Football can be played on various surfaces, including natural grass, field turf and artificial surfaces in a wide range of weather conditions. To gain the traction along with supporting the ankle while running and changing directions, football players will choose different types of football shoes depending on the surface and conditions. Types of football shoes range from molded or removable cleats to turf shoes, with each type of shoe made from specific materials with added features.
Cleats
Football shoes are available in three major types -- molded cleats, screw-in or removable cleats, and turf shoes. Molded and screw-in styles can include different cleat lengths to adapt to the playing conditions. For example, a football player might choose longer screw-in cleats for a wet, muddy surface. Each type of football shoe is available in three cuts -- high-tops, mid-cut and low-cut. Molded cleats are generally used by youth players while the screw-in cleats are used by high school, college or professional shoes, and the turf shoes are used on artificial surfaces.
Materials
Football shoes are made from a combination of materials for the upper, sole and other parts of the shoe. The shoe upper is generally made from leather or synthetic materials while the sole and foot plate is made from a hard plastic on screw-in cleats or flexible rubber on molded cleats. Leather allows the foot to breathe while allowing comfort, durability, function and flexibility. Technical synthetic materials are also used on the inside of the shoe to control moisture by wicking the sweat away from the foot.
Features
Shoe companies produce a wide range of football shoes with different features to appeal to different types of players. Most football shoes feature a lace-up design and some models will include Velcro straps across the laces. Replacement cleats come in different lengths such as 1/2-, 5/8-, 3/4- and 1-inch sizes depending on the field conditions. League rules, however, may prohibit certain cleat lengths, so consult the league rules before purchasing football shoes or replacement cleats.
Considerations
Football shoes are made in a variety of types, styles and sizes to accommodate different players and positions. Two essential considerations for choosing a football shoe is the type of playing surface and your position. For example, lineman will benefit from the added ankle and lateral support from high-tops while a skill position player including wide receivers and running backs will benefit from the lightweight design on the mid-cut or low-cut shoes.
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