Any soccer player, whether amateur or pro, knows that the most important equipment that they have to properly secure before playing the game is their soccer shoes (also known as soccer cleats). Soccer is a game that is mostly played by foot. That being said, it is of great importance to choose the right pair of soccer cleats, which will allow them to play a good game. However, buying soccer shoes, especially for the first-time, can be very challenging. This is because soccer shoes come in different types that vary greatly in design, features and function. So, whether you are buying the shoes for yourself or for your kids, it is vital that you choose the right type of cleats to purchase.
TYPE
The type of soccer footwear that you should acquire will depend heavily on various factors, such as the type of field where you will be playing soccer, your budget, and your current game level. In this case, here are some of the popular types of soccer cleats that you can select from.
Molded Soccer Shoes: This type of cleats is ideal for use in all types of playing fields. The versatility of molded soccer cleats makes them a great choice for both beginners and intermediate level soccer players. These shoes come with a very basic design and feature a non-removable rubber or hard plastic bottom designed to provide better foot control and superb traction.
Detachable Soccer Cleats: These shoes are best suited for those playing soccer on soggy, wet fields, as well as on soft-grass fields. The cleats come with detachable studs that vary in length and type. The stud can be easily changed according to the prevailing weather and the type of playing field. This type is best used by experienced soccer players.
Turf Soccer Shoes: They are considered as excellent training shoes and are also used as back-up shoes. Turf shoes feature different raised patterns at the bottom which is designed in place of studs since they are ideal for use on artificial turf and other hard outdoor surfaces.
MATERIAL
Soccer cleats can be made in two types of material – synthetic and leather. Leather soccer shoes are not recommended for constant use on wet fields. Many variations of leather are used to manufacture leather soccer cleats. If you are after durability, opt for those made using full grain leather. Meanwhile, if you are looking for leather cleats offering a better feel, those made from kangaroo leather is the best choice.
Synthetic soccer cleats are perfect for both entry-level and mid-level players. They are less expensive options compared to leather soccer shoes. Since these shoes usually come with some sort of water treatment, they fare better on poor playing conditions. Furthermore, they are much easier to clean and maintain.
FIT and SIZE
When buying soccer cleats, it is of great importance that you find one with the best fit and the right size. They are pretty much like the regular shoes but soccer shoes are narrower compared to the conventional sneakers (to allow players to have better control and feel of the ball). Whether you are buying the shoes for kids or adults, you have to ascertain that the pair you will purchase snugly fits on the player’s feet. You can ask the assistance of an amicable salesperson to help you find the pair of cleats with the most appropriate size.
BRAND
There are two popular shoe brands trusted by amateur and professional soccer players alike – Adidas and Nike. Here are some good Nike and Adidas shoes suggestions that you might be interested in:
• Nike 10R O Cara – Available in both adult and junior sizes, it is ideal for beginner as well as recreational players.
• Nike Ronaldinho Dois – Made from kangaroo leather and features TPU with a combination of bladed and conical studs, the shoes is the perfect choice for advanced soccer players. It is available in adult sizes from 4 to up, and junior sizes from 1 to 6.
• Adidas Predator Absolion PS – Ideal for intermediate to advanced players and feature a calf skin upper material. It is the less expensive counterpart of the Predator PS and it comes in both adult and junior sizes.
• Adidas F30.8 – These soccer cleats, which are made from microfiber, come with fixed stud configuration and sole plates.