Soccer cleats are the one piece of equipment every soccer player should own. There are tens of thousands of different shoes in the marketplace, but by applying some key criteria, finding the right shoe for you will become much less difficult.
Sizing
Soccer cleats fit in exactly the same manner as other sports footwear. However, you have to remember your soccer shoes are going to be worn for long periods of action, during which your feet will almost certainly become hot and swell a little. Purchasing cleats a little larger than your traditional sports shoe is therefore advisable and will also allow for you to add insoles for extra comfort if needed.
Protection
Always a key influence in any decision, protection is particularly important when selecting a cleat. Ensure that you consider your style of play in this decision. If you are a defender, always in the thick of the physical action, you may want to think about cleats with high levels of protection, maybe with a slightly heavier build than those of an attacking player, for whom lightness, pace and control might be the key criteria for their position.
Aesthetics
Although not technically likely to affect the cleat, aesthetic considerations are important when selecting shoes. Cleats come in differing styles and colors, from classic and plain to modern colorful designs. As soccer is a confidence game, choosing a shoe that makes you feel good will almost certainly benefit you on the pitch.
Cleats
Soccer shoes have a whole host of different cleat styles available to help you gain traction. Traditional screw in cleats are widely available, easily interchangeable and a classic option. However, molded cleats are now more popular than ever. They tend to have an added number of cleats on each shoe, resulting in more traction and power distribution. Cleats are a personal choice though, so try on different designs and choose what feels right for you.
Brands
There are more manufacturers than ever in the soccer shoe market, many of whom spend millions of dollars on marketing and endorsements to promote their shoe. While wearing the same shoe as your favorite pro is always nice, be sure to try shoes of various brands. Each will fit slightly differently and offer unique technologies which may benefit your game.
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