Football is a game of contact and physicality. The equipment and gear is a crucial part of the game. Being comfortable, but also being effective physically is a challenging balance.
There is a lot of equipment and clothing that football players must wear. Football equipment can sometimes weigh 10-15 pounds, which adds a lot more weight when running, jumping, and trying to be athletic.
Why Do Football Players Wear Tight Pants?
Football pants have changed over the years. Football pants used to be loose, but players were being tackled by their pants. Pants nowadays are tight, and almost impossible to pull and be brought down by. Tight pants make it difficult for the opposing team to grab onto.
Choosing the proper pants and equipment is extremely important. Pants are part of the equipment. Football pants are typically tight, for several reasons, which we will discuss below.
Tight Football Pants Make it Difficult for the Opposing Team to Grab Onto
The style and size of football pants has evolved over the years. Back in the day, loose pants seemed more comfortable and seemed easier to run and compete in.
Pants nowadays are still comfortable and they do allow for flexibility and athletic movements. Football pants have evolved so that the opposing team cannot grab onto the pants. Tackling was easier when football pants were loose, as the defense had the ability to grab onto the pants and drag a player to the ground.
Tighter football pants that are worn nowadays are actually comfortable. The goal of making it difficult to tackle, but also allowing for comfort and performance have been met with today’s football pants.
What are Football Pants Made Out of?
Football pants are designed to be comfortable and lightweight, but also stretchy and flexible for optimal performance.
Football pants are now made out of nylon, lycra, and polyester. This material is beneficial for comfort, performance, durability, and cleanliness.
Tight Pants Hold Pads in
Many years ago, one major struggle was keeping pads in position under football pants. The new pants that are much tighter do a great job of holding pads in place.
Some pads actually are sewn into the pants nowadays, while some are part of the girdle, located underneath the pants.
Tight pants hold the pads in place. The pads include thigh pads, knee pads, hip pads, and a tailbone pad. This is important for performance so that the pads are not moving around during practice or a competition.
How Low Do Football Go?
Football pants end at the knees. Knee pads are the end of the football pants. These pads are small nowadays because players feel like the old style of knee pads were uncomfortable and also restricting.
You will see some players not wear knee pads, which actually make the pants seem smaller. You will often see kickers that have their pants end before the kneecap. The reason for this is because the kicker needs to get full range of motion.
Final Thoughts
Football pants have changed over the years. Football pants used to be loose and baggy, but defenders can make easier tackles when the pants are loose.
Tight football pants makes the defense know how to tackle properly and not just drag the ball carrier down by their clothes.
Performance is important, but so is comfort. These tight football pants are comfortable and made from material that is flexible and light.
Helpful Resources about Football Gear: