The Best Youth Football Cleats

The Best Youth Football Cleats
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Football cleats are designed to improve traction on various playing surfaces, including natural grass and artificial turf. Shoe companies produce a variety of football models, styles and sizes for adult and youth football players. The best youth football cleats are made with basic, durable materials and cleat designs to reduce the overall price.

Types

Two of the largest football shoe companies, Nike and Reebok, also share the best youth football cleats. According to Galt Tech, the Nike Land Shark and the Reebok Little Kid/Big Kid NFL Jr Trade Mid II are among the best football cleats for youth players. As of January 2011, the Nike Land Shark has a price of $25 and comes in mid-cut or low-cut designs, and the Reebok Little Kid/Big Kid NFL Jr Trade Mid II is available for $20 in a mid-cut design.

Cleats

The best youth football cleats are made with molded cleats permanently attached to the sole of the shoe. Molded cleats allow the youth players to play on any field surface while having maximum traction. Along with the molded cleats design, the Nike Land Shark and Reebok Little Kid/Big Kid NFL Jr Trade Mid II provide ankle and lateral support while changing directions during practice or games.

Materials

Most youth football cleats are made with simple materials, including synthetics and rubber. The shoe upper on the Nike and Reebok cleats are synthetic, allowing minimal breathability but providing durability and support in the forefoot, mid-foot and ankle along with being moisture resistant. The midsole is made from a phylon material for cushioning while the outsoles are made with rubber for traction and durability.

Rules

Youth football leagues commonly regulate cleats regarding type and length. For example, the Pop Warner league prohibits metal cleats or cleats longer than 1/2 inch. These rules typically allow only molded or rubber cleats, allowing the Nike and Reebok football cleats to be used for most youth football leagues. Always check your league rules before purchasing or using a pair of youth football cleats.

References

Article reviewed by John Hagemann Last updated on: Jan 9, 2011

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