Pinnies vs Training Vests: Understanding Soccer Practice Gear (2026)

In modern soccer training, pinnies vs training vests is a common comparison for coaches, players, and parents choosing the right practice gear. While the terms are often used interchangeably, pinnies and training vests serve slightly different purposes in soccer practice sessions in 2026, especially as training methods become more structured and data driven.

This guide breaks down the differences, features, pros and cons, and practical use cases of pinnies and training vests so you can confidently choose the right option for your team, academy, or recreational league.

What Is Soccer Practice Gear?

Soccer practice gear refers to non match apparel designed to organize, identify, and support players during training sessions. Among the most essential items are pinnies and training vests, which help coaches quickly distinguish teams, positions, or roles during drills and scrimmages.

Both pinnies and training vests are lightweight outer layers worn over jerseys. Their main purpose is visual identification, not protection or performance enhancement, but modern designs now incorporate breathable fabrics, numbered backs, and gender  or youth specific sizing.

What Are Pinnies in Soccer?

Definition of Soccer Pinnies

Soccer pinnies (also called scrimmage vests or bibs) are loose fitting, sleeveless mesh garments worn over practice jerseys to separate players into teams during drills or scrimmages.

They are most commonly seen in:

• Youth soccer practices
• Recreational leagues
• School PE classes
• Informal training sessions

Key Characteristics of Pinnies

• Material: Lightweight mesh (usually polyester)
• Fit: Loose and boxy for quick on/off changes
• Design: Solid bright colors (yellow, orange, green)
• Durability: Moderate; designed for short term use
• Cost: Low per unit, ideal for large groups

Pinnies prioritize speed and simplicity over structure, making them a staple in grassroots soccer.

What Are Training Vests in Soccer?

Definition of Soccer Training Vests

Soccer training vests are more structured, athletic fit identification tops designed specifically for organized training environments. They are commonly used in academies, semi professional setups, and club training sessions.

Unlike pinnies, training vests are often part of a coordinated training kit produced by major brands like Nike, adidas, and PUMA.

Key Characteristics of Training Vests

• Material: Breathable polyester or performance mesh
• Fit: Athletic or semi fitted
• Design: Clean cuts, sometimes numbered or branded
• Durability: High, built for repeated washes
• Cost: Higher than pinnies

Training vests emphasize professionalism, consistency, and durability.

Key Features and Attributes Compared

1. Fit and Comfort

Pinnies

• One size fits most approach
• Can flap or shift during intense movement
• Often uncomfortable in windy conditions

Training Vests

• Size specific (youth, adult, women’s cuts)
• Better body contouring
• Less movement during sprints and direction changes

Takeaway: Training vests provide superior comfort during high intensity drills.

2. Material and Breathability

Pinnies

• Thin mesh
• Highly breathable but less durable
• Can tear with frequent use

Training Vests

• Reinforced performance fabrics
• Moisture wicking technology
• Designed for repeated washing cycles

Takeaway: Pinnies breathe well; training vests last longer.

3. Visibility and Identification

Pinnies

• Extremely bright colors
• Excellent contrast for quick team identification
• Limited customization

Training Vests

• Clear color blocks
• Optional numbers or position labels
• Better suited for structured drills

Takeaway: Pinnies excel for quick scrimmages; training vests excel for organized sessions.

4. Durability and Longevity

Pinnies

• Lower stitch quality
• Stretch and fade over time
• Ideal for casual or seasonal use

Training Vests

• Reinforced seams
• Fade resistant dyes
• Designed for multi season use

Takeaway: Training vests are a better long term investment.

How to Choose the Right Option for Soccer Practice

Step 1: Identify Your Level of Play

• Recreational / Youth: Pinnies are sufficient
• Club / Academy: Training vests are recommended
• School Programs: Pinnies for volume, vests for varsity

Step 2: Consider Training Structure

• Unstructured scrimmages: Pinnies
• Positional drills: Training vests
• Tactical sessions: Training vests with numbers

Step 3: Evaluate Budget and Quantity

• Large rosters → pinnies reduce costs
• Smaller squads → training vests add professionalism

Step 4: Think About Frequency of Use

• Occasional use → pinnies
• Daily or weekly sessions → training vests

Step 5: Factor in Player Age

• Younger players: Pinnies for easy swapping
• Teen/adult players: Training vests for fit and comfort

Pinnies vs Training Vests: Side by Side Comparison

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Pros of Pinnies

• Affordable for large groups
• Easy to put on and remove
• Highly visible colors
• Ideal for mixed age sessions

Cons of Pinnies

• Poor fit during intense play
• Shorter lifespan
• Can twist or ride up

Pros of Training Vests

• Professional appearance
• Comfortable, stable fit
• Durable materials
• Suitable for tactical training

Cons of Training Vests

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires size management
• Less flexible for quick swaps

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are pinnies and training vests the same thing?

No. While both are used for identification, pinnies are looser and more casual, while training vests are fitted and designed for structured soccer training.

Which is better for youth soccer?

For most youth programs, pinnies are more practical due to cost, flexibility, and ease of use. Advanced youth academies may prefer training vests.

Do professional teams use pinnies?

Professional teams almost exclusively use training vests, often branded and numbered, as part of a coordinated training kit.

How many pinnies or vests does a team need?

A standard squad of 18–22 players typically needs:

• 2 full sets of pinnies (two colors)
• Or 1–2 sets of training vests depending on drill structure

Can training vests replace pinnies completely?

Yes, in organized environments. However, many clubs still keep pinnies on hand for quick scrimmages or mixed sessions.

Expert Tips and Common Mistakes

Expert Tip #1:
Always buy extra pinnies. They get lost more often than any other training item.

Expert Tip #2:
Use contrasting colors. Yellow vs blue works better than red vs orange.

Expert Tip #3:
Label your gear. Especially in shared facilities or tournaments.

Common Mistake:
Using oversized pinnies for high intensity drills   this can distract players and affect movement quality.

Pinnies and Training Vests in Modern Soccer (2026 Trends)

In 2026, soccer training continues to evolve with:

• GPS tracking worn under training vests
• Color coded tactical systems
• Position specific training apparel

Training vests now integrate seamlessly with modern training technology, while pinnies remain unbeatable for simplicity and affordability.

Conclusion

When comparing pinnies vs training vests, the right choice depends on your level of play, training structure, and budget. Pinnies are unbeatable for quick organization and large groups, while training vests offer superior comfort, durability, and professionalism for structured soccer environments.

Bottom line:

• Choose pinnies for flexibility and cost efficiency
• Choose training vests for consistency and long term performance

For best results, many teams keep both in their training kit.

Related reading: Complete Soccer Training Equipment Checklist for 2026