How to Buy the Best Kids’ Soccer Cleats

Soccer is a great sport that involves a lot of hard work and collaboration. You want to get everything you can out of the sport, but that’s only possible with the right equipment. Whether you’re at soccer practice or the championship game, you’re not likely to play your best if you’re uncomfortable due to wearing the wrong equipment. One of the most important pieces of equipment is your cleats. The right pair of soccer cleats, sometimes called soccer boots, can help you perform better and stay safer on the field.

In this guide on how to buy kids’ soccer cleats, we’ll discuss the different types of youth soccer cleats, how to buy the right cleats for your position, how to ensure the proper fit, and essential features to look for in a quality pair of soccer boots.

Types Of Soccer Cleats for Kids

There are three main types of soccer cleats for kids: firm ground, soft ground, and artificial ground or turf cleats. Additionally, there are flat-soled indoor soccer shoes that have rubber soles that provide traction on smoother surfaces to consider.

Firm Ground (FG) Soccer Cleats

Firm ground, or FG, soccer cleats are the most common type of boots. Designed for natural grass fields, they have hard plastic studs or blades on the outsole that provide traction and stability on firm, natural playing surfaces. They have many relatively short studs, giving them a better grip on dry soil without much risk of getting stuck. If you typically play on natural outdoor fields, these cleats are the best choice for dry weather.

Soft Ground (SG) Soccer Cleats

Cleats designed for damp, wet, or muddy natural grass fields are called soft ground (SG) cleats. They have fewer studs than FG cleats, and those studs are typically longer and cone-shaped to dig deep into muddy surfaces. However, they’re unsuitable for dry surfaces because their long spikes can get stuck or break, increasing the chance of injury. If you play on natural fields, getting a pair of SG cleats in addition to your FG boots is a good idea, especially if you live in an area with lots of rain.

Artificial Ground (AG) Soccer Cleats

Artificial ground, or artificial turf, soccer cleats are designed for synthetic turf fields. They have shorter studs that provide traction on synthetic turf's harder, plastic-like surface without the risk of getting stuck or damaging the field. The studs are usually made with hard plastic or rubber. If you ever play on artificial turf fields, you'll need a pair of artificial ground soccer cleats, as normal cleats are often not allowed on turf to avoid damaging the playing surface.

Indoor Soccer Shoes

Indoor soccer shoes are designed for playing on indoor courts. They have completely flat soles that provide grip on smooth surfaces. If you play indoor soccer for fun or competitively, you should have a pair of indoor soccer shoes.

Closure/Lacing Styles

There are a few different options when it comes to the laces or closures used on kids’ soccer cleats. Some offer different functionality, and it’s largely a matter of personal preference. Many soccer boots have standard lacing like street shoes. Others might have extra lacing around the collar for better ankle support or around the toe for a tighter feel. Kids’ soccer cleats are also available with hook and loop closures, which may be easier to put on. The choice of closure or lacing style is largely based on your preference, so it’s best to try different styles to figure out what feels best.

The Right Cleats for Your Position

While all cleats serve the same purpose, different styles can be better suited for specific soccer positions. Your position will also determine the type of cleats you should wear.

Forward: Forwards need maximum traction and speed, so look for low-cut soccer cleats with a narrow profile and an ultra-lightweight design.

Midfielder: Midfielders ideally need cleats that provide additional support for quick direction changes. Look for cleats with a slightly wider profile and a higher collar for improved support around the ankle.

Defender: Like midfielders, defenders need cleats that provide stability and support for quick lateral movements. Look for cleats with a wider profile, a higher collar, and good ankle support.

Goalkeeper: Goalkeepers also need cleats that provide maximum stability for quick lateral movements between the goalposts. Look for cleats with a sturdy collar for great ankle support.

How should kids’ soccer cleats fit?

Kids’ soccer cleats are unisex, and your soccer cleat size will be the same as your normal shoe size. It’s essential to make sure your soccer cleats fit correctly. Cleats that are too small can be extremely uncomfortable, while cleats that are too big can slow you down. Either one can increase your risk of injury.

Here are a few tips to ensure a proper fit:

Length: There should be about a half-inch of space between the tip of your toes and the end of the cleat. When in doubt, it’s best to go with a slightly-larger boot that you can grow into.

Width: Your cleats should fit snugly, but not be too tight. They should fit comfortably around the widest part of your foot and provide enough support throughout your game. Remember that you wear thick socks during games and practice, so make sure to try on cleats while wearing the proper socks to get the perfect size.

Collar Tightness: If your cleats have a raised collar, it should fit properly around the ankle. Like the rest of the shoe’s upper, the collar should fit snugly but not be uncomfortable.

Important Features to Look For

When buying kids' soccer cleats, there are a few important features to look for:

Materials: Look for cleats made from high-quality materials, such as synthetics or leather, that’ll last for the entire season. Their uppers should provide enough traction for you to handle the ball easily.

Comfort: You should be comfortable in your cleats, so look for boots with well-cushioned insoles and ventilation throughout.

Durability: Cleats with reinforced stitching and durable soles can withstand the wear and tear of an entire soccer season.

Weight: Look for lightweight cleats to improve your speed and agility on the field and give you better ball control.

How to Take Care of Soccer Cleats

When you purchase new soccer boots, it’s essential to take proper care of them so they last as long as possible. Cleats generally need to be replaced each season, but you can maintain your cleats and prolong their life by following these tips. After each game, remove any loose dirt or grass stuck to the cleat’s soles and upper. Periodically clean them with a mixture of mild laundry detergent and warm water using a soft cloth or toothbrush. Don’t use a washing machine, which can damage them. Store your cleats in a cool, dry space to prevent odors from accumulating.