The Best Soccer Cleats That Are Truly Pitch-Worthy

Finding the Perfect Pair of Soccer Cleats: A Buyer's Guide

Getting the best soccer cleat just got easier, but you still have a decision to make. This buying guide takes you through the critical factors to consider when buying. It also contains helpful tips and answers to frequently asked questions about soccer cleats.

What Are the Different Types of Soccer Cleats?

Understanding the various types of soccer cleats available is an important first step in buying soccer cleats. This understanding will help you select the cleats that suit your needs best. Soccer cleats are categorized based on the grounds they are used on. See below for more information:

Firm-ground cleats

As the name implies, these cleats are meant to be used on firm ground, although they can also be used on other surfaces. They are also known as molded soccer cleats, and they usually have non-removable studs made of either plastic or metal on the bottom. The studs offer superior traction and better control to the player.

Soft-ground cleats

These cleats have removable studs that can be screwed on and off. Depending on the weather condition, you can use them with or without studs. The length of the studs can vary according to the player’s preference. These are the go-to cleats for professionals because you can use them on wet/soggy fields, artificial turf, and well-groomed fields.

Hard-ground cleats

They are created for use on artificial surfaces and other hard natural surfaces like sun-baked ground or artificial turfs. They typically have many short studs that are placed evenly across the entire sole. Players often buy them as backup shoes.

Indoor soccer shoes

These are soccer shoes that look like your regular sneakers. They usually have a flat, studless sole that allows players to move well on hard surfaces or soccer courts.

How To Choose Soccer Cleats

There are a couple of important factors you should consider when buying soccer cleats. This section explains some of those factors in detail.

Upper material

The material used to make the upper of your soccer cleats is a crucial factor to consider because it is the primary determinant of the shoes’ durability. Leather, knit, and synthetic materials are the most common materials used to make the upper of soccer shoes.

Leather

Soccer shoes with leather uppers offer the best feel, durability, and fit of all. The specific source of the leather also plays a role in the shoe’s overall feel and durability. Those made of kangaroo hide are more flexible. However, they are not widely produced anymore due to the danger posed to kangaroos. Hides obtained from calves and cows are less flexible but quite durable. They now form the bulk of leather used to make soccer shoes with leather uppers.

Synthetic

Soccer shoes with synthetic uppers simulate the look and feel of leather without its drawbacks. They are cheaper and do not absorb water like those made of leather. They also require less maintenance and are generally lighter. Note that despite the generally favorable features of synthetic soccer shoes, the quality varies, and you should always double-check to ensure you’re getting good quality.

Knit

Soccer shoes made of knit uppers are relatively new. Players have taken to them because of their durability and lightweight. These shoes are so light and well-fitting that most users claim that it feels as though they are wearing socks. To ensure durability, the knit is usually covered with silicone material.

Ankle height

Soccer is a contact sport, and you are likely to get a lot of hits, depending on the position you play. Therefore, you can choose soccer shoes that protect the ankle.  The two options available are low and mid-profile soccer shoes. Mid-profile shoes cover the ankle and are often recommended for players that are always in the thick of the action, like strikers and defenders. However, mid-profile shoes may limit a player’s range of motion. This could have a negative effect on the play of nimble-footed players like wingers and playmakers.

Insole

The shoe’s insole is the part the sole of your feet makes direct contact with. Therefore, it should be made of comfortable material that cushions the feet when you fall heavily on your feet, get kicked on the ankle, or during short bursts of speed. A shock-absorbing insole provides the best cushion. The insole could either be removable or permanent.

Breathability

Ninety minutes is a long time to run around kicking a ball without sweating. While you have no control over the quantity of sweat your feet produce, you can control how much ventilation your feet get by choosing a breathable pair of soccer shoes.

Fit

Getting the right fit is a matter of balance. If it fits too tightly, you’ll be sacrificing comfort and will potentially be in the market for a new pair in no time. If it’s too big, you won’t even be able to complete a practice session. Ideally, your soccer shoes should fit in a way that there is enough space between the end of the shoe and your toes to accommodate your pinkie.

How To Maintain Soccer Cleats

If you don’t want to start hunting for a new pair of shoes soon, you should consider these tips for maintaining your cleats. Your specific maintenance routine will primarily depend on the material the upper section is made of. Generally, you should clean your shoes after every game or practice session. This routine helps you avoid the build-up of grime and mud around the boots. To do this, follow these steps:

• Remove the insole to air dry
• Empty the inner shoe for debris
• Use a soft brush to clean the upper and studs
• Occasionally, use hand soap and cool water to gently clean the upper portion
• Use a towel to subsequently dry the upper
• Polish your shoes shortly after washing to keep the leather from drying out and cracking

Do not dip your shoes inside the water in order to avoid cracking the leather. You should also avoid using hot water for the cleaning. If your shoes have removable studs, endeavor to check them at the end of each game or practice session so that you can change the worn-out studs.

How Much Do Soccer Cleats Typically Cost?

Soccer cleats cost between $15 and $1,000. The price depends on the shoe size and material. Shoes made of natural leather are usually more expensive, while kids’ shoes are often cheaper, especially if they’re made from a synthetic material.