The Best Soccer Cleats
Come rain or shine, when you're on the soccer field, you'll need something appropriate on your feet to avoid slipping around in the dirt. Soccer cleats are the choice of professional players the world over, offering unparalleled grip on natural grass surfaces. You won't be short of options to please the eye here, because there are plenty of bold patterns and colors available to help you express your style. We've taken the time to highlight some of the best cleats available to help you find the best ones for you.
What to Look For
Cleats come in all shapes and sizes, and choosing the right fit to enhance your game involves balancing several factors. Depending on your regular playing conditions, you’ll want to consider the length of the cleats on the bottom of the shoes. Dry surfaces favor blades, whereas wet conditions might require longer studs. You’ll also have to choose between high and low ankle options, with the latter providing more flexibility. With all this in mind, we rounded up a few of our own favorites. Our top pick overall is the Adidas X Ghosted.4. This unisex design is a dependable option for players of any level, and the quality stands out at this price point. But if you’re explicitly looking for a pair to get younger players started, our top pick for kids comes from Starmerx. Read on below to find the perfect cleats for your needs.
Adidas X Ghosted.4
One for all
You can trust Adidas when it comes to soccer. With a decades-old stake in the game spanning countless major sponsorships and 25 years of designing the venerable FIFA World Cup ball, these guys have had their eyes on the goal for a while. Naturally, you should expect big things when considering their cleats, and you won’t be disappointed by this contemporary, high-performance pair. This unisex fit comes equipped with all the bells and whistles, making them a standard-issue pair across the board.
Pros:
- These lightweight cleats weigh just over half a pound each to keep you feeling light on your feet in the heat of the moment.
- The wide range of sizes (including half-size options) means there’s a fit to accommodate players of all ages.
- Because these cleats have more studs than most at the front, you’ll have a better grip while you turn and accelerate.
Cons:
- Though these cleats boast a dense array of studs, they aren’t as long as some other options.
Nike Mercurial Superfly 7
Trusted champions
We’ve come to expect the pinnacle of performance design from Nike, and that’s due to the consistency with which they release excellent shoes. This pair of cleats is no exception. With a design that’s been streamlined through the generations, these updated cleats are a phenomenal pick for dedicated soccer players. This flexible forefoot construction offers supreme maneuverability across the board, giving you a grounded and responsive feel whether you’re on grass or artificial turf.
Pros:
- Nike has impressed us here with the bold range of colors on offer. If you’re looking for an option to match the rest of your uniform, you’re likely to find a pair in this selection.
- Both high- and low-ankle options are available, so you can choose the one that you prefer.
- This synthetic upper breaks in quickly, so you won’t have to suffer from discomfort or blisters during those first few matches.
Cons:
- Note that these cleats are advertised in UK sizing, so be sure to figure out how to appropriately convert your size before ordering.
Starmerx Soccer Cleats
If your little pride and joy is taking their first few steps on the soccer field, equipping them with a dependable pair of cleats will give them a fighting chance and ensure they can have a good time. These two-toned cleats from Starmerx are a great choice for young soccer stars in the making. The wide range of sizing options will accommodate growing kids’ feet whatever their size. If you’re a little confused by the numbers, there’s a clear sizing chart to help you measure up before you buy.
Pros:
- The durable rubber outsole offers great traction and stability. They’re durable enough to outlast even the most demanding junior soccer season.
- Thanks to the ribbed texture on each upper, these cleats can help developing players have better control of the ball.
Cons:
- This water-resistant design keeps feet dry in the mud but isn’t as breathable as some other options.
Anluke Hightop Cleats
Full grip
Each player develops their own taste for cleats, and the age-old debate between high or low ankle isn’t likely to be settled any time soon. If your preference is for high-ankle designs, this pair from Anluke isn’t one to miss. This dynamic hightop collar will lock your feet in place so that you can respond to each incoming step with poise. Not only does this additional ankle support improve your grip underfoot, but it could also protect you from bruises if you’re struck by an incoming ball or wayward kick.
Pros:
- The transparent studs on the TPU outsole give these cleats a unique look.
- The high-quality PU leather upper protects your feet during play and offers brilliant traction for control of the ball.
- The upper on these cleats is thinner than most, giving you a more direct feel when dribbling or pulling tricks.
Cons:
- These cleats are as tight as they come, so they will probably take longer than most to break in. You may want to consider sizing up.
Adidas Predator Freak .3 Laceless
Don't get strung up
If you’re a fan of the laceless look, it might surprise you to learn that there’s an option to match your style on the soccer field. These forward-looking cleats certainly stand out from the crowd, with their characteristic smooth finish. Without laces to clutter the shoes’ upper surface, you’ll have even greater control of the ball during finesse moves and dribbling. Your touch is aided further by 3D-Demonskin decals covering the entire surface, giving you full control of the ball from every angle of attack.
Pros:
- This synthetic outsole and cleat pattern offers maximal traction on dry grass.
- These bold printed designs are sure to make you stand out on the field.
Cons:
- The laceless design might not be for everyone, particularly if you know you require a bit more support during your most athletic moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my cleats in both wet and dry conditions?
Yes, soccer cleats are designed to handle wet and dry conditions. However, even though all cleats will give you a good grip in wet and dry conditions, some are better in certain conditions. In general, wet conditions favor longer studs, whereas dry turf is easier to navigate with shallow blades.
Can I also wear my cleats on artificial turf?
Natural turf is the first home for soccer cleats, and although it’s possible to wear your new pair on artificial turf fields too, they might not be the best option here. Cleats work by penetrating grass and mud to provide a firm grip underfoot, and dense, tough synthetic turf isn’t as easy to grip. If most of your games don’t take place on real grass, you might consider getting a different pair of soccer shoes to suit your needs.
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