OUTDOOR SOCCER SHOES (“CLEATS”)
© CoachingAmericanSoccer.com®
Soccer shoes are the soccer player’s single-most important piece of equipment. Footwear is required to be worn under Law 4 of The Laws of the Game, “The Players’ Equipment.” (See: The Players’ Equipment – Law 4) Shoes protect the feet, provide traction, facilitate running, and cause a plant-foot to stick to the surface when kicking. Also referred to as “cleats” and sometimes as “boots,” there is a wide variety of soccer shoes commercially available for sale, both in stores and on the internet. Purchasing shoes on the internet is not recommended unless they are an exact replacement for shoes which have been tried on in a store or used before. For youth, it is often just the excitement of getting their first pair of soccer shoes that determines selection. For advanced players, selection often comes down to personal preference after some experimentation, usually resulting in brand loyalty. Under either circumstance, due diligence and a proper amount of time must be applied to get the right shoes, properly fitted for the individual.
Up until approximately age 11, the shoe should be fitted correctly to the width and length of the foot with just enough extra length to last at most only one year (a fall and spring season). The shoe does not need to be expensive. For youth, it is better to purchase inexpensive, properly fitted, shoes more often than it is to purchase expensive shoes that are too big. An oversized shoe defeats the purpose of teaching the instep drive correctly because the child is going to stub the toe in the ground or develop blisters because the foot moves around inside the shoe. Conversely, shoes that are too small must not be used at all. Parents need to be reminded to check to see if they need to get new shoes for their child at least a few weeks in advance of each new season. Children’s feet grow at unexpected rates and the shoes need to be broken in before the season starts. (More than a few parents have found that the shoes are too small on the first day of practice after the child’s foot has grown over the summer or winter break!) After approximately age 11, the shoe should be fitted exactly and new ones purchased as the foot continues to grow.
TYPES
Soccer shoes come with a variety of uppers which are usually glued and stitched to a variety of soles containing cleats. The upper part of the shoe may be made of real leather, synthetic leather or synthetic textile. Real leather is a favored material because it tends to be more flexible and less chafing. Synthetic leathers (SL), however, are more durable and won’t stretch out as much in wet conditions. Synthetic leather uppers are generally appropriate for younger or recreational players. They tend to be less expensive, more water and mud repellent, and easier to clean. Real kangaroo leather is preferred by older, more serious players, however, synthetic leathers are getting closer and closer to the real thing. The unique nature of kangaroo leather allows it to be cut very thin but still retain its strength, providing lightness and a better feel for the ball. The kangaroo used for this purpose is farmed. (Calf leather may also be used.) Synthetic textile uppers are closer to a knit fabric that have an anatomical fit which conforms to the foot. Soles of the shoes are generally made of pliable plastic, synthetic rubber, or a proprietary mixture that provide for stability, flexibility, and attachment of the cleats. These are also known as the “sole plate” or “base” of the shoe.
More recent, next-generation shoes with “sock-like” features, are made with advanced synthetic knit or mesh materials that provide “compression-fit,” “adaptive-compression,” “agility-shoe,” or “knit-shoe” uppers designed to be extremely light-weight and to uniquely mold or tighten to the shape of the foot of the wearer. They generally contain a “compression collar” feature that looks like the top of a short sock and goes around or above the ankle, designed to help pull the shoe on properly. Other terms applied to these types of shoes include “adaptive fit,” “barefoot feel,” “dynamic fit (DF),” “mesh,” “textured upper,” and “second skin.” These shoes tend to be directed toward elite players and can be very expensive.
There are generally two types of cleats, molded and detachable. The molded-type of cleats is the most common among American soccer players, where the studs are formed as part of the actual sole plate. The studs of molded cleats tend to be of two different designs, either conical or blades, usually with twelve per sole, but may also include blades shaped as chevrons. The pattern of the cleats, including their shape and configurations, is designed to perform better under certain field conditions. Cleats come in three basic types, firm ground (FG), hard ground (HG), and soft ground (SG). It’s important to know which type of field one is most likely to be playing on and purchase the shoes accordingly. Firm ground cleats tend to be the most common, appropriate for most surfaces, and use molded studs. The studs tend to be bladed, conical, or a combination of both. Hard ground cleats, sometimes known as multiground (MG) cleats, tend to have more shorter and narrower molded studs evenly distributed over the sole and can be used on dry, compacted, sun-baked surfaces or even frozen grounds. Soft ground cleats tend to use replaceable studs. The studs generally come in two different sizes and are expected to be changed based on how wet or soggy a natural-grass field may be. There are also artificial grass (AG) or artificial turf (AT) shoes often utilizing dozens of small molded cleats. These may also be known as turf shoes. Further, there are also cleats specifically designed for women (W) and for juniors (JR).
Detachable cleats are also known as “screw-ins” or “replaceables.” Replaceable cleats allow players to change between metal, metal tipped, hard rubber, and plastic studs, appropriate for different types of field conditions, due to a screw-into-socket design. The studs are conical. Screw-in-type studs generally come in three different types, all-aluminum, “safety,” which has plastic surrounding the screw, and “aluminum-tipped,” which have ends with metal where the shank of the screw is surrounded by plastic. If one selects screw-in type studs, one must match them with a “stud key” (“stud wrench” or “stud tool”) specifically designed for the type of screw-in studs being used. Screw-in cleats usually come in sets of six studs per sole, four in the front and two in the heel. (The shoes with this type of pattern are sometimes referred to as “6-stud cleats.”) When screw-in studs wear down or break, a player can purchase replacements, extending the life of the shoe. Players need to ensure that the replaceable studs are specifically designed to fit the shoe. One should not assume that there are standardized replaceable studs or stud keys among manufacturers.
“Hybrid” shoes also exist which include both replaceable studs and molded cleats on the same sole. (The term “hybrid” has sometimes been used to advertise shoes as being for both natural firm ground and artificial ground.)
Players may purchase multiple pairs of shoes for different field and weather conditions, keep them in their field-player kits, and wear the most appropriate pair as necessary. (See: Field Player’s Kit)
BASIC CONSIDERATIONS
One must research soccer shoes before setting out to purchase them. In many leagues, there are specific rules regarding the type of cleats that may be worn, usually restricted to the molded variety. (See: Local Rules) Soccer shoes with replaceable studs may not be permitted or shoes with replaceable studs that have worn down will not be allowed, especially if any part of the screw shaft is showing. Similarly, no old-style baseball shoes which contain metal blades, or shoes with large replaceable studs like American football shoes, will be allowed. Any of these will be rejected upon “inspection” by the referee prior to the start of a match and the player will not be allowed to participate until they are replaced and the shoes inspected again. (See: The Players’ Equipment – Law 4)
Check out soccer suppliers on the internet and look for advertisements in the newspaper. There is a wide range of prices and different manufacturers provide different features. Large chain shoe stores and discounters often sell soccer shoes appropriate for beginners and youth for low prices. Sporting goods stores tend to have a better selection. A soccer-specific store is usually best for the serious player. Parents of young players can also check out combination packages that include cleats, a ball, and shinguards, but it is still extremely important to understand that the shoes must fit properly and that the shinguards must be comfortable. (See: Shinguards)
Visit a soccer-specialty store. The personnel there will be more than happy to teach about the different types of shoes and recommend a design. Be sure to be able to tell them of any league rules and the type of playing surface(s) involved. Determine a desired cleat style and pattern. In addition, female players tend to have narrower feet than men and soccer-specialty stores are more likely to carry soccer shoes designed specifically for women.
FITTING
When trying on a new pair of soccer shoes, always wear the soccer socks and shinguards (especially if the shinguards are “stirrup-style”) that will be worn while playing. This also includes wearing any type of undersocks or an ankle brace. Remember that fitting is always different from regular shoes. No two manufacturers are alike and no sizes are truly standard. Always try on both shoes of any given pair. Ensure that no one has mixed up the sizes in the box. It has been recommended that players shop for shoes in the afternoon when their feet are at their largest. It has been said that soccer shoes should “fit like a glove,” or “feel like another layer of skin.”
Regarding length, soccer shoes are labeled for size like regular shoes, but soccer shoes require a tighter fit. The toes should come as close to the front of the shoe as possible without touching or cramping. Most soccer shoes have a more-narrow upper to help with the feel of the ball, however this may cramp the instep or reduce the size of the toe box. If you experience this problem, try multiple brands or this may require a trade-off between the length and the width.
Regarding width, for years there was a disparity between the “European” styles that often came only in narrow widths and the “American” need for wider shoes. A number of manufacturers now provide soccer shoes with identified widths, the “C, D, E – EEE system.” Other manufacturers may use the term “wide last” to identify that the shoe was made on a larger foot model. Similar to a specified length, a proper width is relative to the individual wearer. The foot must not be cramped within the shoe, however the material of the uppers, especially natural leathers like kangaroo, can stretch. Accordingly, the width must be comfortable but tight enough not to allow slippage.
Also, if desired, consider tongue padding, tongue holder loops (that the laces go through to hold the tongue in place), tongue flaps, and the availability of choices in the top eyelets. This is the part of the shoe that covers the instep, also known as the “strike-zone.” Because the instep is critical to so many foot skills in soccer, this is extremely important. (See: Introduction to the Instep Drive) Some manufacturers also include special stitching or gripping surfaces at this location for ball contact. Further, consider overall comfort, the softness or hardness of the insole, lining, and heel cup and, once the laces are fully tightened, if the foot has that “locked-in” feeling. (If any kind of supplemental padding or replacement insole (orthotic) is used, it must be installed during fitting.)
To confirm a proper fit, lace up the shoes as tightly as one would for a game. Take time to ensure that the laces are properly tightened all the way up the instep from the toes to the ankle. (See: Tying Soccer Shoe Laces) The shoes should fit snugly all around with no discomfort or pressure points. While standing, the toes should come close to the front of the shoe without actually touching and the toes should be able to be wiggled and curled. Walk around to ensure ongoing comfort and no slippage. For youth, make sure that an extra pair of socks will make up the extra length allowed for growing into a second season. Adults may also wish to consider the overall weight of the shoe. Serious adult players tend to prefer a tighter-fit (snug but comfortable). lighter-weight shoe.
BREAKING THEM IN
When you bring your new soccer shoes home, take the shoes out of the box. Remove any stuffing, cardboard or paper that comes inside the shoes. Put on any undersocks (if used), ankle brace (if used), soccer socks, and shinguards to be worn for games. Insert any supplemental padding or replace the inner sole, if used. Put the shoes on and lace the shoes up game-tight. (See: Tying Soccer Shoe Laces) Walk around in the shoes to ensure that they still fit as well as they did in the store. If they are not comfortable under these conditions, immediately consider taking them back and exchanging them before there’s any evidence of wear, damage or dirt.
If the shoes are acceptable, wear them outdoors for 15 minutes on the first day. Add 15 minutes each day thereafter, until reaching two hours. Always wear the shoes with the full complement of socks and equipment that one would for games. After reaching the two-hour break-in period, the shoes should be ready for practices and games.
CARE AND FEEDING
Ideally, outdoor soccer shoes should be put on at the field and removed at the field. Walking on any surface other than turf, such as concrete or asphalt, will quickly wear down the cleats. Wearing a pair of general athletic shoes or soccer sandals is recommended for going to and from the field. If it is necessary to walk on concrete or wet surfaces with cleats on, be sure to walk extremely slowly. Concrete and wet surfaces can act like ice. The same is true for any indoor surfaces. Remove cleats before going indoors.
Soccer shoes should be treated with decency in order to maintain their functionality and extend their life. After each wearing, clean the outside of the shoes with a damp cloth. A brush may be needed if the shoes are especially muddy. Brushes need to be stiff enough to clean off mud and debris but not so stiff as to mar the surface of the uppers. Remove any loose padding or insoles and let the shoes air dry. If necessary, wash the outside of the shoes with warm soapy water to clean off any remaining mud or chemicals. Rinse with clean water. Use as little water and soap as possible. Do not soak the shoes and do not immerse them in water.
Dry the outside of the shoes with a cotton towel or paper towels. Loosen the laces and open up the tongue. Place wadded newspaper inside the shoes to absorb any moisture and to maintain the shoe size. This is especially true of soccer shoes that have gotten significantly wet while playing on wet surfaces or in the rain. If the shoes have been soaked, replace the newspaper every hour until it comes out dry. Do not stuff the shoes with newspaper and forget about removing it because this completely defeats the purpose, actually causing the shoes to stay wet. Once the newspaper is finally removed, let the shoes air dry. If absolutely necessary, use a hair dryer on low-heat setting.
Once the shoes have dried, rub shoe oil or shoe wax into leather uppers to keep them supple. Oils and waxes appropriate for soccer shoes are available over the internet and in soccer-specialty stores. Do not over-apply oils or waxes. Use them sparingly because they can cause the surface of the uppers to become slippery. If possible, place shoe trees into the shoes. Shoe trees must be of the absorbent-wood variety, not plastic. Shoe trees must either fit the shoe exactly or be slightly small. Shoe trees that are too large will inappropriately stretch the leather.
Never throw wet or sweaty shoes in a gym bag and leave the bag closed until the next use. At least get them out, loosen the laces, open up the tongue, and let them air dry. One may choose to place a commercial absorbent product like a “stink ball” in the shoes.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
In addition to all of the considerations mentioned above, advanced players evaluate shoes based on flexibility or stiffness, comfort, traction, ball sensing, stability, overall weight, durability, protection, lace placement, and construction including tongue thickness, room for supplemental padding, and upper friction for ball control. Advanced players also have multiple pairs of shoes for all kinds of playing conditions.
Also, some advanced players have a technique for getting leather soccer shoes to conform to their feet. This involves thoroughly soaking the shoes with them on, either in a shower or from a hose, and walking around with the wet shoes on. The shoes are then dried using the process above, with the leather taking on the shape of the feet. This process is not recommended for most players and should only be done once..
Advanced players, if they have the luxury to experiment, may further base their selection of shoes on the positions they play. Goalkeepers may look for traction and agility. Back defenders may look for thicker uppers that offer better protection of the foot. Midfielders may look for comfort that allows them to run great distances over a full match. Forwards may look for overall lightness, that provides for the quickest movement, or the form and structure of the strike zone, that provides the best feel when shooting.
Soccer Coaching Tips:
– With soccer shoes, uppers will eventually crack, holes can form, seams will split, cleats can break off or wear down and be ineffective, soles can break, and soles can separate from the uppers. Players must have a backup pair of shoes, available and at-the-ready for practices and especially for games. In addition, laces can break. Players must have a backup pair of laces.
– Coaches must warn both parents and players of the dangers of wet surfaces, other than the actual playing ground, while wearing soccer shoes because it’s like walking on ice. Small children, especially, tend to run to cars. They do not understand this possible danger and can slip and hit their head.
– Shoes must be looked at regularly for stud wear. This is especially true for replaceable studs to ensure that they are not broken and that no part of the screw is exposed.
– Referees are taught to look at the soles of each player’s soccer shoes in order to ensure that they conform to local rules and are safe. Players will not be allowed to participate if their shoes do not conform. Players need to be taught to perform their own inspections and to have their backup pair of shoes available.
– Lacing the shoes properly is important. Parents and players need to be taught to always tighten laces all the way up the instep from the toes to the ankle. Parents of youth tend to just say “go put on your soccer shoes,” while the children only pull hard on the top end of the laces before tying them.
– Higher price does not necessarily mean higher quality or effectiveness for the individual.
– Emphasis should be repeated that soccer shoes are not to be worn on wet surfaces or indoors. Wearing muddy shoes inside, especially in restaurants, is not only unsafe, but also shows a lack of courtesy and makes all soccer players look bad.
© Copyright, John C. Harves