Soccer goalies wear different-colored game jerseys than the rest of the players on the pitch so they can be identified more easily by referees, opposing players, teammates, and fans. This helps the flow of the game by eliminating confusion. As the only players on the field who can catch or pick up the ball with their hands under certain conditions, goalies need to be clearly differentiated at all times. 

A Singular Position

The goalkeeper, or position one, is unlike any other on the field. As the last line of defense against an attack, the goalie primarily works within the 18-yard box directly in front of the net to stop shots on goal but also can find themselves directing the flow of the defense, ranging out to cut off an attacker who takes an oblique angle, or receiving a pass from the defender before passing it forward to get their team on the attack. 

To support these functions, soccer has special rules for goalkeepers.

  • Inside the penalty box, the goalie can touch the ball with any part of their body, including their hands.
  • From the time they take possession, they have 6 seconds to pass it to another player by either a kick or a throw.
  • They cannot pick up the ball if it’s passed to them from a teammate, thrown into them by a teammate, or they’ve just put the ball back in play on the ground.
  • Goalie jerseys must be a different color to be easily recognizable. 

With a unique set of rules applying to them, it’s no wonder that goalies are identified and protected by specialized equipment on the pitch.

Other Differences to a Goalkeeper’s Kit

Specialized goalkeeper gear helps protect one of the most important and vulnerable players on the team. Padding in both their jerseys and specially designed goalie pants helps absorb the shock of diving to block shots, hitting the turf, and repeated impacts from shots on goal and tackles. 

Meanwhile, goalie gloves pad and support the small joints of the hand and wrist to limit the risk of injury when a ball is blocked with the hands or a goalie is forced to reach in and pick up a ball from an aggressive attack. 

Game-Ready Gear

Before a goalie takes the pitch, they need the right gear, including a different colored jersey that helps them stand out from the crowd during aggressive, fast-paced play. It not only keeps the game fair but helps keep them protected.

Order the professional-quality goalie jerseys, pants, gloves, and shoes you need from SoccerPro today.