Soccer cleats are an essential piece of gear that every soccer player needs. Wearing the right pair of cleats won’t just keep you comfortable from the start of a game until its conclusion – it could actually make you a better player, too. Speed, stability, and ball control are all affected by what kind of cleats a player is wearing. Finding the correct gear for your game will also reduce your risk of being injured on the pitch. Check out our list of the best shin guards for more on-field protection.
We looked at dozens of soccer cleats to identify the best of the best. A few of the main features we focused on in our search include durability, fit, and texture, all of which play a role in how well a pair of cleats performs in the game.
While there are plenty of great cleats on the market today, one pair really stood head and shoulders above the rest in our research. The Adidas Men’s Performance Messi Soccer Cleats received glowing reviews on Amazon, and it’s easy to see why – these cleats are built for both performance and comfort. Their state-of-the-art HybridTouch uppers make these cleats soft yet durable. The thinness of the material improves ball handling, giving players the edge they need to take their game to the next level.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Soccer Cleats
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Adidas Men's Performance Messi Soccer Cleats | 4.0 |
| Runner Up | NIKE Men's Hypervenom Phade II Soccer Cleats | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Buy | DREAM PAIRS Men's 160471-M Soccer Shoes | 4.3 |
| Best Kids' Soccer Cleats | Vizari Striker Soccer Shoes | 4.5 |
| Best Indoor Soccer Cleats | Adidas Performance Men's Ace 16.2 Soccer Shoe | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Adidas Men’s Performance Messi Soccer Cleats
If you’re searching for an all-around great pair of soccer cleats, look no further – the Adidas Men’s F50 Adizero Soccer Cleats will help you live up to your potential on the pitch. Adidas is a tried-and-trusted brand when it comes to sports gear, and Amazon reviewers love these cleats in particular, saying that their lightweight design and comfortable fit make them well worth the price tag. And if that’s not enough to convince you, the F50 Adizero cleats are also a favorite of superstar Leo Messi – what more endorsement do you need?
One of the standout characteristics of these cleats is their thin, soft uppers. The shoes might feel fragile if you’re used to wearing thicker cleats, but don’t be fooled – the HybridTouch material combines the best characteristics of leather and synthetic materials, and it’s just as tough as either. It’s also ultra-light, and it helps players handle the ball with greater precision.
These cleats have a molded sockliner for all-game-long cushioning and comfort. They’ve been treated with anti-microbial technology to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing in the lining. Choose from two fun, colorful designs that will make you stand out on the field.
Adidas Men’s Performance Messi Soccer Cleats Key Features:
- Ultra-light uppers
- Soft, thin HybridTouch material
- Comfortable molded sockliner
- Antibacterial lining to prevent odors
- True to size
- Endorsed by Leo Messi
- Compatible with MiCoach technology
- Two colorful designs available
Our Runner Up Pick: NIKE Men’s Hypervenom Phade II Soccer Cleats
If you want a pair of soccer cleats that will stand up to all-weather outdoor play, the NIKE Men’s Hypervenom Phade II Soccer Cleats may be just what you’re looking for. These cleats are designed for use on firm ground, but Amazon reviewers have noted that they also work well on softer, muddy ground.
The soft synthetic uppers of these cleats come in a variety of bright colors, from electric purple to shocking orange. If you want to stand out on the field before the game even starts, these cleats are an eye-catching choice! And these cleats are just as functional as they are stylish – the TPU sole plate has molded conical studs in front and oblong studs on the heel, giving you better stability in all kinds of playing conditions.
Reviewers note that these soccer cleats are accommodating for wider feet, especially if you order half a size up from your regular shoe size. The laces are durable and won’t break, even if you pull them extra-tight for a close fit.
NIKE Men’s Hypervenom Phade II Soccer Cleats Key Features:
- Synthetic leather upper
- Lightweight
- Durable laces
- TPU sole plate
- Conical and oblong studs
- Mesh collar lining improves breathability
- Accommodating fit for wider feet
- Perform best on firm ground
- Several color options available
Best Budget Pick: DREAM PAIRS Men’s 160471-M Soccer Shoes
It’s no secret that soccer cleats, like other types of sports equipment, can get a little expensive. But if you just want to get out on the field without spending a lot of money on fancy gear, you can still find great cleats – like these DREAM PAIRS Men’s 160471-M Soccer Shoes – for a fraction of what you’d pay for big-name soccer shoes. These cleats hold up just as well as expensive ones, according to reviewers, and they’ll leave you with plenty in your wallet to pick up the other soccer gear you need.
Both the soles and the uppers of these cleats are synthetic and lightweight. The rubber molded studs on the soles are configured for optimal rotational traction during fast-paced moments. Between the softness of the man-made leather uppers and the built-in cushioned insoles, your feet will stay comfortable when you wear these cleats. Reviewers even noted that, unlike many of the soccer cleats on the market, these tend to run large and have a roomy toe box. Players with wide feet will appreciate the accommodating fit of these shoes, while players with narrow feet may want to order a size down.
You’ve got a number of color options with these shoes, from classic black to bright red. These cleats also come in a wide range of sizes, from a men’s 6.5 to a 12. While they’re labeled as men’s shoes, these cleats are a great option for women too.
DREAM PAIRS Men’s 160471-M Soccer Shoes Key Features:
- Synthetic uppers and soles
- Molded rubber studs
- Comfortable cushioned insole
- Lightweight design
- Available in men’s sizes 6.5 through 12
- Numerous color options available
Best Kids’ Soccer Cleats: Vizari Striker Soccer Shoes
Picking out cleats for a budding soccer superstar? The Vizari Striker Soccer Shoes are a great all-around choice for toddlers through preteens. Kids will love the fun colors and shiny look of these shoes, and you’ll love how durable they are – the outsole is riveted as well as stitched to the upper, so the cleats will hold up for dozens of practice sessions and games.
These shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and water-resistant. The laces adjust easily, and the tongue folds over the laces to help them stay tied securely all game. These cleats come in a wide range of sizes – kids as young as one and as old as 12 can wear these shoes. Best of all, you can expect to spend just $15 to $30 on these cleats, depending on size. When your soccer champ hits a growth spurt, replacing these cleats will be relatively painless for your wallet.
Vizari Striker Soccer Shoes Key Features:
- Shiny synthetic leather uppers
- Rubber soles with molded cleats
- Durable construction
- Fold-over tongue keeps laces tied
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Wide size range to fit toddlers through 12-year-olds
- Several color options available
Best Indoor Soccer Cleats: Adidas Performance Men’s Ace 16.2 Soccer Shoes
If you play indoor soccer, regular sneakers won’t cut it – you still need specialized shoes. These Adidas Performance Men’s Ace 16.2 Soccer Shoes are perfect for both futsal and more traditional forms of indoor soccer.
The flat gum rubber outsole of these shoes is designed for indoor court surfaces, giving you maximum traction without leaving any marks on the floors where you’re playing. The lightweight synthetic uppers are textured for ball control. Amazon reviewers say that these shoes are comfortable and hold up well, even after years of use. These shoes run small, so it might be a good idea to order a slightly larger size than you usually wear.
One great benefit of these shoes is that they’re multi-purpose – you can use them for other court sports, wear them to the gym, or even just use them as regular shoes. They come in blue and white color options, so while they look good, they’re not too flashy for everyday use.
Adidas Performance Men’s Ace 16.2 Soccer Shoes Key Features:
- Synthetic upper
- Court-specific, high-traction rubber sole
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Snug fit
- Can be worn for other court sports
- White and blue color options available
Who Should Buy Soccer Cleats
If you’re a soccer player (or you want to start playing soccer), you need a pair of soccer cleats. There are a couple of reasons why cleats are important. One is that wearing cleats simply makes it easier to play soccer, and the right pair can even improve your game. Outdoor cleats give you better traction on the ground, particularly in rainy or slippery conditions. They help you start running, stop running, and maneuver with the ball more easily than you’d be able to in regular street shoes. Many cleats also have textured uppers that help you dribble better and pass the ball with more precision.
Wearing a good pair of soccer cleats also reduces your risk of getting injured while you’re playing. Part of this is due to the increased control that cleats give you. For instance, if it sprinkles during your game, your cleats make you less likely to slip and fall on wet grass. A correctly-fitting pair of cleats also provides support for your feet and ankles. This doesn’t just make it more comfortable to stay on your feet for all 90 minutes of the game – it also protects your joints so you can keep playing soccer for years to come.
Important Features to Consider
Soccer cleats should have a number of key features. They should feel lightweight on your feet, provide proper support, and be suited for the type of ground you’re playing on. Here’s what to consider when selecting a pair of soccer cleats.
- Ground type. The majority of soccer cleats are made to be used on firm ground. If you’re playing outdoor soccer in an area where the ground is neither extremely hard nor extremely wet, firm ground cleats are probably your best option. The abbreviation FG means that a pair of cleats is made to be used on firm ground. Soft ground cleats are usually marked with the abbreviation SG, hard ground cleats are abbreviated HG, and artificial turf cleats are abbreviated AT.
- Material type. Synthetic, kangaroo leather, natural leather – manufacturers use a lot of different materials for the upper parts of soccer cleats. All of these materials can result in a durable and functional soccer shoe, so if you’re a casual player, you may not need to worry about your cleats’ materials much. A few things to know about cleat materials: kangaroo leather (or k-leather) is typically the softest choice, while synthetics tend to be the thinnest and provide the most waterproofing. If you want a super-light pair of cleats, mesh or knit uppers may be the way to go.
- Fit. Finding the right fit is crucial – it’s no fun to play in cleats that hurt your feet or slide around. Most soccer cleats, especially those from big brands like NIKE and Adidas, tend to run a little small and narrow. This can make it a challenge for players with wide feet to find comfortable cleats. If you have wide feet, try ordering a size up from what you think you need.
- Weight. If speed is of the essence for you on the field, a lightweight pair of cleats is a must. Look for cleats with thin uppers made of mesh, kangaroo leather, or synthetic leather. Cleats made with natural leather or lots of padding tend to be a bit heavier.
- Durability. How long do you want your cleats to last? Bulkier cleats tend to last longer than thinner, lighter ones. If you’re okay with replacing your cleats more frequently, or if you’re buying cleats for a child who will outgrow them quickly, it’s fine to go for a light pair. Otherwise, seek out a pair made of weightier materials with heavy-duty stitching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are soccer cleats?
Soccer cleats are special shoes designed for soccer players. Unlike regular shoes, the outsoles of soccer cleats have studs on them. These studs improve a player’s traction on the ground and reduce their risk of injury during games and practices.
Is there a difference between baseball and soccer cleats?
Yes, the two are different and not interchangeable. Baseball cleats have a special front stud called a toe cleat. This toe cleat helps baseball players maintain stability. Soccer is a more contact-heavy sport than baseball is, and soccer cleats do not have a toe cleat because it increases the risk of injuring another player. Baseball cleats are also usually made for hard-packed ground and may have metal studs, while soccer cleats are usually made for grass and have softer rubber studs.
Can you wear soccer cleats to play football?
Yes, you can wear soccer cleats to play football. However, the reverse isn’t true. Like baseball cleats, football cleats have a toe cleat, and they aren’t allowed on the soccer pitch.
Can you wear running shoes for indoor soccer?
You can wear running shoes for indoor soccer, although it’s not recommended. For a single game of indoor soccer or futsal, you can probably get away with just wearing your running shoes. But if you’re going to be playing these sports regularly, it’s a much better idea to invest in a pair of indoor soccer shoes. Indoor soccer shoes are designed to give you good traction on the court, which helps you maneuver quickly. They’re made to withstand lateral motion, unlike most regular running shoes. You’re also less likely to turn your ankle when you’re wearing the correct footgear for indoor soccer.
Other Soccer Cleats We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other pairs of soccer cleats. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best soccer cleats list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for you or your child. The information you’ll need to compare each pair is included with the listing.
Outdoor Soccer Cleats
Adidas Men’s ACE 17.1 PRIMEKNIT Soccer Cleats
These high-tech soccer cleats are built to improve your game by improving your stability and touch sensitivity. Both the soles and the uppers are made from synthetic materials.
Key Features:
- Synthetic
- Made for firm ground and artificial turf
- Knit ankle collar
- Textured uppers for ball control
Cost: $140 to $180
Adidas Men’s X 15.1 Soccer Cleats
If you’re looking for a light, thin soccer shoe, the Adidas X 15.1 cleats are a great pick. The synthetic-and-leather uppers are soft and responsive, and the shoes are designed without a tongue so they’ll mold to your feet better.
Key features:
- Synthetic and leather
- Made for firm ground and artificial turf
- High collared ankle
- Lightweight
- Responsive fit
Cost: $58 to $111
Adidas Men’s X 16.1 Soccer Cleats
These sleeve-style soccer cleats have compression uppers that conform to the shape of your feet. Reviewers note that they have great ankle support, but may not be the best choice for players with wide feet.
Key Features:
- Synthetic compression uppers
- Rubber soles
- Snug fit
- Foam insole
- Lightweight
- Made for use on firm ground
Cost: $80 to $162
Adidas Performance Men’s Gloro 16.1 Soccer Shoe
With uppers made from a combination of synthetic leather and kangaroo leather, these cleats are both soft and durable. They’re padded for shock absorption. These cleats come in basic black and white, as well as several other color options.
Key Features:
- Kangaroo leather and synthetic uppers
- Rubber soles
- Synthetic lining
- Die-cut insole
- Made for use on firm ground
Cost: $50 to $110
Adidas Performance Men’s Kaiser 5 Liga Soccer Cleat
Made with full-grain leather uppers, Adidas’ Kaiser 5 cleats are inspired by their famous Copa Mundial cleats, but are considerably less expensive. If you’re looking for a traditional pair of soccer cleats with a bit more heft to them, these may be just what you need.
Key Features:
- Full-grain leather uppers
- Rubber soles
- Die-cut sockliner
- Traditional fit
- Made for firm ground
- Less expensive alternative to Copa Mundial cleats
Cost: $85 to $172
Adidas Performance Men’s X 16.3 Soccer Shoe
If your least favorite part of getting new soccer cleats is breaking them in, then this might be the perfect pair for you. Thanks to their techfit compression uppers, these cleats conform to the shape of your feet the very first time you put them on.
Key Features:
- Synthetic uppers and soles
- Made for use on firm ground
- Compression upper reduces break-in time
- Three color options available
- Best for players with narrow feet
Cost: $70
NIKE Men’s Hypervenom Phelon II Soccer Cleat
The asymmetrical lacing on these cleats increases your striking area, making it easier to shoot and pass accurately over long distances. If you play forward, you might find this feature particularly helpful.
Key Features:
- Synthetic materials
- Snug fit for better agility
- Molded sockliner for comfort
- Asymmetrical lacing area
- TPU sole plate
Cost: $59
NIKE Mercurial Victory VI Soccer Shoes
These soccer cleats have chevron-shaped studs — perfect for players who need to start and stop moving quickly. The compression uppers are designed for a snug fit. Choose from a whole rainbow of bright or subdued colors for these cleats.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather uppers
- Synthetic soles
- Compression fit
- Chevron studs
- Contoured sockliner
- For use on firm ground
- Plenty of colors available
Cost: $55 to $210
NIKE Superfly VI Academy Men’s Soccer Cleats
These cleats provide great ankle support with their soft knit Dynamic Fit collar. With their textured uppers, they also help with accurate ball handling and passing. The high outsole wrap on the toe means that these cleats will hold up for many seasons of play.
Key Features:
- Synthetic materials
- Micro-textured uppers
- Dynamic Fit ankle collar
- 2-part podular plate system
- Combination of round and chevron studs
- Made for use on firm ground
Cost: $74 to $175
PUMA Men’s Evopower 3.3 Tricks Soccer Shoe
Players of all skill levels, from beginners to experts, will appreciate these soccer cleats. With their synthetic GripTex uppers, they’re made for accurate ball handling even in rainy conditions. These cleats also have both bladed and round studs, making it easier to change directions quickly.
Key Features:
- Polyurethane uppers
- GripTex material for accurate ball handling
- Synthetic sole
- Lightweight
- Round and bladed studs
- Made for firm ground
Indoor Soccer Shoes
Adidas Performance Men’s Mundial Goal Shoes
These indoor soccer shoes are a good pick for anyone who wants an all-around good shoe with a classic look. Made of split-suede leather uppers and gum rubber soles, these shoes will work for indoor soccer, futsal, and any other indoor sports you play.
Key Features:
- Leather uppers
- Gum rubber soles
- Simple black-and-white design
- Won’t mark floors
- Synthetic lining
- Die-cut insole
- Extended tongue
- No-chafe heel
Cost: $61 to $95
Kelme Star 360 Men’s Michelin Leather Soccer Shoes
Sports brand Kelme partnered with the famous tire manufacturer Michelin to create these innovative shoes. Thanks to their high-tech rubber soles, the traction and control these indoor soccer shoes give you is second to none. They’re flexible and long-lasting, too.
Key Features:
- Leather uppers
- Michelin rubber soles
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- Run half a size large
Cost: $33 to $250
PUMA Men’s Invicto Sala Soccer Shoes
These shoes have reinforced rubber toes, so you’ll get years of play out of them. The uppers are made from leather and natural suede. These shoes are made for futsal, but you can also use them for other indoor sports.
Key Features:
- Leather and suede uppers
- Rubber soles
- High-traction
- Flexible
- Reinforced toes
- Removable sockliner
Kids’ Soccer Cleats
NIKE Jr. Bravata II Soccer Cleats
With their finely textured uppers and asymmetrical lacing area, these cleats have many of the same great features you’d expect to find in a pair of adult soccer shoes. These cleats are made to fit toddlers and kids under age 10.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather uppers
- Textured uppers for ball control
- Comfort sole
- Multidirectional studs
- Several color options
Cost: $38
NIKE Jr. Hypervenom Phelon II Indoor Competition Soccer Shoe
Young indoor soccer players will love these comfortable, high-traction shoes. The synthetic leather uppers conform to the shape of players’ feet, guaranteeing a snug and secure fit.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather uppers
- Non-marking rubber soles
- Textured for improved ball control
- Padded for comfort
- Sizing ranges from 10c to 6y
Cost: $45
NIKE Jr. Magista Onda Soccer Shoes
These cleats have a four-stud heel design that helps prevent dirt and grass from caking on the soles (and getting tracked into the car and house later). Choose from turquoise or gray-and-turquoise color options.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather uppers
- Textured uppers for better ball control
- Rubber sole
- Conical cleats
- Stud arrangement prevents grass build-up
- Die-cut foam sockliner for comfort
- Made for use on firm ground
Cost: $164 to $177
NIKE Jr. MercurialX Vapor XI Soccer Cleat
These indoor soccer shoes have a low toe box that makes it easy for players to get their foot under the ball. Reviewers on Amazon note that their kids find these shoes particularly comfortable.
Key Features:
- Synthetic uppers
- High-traction rubber soles
- Embossed horizontal ridges on uppers
- Available in purple and bright green
Cost: $40 to $65
NIKE Youth Mercurial Victory VI Cleat
A solid choice for kids of all ages, these synthetic leather soccer cleats are both lightweight and comfortable. They have an anti-skid cloth built into the top of the shoe’s interior, giving players great traction both inside and outside the cleats.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather uppers
- Rubber soles
- Chevron studs
- Low-profile toe box
- Embossed ridges for ball control
- High-traction lining
- Sizes range from 10c to 6y
Cost: $43 to $65
These durable cleats are made to resist stretching and tearing. They come in a wide range of color options, so you’ll be able to find a pair in your child’s favorite color.
Key Features:
- Synthetic uppers are dimpled for texture
- Rubber soles
- Round studs
- Two-tone uppers
- Stretch-resistant lining
- Many colors available
- Made for use on firm ground
- For kids aged 1 through 12
Cost: $13 to $35
Help your child star on the soccer pitch by choosing these super-comfortable shoes. The low-cut heel and ankle area is padded to prevent blisters. Choose from half a dozen vibrant color options.
Key Features:
- Synthetic uppers with embossed pattern
- Rubber sole
- Round studs
- Padded heel and collar lining
- Sole stitched to upper rather than glued
- Stretch resistant
- Six colors available
- For kids aged 1 through 12
Cost: $15 to $40
