How to wear grip socks and leg sleeves for soccer
What each one is for, the order to put everything on, and how to pick your size.
What grip socks are
Socks with rubber or silicone pads on the sole. The pads add friction between your foot and the inside of the shoe, which is the slide many players want less of. They work alongside a shoe that fits, not instead of one.
What leg sleeves are
A knit tube for the leg, with no foot. Worn over a grip sock, a sleeve gives you the look and coverage of a full-length soccer sock, and you choose the sock underneath separately.
The order
- Grip socks. The first layer, with the pads flat under your foot.
- Shin guards. Over the socks, against the shin.
- Leg sleeves. Pulled up over the guards, so they hold them in place.
- Shoes. Last. Try them on with this setup, since it changes how they fit.
Check your league's rules
Many leagues require shin guards fully covered by socks or sleeves, and teams often have to match colors. Ask before game day if you're not sure.
Grip sock sizes
Go by your US shoe size.
| Size | Fits |
|---|---|
| S | US 4 to 6.5 |
| M | US 7 to 9.5 |
| L | US 10 to 12.5 |
The MEGZ Grip Socks are mid-calf, made as a left and right pair. $22, on pre-order. Ships in January 2027.
Leg sleeve sizes
Measure around the widest part of your calf, in centimeters.
| Size | Fits |
|---|---|
| S | Calf 30 to 34 cm |
| M | Calf 34 to 38 cm |
| L | Calf 38 to 42 cm |
The MEGZ Leg Sleeves run from the shin to just above the knee, with seven stepped stripes. $15, on pre-order. Ships in January 2027.
Choosing shoes too? Read how to choose soccer turf shoes.