If you love cricket and you’re taking it seriously, there are several factors to consider when choosing apparel. You’ll need to consider several factors including your ability level and style of play, so you can identify the right type of cricket apparel to best suit you. A few factors should guide you through the selection process.
There are multiple brands to choose from not to mention significant advancements in technology that make selecting the right cricket equipment complex and confusing. It pays to do some research into the different brands available in the market.
Batting Gloves
One of the most important considerations when choosing batting gloves is that each finger of both batting gloves has flexible padding. Depending on whether you are a left handed or right handed batter, also check that the thumb of the bottom hand (right hand for a right-handed batter and vise-versa) has added protection.
Batting Pads
Choosing the right batting pads requires you to understand clearly, the factors that come into play. Borrowing your friend’s pads is fine but once you get to an advanced stage, you’ll need to get your own. Make sure both pads are comfortable to wear and they fit your legs properly. Pads are available in various sizes and may vary slightly from one maker to another.
Helmet
A good helmet should be the right fit. Usually, this would mean the peak protrudes horizontally from your eyebrows. Make sure it’s made of a sweat absorbing material and allows airflow. Apart from being solid and steady, it should also be light in weight.
Wicket Keeping Pads
Ease of use and comfort are the most critical factors when choosing wicket keeping pads. The pads should aid in smooth movement behind the stumps and properly fit the legs. Ensure the calf and ankle straps are sturdy to protect your legs from a painful blow.
Cricket Shoes
Irrespective of whether you are a batsman, fielder or bowler, getting the right cricket shoes is also important. Comfort and grip top the factors to consider when choosing cricket shoes. However, the type of shoe to buy depends on the playing surface. While there are shoes that are both spiked and pimpled, the former type is good for soft ground while the latter type is ideal for hard ground.
Wicket Keeping Gloves
It’s critical to buy wicket keeping gloves of the highest standard especially because getting a substitute player for a wicketkeeper is not easy. A wicketkeeper’s worst fear is the risk of broken fingers. Check that both gloves have flexible padded areas for each finger.