Law 4: The Players' Equipment Explained
Law 4 defines the compulsory and optional equipment players must wear, including the basic kit requirements, the prohibition on dangerous equipment, and the referee's power to order players off the field to correct equipment issues.
Key Points
- 1Compulsory equipment: jersey/shirt, shorts, socks, shinguards, and footwear.
- 2Shinguards must be covered entirely by socks and provide reasonable protection.
- 3Players must not wear any item that is dangerous.
- 4Jewellery is not permitted; tape over jewellery is not acceptable.
- 5A player with incorrect equipment must leave the field at the next stoppage and may only return with the referee's permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can players wear jewellery during a match?
No. The IFAB Laws prohibit all jewellery including rings, necklaces, earrings, leather/rubber/plastic bracelets, and wristbands. Covering jewellery with tape is not permitted as a substitute for removing it.
What happens if a referee notices a player wearing dangerous equipment?
The referee stops play at the next opportunity (or immediately if the equipment poses an immediate danger) and orders the player to leave the field of play. The player may return after correcting the equipment and being inspected by the referee.
Are goalkeepers required to wear a different colour kit?
Yes. The goalkeeper must wear a colour that distinguishes them from the other players and the referee. If the goalkeeper's colours clash with the outfield players or referee, the goalkeeper must change.
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