Football season is back.
Choosing the right football boot can really elevate your game. This guide will help you pick a boot that will bring out your best whether you’re a first timer or seasoned pro.
The biggest and best brands all have new releases. Nike, adidas, Puma, New Balance, Under Armour, Mizuno, and Asics – so how do you choose? Let’s dive in and answer some commonly asked questions.
Are soccer boots the same as football boots, can I use them for either?
How should the shoes fit?
Do they come in different styles for women?
What type of stud should I choose?
A key consideration here is the type of ground you’re playing on. For grass there are two different types of boots – Firm Ground (FG) and Soft Ground (SG).
SG boots are custom-built for those harsh conditions where you need a lot of extra traction just to stay on your feet, whilst FG football boots are a much better all-rounder, and better suited to a wide range of surfaces and conditions.
If you’re mostly playing on a synthetic pitch, consider Artificial Ground (AG) boots. AG boots are specifically designed for artificial grass and have shorter & hollow studs that offer better grip and dislodge easier than an FG boot on the artificial surface, allowing players to twist and turn easily without hurting their knees and ankles.
Leather or Synthetic what is better?
Leather will give you a better feel on your foot and has that extra flexibility to adapt to your foot shape. While synthetic will have the ability to repel water as, so they keep your feet dry.
Leather boots are often heavier and they’re more suited to defensive players or those who love to pass the football frequently, plus, they breathe better so they are less likely to smell after a few wears.
Synthetic boots, on the other hand, are lighter and suit players who need speed and acceleration.
Why do some boots have a sock design?
The sock design is ideal if you want the shoe to be like an extension of your foot. It is designed for higher comfort and a secure fit. A good example is the Nike Zoom Mercurial Superfly boot. Check out the range of high cut football boots available online here.
What boots do I pick for my style of play?
You can pick based on whether you are a touch, speed, or skill player:
Touch: For players who like a rapid, precise passing style, and have control over the play. The Nike Tiempo, Adidas Copa, and Puma King are the most common for these types of players.
Speed: A lightweight shoe that is designed for speed is ideally suited to attacking players. An example of this boot is the adidas X Crazyfast, Puma Ultra and Nike Mercurial.
Skill: For all-round players that help others take control of a game. The new Nike Phantom GX, Puma Future and Adidas Predator are a great selection.
Want to make the most out of the 2024 football season? Check out the latest boots to drop this year.
Best of luck.