Ever watch a game and notice how some players seem to glide across the field, their ankles looking extra supported? That’s often the magic of high top football cleats at work! But when you step into a sporting goods store or browse online, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. Do you really need that extra ankle support, or is it just extra bulk slowing you down?
Choosing the right cleat is crucial. The wrong pair can lead to discomfort, poor traction, or even increase your risk of injury when making those sharp cuts. Many players worry about sacrificing speed for stability, or vice versa. It’s a tough balancing act to find that perfect fit that gives you confidence on every snap.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore exactly what makes high tops special, who benefits most from wearing them, and how to choose a pair that boosts your performance without weighing you down. Get ready to learn the inside secrets to selecting the best high tops for your game.
Top High Top Football Cleats Recommendations
- Performance synthetic upper & textile collar provide a lightweight fit, mobility & durable support
- Open-holed mesh tongue for enhanced ventilation
- Die-cut EVA sockliner for excellent comfort & durability under the foot
- Rubber molded cleats provide aggressive traction on all surfaces with a lightweight, comfortable feel
- Weight:
- Lightweight, durable upper with raised 3D print for added toe protection when battling in the trenches
- Textile collar for added comfort & breathability with a durable suede heel
- Full length Charged Cushioning midsole for superior underfoot comfort
- High-rebound SuperFoam insole provides optimal shock absorption & comfort
- Molded TPU plate features a wider foundation & diamond shaped studs for powerful, supportive traction
- Football cleats designed for lightweight durability on the field
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- CLEATED OUTSOLE: Cleats provide traction for speed, stopping and quick changes of direction to play at your best
- 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
- Football cleats with support and traction for top performance play
- LIGHT AND DURABLE: A synthetic and textile upper offers the right combination of breathability, durability and light weight
- REPETITOR MIDSOLE: REPETITOR lightweight foam cushioning for an energetic feel
- CLEATED OUTSOLE: Cleated synthetic outsole provides traction for speed, stopping and quick changes of direction to play at your best
- 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
- An all-new molded plastic quarter cage in the upper offers great stability. Supportive synthetic leather helps keep your feet comfortable. Molding over the front makes it tough and durable on the field.
- A molded heel gives you a cool on-field look with a little extra support when you’re getting off the snap.
- A mesh collar in the heel and mesh tongue offer better comfort and breathability compared to the Alpha Menace 3 Pro. Synthetic leather adds durability.
- We updated the carbon fiber plate from the Alpha Menace 3 Pro to make it stiffer in the heel and midfoot for stability, and more responsive in the forefoot for propulsion.
- Synthetic upper is light, breathable & super-durable
- Full-length EVA midsole for underfoot cushioning & comfort
- New rubber molded outsole is more comfortable & provides traction & durability on all field surfaces
- Lace type: Standard tie
- Nike Fastflex technology with rubber studs creates flexibility and traction for bursts of speed, quick cuts and sudden stops.
- The outsole has Nike Fastflex technology to help you move with ease while hitting the gas and changing direction on a dime for all those game-changing plays
- BenefitsNike Fastflex technology with rubber studs creates flexibility and traction for bursts of speed
- Synthetic leather on the upper is durable and easy to clean.
- Performance synthetic upper & textile collar provide a lightweight fit, mobility & durable support
- Open-holed mesh tongue for enhanced ventilation
- Die-cut EVA sockliner for excellent comfort & durability under the foot
- Rubber molded cleats provide aggressive traction on all surfaces with a lightweight, comfortable feel
The Ultimate Buying Guide for High Top Football Cleats
High top football cleats offer extra ankle support. They are popular among players who value stability. Choosing the right pair helps you play better and avoid injuries. This guide breaks down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Ankle Support and Collar Height
The main feature of high tops is the collar. This part wraps around your ankle. Look for a collar that feels snug but not too tight. Some modern cleats use knitted material for a sock-like fit. Others use padded synthetic material. Strong support helps prevent rolling your ankle during quick cuts.
Traction and Stud Pattern
Cleats need good grip on the field. The bottom of the shoe has studs or spikes. These dig into the grass or turf. Firm ground (FG) cleats work best on natural grass. Artificial grass (AG) cleats suit synthetic fields. Check the stud pattern; longer, bladed studs often help with straight-line speed. More rounded studs help with pivoting.
Lockdown and Fit
Your foot must stay secure inside the cleat. Look for a good lacing system. Some cleats use straps for extra lockdown over the ankle area. A proper lockdown prevents your foot from sliding inside the shoe when you accelerate or stop suddenly.
Important Materials
The materials used determine how the cleat feels and lasts.
- Upper Material: Most uppers are synthetic or leather. Synthetic materials are usually lighter and easier to clean. They break in quickly. Leather molds to your foot over time, offering a custom feel, but it absorbs more water.
- Outsole Plate: This is the hard plastic or composite material on the bottom. A responsive plate transfers energy well when you push off. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is common because it is durable and flexible.
- Cushioning: While not as cushioned as running shoes, some high tops have foam in the heel area. This padding absorbs some impact during hard landings.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters
Higher quality cleats often use seamless construction. This means fewer stitches where the upper meets the sole. Seamless designs resist water better and feel smoother against the foot. Lighter weight is another quality indicator. Manufacturers use advanced, strong materials to keep the weight down while maintaining durability.
Quality Reducers
Cheap plastic outsoles can crack easily, especially in cold weather. If the collar material is thin or flimsy, the ankle support will decrease quickly after a few uses. Poorly glued seams are a major quality issue; these areas often separate first.
User Experience and Use Cases
High tops are not for every player. They excel in certain situations.
Linebackers and Linemen
These positions require frequent, powerful lateral movements and blocking. The added ankle stability of high tops can reduce strain during these high-impact plays. Linemen often prefer a slightly heavier, more durable cleat.
Skill Positions (Running Backs, Receivers)
While some skill players prefer low-cut speed cleats, others like the security of a high top for hard cuts at full speed. The key here is finding a high top that doesn’t feel too bulky or restrict ankle flexion too much.
Remember: Always wear your chosen cleats for light drills before game day. New cleats need a short break-in period.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About High Top Football Cleats
Q: Are high top cleats better for all positions?
A: No, they are often preferred by players needing extra ankle support, like linemen or linebackers. Speed players sometimes find them too restrictive.
Q: Do high tops actually prevent ankle injuries?
A: They offer increased support, which many players feel helps prevent minor twists. However, no cleat guarantees injury prevention.
Q: How should a high top cleat fit around my ankle?
A: The collar should hug your ankle snugly without digging into your skin or cutting off circulation. You should feel secure.
Q: Are high tops heavier than low-cut cleats?
A: Generally, yes, because they use more material for the ankle collar. Modern designs are closing this weight gap, though.
Q: Can I wear high tops on artificial turf?
A: You can, but you must choose cleats specifically rated for AG (Artificial Grass) or sometimes multi-ground (MG) if you play primarily on turf.
Q: How long does it take to break in high top cleats?
A: Synthetic high tops break in fast, maybe one or two light practices. Leather versions might take longer, perhaps five or six sessions.
Q: What material is best for the upper part?
A: Synthetic is lighter and low-maintenance. Leather offers a custom, soft fit but requires more care.
Q: Should I size up because of the high top design?
A: Do not automatically size up. Focus on getting the correct length for your toes. The high top addresses ankle stability, not overall foot length.
Q: Do high tops restrict ankle movement too much?
A: Some older or very stiff models might. Look for cleats with flexible, knitted collars if maximum mobility is your priority.
Q: How do I clean high top football cleats?
A: Wipe off excess mud with a damp cloth immediately after use. Let them air dry. Avoid direct heat sources, as this can damage the synthetic collar material.