Purchasing kids soccer cleats requires various considerations, including finding the right size, support structure, and comfort. You’ll come across different cleats designed for specific grounds and field positions. Here’s what to consider when purchasing your child’s soccer cleats:
Outdoor Vs. Indoor Cleats
The first question is whether your kid requires outdoor or indoor shoes. Cleats come in five varieties: SG (soft ground), FG (firm ground), HG (hard ground), AG (artificial ground), and hard court. Soft ground cleats are designed for muddy wet fields, while firm ground cleats are for standard grass fields. Hard ground cleats are for dried grass fields, and artificial ground cleats are for outdoor turfs. Hard court cleats are for futsal, asphalt, and indoor courts.
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Your kid will probably need firm ground cleats, which are perfect for grass fields and feature classic studs. Firm-ground cleats provide excellent traction and are the most popular choice. If your child is playing indoors, you need cleats with a rubber outsole for maximum grip. Some schools also have artificial turfs.
You should choose the right cleats for the playing grounds. You could also buy all three so that they have a pair for every condition they might play in: firm ground, soft ground, and hard ground.
Consider Your Child’s Position
Your kid’s soccer position determines the type of cleats they should wear. A defender will need different cleats from a midfielder or striker. Some kids play multiple roles during games, so you’ll need various pairs for all positions they occupy. Defenders need cleats with extra protection and tough upper, outsole, and heel. If your child is a forward (striker), they’ll need lightweight cleats to support quick movements and turns.
Kids in midfield roles need comfortable cleats to provide support and control on the field. Defending midfielders will need extra protection while playing offense can focus on support and lightweight cleats. If your child is a goalkeeper, they need cleats with lots of traction and a larger strike zone for perfect goal kicks.
Choose the Right Size/Fit
The fit is a central aspect of any athletic shoe, especially soccer. Kids’ cleats tend to be unisex, so you don’t have to worry about finding one for boys or girls. You should focus on finding a tight but flexible fit, like a loose second skin. Synthetic materials are the ideal choice for their flexibility. Kids’ feet grow quickly, but you shouldn’t buy cleats that are too big. If the shoe leaves extra space, your child’s feet may move around, resulting in blisters and chafing.
If you’re worried about your child rapidly outgrowing their cleats, you can purchase a slightly larger shoe and layer the insole. You can also have them wear an extra pair of socks while the shoes are still a bit too big.
Consider your kid’s natural arch and width when looking for the ideal fit. The arch should slip into the insole and fit comfortably. Cleat brands have arches that run slightly differently, so you should let your child try the shoe at the store. If you’re purchasing online, find a seller with a return policy, so you can try on and return cleats that may not fit well.
Material, Structure & Balance
Synthetic soccer cleats are the best material for kids starting in soccer. Plenty of synthetic materials offer a snug, flexible fit without the high price tag. Synthetic materials are also lightweight and ready to wear, unlike leather, which requires some time to break into. Balance is another feature to consider since every kid has a unique running gait. You should buy lightweight, supportive cleats and ask your kid to move around in the store to see how they feel before purchasing.
Find a better balance if the cleat has extra pressure or tilt on one side of the foot. Cleat structure also contributes to overall comfort. The insole should mold to the shape of your kid’s foot to keep the body perfectly aligned and supported. Some children, especially those in defensive roles, need cleats with a higher ankle profile to protect them against injury. You can look into the lacing and upper texture to provide extra surface area for kicking.
Consider Asking the Coach
If you’re unsure what to buy, consider asking your child’s coach. The coach has years of experience and can help you find the best soccer shoes for your child. Your priorities are safety and the best on-field performance, and the coach knows what works best on different grounds.
Buying Kids Soccer Cleats Online
Visiting the store has many benefits because your child can try the shoes and find the perfect pair. If you don’t have the time to visit a store, you can buy kids soccer cleats online to find the perfect pair today! Make sure you read through all descriptions and the return policy if you need the cleats replaced.
