Football shoes
How to Choose the Right Football Boots
Don't be swayed only by the stylish and bright colors; also consider what is most suitable for you. The most important aspects to consider are the material and the type of surface on which the boots will be used. Want a quick way to find out which boots are best for you? Check out our blog article on choosing the right football boots.
Leather or Synthetic Football Boots?
The material plays a significant role when buying new boots. Leather feels like a second skin but requires more maintenance. If you want to be the fastest on the field, you might prefer a lightweight, synthetic boot.
Each football boot comes with a detailed description outlining its features and specifications. For instance, many boots have rubber strips on the upper part for better grip and ball control. There are also models with an asymmetrical lacing system, which enlarges the strike surface and reduces the chance of missing the ball.
Which Football Boots for Which Surface?
When buying new boots, it’s wise to consider the surface on which you’ll be playing. Are you playing on natural grass? Then it’s best to choose boots with firm or screw-in studs. If you mostly play on artificial grass, special artificial grass boots are a better option. Playing with artificial grass boots on natural grass can cause you to slip more easily. Conversely, wearing natural grass boots on artificial grass can cause your foot to get stuck in the stiff turf. Wearing the wrong boots can lead to serious injuries.
Football boots can be categorized into five different types, often found in the product names: FG, SG, TF, AG, and IN.
Natural Grass Football Boots
FG stands for Firm Ground and these boots typically have long or short studs that provide excellent grip on natural grass. Whether you choose long or short studs is a personal preference. The studs are fixed and cannot be replaced. It’s strongly advised not to use Firm Ground boots on artificial grass as they wear out quickly, which can void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Soft/Wet Natural Grass Football Boots
SG stands for Soft Ground and these boots are suitable for playing on soft and/or wet fields. They feature long metal screw-in studs that offer substantial grip and significantly reduce the risk of slipping. These boots are often used by goalkeepers.
Turf Football Boots
TF stands for Turf, and these boots have many short studs. The short studs provide good grip on hard surfaces such as artificial grass, gravel, or even frozen fields.
Artificial Grass Football Boots
AG stands for Artificial Ground and these boots are designed for playing on artificial grass. With short, durable studs, there’s minimal chance of getting stuck in the artificial turf, reducing the risk of injury. The studs are hard and wear-resistant, ensuring long-lasting use.
Indoor Football Boots
IN stands for Indoor, ideal for indoor play. The special sole pattern provides excellent grip, offering ample freedom of movement on wooden or synthetic floors.
Multiground Football Boots
MG stands for Multiground and these boots combine AG and FG studs, making them suitable for both artificial and natural grass.
How to Maintain Your Football Boots
To keep them in good condition for as long as possible, proper maintenance is essential. First, let your boots air out after training or matches; don’t leave them in your bag all week! It’s also advisable to clean them after each use with a brush and some water. Avoid using cleaning agents as they can damage the stitching. For leather boots, apply leather conditioner once a week to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Allow the boots to dry naturally, avoiding direct heat sources or sunlight. If they become very wet, insert newspaper to speed up the drying process. Failing to do so may lead to unpleasant odors and mold.
What Size Football Boot Do I Need?
Just like with any other shoes, choosing the right size is crucial. Too much space can lead to blisters or even ankle injuries. Did you know every boot comes with a size chart? This chart shows exactly which foot length corresponds to which size! When trying them for the first time, you can slightly dampen them with warm water to help them mold to your feet. If you’re considering boots with a high cut, you may need some time to get used to the snug fit, but once on, they are very comfortable!