Does your young soccer star dream of scoring the winning goal? That dream often starts with the right gear, and for soccer players, nothing is more important than their cleats. But stepping into a sporting goods store can feel like entering a maze. So many brands, so many styles, and so many different names for the same thing! It can be tough to know what actually matters when you’re trying to find the best fit for your child’s growing feet and developing game.
Choosing the wrong cleats can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even affect how well your child can play. It can be frustrating for both parents and kids when they’re not sure what to look for. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about soccer cleats for kids, from understanding different types to finding the perfect size and material.
By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in your ability to pick out cleats that will help your child play their best, stay comfortable on the field, and maybe even give them that extra boost of confidence. Let’s get your young player ready to kick off their next adventure!
Our Top 5 Soccer Cleats For Kids Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Soccer Cleats For Kids Detailed Reviews
1. adidas Goletto IX Firm Multi Ground Sneaker
Rating: 8.8/10
Get your little soccer star ready for the field with the adidas Goletto IX Firm Multi Ground Sneaker. These cool blue and black cleats are designed for young players and work on almost any surface. They offer a snug fit and feel super light, so your child can focus on their game.
What We Like:
- Kids love how light these cleats feel. They help kids run faster.
- The adjustable laces give a secure fit. This means fewer worries about the shoes coming off during play.
- These cleats are made for different kinds of fields. They work well on grass, artificial turf, and even hard ground.
- The inside lining feels soft. This keeps feet comfortable, even during long games.
- The synthetic upper is tough and lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The snug fit might be a bit tight for some kids. It’s a good idea to buy a half size bigger.
- The design is pretty basic. Some kids might want more flashy colors.
These adidas Goletto IX cleats are a solid choice for young athletes. They provide comfort and versatility for all their soccer adventures.
2. DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats Youth Firm Groud Athletic Outdoor Trainning Football Shoes for Little/Big Kid
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for the field with the DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats! These vibrant pink and purple cleats, size 10 toddler, are designed for young athletes ready to tackle any outdoor training or game. They offer a secure fit and great traction, helping kids perform their best.
What We Like:
- The lace-up design gives a snug and adjustable fit, keeping feet secure during fast movements.
- The lightweight TPU sole plate with rubber studs provides excellent traction and stability on firm grounds.
- Kids can play and practice for hours because the shoes are very comfortable and don’t feel heavy.
- The colorful and stylish design makes these cleats stand out, so your child will look great on the field.
- The synthetic PU upper helps young players improve their ball control for better dribbling, passing, and shooting.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions that the logo might not be present on all pairs, which could be a little confusing for some buyers.
These DREAM PAIRS cleats are a fantastic choice for any young soccer player. They combine comfort, performance, and style to help kids enjoy their game.
3. adidas Child-Unisex Goletto VII Firm Ground Soccer Cleats – Kids Soccer Shoe
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to hit the soccer field with the adidas Child-Unisex Goletto VII Firm Ground Soccer Cleats. These shoes are designed for young players looking for speed and great grip on the grass. They feature a cool synthetic upper that feels light and comfy, so your feet won’t feel weighed down while you’re running. The special cleated outsole is built for firm ground, meaning you get solid traction to make quick turns and powerful shots.
What We Like:
- Lightweight synthetic upper for comfort.
- Cleated outsole provides excellent traction on firm ground.
- Designed for speed and agility on the field.
- Great for junior soccer players.
What Could Be Improved:
- These shoes tend to run small, so it’s recommended to buy one size bigger.
These adidas Goletto VII cleats offer a good balance of comfort and performance for young soccer stars. Just remember to size up to ensure the best fit for your budding athlete!
4. PUMA Kids Attacanto Firm
Rating: 8.9/10
Get your little soccer star ready for the field with the PUMA Kids Attacanto Firm, Artificial Ground Soccer Cleats Sneaker. These cool kicks come in a sleek Black-Silver Mist colorway and are designed for toddlers, fitting a US size 11. They’re built for comfort and performance on artificial turf, helping young athletes make their moves.
What We Like:
- The synthetic upper feels soft for comfortable wear.
- It’s also really tough, so it can handle lots of playtime.
- The bright, cool graphic print makes these cleats look super fast and exciting.
- They are designed for artificial ground, so they grip well during games.
- The unisex design means they work for any little player.
What Could Be Improved:
- The toddler sizing might mean they outgrow them quickly.
- More color options could be offered for different styles.
These PUMA Attacanto cleats are a solid choice for young soccer players. They offer a great combination of durability and style for their artificial ground adventures.
5. adidas Goletto IX Laceless Firm Multi Ground Sneaker
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for game day with the adidas Goletto IX Laceless Firm Multi Ground Sneaker! These cool cleats are designed for young soccer stars who want to play their best on different types of fields. The white, black, and lucid lemon colors look super sharp, and the best part? No laces!
What We Like:
- Laceless Strike Zone: The smooth top means you can pass and shoot the ball with more accuracy. It’s like having a super-powered sweet spot!
- Lightweight Comfort: The synthetic material makes these cleats light, so your feet won’t feel heavy. They are also built to last.
- Multi-Ground Play: The special outsole grips well on firm grass and artificial turf, giving you speed and control no matter the surface.
- Eco-Friendly Design: These shoes are made with at least 20% recycled materials. This helps the planet by using less waste and fewer new resources.
- Padded Collar: A soft collar around the ankle gives extra comfort during long games and practices.
What Could Be Improved:
- Runs Small: Be sure to buy one size up from your child’s usual shoe size for a perfect fit.
These adidas Goletto IX cleats offer a fantastic combination of performance and eco-conscious design for young athletes. Just remember to size up for the best fit!
Finding the Perfect Soccer Cleats for Your Young Star
Choosing the right soccer cleats for your child is important. Good cleats help them play their best and stay safe. This guide will help you pick the best pair for your young athlete.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for soccer cleats, keep these important features in mind:
- Fit: This is the most important thing. Cleats should fit snugly, but not be too tight. Your child’s toes should have a little room at the front. They shouldn’t slip out of the back when they run.
- Ankle Support: Some cleats offer more ankle support than others. High-top cleats wrap around the ankle. This can help prevent twists and sprains. Mid-top cleats offer some support. Low-top cleats offer the least support.
- Closure System: Most kids’ cleats use laces. Some have Velcro straps, which are easy for younger kids to use. Laces offer a more adjustable and secure fit.
- Studs/Cleats: The little nubs on the bottom of the shoe are called studs or cleats. They help players grip the grass. Different types of studs work best on different surfaces.
Important Materials
The materials used in soccer cleats affect how they feel and perform.
- Uppers: The top part of the shoe is called the upper.
- Synthetic Leather: This is a common and affordable material. It’s durable and easy to clean. It can feel a bit stiff at first but breaks in over time.
- Knit/Mesh: These materials are lightweight and breathable. They offer a sock-like feel and can be very comfortable. They might not be as durable as synthetic leather.
- Real Leather: This is a premium material. It molds to the foot for a great fit. It’s also very durable. However, it can be more expensive and requires more care.
- Outsole: This is the bottom part of the cleat that has the studs. It’s usually made of rubber or plastic. A good outsole is flexible but strong.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make cleats better or worse.
- Durability: High-quality cleats are built to last. They use strong stitching and tough materials. Cheap cleats might fall apart after a few games.
- Comfort: Well-made cleats have good cushioning inside. They also have a comfortable insole that supports the foot. Poorly made cleats can cause blisters and discomfort.
- Traction: The design of the studs greatly affects how well a cleat grips the ground. Better designs offer more stability and prevent slipping.
- Weight: Lighter cleats can help kids feel faster. However, sometimes very light cleats are less durable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how and where your child will use the cleats.
- Playing Surface:
- Firm Ground (FG): These are the most common cleats. They have short, conical or bladed studs. They work well on natural grass fields that are not too wet or muddy.
- Artificial Grass (AG): These cleats have more, shorter studs. They are designed to prevent “turf toe” and offer better grip on artificial turf.
- Indoor Soccer (IN): These shoes have flat, rubber soles. They are for indoor courts and do not have studs.
- Multi-Ground (MG): These cleats can be used on both firm ground and artificial grass. They offer a good balance.
- Age and Skill Level:
- Younger Kids (ages 4-7): Look for easy-to-fasten cleats like Velcro. Comfort and a good fit are key. They don’t need the most advanced features.
- Intermediate Players (ages 8-12): As kids get more serious, they might want cleats with better ball control features. Ankle support becomes more important.
- Advanced Players (ages 13+): Older, more experienced players often prefer lightweight cleats that offer a good feel for the ball and excellent traction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Soccer Cleats
Q: How should soccer cleats fit?
A: Soccer cleats should fit snugly, with about a finger’s width of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe. They should not feel too tight or too loose. Your child’s heel should not lift up when they walk or run.
Q: What is the difference between FG and AG cleats?
A: FG (Firm Ground) cleats are for natural grass fields and have fewer, longer studs. AG (Artificial Grass) cleats are for turf fields and have more, shorter studs to prevent getting stuck and for better grip.
Q: How do I know if my child needs high-top cleats?
A: High-top cleats offer more ankle support, which can help prevent sprains. If your child has a history of ankle injuries or plays on very uneven fields, high-tops might be a good choice. However, they can feel restrictive to some players.
Q: Are synthetic leather cleats good for kids?
A: Yes, synthetic leather is a popular choice for kids’ cleats. It is durable, easy to clean, and generally more affordable than real leather. They break in nicely with use.
Q: How often should I replace my child’s soccer cleats?
A: You should replace cleats when they become too small, worn out, or damaged. Kids grow quickly, so this might happen every 6-12 months. Check for worn-out studs or holes in the material.
Q: Can my child wear soccer cleats for other sports?
A: It’s best to use soccer cleats only for soccer. The stud patterns are designed for the specific movements in soccer and can cause injuries or damage the surfaces of other sports fields.
Q: What is the best type of cleat for a beginner?
A: For beginners, focus on comfort and a good fit. Cleats with synthetic uppers and a standard FG soleplate are usually a good starting point. Velcro closures can be helpful for very young children.
Q: How do I clean soccer cleats?
A: After each use, bang the cleats together to remove excess dirt. Use a soft brush and some water to clean the uppers and soles. Remove the insoles and let them air dry completely away from direct heat.
Q: Do cleats need to be broken in?
A: Most modern cleats, especially those made from synthetic materials, don’t require a long break-in period. However, wearing them for a short practice session before a game can help them mold to your child’s feet and identify any potential discomfort.
Q: What does “mid-cut” or “low-cut” mean for soccer cleats?
A: “Low-cut” means the cleat sits below the ankle bone, offering maximum freedom of movement. “Mid-cut” means the cleat extends just to or slightly above the ankle bone, offering a balance of support and flexibility.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.