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Some brands categorise their boots – from entry-level to top-tier – making it easier for everyone of every skill, budget, and playing requirement to find a great boot
When it comes to football boots, it can seem like an impossible task to choose just one. Leather or synthetic, firm, or soft ground – these are key considerations for choosing the right boot. But then there are also ones with laces or laceless designs, sock fit, and technologies to know, the list can be extensive.
To help, some brands categorise their boots – from entry-level to top-tier – making it easier for everyone of every skill, budget, and playing requirement to find a great boot. In fact, knowing the differences between tiers will allow you to level up or down as you like, it really does make the hunt for finding the right boot easier.
Below we take a look at the grading systems of leading brands such as Nike, adidas and Puma, and how they define their football boots. All boots (regardless of tier) have the same colourway, giving you the same look and feel no matter what the budget.
It’s worth noting that the specific naming conventions and tier structure may vary slightly between different football boot collections and product lines. Pricing may vary on style, brand and sizing.
Tier Grading: Tier 4 = Entry, Tier 3 = Good, Tier 2 = Better, Tier 1 = Best
Tier 4
Nike: Club
adidas: Club
Puma: Play
Tier 4 is often considered the entry-level or the most basic tier and is great for casual players or kids starting out who don’t need all the bells and whistles of higher-tiered boots.
They’re likely to feature fewer technologies and premium materials compared to higher-tiered boots but still offer decent performance and comfort for recreational use. They’re also the cheapest, which is great for those not wanting to invest in higher-priced models due to growing feet or casual games.
Kids sizes: RRP $59.99-$79.99
Adults sizes: RRP $79.99-$119.99
Tier 3
Nike: Academy
adidas: League
Puma: Match
Tier 3 is a step up from Club and Play boots and is designed for the footy regulars or semi-professional players looking for a few extras in performance and durability but not wanting to invest in the top two tiers, just yet.
Kids sizes: RRP $89.99-$119.99
Adults sizes: RRP $129.99-$159.99
Tier 2
Nike: Pro
adidas: Pro
Puma: Pro
Tier 2 is where boots start to mean business. Designed for professional players or serious athletes in mind who aren’t looking to spend top price, but still want a high-standard boot with high-quality performance features. They offer superior comfort, fit, and responsiveness.
Some of the features are shared with the top-level boots, however, a more basic variation of material is often used.
Kids sizes: RRP from $149.99 +
Adults sizes: RRP $199.99-$289.99
Tier 1
Nike: Elite
adidas: Elite
Puma: Ultimate
Tier 1 is the top tier, the crème de la crème of football boots offered by Nike, adidas and Puma. These boots are meticulously engineered with the latest innovations and most premium materials to prove the highest level of performance, speed, and agility possible.
With that said, it likely comes as no surprise that these boots are worn by elite athletes and those competing at the highest levels of the sport.
Sure, not everyone needs to splash out for the flashiest (and most expensive) football boot, but these guys are nothing less than impressive, and the price reflects this.
Adults sizes: RRP from $299.99 +
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Check out our entire range of Football Boots from Nike, adidas, Puma & more. Or head in-store to speak to one of our friendly rebel staff to help you find the right boot for you.