Choosing the right cleat

Soccer America magazine had two good articles on how to buy the right cleat for your foot. Unfortunately, the full text of both articles (here and here) is only available to magazine subscribers.

But some of the key points...

Rule No. 1: Start with the best fit
The temptation as a parent purchasing cleats for a growing child with a growing foot is to buy cleats that are a bit too large, thinking that your child will "grow into them" and thereby save you some money in not having to buy another pair too soon.

The problem with that from a medical standpoint is that the foot will move too much in the shoe, which can lead to problems such as blisters, heel pain, and arch pain -- all of which lead to lost playing time.

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The foot will function best if the shoe is purchased at the correct size now, with a sturdy and properly supportive heel counter, and a supportive arch.

Try the shoes on in the store with the thickness of sock you'll wear during training and games. Shoes with synthetic uppers will stay about the same size throughout their usage, but leather uppers will mold and adapt to foot contours over time (several weeks of use).


Rule No. 2: What Type of Foot Do You Have?
Wide feet: try Adidas or Kelme, and consider a leather upper.

Narrow feet: try Nike.

Neutral feet: You're in luck, you can wear almost any brand.


Rule No. 3: Know Your Field Conditions
If you are doing speed or agility training with no ball work: wear a running shoe.

Firm, reasonably well maintained grass field: Firm Ground Cleats (what most players will need in the fall)

Synthetic/Artificial Turf: Turf Shoe

Very Hard/Dirt Surface: Hard Ground Cleats

Soft or Wet Surface: Consider Soft Ground Cleats, although I think I see a higher number of knee injuries in players wearing soft ground cleats.