Ryal is a company that has had years of experience working with soccer players and making handmade shin pads (shin guards). From 1930 till 1939, Giulio Moriani was a talented soccer player. As the years passed, Moriani became a cobbler, specializing in soccer cleats. He established himself as a brand and became very well known all over Italy. In 1960 Moriani renamed his brand to Ryal. The change of name was a tribute to his favorite player Jose Hector Rial. Although he changed the ‘I’ to a ‘Y’.

Recently, Ryal worked with Italy based GL Sport, to design an exclusive series of handmade shin guards. Using ultra-light carbon fiber and lined with neoprene for increased comfort and protection, these carbon shin pads are currently being worn by several soccer players worldwide. They’re called the Elite Pro and with all their carbon fiber goodness, elite they are. They weigh in at just 42 grams.

The Elite Pro’s, which are 100% handmade in Italy with real carbon fiber, are also available to the general public and can be personally customized! Take a look around GL Sport, to see if you’re interested in creating your very own pair. If you’re just looking for the standard pair, they can be bought here from Ryal.

Special thanks to Ard for the tip.

[Sources: GL Sport, Ryal]