What To Look For
Determine what type of shoe you need. If you are playing outdoor soccer, look for a firm-ground shoe, as opposed to a soft-ground, hard-ground, or indoor shoe. Look for a shoe that is aesthetically appealing and, most importantly, comfortable. Leather shoes will stretch and mold to your foot. They will also withstand harsh weather conditions better, and last longer. Look for a brand name that has an established reputation for quality in the soccer realm. Adidas, Nike, Puma, and Diadora are all top-quality cleat brands.
Common Pitfalls
Find a shoe to fit the elements in which you plan to play. You don't want to end up with five different pairs of cleats because you aren't sure whether you'll be playing on turf, soft ground, firm ground, or indoors. Only buy a specialty pair of shoes if you know for certain you will be playing on a certain type of surface consistently. Otherwise, stick with an all-purpose shoe, one that is made for firm ground.
Where To Buy
The best place to find a reasonably priced, comfortable cleat will be a large sporting goods store, such as Sports Authority or Dick's Sporting Goods. These stores offer a variety while keeping their prices low. They also give you the chance to try on the shoes of your choice. If you already know the kind of shoe that you want and the size you need, try the retailer's website or discount websites such as Amazon.com.
Cost
Soccer cleats for the average player should cost anywhere from $60 to $200. Lower prices will purchase adequate cleats from brand names such as Umbro and Mitre. Higher prices will come from Adidas, Nike and Puma, brands that consistently produce quality and long-lasting boots.
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