Handball goalkeeper pants

Long trousers: a privilege for the goalkeeper

In handball, the IHF rules allow the goalkeeper to choose long trousers, tights, or long shorts of any colour, while a field player is limited to long underwear in the colour of their shorts, or black. It’s not a requirement: some goalkeepers play in shorts. But as dives increase, the trousers protect the skin from burns on the floor.

Padded or lightweight goalkeeper trousers: two ways to protect your legs

Padded trousers integrate protections at the hips and knees, the two areas that touch the ground first. The Uhlsport Standard is an example, with its ergonomic padding and corded waistband. Lightweight trousers, without padding, focus on breathable fabric and freedom of movement: they can be combined with knee pads if needed.

Long or three-quarter goalkeeper trousers: length according to your style

Long trousers cover the leg down to the ankle and protect the shins during saves on the ground. Three-quarter trousers, like the Devin from Errea, stop just below the knee and allow more freedom around the lower leg. The choice depends on your style of keeping: very low on the ground or more upright, on your feet.

Children's goalkeeper trousers: protection from the handball school

Young goalkeepers fall often, and their knees feel it. The page offers children’s trousers from Uhlsport, Kempa, Errea, Craft, or Kappa. A well-fitted pair, neither too long nor too wide, prevents tripping over the fabric when diving. Check that the protections are positioned correctly on the child's hips and knees.

Kempa, Hummel, Uhlsport, Erima, Select, Errea: the brands of goalkeeper trousers

Kempa kicks off the page with its black goalkeeper trousers, available for adults and children, made from breathable fabric. Hummel offers its Classic black trousers. Uhlsport, the German specialist for the position, features the Standard, Essential, and Anatomic Kevlar models. Erima highlights a padded model. Select rounds off the selection. Errea presents the Devin three-quarter and the Pitch for kids.

Shirts, sweatshirts, and budget-friendly options to complete the goalkeeper's outfit

The trousers go with the top: the goalkeeper shirts page offers colourful options that stand out from the teams, and the goalkeeper sweatshirts are for warm-ups. Everything for the position is gathered on the goalkeepers page. For tight budgets, the special textile offers are worth a look.

Frequently asked questions

Does a handball goalkeeper have to wear trousers?

No, it’s an option, not a requirement. The rules allow the goalkeeper to wear long trousers, tights, or long shorts in any colour, while a field player must stick to the colour of their shorts or black. Trousers protect the skin and knees during every dive onto the ground.

How do you choose the size of goalkeeper trousers?

Take your usual sports trouser size, then check the placement of the protections. The padding should sit on the hips and knees when you’re in a goalkeeping position. Trousers that are too long end up underfoot and can cause slips.

Should you wear knee pads in addition to the trousers?

With lightweight trousers, often yes. The IHF rules allow them if their rigid parts are fully covered, in any colour. With padded models, they become an optional supplement depending on your diving style.

Can football goalkeeper trousers be used for handball?

Yes, many of the models on the page come from football. Their protections at the hips and knees are equally useful on a wooden floor. Just make sure they don’t restrict your leg movements.

How do you wash padded trousers?

Turn them inside out, wash them in cold or low temperature without fabric softener. Leave them to dry flat, away from a heat source, so the foam retains its shape. A tumble dryer will distort the padding.