How many kits does a football team need?

Most football teams order one home kit per registered player, two or three goalkeeper kits in different colours, a few spare shirts in common sizes, and an away kit if clashes are likely. A squad of 16 typically orders 16 outfield kits, 2–3 keeper kits and 2–4 spares.

5 min read Updated 10 October 2026 By the Vanguard Uniforms production team

Start with the squad size

Count every registered player, not just the starting eleven. For most adult teams that is 16–20 players; for small-sided youth teams it may be 10–14.

A simple formula

ItemQuantity
Outfield shirtsOne per outfield player
Shorts and socksOne per player, including keepers
Goalkeeper shirts2–3, in different colours
Spare shirts2–4, in the most common sizes, no names
Away kitSame quantities as home, if needed

Example: a squad of 16

  • 14 outfield shirts with names and numbers
  • 2 goalkeepers, so 3 keeper shirts in contrasting colours
  • 16 shorts and 16 pairs of socks
  • 3 spare shirts without names (sizes M, L, XL)

Why spares matter

Players join mid-season, shirts tear, and kits go missing. A few unnamed spares in common sizes save a reorder for one shirt. If names are printed, spares can carry numbers only.

Goalkeeper kits

Keepers must wear colours distinct from both teams and the referee. Two or three keeper colourways cover almost every fixture. See goalkeeper kits.

Shared or personal kits?

  • Personal kits: printed with each player’s name; player takes it home and washes it. Common in adult teams.
  • Club set: numbered only; washed centrally and handed out on match day. Common in junior and casual teams.

Reorders

We keep your design on file, so extra shirts later match the originals. For names and numbers, see our names and numbers guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do we need an away kit?

If your home colours often clash with opponents, yes. Many clubs choose a contrasting away kit or a reversible training top as a backup.

Should each player keep their own kit?

Some clubs issue kits to players; others keep a club set washed centrally. Personal kits with names suit adult teams; shared sets suit junior and casual teams.

Vanguard Uniforms production team

Written by the team that makes uniforms and team kits at our factory in Faisalabad, Pakistan, since 2002. Questions? WhatsApp us at +92 300 6646541.

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