Summer means one thing for our sporty kids: long days out on the pitch, tournament weekends, and action-packed sports camps. Whether your child is football-mad or just loves being active outdoors, it’s important to make sure they’re well-prepared.
Emma shares her top tips from her own experiences and also from our community of parents and coaches.
Here is our handy summer tournament essentials’ checklist:
1. Hat or cap
Let’s start at the top – literally. A lightweight cap is essential for protecting your child’s head and eyes from the sun during those long days under cloudless skies. We’re excited to announce that our new Defiance caps have launched – designed with breathable fabrics and a snug fit and a motivational message inside they’ll offer style and sun protection in one.
Until then, make sure to include a cap in their bag. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of heatstroke and sunburn. If your team or camp is lucky enough to have a gazebo base or even a shady tree, make sure there are plenty of breaks out of direct sunshine.
2. Microfibre towel
Towels might not sound essential at first, but when your child is drenched in sweat after a match or wants to dry off quickly, you’ll be glad you packed one. Our Defiance microfibre towel is the ideal choice. It’s super-absorbent, wicks away moisture effectively, and folds down small to fit neatly into any kit bag. It's a parent-approved lifesaver during multi-game days.
Emma’s top tip: Fully wet our microfibre sports towel the night before, wring it and pop it in the freezer. This will be SO refreshing the next day for cooling your child down. They’ll thank you for it, trust us.
3. Compression shorts
If your child is playing intense sport for multiple hours in the sun, compression shorts are a must. They provide support, help with circulation and aid in muscle recovery. We recently explored this in our blog, "Why kids should wear compression shorts in summer", and it’s well worth a read if you're still unsure about the benefits.
Psst… our Defiance compression shorts are currently in our end of season sale…
4. Spray bottle
A simple spray bottle filled with cold water can work wonders. A quick spritz to the face, neck or arms between games can help bring body temperature down, especially if shade is limited. It’s a game-changer.
Emma’s top tip: Fill the spray bottle with mini ice cubes and pop in a wine cooler sleeve, before popping it into your bag, so it’s stays colder for longer.
5. Suncream
This one goes without saying, but it’s worth reinforcing: pack suncream and reapply it often. Sports suncreams with sweat resistance are best. Look for SPF 50 ideally and make sure your child knows when and how to reapply. Even better, toss in a travel-sized tube so it’s always on hand.
Emma’s top tip: Apply the first layer before you leave the house (they’ll no doubt hate it but will thank you one day…) to make sure it soaks in properly before they get exposed to the rays.
6. Drinks bottle with a name label on!
It’s an obvious one but hydration is absolutely crucial for performance, safety and focus. Dehydrated kids get tired quicker and risk overheating. Pack a reusable drinks bottle – ideally one that’s insulated to keep water cool. Make sure it’s named! We can’t stress this enough. At tournaments with dozens of identical bottles, it’s far too easy for bottles to get muddled. Our parents and Emma herself has lost more bottles than she cares to admit over the years. For older kids, you could try adding an electrolyte tablet for an extra boost on really hot days or after especially tough sessions. Always check the label for age suitability and any dietary concerns or allergens.
Emma’s top tip: Try Marc Pugh’s natural Lemon & Himalayan Salt water. A pint of water mixed with fresh lemon juice and Himalayan salt is a simple way to hydrate and prepare your body for the day ahead. You’ll thank yourself when you feel more energetic later in the day. Watch the recipe here.
7. Snacks
Let’s talk energy. Active kids burn calories like nobody’s business and keeping them fuelled through the day is vital. Pack a variety of nutritious snacks: think bananas, granola bars, rice cakes with nut butter, or trail mix. But our top tip? Protein balls.
We love Marc Pughes’ brilliant Dark Chocolate Protein Ball recipe, which we recently featured on our socials. They’re packed with natural energy, easy to make at home and help prevent sugar crashes while providing lasting fuel. Keep a small container of these in their bag – and maybe a couple extra for the journey home!
Emma’s top tip: If you’re taking bananas then investing in a banana guard is a good idea. Once you can get over the comedy value, you’ll be grateful for not having squished bananas in your bag!
8. Basic first aid kit
Taking a basic first aid kit with plasters, antihistamines and Calpol sachets certainly wouldn’t hurt either. Although your coach will have their kit – they will be very busy between multiple games or drills - it helps to have something you can easily get your hands on if the need arises. Obviously check with other parents before using anything on their children.
Emma’s top tip: Instant ice packs are another good addition to your first aid kit because they provide immediate cold therapy to help reduce swelling and pain after a dodgy tackle or an unexpected collision. They’re super easy to use and can be used on the spot.
Checklist summary
1) Cap
2) Microfibre towel
3) Compression shorts
4) Spray bottle with cold water
5) High-SPF suncream
6) Named drinks bottle
7) Healthy snacks
8) Basic first aid kit
With a well-packed kit bag, your child can focus on the fun, the friendships and the football – while you relax knowing they’ve got everything they need. Job done.
Emma’s most essential tip: If you don’t need to drive then a pre-mixed bottle of Pimm’s & lemonade for the adults is popular for those long tournament days! 😊
Enjoy and good luck!
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