What if your cleats could give you an edge on the pitch? Many players dream of faster sprints and sharper cuts. But choosing the right soccer cleats can feel like a maze. New Balance makes great cleats, but with so many models, how do you know which pair fits your game best?
Picking the wrong cleats can lead to discomfort or even hurt your performance. You want comfort, the right grip for the field, and boots that match your playing style, whether you’re a speedy winger or a solid defender. It’s frustrating when you invest in new gear only to find it doesn’t work for you.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best New Balance soccer cleats available right now. You will learn about fit, technology, and which cleat suits different field types. By the end, you will confidently select the perfect New Balance cleats to elevate your soccer experience.
Top New Balance Soccer Cleats Recommendations
- Upper features a re-designed stitching pattern with twin needle articulation for a premium hand feel and unparalleled comfort
- Full-grain leather upper material
- Lightweight TPU plate with TPU stud tips
- Firm ground studs for use on firm ground pitches
- Comfortable lining to improve the first foot feel
- Upper features a re-designed stitching pattern for a premium hand feel and unparalleled comfort
- Premium synthetic upper material
- Lightweight TPU plate with TPU stud tips
- Firm ground studs for use on firm ground pitches
- Comfortable lining to improve the first foot feel
- Engineered areas in upper for improved ball strike
- Extended strike zone for optimized ball touch
- Lightweight nylon plate with chevron studs for explosive propulsion and superior traction at high speeds
- Firm ground studs for use on firm ground pitches
- Performance sock liner for added comfort and a secure fit
- Hypoknit collar for a close fit
- Lightweight and modern nylon sole plate
- Firm ground cleats
- Premium one-piece microfiber synthetic upper with debossed quilting for unparalleled ball touch and comfort
- Lace closure
- Lightweight TPU outsole for speed and stability
- Firm ground football boots
- FURON design endorsed by star football players Raheem Sterling, Sadio Mane and Michelle Cooper
- Upper features a re-designed stitching pattern with double-row stitching for a premium hand feel and unparalleled comfort
- Full-grain leather upper material and genuine suede toe cap
- Rubber lugged outsole for specific use on turf or the street
- Durable non-marking rubber outsole
- Comfortable lining to improve the first foot feel
- Strategically positioned deboss channels facilitate flexion and provide a true touch
- Single piece knitted collar construction, designed around the contours of the ankle, delivers secure yet comfortable lockdown support
- Responsive control outsole
- Dual injected TPU outsole features a mixture of conical and bladed rim studs in the forefoot to facilitate multidirectional movement and deliver dynamic traction
- Tekela line worn by Endrick, Raheem Sterling, Harvey Elliot, Jordyn Huitema and Tim Weah
- Extended strike zone for optimized ball touch
- Responsive, dual-injected TPU outsole with speed control studs for ultimate ground control and sharp movement
- Updated T-studs for maximum speed in all directions
- Firm ground studs for use on firm ground pitches
- Furon range worn by Bukayo Saka, Sadio Mané, Michelle Cooper and Eberechi Eze
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect New Balance Soccer Cleats
New Balance (NB) makes great soccer cleats. They offer a mix of comfort, performance, and style. Choosing the right pair helps you play your best game. This guide breaks down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Good soccer cleats have specific features that help you control the ball and move fast. Look closely at these points:
1. Fit and Sizing
- True to Size: Most NB cleats fit true to size, but some models might run slightly narrow or wide. Always read reviews about the specific model you pick.
- Lockdown: The cleat should hug your foot snugly. Your heel should not slip when you run or cut sharply. A good lockdown prevents blisters.
2. Outsole and Stud Pattern (Traction)
- Stud Shape: Different shapes help in different ways. Conical (round) studs help with quick turns. Bladed studs help with straight-line speed.
- Stud Length/Arrangement: This depends on the field type. Shorter, more numerous studs work best on artificial turf (AG). Longer, fewer studs are better for firm natural grass (FG).
3. Upper Construction
The upper part wraps around your foot. This is where you feel the ball. Look for materials that offer a good balance between touch and durability.
Important Materials in New Balance Cleats
The materials used determine how the cleat feels and how long it lasts.
Synthetic Uppers
- Pros: These are often lighter and require almost no break-in time. They handle wet conditions well.
- Cons: Sometimes, they do not offer the same natural “feel” for the ball as leather.
Knit/Mesh Uppers
Many modern NB cleats use engineered knit materials around the ankle collar. This material provides a sock-like fit. It greatly improves comfort and helps keep debris out.
Outsole (Plate) Material
The plate under the shoe must be responsive. New Balance often uses lightweight TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). This material provides necessary stiffness for energy return during sprints while remaining light.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cleats are built the same. Certain design choices make a big difference in performance and longevity.
Quality Boosters:
- Data-Driven Design: NB often uses player data to shape their outsoles. This ensures the stud pattern supports natural foot movements.
- High-Quality Stitching: Strong, reinforced stitching around the upper prevents blowouts, especially in high-stress areas like the forefoot.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Soles on Budget Models: Cheaper versions might use less durable plastic for the outsole. This plastic can crack faster, especially on harder ground.
- Excessive Padding: While some padding feels nice initially, too much padding can reduce your direct ball touch, which lowers the quality of your control.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how often you play. This guides your choice.
For Speed Players (Wingers, Strikers)
Look for the ‘Furons’ line (or similar speed-focused models). These cleats prioritize lightweight construction and aggressive, bladed studs to maximize straight-line acceleration.
For Control Players (Midfielders)
Midfielders need great touch and comfort for 90 minutes. Search for models that feature a slightly softer upper material (sometimes hybrid synthetics) and a more balanced stud pattern for quick directional changes.
For Durability and Training
If you train five days a week, you need durability. A synthetic upper that resists water and mud is a smart choice. You might sacrifice a little weight for a cleat that lasts longer.
10 FAQs About New Balance Soccer Cleats
Q: Are New Balance cleats as good as Nike or Adidas?
A: Yes, they are very competitive. New Balance focuses heavily on fit technology and often provides excellent value for the performance you receive.
Q: Do New Balance cleats run wide or narrow?
A: Generally, New Balance cleats tend to fit true to size or slightly on the narrower side, especially in the toe box area. Players with wider feet may need to size up slightly or look for specific wide-fit options if available.
Q: What is the main difference between the NB Furon and Tekela lines?
A: The Furon line is built for speed; it is very light with an aggressive stud pattern. The Tekela line focuses more on control and agility, often featuring a knitted upper for a secure, adaptive fit.
Q: How long should my New Balance cleats last?
A: With regular use (2-3 times a week), a good pair should last between six months to a year. Hard ground and artificial turf wear them out faster.
Q: Do I need different cleats for artificial turf (AG) versus grass (FG)?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended. FG (Firm Ground) studs are too long for turf and can get stuck, increasing injury risk. AG (Artificial Ground) studs are shorter and more numerous.
Q: Are New Balance cleats heavy?
A: No. Their top-tier models are engineered to be extremely lightweight, putting them in direct competition with the lightest cleats on the market.
Q: Do I need to break in New Balance soccer cleats?
A: Synthetic models require very little break-in time. If you choose a model with a high percentage of genuine leather, you might need a few short sessions to soften the material.
Q: How do I clean my NB cleats after playing?
A: Remove excess mud with a soft brush or cloth. Wipe them down with a damp cloth—never soak them. Let them air dry naturally away from direct heat sources like radiators.
Q: What is the best New Balance cleat for a beginner?
A: Look for mid-range models that offer good cushioning and a durable synthetic upper. They provide a safe, comfortable entry point before investing in elite, specialized boots.
Q: Does the knit collar stretch out over time?
A: The knit material is designed to hold its shape. While it will mold to your ankle for comfort, it should not stretch so much that you lose the secure lockdown feel, provided you clean and store the cleats properly.