Standing in the store with a size 22 football kit in hand, wondering if it'll fit your little player?
I get it - this size often marks a young player's first "real" kit, and getting it right matters.
I'm James Amber, owner of Football Shirt Kit (FSK), and I've spent over 15 years helping parents find the perfect kids football kit for their youngest players.
The Quick Answer
Size 22 football kits typically fit children aged 5-6 years old.
But here's something I've learned from fitting thousands of young players: age is just a rough guide for our littlest footballers.
Why Size 22 is Special
This size holds a special place in my heart.
It's often the first proper kit a child owns - moving up from those basic sports clothes to feeling like a real player.
Size 22 Measurements
From years of fitting young players, here's what size 22 typically means:
- Chest: 56- 61 cm (22-24 inches)
- Length: 43-48 cm (17-19 inches)
- Sleeve: 10-13 cm (4-5 inches)
The Beginner's Journey
Size 22 marks the start of many football journeys.
Young players at this size are usually just beginning their football adventure. Their kit needs are different - comfort trumps performance features.
Fitting the Youngest Players
My experience with size 22 fittings is unique.
These young players can't always tell you how something feels. I've developed special tricks to ensure comfort:
Watch their movement patterns Check for natural arm swing Look for smiles or frowns See how they run and jump
Growth Patterns Matter
At this age, growth comes in spurts.
Some kids wear size 22 for three months, others for a year. I always suggest buying with just a little room to grow - but not too much.
Oversized kits can trip up our youngest players.
Brand Differences for Little Ones
Size 22 varies more between brands than larger sizes.
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I've noticed Spanish and Italian brands like Barcelona and Real Madrid run slightly smaller.
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While Premier League and German brands offer a usually true to size cut.
This knowledge helps prevent sizing mishaps.
Material Choices
For size 22, material comfort is crucial.
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Modern breathable fabrics work great for active little ones.
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Traditional polyester can feel stiff.
These insights come from countless parent feedback sessions.
Weather Considerations
Living where weather changes? Size 22 needs change too.
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Winter players need base layer room.
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Summer players want breathability.
These practical tips come from years of seasonal fittings.
The First Kit Experience
Buying a first kit creates priceless memories.
I've seen countless young faces light up wearing it for the first time.
Size 22 should feel special but comfortable. It's about balancing excitement with practicality.
Playing Style at This Age
Young players in size 22 move differently. They run, jump, and play with pure joy.
Their kit needs to keep up. Flexibility matters more than aerodynamics at this stage.
Activity Level Impact
Some young players wear their size 22 kids soccer jerseys everywhere - not just for football.
Others save it for matches. This affects how we think about durability and fit.
Common Questions From Parents
Q: How does size 22 compare to regular age 5-6 clothes?
From my experience, size 22 football kits run slightly smaller than regular clothes. They're cut for movement rather than casual wear.
Q: Will washing affect the size 22 fit?
Modern soccer kits for kids keep their shape well. Wash at 30°C, skip the dryer - advice I've given to hundreds of parents with great results.
Q: Is size 22 too small for a tall 5-year-old?
Possibly. I've helped many tall 5-year-olds find a better fit in size 24. Always measure rather than following age alone.
Q: Should we start with size 22 or go straight to 24?
Start with 22 if it fits now. A too-big kit can discourage young players - something I've seen too often.
Q: Do shorts match jersey sizing?
Usually yes, but some brands vary. I always have young players try both pieces for comfort.
Signs Size 22 is Right
Your young player needs size 22 when:
Current clothes are size 5-6 Chest measures 56- 61 cm (22-24 inches) They can raise arms freely The length hits at the hips
Signs You're Ready to Size Up
You know it's time to move up from size 22 when:
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The kit rides up during play
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Arms feel restricted
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Chest feels snug
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Growth spurt is coming
Our Kids Football Kits Collection
At FSK, we stock carefully selected kids' football kits in various sizes. Check out our premium yet cheap kids football kits collection for quality options suited for every young player.
Need help with size 22 football kits for kids? Visit our store or reach out - nothing makes me happier than helping our youngest players start their football journey right.
