you later.

Face Masks: Keeping the Vision Clear 

As a skill player, visibility is key. You need a face mask that allows you to see the field clearly without anything getting in your way. That’s why most skill players go for face masks with fewer bars. The less clutter in your view, the better.

The jagged eye guards are a great option if you want more visibility and a sleek look. You can also go with straight eye guards for a simple, clean style. Both give you what you need—clear vision and solid protection.

Extra bars don’t add much to your protection and can block your view, so stick with something minimal. It’s all about seeing the play before it happens.

Visors: Optional but Cool

Visors are one of those accessories you don’t really need, but they definitely add a cool factor to your helmet. Besides the style, they offer some extra protection by keeping dirt, debris, and even fingers out of your eyes during the game.

If you’re looking to add a visor, Shock visors are a solid choice. They come in clear versions, which are allowed in games, and also in colorful styles that you can rock during practice or pregame. So, if you want to step up your look and get a little extra protection, a visor is a great option.

Mouth Guards: Protection with Style

Mouth guards are essential for keeping your teeth and mouth protected on the field. You have two main options: boil-and-bite or lip guard mouth guards.

The boil-and-bite style lets you mold the mouth guard to your teeth after heating it up. It fits snugly and stays in your mouth during the game. On the other hand, lip guard mouth guards come ready to use straight out of the package and offer extra protection for your lips.

When it comes to brands, you can’t go wrong with Nxtrnd, Battle Sports, or Shock Doctor. They all make high-quality mouth guards that keep you safe while looking sharp. Pick whichever style fits your needs, and make sure you never hit the field without one—it’s a small piece of gear that can save you from big injuries.

Chin Straps: Upgrade for Comfort

Most helmets come with a standard chin strap, but upgrading to something more comfortable can make a big difference. A good chin strap gives you extra protection and feels better during the game.

One of the best options out there is the SportStar chin strap. It’s not only used by a lot of NFL players but also absorbs more impact than most stock straps. Plus, you can choose from a variety of team colors to match your look. So, if you’re looking for a small but meaningful upgrade, a new chin strap is the way to go.

Shoulder Pads: Lightweight and Mobile

For skill players, lightweight shoulder pads are a game-changer. You need pads that let you move freely, whether you're catching a pass, making a cut, or running with the ball. Heavy pads slow you down, and that’s the last thing you want on the field.

Some of the best options for 2024 are the Xenith Velocity, XTech X2, and VICIS Arc V1 shoulder pads. These models are designed to give you maximum mobility while still offering solid protection.

The Xenith Velocity is great if you’re looking for something budget-friendly but effective, while the XTech X2 and VICIS Arc V1 offer premium quality with a bit more price.

In the end, it’s all about finding pads that fit well, feel light, and allow you to make those quick, game-winning moves.

Back Plates: Extra Protection for the Lower Back 

Back plates are a simple but important piece of gear that protect your lower back from hits, especially when you're not expecting them.

They attach directly to your shoulder pads and provide an extra layer of protection against hard impacts, like a helmet hitting your lower back. Whether you’re a wide receiver or running back, this is one accessory that can save you from some serious pain.

If you’re in the market for one, check out popular options from Nxtrnd, Shock Doctor, and Battle Sports. They all offer great protection and come in a variety of colors and designs to match your gear.

Football Gloves: Essential for Skill Players 

For skill players, having a good pair of lightweight, sticky gloves is essential. They help you grip the ball better, making those tough catches a lot easier.

Look for gloves that are non-padded, so they don’t weigh you down, but still provide that sticky feel to keep the ball in your hands.

Some of the best gloves out there right now are the Nike Vapor Jet 8.0, Cutters Rev X, and Grip Boost DNA 2.0. Each of these is super light and designed for skill players looking to stay fast and nimble.

If you need a little extra protection, you can also find padded versions, but most skill guys prefer the lighter, non-padded gloves for better control.

Cleats: Speed and Traction

When it comes to cleats, picking the right pair can make or break your game as a skill player. You need cleats that are low-cut and lightweight to keep you fast and agile on the field. The best options give you that tight, snug fit, so you feel connected to the ground with every cut, sprint, and change of direction.

Some great cleats for 2024 include the Nike Vapor, Adidas Adizero, Under Armour Spotlight Clone, and Jordan Edge Traction.

These cleats are all about speed, offering sharp traction and a lightweight feel that helps you explode off the line. Whether you're making quick cuts or sprinting down the field, these cleats are designed to keep you moving fast and smooth.

Conclusion

There you have it—the best gear and accessories for skill players in 2024. Investing in the right equipment can take your game to the next level, boosting your performance and keeping you safe.

What’s your favorite piece of gear? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!