Picture this: your young star is ready to hit the soccer field, the whistle is about to blow, and suddenly, you realize their old cleats are too small, or maybe they don’t have any at all! Finding the perfect soccer cleats for kids can feel like a mission. There are so many brands, styles, and technical terms that it’s easy to get lost. You want to make sure your child has the best gear to help them play their best, but you also don’t want to waste money on something that won’t work.
This is where we come in! We know the frustration of staring at shelves packed with cleats, wondering which ones offer the right grip, comfort, and support for your growing player. This post cuts through the confusion. We’ll break down what really matters when choosing kids’ soccer cleats, from the type of field they play on to how to get the best fit. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident picking out cleats that will help your child run faster, turn quicker, and feel great on the pitch.
Our Top 5 Kids Soccer Cleats Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Kids Soccer Cleats Detailed Reviews
1. adidas Unisex-Kids Goletto IX Firm Ground/Multi Ground Soccer
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for game day with the adidas Unisex-Kids Goletto IX soccer cleats! These shoes are designed for young athletes who love to play soccer on different types of fields. The bright Lucid Blue, Lucid Lemon, and Dark Blue colors make them look super cool on the field. They are lightweight, so kids can run fast and feel comfortable while they play.
What We Like:
- These cleats are super lightweight, making it easy for kids to move quickly.
- The synthetic upper is strong and lasts a long time.
- Adjustable laces help you get a snug and secure fit so your feet don’t slide around.
- The textile lining inside feels soft and comfy against your feet.
- The special outsole works on almost any field – grass, artificial turf, or even hard ground!
- The bright colors are really eye-catching.
What Could Be Improved:
- The snug fit means you might want to buy a half size bigger to make sure they are super comfortable, especially if your child has wider feet.
The adidas Goletto IX cleats offer a great combination of performance and comfort for young soccer players. They are a solid choice for kids who play on various surfaces.
2. DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats Youth Firm Groud Athletic Outdoor Trainning Football Shoes for Little/Big Kid
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for game day with the DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats! These vibrant pink and purple cleats are designed for young athletes who love to play soccer or football on firm ground. They offer comfort and support, helping kids focus on their game and have fun.
What We Like:
- The lace-up design gives a super secure and adjustable fit. Your child can tighten them just right for maximum comfort and safety.
- The lightweight TPU sole plate has special rubber studs. This design helps them grip the ground better, so they can run and change direction quickly without slipping.
- These shoes are really light! Kids can wear them for practices and games without feeling tired.
- The bright pink and purple colors are awesome. They make your child stand out on the field, looking stylish and confident.
- The synthetic PU upper helps kids control the ball better. Dribbling, passing, and shooting become easier.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes the logo might not be on the shoes. This doesn’t change how good they are, but it’s something to know.
These DREAM PAIRS cleats are a fantastic choice for young soccer players. They combine style, comfort, and performance to help kids shine on the field.
3. adidas Child-Unisex Goletto VII Firm Ground Soccer Cleats – Kids Soccer Shoe
Rating: 9.0/10
Lace up for game day with the adidas Child-Unisex Goletto VII Firm Ground Soccer Cleats! These shoes are designed to help young players move fast and stay in control on the soccer field. They offer good grip so kids can make quick turns and powerful shots.
What We Like:
- The synthetic upper feels light and comfortable on your feet, letting you focus on the game.
- The cleated outsole gives you excellent traction on firm ground, helping you keep your footing during play.
- These cleats help you gain speed and agility, making you a tougher player to defend against.
- They are built for firm ground surfaces, so they work well on most outdoor soccer fields.
What Could Be Improved:
- Be sure to buy one size larger than your child normally wears, as these cleats tend to run small.
These adidas Goletto VII cleats are a solid choice for young soccer stars. Just remember to size up when you buy them!
4. Diadora Cattura Youth Firm Ground Soccer Cleats
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to dominate the pitch with the Diadora Cattura Youth Firm Ground Soccer Cleats! These cleats are built for young soccer stars who demand performance and style. They work great on both grass and turf fields, giving you the grip you need to make quick cuts and explosive sprints. Plus, with these awesome colors, you’ll definitely stand out from the crowd.
What We Like:
- The FIRM GROUND TPU OUTSOLE gives you awesome traction and keeps you steady on any field, whether it’s real grass or artificial turf.
- Rounded and angular studs work together to help you turn quickly, move side-to-side easily, and accelerate like a rocket.
- The LIGHTWEIGHT SYNTHETIC UPPER feels comfortable and lets your feet move freely while keeping them snug.
- These LIMITED EDITION COLORWAYS are super cool and will make you the most stylish player on the field.
- The IN-GAME EXPRESSION feature lets you show off your personality with unique colors that add character to your game.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cleats are designed for a secure fit, some players might prefer a bit more ankle support for added stability during very aggressive plays.
- The focus on lightweight design, while great for speed, might mean they aren’t quite as padded as some heavier cleats for players who prioritize maximum cushioning.
The Diadora Cattura Youth Firm Ground Soccer Cleats are a fantastic choice for young players looking for performance and flair. They offer great grip and comfort, letting you focus on your game and express yourself on the field.
5. DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats Youth Firm Groud Baseball Cleats Sport Athletic Outdoor Trainning Football Shoes for Little/Big Kid
Rating: 9.1/10
Unleash your little athlete’s potential with the DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats. These vibrant red, black, and silver cleats are built for comfort and performance, letting kids focus on the game. They are perfect for young soccer players who demand agility and support on the field.
What We Like:
- The rubber molded anti-slip studs give amazing grip. Kids can move quickly and change direction with confidence.
- The stylish synthetic upper looks great and is super durable. It’s built to handle tough play.
- These cleats are really lightweight. They won’t weigh your child down, letting them run faster and feel more comfortable.
- A cushioned insole adds extra comfort. It helps reduce tiredness so kids can play their best for longer.
- They are designed for firm ground surfaces. This makes them ideal for most soccer fields.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for firm ground, they might not offer enough grip on very wet or muddy fields.
- The sizing might run a little small for some kids, so checking a size chart is a good idea.
These DREAM PAIRS cleats offer a fantastic combination of style, comfort, and performance for young soccer stars. They are a solid choice for any kid ready to hit the firm ground and play their heart out.
Finding the Perfect Cleats for Your Young Soccer Star
Choosing the right soccer cleats for your child is important. Good cleats help them play their best and stay safe on the field. This guide will help you find the perfect pair.
1. Key Features to Look For
A. Fit is King
The most important thing is how the cleats fit. They should be snug but not too tight. Your child should have a little room for their toes, about the width of a thumb. Make sure they don’t slip off when they run or kick. Try them on with the socks your child usually wears for soccer. Walk and jog around in them to see how they feel.
B. Cleat Type Matters
Soccer cleats have different types of studs on the bottom. These are for different playing surfaces.
- FG (Firm Ground): These have the most common studs. They work best on natural grass fields that are not too wet or muddy.
- SG (Soft Ground): These have longer studs. They are good for wet or muddy grass fields.
- AG (Artificial Grass): These have more, shorter, and often conical studs. They are designed for turf fields to give good grip without digging in too much.
- TF (Turf): These have many small rubber nubs. They are great for artificial turf fields and sometimes for hard, dry dirt fields.
C. Closure System
Most kids’ cleats use laces. Laces let you adjust the fit well. Some cleats have Velcro straps. These are easy for younger kids to put on and take off by themselves. Make sure the laces stay tied during play.
D. Ankle Support
Some cleats have a higher collar that goes up the ankle. This can offer extra support and protection. For younger kids, a lower cut is often fine. For older kids or those who play more seriously, higher tops might be a good choice.
2. Important Materials
A. Upper Material
The part of the cleat that covers your foot is the upper. Many kids’ cleats use synthetic leather. This material is durable and easy to clean. It also helps keep the cleats lightweight. Some higher-end cleats might use real leather. Leather can mold to the foot for a custom fit, but it costs more and needs more care.
B. Soleplate and Studs
The soleplate is the bottom part of the cleat. It holds the studs. Most soleplates are made of plastic or a strong rubber. The studs are usually made of the same material. Good studs offer great traction without being too hard on the feet.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A. Durability
Kids grow fast, but good cleats should last at least one season. Look for reinforced stitching in high-wear areas. A strong soleplate also helps. Cheap cleats might fall apart quickly, costing you more in the long run.
B. Comfort
A well-padded tongue and collar make cleats more comfortable. Good cushioning inside the shoe helps absorb impact. If cleats are uncomfortable, your child won’t want to wear them. This can hurt their performance.
C. Weight
Lighter cleats can help kids feel faster. However, very light cleats might not be as durable. Find a good balance between weight and strength.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A. For Beginners
For young players just starting, comfort and ease of use are key. Velcro closures can be a great option. Look for a durable, all-around FG cleat that works on most grass fields. Don’t worry too much about fancy features.
B. For Developing Players
As your child gets more serious, consider cleats designed for specific surfaces. If they play on artificial turf often, AG or TF cleats are a good investment. Look for cleats that offer a good feel for the ball and allow for quick movements.
C. For Competitive Players
More experienced players might want cleats with advanced features. This could include a more streamlined design for speed or specialized stud patterns for better grip. They might also consider different cleat types for different game conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Soccer Cleats
Q: How do I know if soccer cleats fit correctly?
A: The cleats should feel snug, but not tight. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the cleat. They should not slip off when walking or running.
Q: Should I buy cleats a size up?
A: No, it’s generally not recommended to buy cleats too big. They should fit well now. Your child’s feet will grow, but buying them too large now can cause blisters and make them trip.
Q: What’s the difference between FG and AG cleats?
A: FG (Firm Ground) cleats are for natural grass. AG (Artificial Grass) cleats are for turf fields. AG cleats have more, shorter studs to prevent getting stuck.
Q: Can my child wear soccer cleats on hard surfaces like concrete?
A: No, soccer cleats are not meant for hard surfaces. Wearing them on concrete can damage the studs and the soleplate, and it’s also unsafe.
Q: How often should I replace my child’s soccer cleats?
A: Replace them when they become too small, or if they show significant wear and tear like a broken stud or sole separation. Kids grow quickly, so this might be every season or even sooner.
Q: Are Velcro cleats okay for older kids?
A: Velcro cleats are great for younger kids who are still learning to tie laces. Older kids might prefer lace-up cleats for a more secure and adjustable fit.
Q: What is the best material for kids’ soccer cleats?
A: Synthetic leather is a popular choice because it is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. Real leather offers a custom fit but is more expensive and requires more care.
Q: How do I clean soccer cleats?
A: Remove excess dirt with a brush. You can wipe them down with a damp cloth. Let them air dry away from direct heat.
Q: What are studs on soccer cleats for?
A: Studs, also called cleats, help players grip the ground. This prevents slipping and allows for quick turns and stops.
Q: Should I buy cleats with ankle support?
A: Ankle support can be helpful, especially for older or more competitive players. For younger children, it’s not always necessary, and a lower-cut cleat allows for more ankle 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.