Soccer Cleats

Cleats are a must have for the soccer player, who is partial to playing on a real a field. That means that besides fresh air, sun, and a better playing surface, you also get rain, mud, and dew, all of which makes the field very slick. Shoes without good traction will not help you from slipping or falling down. I have taken many a nasty spill to attest to that. Running shoes, sneakers, and even baseball cleats (because they have an additional toe cleat) are not meant for playing soccer. So here are the basics to familiarize yourself with soccer cleats starting with cleat types.

Molded Soccer Cleats 

These are perfect for both beginner and intermediate soccer players as they are versatile on most field types and in various conditions. The cleats come in different patterns but the cleats themselves are always made of non-detachable plastic.

Detachable Soccer Cleats 

Detachable cleats are for the intermediate to advanced soccer player playing on soft turf. They are primarily made of plastic, but they have screw in metal studs which can be removed, thus increasing the versatility of the cleat.

Turf Shoes 

These are non-stud shoes with specialized rubber soles geared towards playing indoor soccer or on artificial turf.

Indoor Soccer Shoes 

These are also non-stud shoes that are especially good for indoor use but not meant for any outdoor playing. 

Other Features

  • Round stud cleats are best for all weather conditions, while oblong molded cleats enhance speed and forward momentum on dry turf.
  • Look for heavy-duty leather uppers and a solid construction across the toe area for the best impact when kicking.
  • Off-set lacing will give you better contact with the ball than centered laces.
  • Kangaroo leather tongues give a great feel, but many people, including Beckham himself, no longer endorses using baby kangas for shoes.
  • Look for good laces that will hold up to extreme weather.

Sizing

When possible, trying on cleats before buying them is always a good idea unless you have already used that particular brand before. Even so, models within brands can differ in fit. Remember that you want something that fits snugly and that gives your arches good support. Even kids who are growing need a pair of soccer boots that they aren't sliding around in. Leaving them room to grow is not the best idea since most kids will need a new pair of cleats each season and extra room could cause them to get blisters, or worse, a sprained ankle.

Cleat Brands

Related Products

Jerseys 

Shinguards 

Soccer Balls 

Socks 

Magazines 

External Links

  • Slam! Sports Soccer--Includes articles, reviews, standings, and anything else you can imagine from the world of soccer.
  • CanadaSoccer.com-- Canada's most complete and informative soccer website.