Soccer cleats are specifically designed to provide you with the traction and control you need to run, stop and turn fast. If you have sore feet from playing, you may consider switching the style or material you are currently using to allow for a more comfortable cleat. When choosing new cleats, focus on proper fit above all other features and consider adding aftermarket insoles for additional support and comfort.
Style
There are a variety of styles of soccer shoes from which to choose, each related to a corresponding field surface. Plastic-molded and blade-style cleats have the largest and longest cleats attached to a hard outsole. They are made for natural grass and dirt fields. Turf shoes have shallow protrusions or cleats, made for artificial turf fields. Indoor shoes are like tennis shoes, with flat rubberized outsoles. To prevent sore feet, a cleat must meet with the the ground correctly, so the cleats insert into the ground and the sole of the foot is flat on the ground. Cleats that do not match the field conditions will create pressure points and cause sore feet.
Material
Soccer cleats come in different kinds of material ranging from synthetic nylon and rubberized materials to natural leather. If you have sore feet, consider cleats made with leather. Over time, the leather will stretch and conform to your foot, offering a more comfortable fit. Most synthetic cleats will not stretch, and they may create pressure points on the tops and sides of your foot, leading to sore feet and possible inflammation.
Fit
Sore feet from soccer cleats is often caused by poor fit. If your foot is not supported evenly on all sides it tends to slide around, bruise and get pinched in narrow areas. You should choose a cleat that fits snugly, but is not too tight. When trying on soccer cleats, make sure to wear the socks you normally wear to play. Additionally, if you wear shin protectors with ankle guards, put them on before you try on cleats. Ankle guards have significant impact on how a cleat fits, particularly around the ankle and heel area.
Insoles
If you have flat feet or low arches, you may consider adding aftermarket insoles to your soccer cleats to provide additional support. Aftermarket insoles can provide a custom fit for your soccer cleats that eliminates sore feet from running and jumping, providing your foot with the proper foundation to absorb impact. If you have normal arches, aftermarket insoles without arch support can still dampen the hard-impact forces common to playing soccer.
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