What Do You Wear for 7 on 7 Football?

7 on 7 football is faster and lighter than tackle football, but what you wear still matters. The right gear helps you play better, stay safe, and feel confident.

Most leagues keep equipment simple. You won’t wear pads, but you still need a few key items to compete. Below is a clear checklist for high school players and parents.

7 on 7 Football Gear Checklist

Most players wear:

• Mouthguard
• Cleats (non-metal in most leagues)
• Football gloves
• Athletic shorts or tights (no pockets)
• Optional compression gear

Now let’s break each one down.

Do You Need a Mouthpiece for 7 on 7 Football?

Many leagues require a mouthpiece. Others strongly recommend it.

Even though 7v7 is non-contact, accidents still happen. Players collide, fall, and jump for the ball.

Why wearing a mouthguard is smart:

• Protects teeth and gums
• Helps reduce jaw injuries
• Easy way to avoid getting pulled from a game

NXTRND mouthguards are a popular choice for 7v7 because they’re lightweight and comfortable, which matters during long tournament days.

Do You Need Gloves for 7 on 7 Football?

Gloves are not always required, but most players wear them.

7v7 is all about catching and coverage. Gloves help in ways bare hands can’t.

Why gloves matter in 7v7:

• Better grip in heat and sweat
• More confidence on contested catches
• Cleaner catches for QBs and receivers
• Better ball control for defensive backs

Most skill players (WRs, DBs, QBs) wear football gloves during every 7v7 rep.

NXTRND football gloves are designed for grip and comfort, which makes them a natural fit for 7 on 7 play.

What Cleats Should You Wear for 7 on 7?

Most 7v7 leagues allow standard football cleats, but there’s one big rule to watch.

Cleat rules to know:

• Metal spikes are usually banned
• Molded or rubber cleats are safest
• Turf shoes may be allowed on turf fields

Always check the tournament rules before game day.

Shorts, Tights, and Clothing Rules

What you wear below the waist matters more than you think.

Common rules include:

• No pockets (especially in flag-style leagues)
• Compression tights are usually allowed
• Shorts must fit over tights cleanly

Compression shorts or tights help with:

• Muscle support
• Reducing turf burns
• Staying comfortable in heat

Many players also wear arm sleeves for light protection and sweat control.

Optional Gear That Helps in 7v7

These items aren’t required, but many players use them:

• Arm sleeves (for turf burn and grip)
• Compression shirts (heat management)
• Headbands or skull caps
• Extra gloves (in case of rain or sweat)

NXTRND compression gear is commonly used by 7v7 players because it’s lightweight and built for speed-based football.

What You Do Not Wear in 7 on 7 Football

7v7 is not tackle football. You typically do not wear:

• Helmets
• Shoulder pads
• Thigh, knee, or hip pads

Always follow league rules. Some youth formats may allow soft headgear, but it’s not standard.

Key Takeaways

• 7 on 7 football uses lighter gear than tackle football
• Mouthguards are often required and always recommended
• Gloves are not mandatory, but most players wear them
• Non-metal cleats are the safest option
• Compression gear improves comfort during long tournaments