One of the most common questions Coach John hears from parents:
💡 “What gear does my kid actually need—and where do I find it?”
Finding quality, affordable sports equipment can feel overwhelming, but the right gear makes all the difference in confidence, safety, and performance. For kids trying a new sport or just needs a fresh set of gear, here’s a guide to help you find the best gear without breaking the bank.
🏆 What to Bring to PLEY Sports Camps 🏆
Make sure your child is ready to play with the right gear! But don’t worry, PLEY Sports will always provide the essentials needed for camps and classes if players don’t have what they need.
🏅 Essentials for All Sports:
- Water bottle (hydration is key!)
- Athletic clothes (comfortable & breathable)
- Sneakers or cleats (sport-dependent)
- Sunscreen (apply before camp, bring extra)
- Hat & sunglasses (for outdoor sports)
- Healthy snacks
Sport-Specific Gear:
Most of the essential gear like balls are provided, but kids are welcome to bring any of their own gear!
🏀 Basketball – Basketball shoes, basketball
⚽ Soccer – Cleats, shin guards (required after first session)
⚾ T-Ball – Glove, helmet, bat, cleats (if preferred)
🏓 Pickleball – Tennis shoes, paddle (if preferred, but equipment is provided)
🛒 Budget-Friendly Options
- Walmart & Target – Ideal for first-time players or keeping extra gear at home. While the quality may not be top-tier, these stores are perfect for parents who want to test out a sport before committing to expensive equipment.
🏅 Best for: Pop-up goals, batting tees, and basic starter gear.
- Amazon – Convenient and quick, but quality can vary. Always check reviews and look for highly-rated items before purchasing.
🏅 Best for: starter equipment, quick replacements, and essentials that don’t require a perfect fit.
⚖️ Mid-Range Selections
- Big 5 Sporting Goods – A solid choice for balancing cost and durability. Offers a wider variety than Walmart and Target, with options ranging from budget-friendly to higher-end gear.
🏅 Best for: Youth cleats, basketballs, and general sports accessories.
💪 High-Quality Gear
- Dick’s Sporting Goods – The go-to store for serious young athletes. Carries the latest models for each sport, plus store-brand items that offer a balance between affordability and reliability. If your child is fully committed to a sport, this is where to invest.
🏅 Best for: Premium cleats, baseball gloves, hockey gear, and protective equipment.
🕵️ Secondhand Steals
- Facebook Marketplace & Local Buy/Sell Groups – With a little patience, you can find great deals on gently used gear. Look for listings from families whose kids have outgrown their equipment. (Tip: Avoid listings that look too polished—many are from resellers rather than local parents selling secondhand gear.)
🏅 Best for: Bikes, cleats, and higher-cost items like goalie gloves or baseball bats.
🚫 Buyer Beware: Play It Again Sports – While marketed as a secondhand store, many items are priced higher than their actual value. In many cases, you’ll find similar-quality gear at Big 5 for a lower cost.
⚽️ Make Gear Part of the Fun with PLEY Sports!
Gear up and get moving! With PLEY Sports, keeping kids active is effortless and fun. Our programs make playtime a game-changer—building confidence, skills, and a lifelong love for sports!
