Some footballers opt out of wearing shin pads despite rules requiring them

Some professional footballers, like Bayern Munich's Michael Olise, are choosing not to wear shin pads during games, despite rules requiring them. Olise was recently seen removing his shin pads during a Champions League match, highlighting a trend among players who prefer minimal protection. Shin pads have evolved since their invention in the 1800s, becoming smaller and lighter. This has raised concerns, especially at grassroots levels, where some clubs have banned tiny shin pads after injuries occurred. Players now often customize their shin pads, using them as a fashion statement. New technology is also emerging in shin pads, with companies like Soccerment creating data-collecting models. These smart shin guards aim to provide protection while tracking player performance metrics, responding to the trend of smaller, less protective options in the sport.