The status of soccer, also called football or association football, in the United States is growing quickly. Domestic leagues are emerging right across the country and the national team is getting better and better on the international stage.

While soccer hasn’t reached the massive popularity of American football or baseball, it is growing all the time. Its simplicity is a big attraction. When it comes down to it, all you really require to get a a soccer match going is a soccer ball.

Although soccer is practically a religion in many parts of the world, it is only of late, with the arrival of mega- stars like David Beckham in the domestic game, that it is beginning to gain momentum here.

As mentioned, soccer is basically a simple game. All you need is a few players, a couple of goals and a soccer ball. Players, with the exception of the keeper, handle the ball and the team that scores the most goals wins.

Though the soccer ball is the only really necessary item - goals can be made from just about anything - there is a whole range of soccer accessories on the market and the sport has grown into a burgeoning industry. Here is a short rundown of the most popular football equipment on the market:

Soccer balls - Footballs can vary a little in size but most have the same components. The exterior of the ball used to be made from leather but these days is usually made from polyurethane or PVC. They are usually stitched together from a number of pieces and are hard-wearing and resistant to water. The next layer is a lining which guards the inflatable bladder, which can be filled with air by a pump.

Soccer shoes - While standard sneakers are fine for a casual game of football, the more serious soccer enthusiast will want quality soccer shoes. These are light, slim shoes, often with a surface that grips to aid control and spin. They can be made of leather or synthetic, though leather is the common pick for comfort. The underside of the soccer shoe will have cleats of some kind, depending on where they will be used.

Shin guards - Most competitive soccer players use these. The shins are the area of the leg most exposed in soccer so these light plastic protectors can save on a lot of cuts and bruises, or worse.

Soccer clothes - The three essential items of football clothing are jerseys, shorts and socks. Jerseys and shorts are most often made from light polyester to help avoid getting too hot. Socks most often come up to the knee to help keep shin guards in place.

Goalie equipment - This differs slightly from standard soccer equipment. Goalkeepers need specially-made gloves that help them catch the soccer ball and they usually wear long trousers and jerseys with padded elbows to protect them when diving.