If your child plays soccer on turf fields filled with coconut husks, you’ve probably noticed one thing: turf burns are out of control.
While these natural infills are seen as safer alternatives to rubber pellets, many parents say the surface is harder and less forgiving. We combed through a massive discussion in a local soccer parent group and compiled the top 7 turf burn solutions for soccer players—backed by firsthand advice from real families.
As one parent put it, “There’s no give at all. My daughter came home with burns that looked like road rash.”
1. Storelli Turf Burn Slider Shorts
This was the most recommended gear by far. Parents consistently praised Storelli for their soccer-specific protection, especially for defenders and goalkeepers.
One parent said, “Storelli turf sliders are a must-have for defenders. Worth every penny.”
Another added, “My son is a keeper and swears by the extra-padded version.”
2. Baseball or Softball Sliding Shorts
Not as specialized, but very effective. Sliding shorts designed for baseball or softball provide padding on the hips and thighs, and they’re easy to find at sporting goods stores.
One parent said, “We bought baseball slide shorts and they’ve made a big difference.”
Another added, “Softball sliders are our go-to—affordable and protective.”
3. Compression Leggings
Brands like Nike Pro, Under Armour, and Reebok offer compression tights that add a protective barrier against turf burns. While they don’t have padding, they reduce friction.
“My son wears long compression pants under his uniform,” one parent shared. “He hasn’t had a bad burn since.”
Another commented, “Leggings might not prevent all injuries, but they’ve helped a ton.”
4. Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline) Pre-Game Trick
This old-school method came up several times. Apply Vaseline to knees and thighs before games to create a slick surface that reduces abrasion.
One former athlete said, “I played pro football and Vaseline was our secret weapon. Cheap, simple, and it works.”
5. Turf Tape or Long Sports Underwear
Some families use turf tape or long compression underlayers to prevent skin exposure. It’s especially popular with players in high-contact roles like center backs and goalkeepers.
“We tape up my son’s outer thighs every game,” one mom said. “It’s like giving him invisible armor.”
Another added, “Longer athletic underwear helps—just don’t roll up the shorts!”
6. Healing Creams and Ointments
When turf burn happens, fast healing is critical. Parents recommended zinc-based diaper creams, Calmoseptine, Neosporin, and even honey for overnight relief.
One parent said, “Zinc ointment works better than anything else we’ve tried.”
Another added, “Calmoseptine is magic. It cleared my daughter’s burn up in two days.”
One old-school remedy: “My mom swears by honey wrapped in gauze overnight.”
7. Layer Strategically and Stay Covered
Beyond gear and treatment, some advice was as simple as layering up and not rolling the shorts. Skin exposure is often the reason for burns.
As one parent bluntly put it: “Stay on your feet, and stop rolling your shorts up!”
Turf burn may seem like a rite of passage in modern soccer—but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’re using Storelli sliders, applying zinc ointment, or going the Vaseline route, these tips are all parent-tested. The key is to protect exposed areas before the game and treat burns quickly afterward.
