Soccer players rely on their feet to move down the playing field, kick the ball and make fast weight changes that allow them to defend the goal. To successfully perform these actions, a player relies on a good pair of soccer shoes, also known as soccer cleats. A number of soccer-cleat types are available. Your options often depend upon whether you play indoor or outdoor soccer, as certain cleat types are not permitted on indoor fields.
Basic Features
On the top portion, soccer shoes may closely resemble traditional athletic sneakers. However, soccer shoes are designed to be more lightweight than their sneaker counterparts. This supports a soccer player's need to make fast, explosive runs down the field. Outdoor soccer shoes are characterized by having some type of cleat, which prevents a soccer player from slipping and falling on the ground. When you purchase a soccer shoe, you should wear it only for games and practice to extend the life of these sport-specific shoes.
Cleat Types
Soccer shoes designed for outdoor use typically feature one of two cleat types. Molded cleats feature spikes or raised areas on the sole that help to give you traction on the grass. These cleats are not removable, which may make them difficult to keep clean. Molded cleats are recommended for beginner or intermediate soccer players. More advanced players may select detachable cleats, which have removable, replaceable studs. This is advantageous for experienced players, because they can change the cleat type based on the grass upon which they are playing. Firm grass may require a shorter cleat, while muddy grass necessitates a taller one.
Indoor Shoes
Metal and plastic cleats are not suitable for indoor soccer fields, which are made of artificial materials. The divots made by cleats cannot be repaired as easily on artificial turf, which tends to be less thick than grass, reducing the need for a larger cleat. If you play indoor soccer, look for a soccer shoe with a flat, rubber bottom. This shoe typically features a wavelike pattern on the sole to better grip an indoor surface.
Considerations
Most soccer shoes are created using sizing guidelines similar to those for street shoes, with a few exceptions. The upper part of a soccer shoe may be narrower than that of a traditional shoe, allowing you to better sense the ground as you run. When selecting your shoe, choose a snug fit but not one that is so tight that it pushes your toes together uncomfortably. This can affect your circulation and cause pain during a soccer match. If you purchase a leather soccer shoe, keep in mind that it may stretch slightly with time.
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