Goal Guide

Safety

Sharp vs Round Edges
Goals with round top and side bars offers greater safety compared to sharp-edged goals.

Ground Anchor Compatibility
Make sure the goals you are interested in are compatible with some form of ground anchor, or anchor bags, to prevent goal tip-over. Goals with a back-bottom bar adds more weight to the back of the goal further reducing the risk of tip-over.

Player Division

As of September 2016, USSF has revised the recommended "max goal size" by Player Division:

Goal Size for U6, U7, U8 - 4'x6'
Goal Size for U9, U10 - 6'6"x18'6"
Goal Size for U11, U12 - 7'x21'
Goal Size for U13 and up - 8'x24'

Download Goal Size Chart

Materials

Aluminum goals, typically more expensive than other options, offer the greatest value in terms of quality and durability. Relatively lightweight without having to sacrifice strength or rigidity, aluminum goals are rust-proof and generally outlast the life of steel or plastic goals, and can withstand rugged daily use. Steel goals are usually less expensive and heavier than aluminum goals, yet more susceptible to rust and deterioration. Fiberglass goals, lightweight yet sturdy, are associated more commonly with pop-up goals, and can endure light to moderate play. Plastic goals offer the least amount of long-term lifespan as they are vulnerable to breaks and sun-based warping.

Placement

Determine whether your goal will be used for indoor or outdoor play, or possibly even both. Most outdoor goals are manufactured to withstand harsh ambient elements, including wind, rain, heat, and UV degradation. Indoor goals are designed to accommodate more delicate surfaces, including turf or hardwood. Some goals (like the Agora Futsal Goal) are specifically designed for both indoor and outdoor use.

Portability

Portable goals are the way to go if you're looking for quick and easy, no-tools-required setup for on-the-go tournaments, training camps, or practices. Portable goals, also known as collapsible goals, are lightweight and most are compact enough to fit in most vehicles. Semi-permanent goals, which can be made permanent with the proper ground anchors, are recommended for those with dedicated soccer fields and/ or need heavy-duty construction for rugged use. Semi-permanent goals typically require two or more people for assembly, along with tools and hardware.

Net Attachment

Selecting the proper goal net attachment system can save you time and money down the road. Clip-Less Net Systems, like the Euro Net-Locking feature in the AGORA Euro Pro Goal, easily allows a net to latch onto an inline set of hook-shaped grooves built into the goal's frame, avoiding the need for net clips or ties. For speed and long-term savings, this is the way to go. Net-Clip Systems pin down the net into the goal's channel system using net clips, as designed in the AGORA Channel Pro, Premier Pro, and Channel Club Goals. Net ties & straps typically require more time than the options above. This system is more prevalent in portable goals, such as the AGORA Semi-Pro Goal and Small-Sided Goals.

Included Accessories

Review the goal you have interest in and check to see if it includes everything you need to start using your new goal the day it arrives. This will save you time and in most instances, money, as these comprehensive goals ensure your goal is good-to-go for use and avoid having to shop for each required accessory. Based on the type of goal you are reviewing, it should include all or a combination of the following: goal frame, net, net clips or ties*, back-bottom bar*, and anchors.

*Based on goal type.

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