Does your young soccer star dream of scoring the winning goal? Every great player needs the right gear, and nothing matters more on the field than their cleats. Picking the perfect pair for your kid, however, can feel like a confusing game all on its own! You want them to be safe, comfortable, and ready to perform their best, but the sheer number of styles, sizes, and features can make your head spin.
It’s frustrating when new cleats pinch their feet or, worse, cause them to slip during a crucial match. Getting the wrong shoe can slow them down and even lead to injuries. We know you want the best foundation for their budding soccer career.
This guide cuts through the jargon. We will break down exactly what makes a great kid’s soccer cleat, focusing on fit, surface type, and durability. Keep reading to discover the secrets to choosing cleats that will keep your young athlete comfortable, confident, and dominating the pitch all season long.
Top Soccer Cleats For Kids Recommendations
- Kids' lightweight soccer cleats for play on multiple surfaces
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit. Please consider buying a half size up
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- TEXTILE LINING: The cleats are lined for a soft, comfortable feel
- MULTI-SURFACE SOCCER OUTSOLE: Flexible ground outsole offers high-speed control and stability on firm ground (dry natural grass), artificial grass (long-bladed synthetic fiber) and hard ground
- CUSTOMIZED COMFORT: Synthetic upper with soft lining that shapes to the foot.
- ENHANCED TRACTION: Includes lightweight TPU outsole with conical studs for a quick release and to facilitate pivoting.
- SLEEK DESIGN: Features a low boot construction.
- VERSATILE TRACTION MASTER: Offers excellent stability and grip on both firm ground and artificial turf surfaces, ensuring top performance in any playing conditions.
- PUMA BIG KIDS: Recommended for older kids between 8 and 16 years.
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Suitable for both boys and girls, these soccer cleats are designed for firm ground play and outdoor athletic performance
- FIRM GROUND TRACTION: Strategically placed cleats provide optimal grip and stability on natural grass and firm ground surfaces
- ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE: Engineered for young athletes, these cleats enhance agility and speed during practice and matches
- SECURE FIT: Lace-up closure system ensures a snug, adjustable fit for growing feet during intense gameplay
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Built to withstand regular use on outdoor playing fields while maintaining comfort and support
- Juniors' soccer cleats for traction and speed
- SYNTHETIC UPPER: Synthetic upper for lightweight comfort
- CLEATED OUTSOLE: Cleated outsole for firm ground play
- FIRM GROUND OUTSOLE: The outsole gives you solid traction on firm ground
- Runs Small: Buy 1 Size Bigger
- Juniors' high-performance soccer cleats made for playing on multiple surfaces
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- HYBRIDFEEL TECHNOLOGY: 3D texture for better grip and tactile function with grippy Strikescale fins to improve shooting precision
- MULTI-GROUND SOCCER OUTSOLE: Show your skills on multiple surfaces with a versatile outsole made for artificial grass, firm ground and hard ground
- MADE IN PART WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: This product features at least 20% recycled materials. By reusing materials that have already been created, we help to reduce waste and our reliance on finite resources and reduce the footprint of the products we make
- Juniors' laceless soccer cleats with a padded collar for play on multiple surfaces
- RUNS SMALL: Buy 1 Size Bigger
- LACELESS STRIKE ZONE: With no need for laces, the upper has a clean strike zone for accurate passing and shooting
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- NARROW FIT: Features a narrow fit through the toe box, making them best suited for customers with regular or narrow feet. If you prefer a roomier feel in the toe area, you may want to size up half a size.
- The lightweight design of these kids' soccer cleats provides agility and comfort on firm and multi-ground surfaces. A regular fit ensures a balanced feel that is neither tight nor loose, offering all-day ease.
- PREDATOR: Built for control, adidas Predator cleats help them master the ball and dominate matches
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: Designed for agility and comfort, perfect for dynamic play on firm and multi-ground surfaces
- FIRM GROUND OUTSOLE: The outsole gives you solid traction on firm ground
- PUMA X CHRISTIAN PULISIC: Elevate your game with these artificial, firm ground soccer cleats, inspired by the dynamic play of Christian Pulisic, designed for aspiring superstars seeking top-tier performance and style.
- COMFORT AND SUPPORT: Features a soft lining with flexible mesh uppers for optimal comfort and support.
- VERSATILE TRACTION: The lightweight TPU outsole provides excellent grip and stability, making it perfect for both natural and synthetic grass surfaces.
- FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT: Stud shape and placement around the pivot point enable 360-degree agility and freedom of movement, so you can shake off defenders with ease.
- PUMA BIG KIDS: Recommended for older kids between 8 and 16 years.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Kids’ Soccer Cleats
Finding the right soccer cleats for your young athlete is important. Good cleats help them play better and stay safe on the field. This guide will help you choose the best pair.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for kids’ soccer cleats, look closely at these important parts:
1. Proper Fit and Sizing
- Snug, Not Tight: The cleat should fit snugly around the foot. Leave about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the end of the cleat.
- Heel Lock: The heel should not slip up and down when the child runs or kicks. Slipping causes blisters.
- Break-in Time: New cleats should feel comfortable right away. Kids’ feet grow fast, so avoid buying cleats that are too big to “grow into.”
2. Stud Configuration (The Bottom Spikes)
The studs are crucial for traction. Different fields need different studs:
- Firm Ground (FG): These are the most common. They have molded studs that work best on natural grass fields that are dry or slightly damp.
- Artificial Grass (AG) or Turf (TF): These have many shorter, often rubber studs. They prevent sticking on artificial turf, which is safer for young joints.
- Soft Ground (SG): These have fewer, longer, often removable metal studs. They are only necessary for very wet or muddy natural grass fields.
3. Closure System
How the cleat fastens matters for quick adjustments.
- Laces: Offer the most customizable, secure fit. Older kids usually manage laces well.
- Velcro Straps: Excellent for younger players who cannot tie laces yet. They allow for quick on-and-off.
Important Materials Used in Cleats
The material of the upper part of the cleat affects how it feels and lasts.
Upper Materials
- Synthetic Leather: This is very popular for kids’ cleats. It is durable, easy to clean, and usually costs less. It resists water well.
- Natural Leather (e.g., Kangaroo or Calf): This material molds to the foot over time, offering a superior, custom fit and better ball touch. However, it requires more care and is generally more expensive.
Outsole and Stud Material
The outsole is the bottom plate where the studs attach. Quality outsoles are usually made of firm yet flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). This material balances needed rigidity for pushing off with enough flex to allow the foot to move naturally.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality affects performance and how long the cleats last through a season of hard play.
What Improves Quality?
- One-Piece Construction: Cleats where the upper and soleplate are strongly bonded often last longer because fewer parts can separate during aggressive play.
- Lightweight Design: Lighter cleats reduce leg fatigue, helping kids maintain speed throughout the game.
What Reduces Quality?
- Poor Stitching: If the upper material is poorly stitched or glued near the sole, the cleat might start to fall apart quickly.
- Rigid Soles: If the soleplate is too stiff, it does not allow the foot to bend naturally when running. This stiffness can lead to discomfort or even minor foot strain.
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider where and how often your child plays soccer.
For Beginners and Casual Play
Beginners need comfort and durability over highly technical features. Synthetic cleats that are easy to wipe clean and have a secure fit are best. If they only play once a week on grass, an FG cleat is fine.
For Competitive Players
More serious players benefit from cleats that offer better ball control. Look for cleats with textured surfaces on the upper part. These textures help grip the ball when dribbling or shooting. Ensure these higher-end cleats still meet field requirements.
Indoor Soccer (Futsal)
Kids playing indoor soccer need completely different shoes. They use flat, non-marking rubber soles, similar to basketball shoes, not cleats. Always check the league rules before buying.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kids’ Soccer Cleats
Q: How often should I replace my child’s soccer cleats?
A: You should replace them when they become too small, or if the studs start wearing down significantly, usually every 6 to 12 months depending on how much the child plays.
Q: Can I use my child’s outdoor cleats indoors?
A: No. Outdoor cleats damage indoor gym floors. Always use flat-soled indoor soccer shoes (sometimes called Futsal shoes) for indoor play.
Q: Should I buy cleats a size big so they last longer?
A: No. Cleats that are too big cause tripping, blisters, and poor ball control. Buy the size they need right now for the best performance and safety.
Q: How do I clean mud off soccer cleats?
A: Remove excess mud with a stiff brush while the cleats are dry. Then, wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always let them air dry away from direct heat.
Q: Are leather cleats better than synthetic cleats for kids?
A: Leather offers a better custom fit over time, but synthetic cleats are usually more durable, lighter, and easier to maintain, which many parents prefer for growing kids.
Q: What does “break-in period” mean for cleats?
A: The break-in period is the time needed for a new shoe to soften and stretch slightly to match the unique shape of your foot. Leather cleats usually need a longer break-in than synthetic ones.
Q: Are firm ground (FG) cleats safe for artificial turf?
A: FG cleats can be used on turf, but they can cause the foot to stick, increasing stress on the knees. If your child plays on turf often, turf shoes (TF) are much safer.
Q: What is the difference between a soccer shoe and a running shoe?
A: Soccer shoes have studs on the bottom for traction on grass or turf. Running shoes have flat, cushioned rubber soles designed for forward motion on pavement or treadmills.
Q: My child complains about heel pain after practice. What should I check?
A: Check the heel counter inside the cleat to ensure it is firm and holding the heel securely. Also, check the sizing; a heel that slips is a common cause of irritation.
Q: What is the best way to store my child’s cleats?
A: Store them in a cool, dry place, preferably in a mesh bag or an open area. Avoid storing them sealed in a dark gym bag, as trapped moisture encourages mold and breaks down the materials faster.