What you actually need
A NOCSAE-stamped mouthguard ($5-15) is the only real safety requirement. Your child should wear one every practice and game, even in flag. Cleats come next: regular rubber-stud soccer cleats work perfectly. Don’t buy metal-stud football cleats—they’re unnecessary for flag and create injuries on artificial surfaces.
Flag belts are usually team-supplied, so ask your coach before buying. Gloves are optional but parents ask about them constantly. Kids don’t need them. If your child wants gloves anyway (many see other kids wearing them), a basic pair runs $15-30. A simple moisture-wicking athletic shirt and athletic shorts complete the basics—nothing fancy required.
The beauty of flag football is there’s almost nothing to buy. No pads, no helmet, no armor. Lower gear cost means lower injury cost.
Sizing notes
Need to know what size? See our Flag football sizing guide.
Used gear notes
Play It Again Sports and Facebook Marketplace have decent flag football inventory, though the volume is small compared to tackle football. For used cleats, buy a fresh insole so the foot sits in a neutral position. Mouthguards should always be new.
What you can skip
Skip specialty flag football gloves entirely. They add cost for zero real benefit. Skip performance underwear—regular underwear under athletic shorts works fine. Skip expensive compression gear. Your kid gets cold and warm like everyone else, and $80 leggings don’t change that.