What To Look For
Cleats come in a variety of types, and choosing cleats based on the field you will be playing on and your experience can be helpful. Molded cleats are the basic, typical soccer cleat; these can be worn on nearly all field type in any weather condition, while detachable cleats offer the option to change the type of studs, depending on the field conditions, says the Sports Authority. Cleats with a leather upper often have a better feel and fit but are more expensive than cleats made from synthetic materials.
Common Pitfalls
According to Dick's Sporting Goods, soccer cleats are narrower than typical sneakers and should fit snugger than normal shoes but not tightly. If the upper is made of leather, it will stretch when worn and mold to the shape of your foot. Picking a pair of soccer cleats in your normal size without trying them on might not yield the best fit, so it is important to try them on for accurate sizing.
Where To Buy
Nike soccer cleats are sold at many sporting goods stores like Dick's Sporting Goods or soccer specialty stores. Soccer gear websites and the Nike website also sell Nike soccer cleats. When ordering online, it might be a good idea to try on a similar pair of shoes to get a feel for the correct size you need. Many websites offer return and exchange policies if the cleats you order do not fit.
Cost
In 2010, regular pricing of Nike soccer cleats can range anywhere from $20 for kids' Nike Premier II FG cleats to $240 for men's Nike Mercurial Vapor VI FG cleats, according to Eastbay. Less expensive prices can be found during sales such as during the off-season, especially the summer.
Comparison Shopping
If you are playing indoor soccer, you do not need cleats but indoor soccer shoes. These shoes do not have the molded studs on the bottom, although some, like the Nike Zoom T-5 CT have a sole similar to turf shoes but not as pronounced. Most indoor shoes have a gum rubber outsole for traction and stability, like the Nike T90 Shoot III IC shoe.
Accessories
Without shinguards, referees will not allow you to play in a soccer game, according to Dick's Sporting Goods. Shinguards have many options from which to choose, allowing you to find the best one for your needs. Materials for shinguards vary, with options including fiberglass, foam rubber and polyurethane. Sometimes ankle protectors are included on the bottom of the shinguard. For the best fit, choosing the right size shinguard is important, and you should aim for the majority of the leg between the ankle and the knee to be covered, says Dick's Sporting Goods.
Insider Tips
Bring the soccer socks you plan to wear with the cleats when trying them on. Regular socks, even thicker athletic socks, might not be as thick as the soccer socks and may interfere with finding the proper size.
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