Youth football regulations: Mandatory shin guards in Italy

In Italian youth football, the use of shin guards is a mandatory safety requirement that varies in enforcement based on age categories. While some amateur tournaments may tolerate players without them in the under-8 category, the obligation becomes strictly binding starting from the Pulcini (under-10) level.

According to IFAB rules, referees are required to issue cautions for lack of proper equipment. Enforcement becomes increasingly rigorous in categories such as Esordienti, Giovanissimi (under 14-15), and Allievi (under 16-17), where players may be sent back to the locker rooms if they fail to comply with equipment regulations.