The United States women's national soccer team is a legend in the game. The next Mia Hamm is waiting to be discovered, and she needs to be aided in her journey by having a great pair of soccer cleats.
There are differences between men's and women's soccer shoes, but there isn't much variation between girls' and boys'. Therefore, nowadays, kids' soccer cleats can be considered unisex, making the choice easier for parents. The adidas: Nemeziz Messi 17.3: Child's Unisex FG Soccer Shoe is a great choice.
Most professional soccer players learn to kick a ball as soon as they can walk; that's why many kids' soccer cleats are available in toddler sizes. Deciding at what age to start using soccer cleats is just one consideration. Let's look at some more.
Knowing what surface your young soccer player will play on will go a long way to choosing the right cleat. There are three main types of cleats:
Playing position can dictate what design of cleats is needed. Different positions require different features, such as the style of the stud. Most studs are conical these days, and bladed studs can be difficult to find in kids' cleats.
It should be noted that FG cleats can be used pretty well on artificial ground. But, if they have bladed studs, don't use them there as this can lead to injury; FG/AG cleats won't have bladed studs.
If you need the cleats to last longer than the average shoe, leather may be the best choice. Kangaroo leather is the traditional material for soccer cleats. Nowadays, many cleats are made with synthetic materials to make them more lightweight. However, these won't be as durable.
Soccer cleats come in all sorts of colors and designs as manufacturers try to grab attention to their brands. The traditional black soccer cleat is hardly seen in the professional game nowadays, and buying a pair of these may be the unique choice. However, bright pink and aqua blue also look great. Just be aware of what style your kid prefers.
Budget soccer cleats are available for under $20, while premium ones can cost more than $200. It's unnecessary to splurge because good-quality cleats are available in the $20-$50 range if you are unsure about being too frugal.
A. The short answer is no. Those football cleats have a thicker outsole and differently-placed studs, and soccer cleats tend to be more lightweight.
A. You definitely should not use FG, SG or AG cleats on a gymnasium-type surface. Indoor soccer shoes with flat soles should be used. Of course, the indoor arena may use a 3G or 4G surface, and for this, you can follow the previous advice.
adidas: Nemeziz Messi 17.3: Child’s Unisex FG Soccer Shoe
What you need to know: These are stylish soccer cleats for those that need added ankle support on firm ground.
What you’ll love: These great cleats come in a variety of sizes, from little to big kids. There are four trendy colors in a unique design, and the vamps are clean, and the studs are varied. The dual-lock collar offers excellent support at the ankle, great for defenders needing extra stability and balance.
What you should consider: Some reviewers said that these cleats are hard to put on. However, most reviewers were happy with their comfort level once fitted.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
adidas Golleto VII: FG Football Shoe
What you need to know: These soccer cleats are a budget-friendly unisex cleat for kids playing on natural grass in dry conditions.
What you’ll love: The conical studs and clean vamp coupled with the speed-boosting traction on the outsole make them ideal for attackers. The synthetic leather is durable, and these black cleats are available with three great color trims: royal blue, shock pink or white.
What you should consider: Some reviewers complained that the sizes run a little small and the shoes are pretty narrow.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Nike Tiempo Legend 8: Kids’ FG/MG Soccer Cleats
What you need to know: This eighth-generation pair of legendary cleats are suitable for many types of surfaces, including current 3G and 4G pitches.
What you’ll love: These very stylish-looking boots are made from synthetic leather, giving comfort and excellent ball control. The studs are conical to maintain speed with an arrow-like stud at the toe, making them useful for agile attackers looking for a fast start to their sprint.
What you should consider: These shoes claim to be good on artificial turf, but 2G pitches are still best avoided with these studs.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Barry Peacock writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.