Does the thought of your young athlete hitting the field make you anxious about safe tackling? You want them to play hard, but safety always comes first. Choosing the right tackling drills for youth football can feel like a maze. You see so many methods online, and figuring out which ones actually teach good habits without risking injury is tough. It’s easy to feel lost trying to balance development with protection.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We focus on drills that build confidence and proper technique, step by step. You will learn exactly which drills work best for different age groups and skill levels. Stop guessing about what to practice at your next session.
Keep reading to discover simple, effective tackling drills proven to develop safe and strong young football players.
Top Tackling Drills For Youth Football Recommendations
- Ideal Training Size: Measuring 27.9/14.1*7.8 inches, the football tackle wheel is the ideal size for real-life drills and is perfect for practicing tackling, blocking and defensive maneuvers skills to help athletes improve their practical experience
- High-Quality Material: The tackling wheel for youth football is made of tear-resistant PU leather and 30D high-elasticity sponge. It is not only waterproof but also has good resilience, is not easily deformed, and can be used for a long time
- Unique Ring-Shaped Design: Our football tackle dummy features a unique ring design that is easy to tackle, enhancing functionality, and it rolls and jumps in different ways each time, creating unpredictable training scenarios that simulate more realistic situations
- Portable and Lightweight: The football tackling ring has handles on the outside for easy carrying, and straps inside to secure the football. It is quick and easy to install and provides athletes with a mobile training target
- Realistic Tackling Practice: Football tackling dummies are suitable for players of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, you can use them to simulate real game scenarios and improve your speed, blocking skills, and tackling ability
- HEAVY-DUTY TACKLE DUMMY: This tackling dummy is lightweight enough to maneuver properly with its durable handles and sturdy design. Youth players can practice tackling, blocking, and defensive maneuvers multiple times, learning proper technique!
- DURABLE: Hikeen football tackle dummy features Solid stitching and durable covering for added durability and can withstand heavy use and abuse, making it a long-lasting training tool. And is less prone to bending or warping over time.
- WIDE USE FOR YOUTH DRILLS: Widely used in body pressure/contact training, like football blocking/tackling drills, basketball shooting with defense practice, sparring/karate training, Krav Maga practice, taekwondo training, and hockey/lacrosse tackle dummies.
- COMFORTABLE: The three handles are comfortable and easy to hold, move, and use, providing extra stability during use. The softer foam is well-padded for impact and the horizontal handles make it easy to position the dummy.
- STABLE & RELIABLE - Comes with 1 x leather cover, denser foam pads,1 x wiping towel. If you have any problem with the product, we will try our best to solve it for you.
- CONTACT DRILLS: Heavy-duty tackle dummy for safely simulating contact drills for a variety of sports or for martial arts training
- 3 REINFORCED HANDLES: Strategically placed handles to provide agile control over traditional blocking pads; Use for football, basketball, mixed martial arts, and more
- ATHLETE FUNDAMENTALS: Perfect training aid for athletes of various skill levels - youth, middle school, high school, and college athletes
- ABSORBS IMPACT: Tackle dummy measures 4 ft tall and 1ft wide with ultra dense foam core to minimize impact and features a tear proof composite leather surface
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Premium composite leather exterior is built to last and is tear proof, sweatproof, and waterproof
- MULTI-SPORT VERSATILITY - 🔥Master every discipline! Designed for high-impact body collisions, martial arts kicks (Taekwondo, Karate, Muay Thai), football tackles, basketball defense drills, rugby scrums, and hockey training. Perfect for coaches and athletes across all contact sports.
- 🛡️ SAFER and ABSORBS IMPACT - High-density Foam delivers ultimate shock absorption with rapid rebound. Softer than traditional EVA foam to prevent bruising during Taekwondo/Kickboxing practice, yet durable enough to withstand 200+ lbs force. Your shins & knuckles will thank you!
- 💪 5 COMFORT-GRIP HANDLES FOR TOTAL CONTROL- 3 back handles + 2 side handles (each padded with pearl cotton) allow secure gripping in any position. Coaches: Move dynamically while blocking tackles! Fighters: Execute spinning kicks without losing grip! Non-slip design even when sweaty.
- 🌧️ MILITARY-GRADE DURABILITY- Waterproof PU leather exterior wipes clean in seconds—defeats mud, rain, and sweat. Reinforced stitching survives brutal MMA sessions and outdoor drills. 24"L x16"W x5"H: Massive coverage yet lightweight (3.5 lbs) for easy transport.
- 1 PAD INCLUED, PRO-APPROVED PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE -Trusted by football coaches, MMA gyms, and martial arts dojos. Includes 1-year warranty against material defects. Dominate training sessions risk-free!
- 4Ft Unfilled Training Dummy: this 4-foot/120cm football tackling dummy offers the ideal size for youth and college training drills; Measuring 13.4 inches/34cm in diameter, it provides ideal portability while maintaining performance for agility, speed and strength workouts
- Unfilled: please note that this tackling dummy for youth football is not filled; You can fill it with worn clothing and foam (not included) to create different weights to suit your training needs
- Pu Leather Construction: made with durable, tear-resistant PU leather that withstands intense football drills, martial arts training, and multi-sport contact sessions; Built to last through rigorous practice routines season after season
- Multi-sport Training Tool: perfectly for football tackling drills, basketball defense practice, martial arts striking, rugby training, and military exercises; Three reinforced handles allow for gripping, dragging and kicking during diverse training scenarios
- Reinforced Handles: designed with 3 reinforced handles, you can easily hold, drag, punch, or the football dummy for tackling; It is applied for multi-sport use and contact drills, a true testament of its adaptability and effectiveness
- Find the Ideal Size: discover a unique balance of portability and performance; You will receive 1 piece of unfilled football dummy for tackling youth, it measures about 4ft (120 cm) in height and 13.4 inches (34 cm) in diameter, making it an ideal partner during various drill types, from agility to strength and speed workouts
- Unfilled: please note that this tackling dummy for youth football is not filled; You can fill it with worn clothing and foam (not included) to create different weights to suit your training needs
- Experience Quality Material: encounter a football tackle dummy built to last, the dummy is designed to withstand the punching or hitting during contact drills in various sports; Thanks to its PU leather material, enjoy the longevity and tear resistant quality; Exciting tackling drills and intensive training sessions are now possible with the dummy
- Embrace the Dummy's Versatility: gain the good training aid to improve your skills; The football tackling equipment serves as a versatile training tool across multiple sports genres, applied for contact drills in football, basketball, martial arts, kickboxing, lacrosse, wrestling, rugby, boxing, or military training; No matter your skill level or size, it provides a platform for different tackling drills, good choice for athletes, youth or college
- Reinforced Handles: designed with 3 reinforced handles, you can easily hold, drag, punch, or kick the football dummy for tackling; It is applied for multi-sport use and contact drills, a true testament of its adaptability and effectiveness
- VERSATILE TACKLING DUMMY - Durable Tackling Dummy for Football, Basketball, Kickboxing, Martial Arts, and More
- GREAT FOR CONTACT DRILLS - Superior Control and Durability for Contact Drills, and Offers a Safer Alternative
- HANDLES PROVIDE IMPROVED CONTROL - Three Reinforced, Heavy-Duty Handles For Improved Control
- THICK, DENSE FOAM - Inner Material: 50.6 lbs/Cubic Meter High Density Foam, Dummy Measures 50.5” High, 14.4” Diameter, Weighs 8.8 lbs
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – Since 1927, Escalade Sports has taken pride in manufacturing quality products. With a fully-staffed customer service team, we are committed to providing courteous care and a 100% guarantee you will be satisfied with your purchase
- High-Quality Dummies:Made with tear-resistant PU leather cover and high-density foam filling, these tackling dummies for football withstand rigorous drills;The waterproof design ensures long-lasting performance in deplorable weather condition
- Heavy Duty Football Step Over Dummy: Our football tackling dummy is built for intense drills, perfect for football training equipment to enhance agility, footwork, and tackling skills; Ideal for soccer, rugby, and multi-sport exercises
- Size of Football Training：Each set includes 2 tackling dummies for football, designed with durable materials for repeated use;The football step over dummy measures 42 x 12 x 6 inches, offering a realistic training experience for solo or team sessions
- Convenient Handle Design：Featuring sturdy handles for easy transport and storage, our football tackling dummy ensures hassle-free setup and mobility. Perfect for coaches and players who need reliable football training equipment on the go
- Multi Purpose Training Tool: Whether it's improving footwork, interception ability, or agility, our soccer step dummies are your multi-purpose equipment that can continuously enhance your training level
Tackling Drills for Youth Football: Your Essential Buying Guide
Getting the right equipment makes youth football practice fun and safe. Tackling drills are crucial for teaching young players how to hit safely. This guide helps you choose the best tackling dummies and aids for your team.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for tackling drills, look for specific features. These make the drills effective and long-lasting.
Durability and Construction
- Heavy-Duty Stitching: Strong thread keeps the dummy from ripping after hard hits.
- Reinforced Handles: Coaches need sturdy handles to move and position the equipment easily.
- Weather Resistance: If you practice outside a lot, choose materials that resist sun and rain.
Safety and Impact Absorption
- Appropriate Density Foam: The foam inside needs to absorb impact well. It should be firm enough to simulate a player but soft enough to prevent injury.
- Height and Size: Make sure the dummy’s size matches the age group you coach. Younger kids need smaller, lower targets.
Versatility
- Multiple Grip Points: Good tackling dummies offer different places for players to grab, allowing for various drill types (e.g., wrap-up drills, drive drills).
- Weight Options: Some drills come in different weights. Heavier dummies help teach power, while lighter ones are better for quick technique work.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used directly affect how long the drill lasts and how safe it is for your players.
Outer Shell
Look for tough vinyl or heavy-duty canvas. Vinyl is easier to wipe clean. Canvas often lasts longer under extreme weather conditions. Avoid thin plastic covers; they tear quickly.
Inner Padding
High-density foam is the standard. Some premium models use layered foam—softer foam on the outside for initial contact and denser foam inside for full support. This layering mimics a real player better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all tackling aids are made equal. Pay attention to these quality markers.
What Boosts Quality?
- Double or Triple Stitching: This shows the manufacturer expects hard use.
- Internal Frame Support: Some larger dummies have internal plastic or metal frames to keep their shape, which significantly improves longevity.
- Warranty: A good warranty often signals a manufacturer stands behind their product quality.
What Lowers Quality?
- Cheap Fillers: If the inside is filled with scrap material or very light, uneven foam, the dummy will sag quickly.
- Exposed Zippers or Seams: These spots become weak points and usually fail first under heavy tackling pressure.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the equipment during practice.
Coaching Style
If you run fast-paced, high-repetition drills, you need lighter, easy-to-move dummies that coaches can quickly reset. If you focus on drive blocking and power, you need heavier, grounded sleds or dummies that resist movement.
Practice Space
Do you practice on grass or turf? Heavy dummies might scratch or damage indoor turf. Portable, lighter tackling bags work better when you move practice stations frequently.
Remember, the best tackling drill is one that players enjoy using and that withstands a full season of hard work. Invest wisely to keep your players safe and your practices effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Youth Football Tackling Drills
Q: What is the safest type of tackling drill for 8-year-olds?
A: For very young players, focus on “wrap-up” dummies that are lower to the ground, perhaps torso height or slightly below. These teach proper arm placement without encouraging dangerous high hits.
Q: How do I clean vinyl tackling dummies?
A: You usually clean vinyl easily. Wipe the surface down with a mild soap and water solution or a disinfectant wipe. Always let them air dry completely before storing them.
Q: Should I buy weighted tackling dummies for my 10-year-olds?
A: Weighted dummies are great for teaching leverage and power, but ensure the weight is appropriate. The dummy should challenge them, not overpower them. Start light and increase weight slowly as they get stronger.
Q: What is the difference between a tackling dummy and a tackling sled?
A: A tackling dummy is a free-standing object you hit and wrap up. A tackling sled is a weighted piece of equipment mounted on skids that players push across the ground to practice drive blocking technique.
Q: How should I store my tackling equipment?
A: Always store tackling equipment out of direct sunlight and extreme cold. Sunlight degrades the vinyl, and freezing temperatures can make the foam brittle. A dry equipment shed works best.
Q: Are foam dummies better than air-filled ones?
A: For youth football, foam dummies are generally better. Foam provides consistent resistance and impact absorption. Air-filled bags can lose air or shift their shape too much, leading to inconsistent drill practice.
Q: How many tackling dummies should a team of 20 players have?
A: You want enough so that players aren’t waiting long periods. Aim for at least one tackling station for every 4 to 5 players. So, 4 to 5 quality dummies allow for good rotation.
Q: Can I use old blocking pads instead of tackling dummies?
A: Blocking pads teach blocking form, but they do not teach the full wrap-up and fall mechanics of a tackle. You need dedicated tackling dummies for proper tackling practice.
Q: Does the color of the dummy matter?
A: The color does not affect performance. However, bright colors (like orange or yellow) help coaches see the target clearly from a distance during fast drills.
Q: What is the best way to tell if a dummy is too worn out?
A: If the outer shell is constantly ripping, the foam is collapsing too easily when hit, or if the handles are tearing off, it is time to replace the equipment for safety reasons.