Mercian Elite Legguards

ELITE GOALKEEPING KIT SIZING HAS CHANGED.

When we launched the kit in 2019 it was designed for bigger Goalkeepers - But, the protection and rebound characteristics mean that demand for a smaller size has developed that we want to satisfy. So, in 2019 the largest size was classified as large and the next size down was a medium. BUT those sizes were equivalent to XL and L in the Pro range.

From 2020 onwards (updated April 2023) we will be running X-Large, Large and Medium. The 2020 X-Large is the same as the 2019 Large size and the 2020 Large size is the same as the 2019 Medium. We have then introduced a new size - actual Medium. These sizes are now the same as all the other GK kit ranges that we run.

Legguards - Medium (5ft4ins to 5ft10ins); Large (5ft10ins to 6ft4ins); XL (6ft4ins plus)

The open cell foam is heat bonded together under over a metric tonne (1000kg) of pressure to essentially create a one piece Mercian pad. This process removes any glue that can harden and shatter over time, this reducing the foam de-lamination that can be seen in other pads. The outer layer of foam has a skin or crust, reducing the friction that occurs between pad and pitch, aiding sliding and smothering. The internal shape has been modified to fit a longer leg with the two straps positioned to fit around the calf and below the knee. The legguards have been shaped to give the maximum legal (under FIH regulations) saving surface from the front but have also been lengthened on the inside of the leg to extended the calf protection and give another increased saving surface. The inner cell has been shaped to fit the leg but is made from heat sensitive foam which moulds under pressure and will fit the shape of the individual GK within the first couple of weeks of use. Finally the new strapping system has fully replaceable buckles (both male and female parts) and comfort pads to again enhance fit and reduce twisting.