The Different Types of Soccer Cleats Explained
There are many different types of soccer cleats and it is important to know the difference between them to find the right pair for your current situation. Soccer cleats are one of the most important pieces of soccer gear and equipment and choosing the right pair based on various factors is crucial for optimal performance and injury prevention.
I’ve been playing the game since childhood and I’ve tried all type of cleats for different situations, from firm ground cleats, to metal cleats, to turf and indoor soccer shoes. When I first started learning about cleats it was confusing to know why there were so many different types, but throughout the years of experiment with different cleats I now have a better idea of what cleats are best for what situation.
So before you invest your money in a new pair of soccer cleats make sure to consider the information in this guide.
Firm Ground Soccer Cleats
Firm ground cleats, the most common types of soccer cleats, are designed for natural grass fields, but they can also be used on other surfaces occasionally, such as thin carpet turf. Firm ground cleats have plastic studs that are either bladed or conical and they offer great traction on grassy surfaces as well as being able to withstand various weather conditions.
Soft Ground Soccer Cleats (Metal Soccer Cleats)
Soft ground cleats, also known as metal cleats, are made for wet or muddy conditions. Metal cleats are usually made with far less studs than firm ground cleats, usually six metal studs, but they are longer because they provide better traction in wet fields. It is advised to not use these cleats on surfaces other than wet grass because that can quickly damage the metal studs.
Hard Ground Soccer Cleats or Multi Ground Soccer Cleats
Hard ground cleats have shorter studs that provide stability without penetrating too deep into the ground and they are designed for dry and harder surfaces. During times of the year when the grass fields are really dry and firm ground cleats cannot penetrate into the grass, that is when hard ground cleats come in handy.
Hard ground cleats have a lot of short studs that are spread out to help distribute weight more evenly. These cleats have a combination of rounded and bladed spikes for increased traction and even pressure distribution.
Artificial Grass Soccer Cleats (Artificial Turf Shoes)
Specifically designed for turf or artificial grass surfaces, turf soccer shoes have numerous shorter studs across the soleplate. These turf shoes offer reduced joint pressure and enhanced durability on hard surfaces like artificial turf.
Indoor Soccer Shoes:
The last type of soccer cleats to talk about, although they are more shoes then they are cleats are indoor shoes. Indoor shoes are crucial when playing on hard flat surfaces such as during
- indoor soccer
- small sided games (5v5, 7v7, or 9v9)
- Pickup games
- Futsal
Different Types of Soccer Cleats: Materials
Now that we have discussed the different types of soccer cleats based on their stud patterns it is important to talk about the different materials used to make soccer cleats.
Leather Uppers:
Leather soccer cleats are often referred to as molded soccer cleats because the natural leather literally molds to the shape of your feet, providing a custom and comfortable fit. The most premium type of leather you can get is kangaroo leather, but calfskin leather is another high quality option. Most leather cleats are considered a higher quality than synthetic cleats because they will last longer and provide a better fit.
Synthetic Uppers:
Lightweight and often more affordable than leather, synthetic materials provide durability and water resistance. Although synthetic uppers are usually lighter than leather uppers, they may not mold to your feet as much as leather cleats. If you feel that synthetic uppers squish your feet and toes, then it is best to look for some wide soccer cleats.
Knitted Uppers:
Knitted uppers have a sock-like fit, that improves comfort and flexibility while maintaining durability. This design is popular among players looking for a modern, but snug fit.
Summarize
In conclusion, the beautiful game has different types of soccer cleats designed for different surfaces to play on. Remember that the main difference between soccer cleats are the studs, since cleats need the right studs for whatever playing field you plan to play on, and the materials used to make the cleats, either leather, synthetic or knitting.
If you are in need of new cleats before soccer season starts, make sure to read this full article to help you find the right cleats for your current situation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the most common playing surface for soccer?
The most common playing surfaces for soccer include natural grass, artificial surfaces, Indoor surfaces, and hard court surfaces.
What is FG, SG, AG, and IC in soccer?
- FG (Firm Ground Cleats): Designed for natural grass fields.
- SG (Soft Ground Cleats): Designed for wet and muddy grass field
- AG (Artificial Grass Cleats): Designed for artificial surfaces
- IC (Indoor shoes): Designed for indoor surfaces and harder outdoor surfaces
How should soccer cleats fit?
To find out how soccer cleats should fit, check out this blog. It is important to know that soccer cleats may feel tight at first because they have to get past the break in period, which should only last about 1-2 weeks depending on how much you are using your cleats. If you face discomfort even after the break in period consider either stretching or shrinking your soccer cleats.
