Finding the right soccer cleats can be a challenge, especially with so many options on the market.
But not to worry! Whether you’re looking for something durable for intense matches or budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top soccer cleats for 2024. No matter your preference, we’ve covered the best picks to suit your needs.
DISCLAIMER: This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Overall
Best Premium
Best Budget
Best for Speed
Best for Wide Feet
Best for Turf
Best for Indoor
Best for Midfielders
Best for Defenders
Best Soccer Cleats Overall
Nike Phantom GX II Elite
Our Score:
PROS
- Premium materials and feel
- GripKnit provides excellent ball control
- Comfortable and easy to break in
- The thin upper gives amazing sensation when shooting and passing
- Also suitable for players with wide feet
CONS
- Outsole not ideal for artificial ground
- Some durability issues with toe separation
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | Gripknit yarns, Flyknit collar |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 3 – 13 / W 4.5 – 14.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Snug fit |
| Weight | 6.53 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground (FG) |
| Comfort | Flyknit collar, stabilizing heel counter, Achilles support |
| Performance | Gripknit for ball control, Cyclone 360 soleplate for rotational movement |
Why we recommend it
After the success of Phantom GX Elite, everyone had great expectations from its second version. And safe to say, Nike delivered.
The Nike Phantom GX II Elite FG excels in combining precision, power, and control, making it perfect for versatile players. The Gripknit technology provides a close touch and responsiveness with the ball. This will make you feel like you’re playing wearing socks.
On the other hand, the snug fit and stabilizing features make these cleats comfortable for longer sessions on the pitch.
But it isn’t quite the perfect product either. The durability of these cleats have come in question a few times.
But despite a few durability concerns, the cleats deliver a premium feel and excellent performance.
It’s a top choice for players seeking a balance between touch, control, and comfort with a sleek, high-performance design.
NOTE: Go half a size up to get the best fit.
Best Premium Soccer Cleats
Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta Made in Japan
Our Score:
PROS
- Premium K-leather for superb touch
- Comfortable, lightweight design
- Excellent ball control and responsiveness
- Great support and stability
CONS
- Slightly narrow fit in the midfoot for wide feet
- A really expensive option
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | K-leather forefoot, softer midfoot mesh, ultra-light external counter outsole (nylon x TPU resin) |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 13 / W 5.5 – 14.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | 5mm higher collar for a more secure fit |
| Weight | 6.8 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground (FG) |
| Comfort | Soft midfoot mesh, redesigned eyelet arrangement to minimize irritation, new sockliner for grip |
| Performance | 3D-stretch knit pattern for lighter feel, stiffer shank for stability, ultra-light outsole |
Why we recommend it
Mizuno has been making waves in the international soccer cleats market since it introduced its Neo series of cleats.
It has now become the go-to cleats if you’re looking for a “Rolls Royce” pair of soccer shoes.
The Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta Made in Japan FG is no different and offers a premium playing experience. It combines the classic feel of kangaroo leather with modern technology to deliver a pair of cleats like no other.
The cleats excel in providing superior comfort, touch, and control on firm ground, making it perfect for players who demand high-quality materials and excellent performance.
Additionally, the lightweight design enhances speed while still offering enough support to keep you locked in for the game.
Despite being on the higher end of the price spectrum, the long-lasting durability, refined fit, and incredible ball feel make these cleats worth the investment for serious players.
So, if you’re looking to shell out some extra bucks to get the most premium feel, the Mizuno Morelia Neo IV Beta cleats are highly recommended.
Best Budget Soccer Cleats
adidas Copa Gloro II
Our Score:
PROS
- Premium leather for excellent touch
- Comfortable with secure lockdown fit
- Great value for the price
- Retro design with modern elements
CONS
- Might not suit players used to lighter, modern cleats
- Leather may stretch over time
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | Cow leather upper with quilted forefoot, perforations at midfoot and heel |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 13.5 / W 5 – 14.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Regular fit, lace closure, padded foldover tongue (removable) |
| Weight | 9.8 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground (FG) |
| Comfort | Quilted forefoot for cushioned touch, padded foldover tongue, perforations for breathability |
| Performance | Moulded ergonomic soleplate with conical studs for traction and comfort |
Why we recommend it
What if you don’t want to spend a crazy amount of money to get one of the top cleats available in the market?
You can go for the “Club” or “Academy” versions instead of the “Elite” version of the top models. Or, you can go for a budget option like adidas Copa Gloro II.
adidas Copa Gloro II is surprisingly good for its price range. It blends old-school elegance with modern performance, making it a fantastic option for all-action players.
The soft cow leather upper provides a cushioned touch, while the foldover tongue adds a retro flair that’s as functional as it is stylish.
We love how these cleats give you a premium feel without the hefty price tag.
If you’re someone who appreciates heritage-inspired designs with modern performance enhancements, these cleats will feel like a dream on your feet.
Sure, you won’t get the same feel as playing in a $320 Mizuno Morelia cleat, but this is as good as it gets in the $100 or under budget.
Best Soccer Cleats for Speed
Nike Zoom Mercurial Vapor 16 Elite
Our Score:
PROS
- Exceptional ball control with Gripknit
- Ultra-lightweight for speed
- Strong traction and support for cuts
- Air Zoom unit boosts propulsion
CONS
- Stud pressure noticeable on hard cuts
- Heel lockdown can feel loose for some players
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | Flyknit upper, Atomknit for support |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 13 / W 5.5 – 14.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Snug fit, molds to foot |
| Weight | 6.6 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground (FG) |
| Comfort | Molds to foot, lightweight, breathable Flyknit, supported by Atomknit |
| Performance | Air Zoom unit for propulsion, Gripknit for ball control |
Why we recommend it
If speed is your game, the Nike Zoom Mercurial Vapor 16 Elite FG is designed with you in mind.
These cleats are incredibly lightweight and built to give you that extra propulsion with every stride thanks to the Air Zoom unit. You’ll feel faster and more in control, whether you’re dribbling past defenders or making quick cuts.
It’s no surprise, therefore, that Kylian Mbappe is the main face of these cleats.
We particularly love how the Flyknit and Atomknit materials wrap snugly around your foot, giving you a sock-like fit that feels as comfortable as it is supportive.
For players with narrow feet, these cleats offer a perfect balance of fit and flexibility, but if you have wider feet, you may want to size up.
The Gripknit technology makes ball control feel effortless, even in wet conditions, so you can always play your best no matter the weather.
There are some shortcomings though. The heel might feel a bit loose and the stud pressure uncomfortable on harder cuts for some.
But despite these drawbacks, we think the overall performance more than makes up for it.
Best Soccer Cleats for Wide Feet
New Balance Tekela v4+ Low Pro Wide
Our Score:
PROS
- Wide-foot friendly with ample space
- Zero break-in time
- Great ball control with one-to-one feel
- Sleek design that looks great on the field
- Excellent for quick turns and cutting
CONS
- Heel may cause discomfort for extended wear
- Heel area lacks support during quick direction changes
- Separation from sole plate reported after limited use
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | Full-foot stretch-knit upper, lightweight nylon outsole, TPU angled rim cleats |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 13 / W 5.5 – 14.5, US, Wide |
| Fit | Snug fit with low-cut 3D knit collar |
| Weight | 7.2 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground (FG) |
| Comfort | Cushioning pads on the sides, ribbed collar for easy on and off |
| Performance | Multi-directional cleat configuration, TPU angled rim cleats for fast turns, grip-enhancing forefoot texture |
Why we recommend it
A complaint as old as soccer cleats is the uncomfortable fit for players with wide feet. The New Balance team has come up with an answer.
We absolutely recommend the New Balance Tekela v4+ Low Pro Wide for anyone who’s struggled with narrow-fitting cleats. If you’ve got wider feet, this pair is designed with you in mind.
The snug, low-cut collar and stretch-knit upper offer a secure fit without causing discomfort, allowing you to focus on your game rather than your feet.
What stood out to us while testing was how quickly these cleats break in – basically no break-in time at all – which is a huge win for comfort.
The TPU angled cleats are also great for making fast, sharp turns. Plus, the textured forefoot gives you better control when dribbling and passing.
However, we did notice the heel causing discomfort after prolonged use. So if you often play long games, it’s something to keep in mind.
But if you need cleats that won’t cramp your style – or your toes – these are a great option!
Best Soccer Cleats for Artificial Turf
adidas Mundial Team TF
Our Score:
PROS
- Incredible comfort, especially for wide feet
- Leather upper provides great ball control
- Excellent traction on turf and hard ground
- Durable with suede reinforcement
- Multi-purpose: works well on grass too
CONS
- Slightly heavier compared to modern cleats
- Can feel a little snug out of the box
- Insoles may wear out quickly
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | Soft, premium leather upper with suede-reinforced toe, stitched for extra durability |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 13.5 / W 5 – 14.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Central lacing for adjustable fit |
| Weight | 12.7 oz |
| Surface | Turf and hard ground |
| Comfort | Foam midsole for cushioning, soft synthetic lining, die-cut EVA insole for comfort |
| Performance | Traxion outsole for improved stability, die-cut EVA insole, molded EVA midsole for cushioning |
Why we recommend it
If you’re playing on artificial turf, the adidas Mundial Team TF is hands down one of the best options out there.
It’s a classic pair of cleats, and for good reason. During our testing, we loved how the premium leather and suede upper feel soft yet sturdy. It gives you the perfect mix of comfort and control.
Plus, the adjustable central lacing means you can really customize the fit to your liking. So, the Mundial Team TF is suitable for players with both narrow and wide feet.
And who doesn’t appreciate a cleat that’s basically game-ready right out of the box? No break-in time required here!
The Traxion outsole offers fantastic grip, so whether you’re twisting, turning, or sprinting on turf or hard ground, these cleats have got you covered.
We were especially impressed with how well they perform in both dry and wet conditions.
Plus, their durability is a big selling point – players have worn them for years, and they still hold up!
However, the tongue can be a bit annoying as it doesn’t always stay down, but that’s a small trade-off for everything else this boot offers.
In an era where cleats are getting lighter and lighter, the adidas Mundial Team stands out as a pair of tanks.
Best Soccer Cleats for Indoor/Futsal
Nike React Gato
Our Score:
PROS
- Comfortable with great ball control
- Flyknit upper adapts to the foot for a sock-like feel
- Excellent traction on indoor surfaces
- Lightweight and flexible
- Stylish design with vibrant color options
CONS
- Takes a few games to break in
- Durability concerns with Flyknit material
- Bright and vibrant color options not for everyone
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | Flyknit upper with Kevlar yarns; React foam cushioning in the midsole |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 6 – 12 / W 7.5 – 13.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Snug fit |
| Weight | 8.6 oz |
| Surface | Indoor and court surfaces |
| Comfort | React foam cushioning in the midsole |
| Performance | React foam for superior cushioning, rubber outsole for improved traction on court surfaces |
Why we recommend it
For indoor or futsal enthusiasts, the Nike React Gato is an excellent choice if you value agility and ball control.
One thing that stands out (much like other modern Nike cleats) is how the Flyknit upper provides a sock-like fit. It molds perfectly to your foot for that “second skin” feeling.
If you’re someone who likes feeling 1-to-1 with the ball, the touch these boots offer is unbeatable.
Then talking about comfort, the React foam in the midsole offers next-level cushioning. Your feet will feel comfortable even during fast-paced, intense futsal matches.
We also liked how the outsole gives you that much-needed stability and grip on indoor courts. So you’ll never feel off-balance while making quick cuts or sharp turns.
Plus, they look stunning on the court with their sleek design and vibrant colors – though I get that not everyone loves bold shades.
A minor gripe could be the durability of the Flyknit material; it might not hold up as well as leather over time. Though after 4 months of regular play, my pair is still holding up well.
So, if you’re looking for the ultimate indoor cleat for control, comfort, and a modern design, the Nike React Gato is a top contender!
Best Soccer Cleats for Midfielders
adidas Predator Elite
Our Score:
Colorways
PROS
- Superb ball control and power
- Lightweight, yet feels powerful
- Excellent swerve and curl thanks to Strikeskin
- Aesthetically stunning with multiple colorways
- Durable and easy to clean
CONS
- Narrow fit might not suit wider feet
- Break-in period needed for optimal comfort
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | HybridTouch 2.0 upper (synthetic suede and foil), Strikeskin rubber fins, Primeknit collar |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 13.5 / W 5 – 14.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Snug fit |
| Weight | 7.4 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground |
| Comfort | Cushioned touch from HybridTouch 2.0 upper, structured fit for support |
| Performance | Strikeskin rubber fins for ball grip and swerve, ControlFrame 2.0 soleplate for traction |
Why we recommend it
There have seldom been more iconic partnerships in soccer than adidas Predator and legendary midfielders.
With the revamped edition of Predators launched in 2024, adidas continues the cleats’ legacy of being a midfielder’s best friend. Safe to say, if you’re a midfielder looking to dominate the field, the Adidas Predator Elite FG will help you bring out your best game.
As a midfielder myself, I loved how these cleats are designed for total control. the Strikeskin rubber fins gives you that extra grip to swerve the ball just the way you want.
It’s not just about performance, though—the sleek design and multiple vibrant colorways make sure you look as good as you play.
Comfort-wise, you’ll feel supported with the HybridTouch 2.0 upper. But keep in mind there’s a slight break-in period. Once you’ve broken them in, the structured fit feels snug and responsive, almost like the cleats become part of your feet.
You’ll also appreciate how lightweight they are – these are the lightest Predators to date – giving you agility without sacrificing power.
There are some durability concerns as the lacquer finish can wear off from the cleats. But that doesn’t affect the performance of the cleats. The Kevlar yarns woven into the Flyknit provide a surprising level of strength.
As long as you’re not expecting a super-wide fit, these will suit most midfielders. Especially, if you like pinging long balls to find your teammates.
In short, if you’re a control-driven midfielder who loves to dictate the game, you can’t go wrong with the Adidas Predator Elite FG!
Best Soccer Cleats for Defenders
Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Elite
Our Score:
PROS
- Zero break-in time, snug and comfortable fit
- Enhanced ball control with ACC and foam pods
- Lightweight for a defender’s cleat
- Great all-weather performance
- Sleek, modern design with great grip
CONS
- Not ideal for wide feet
- The upper feels cheap at this price point
- Heel durability issues reported by some users
Key Specs
| Material/Build Quality | FlyTouch+ engineered upper, molded foam pods, Flyknit collar |
|---|---|
| Sizes | M 4 – 15 / W 5.5 – 16.5, US, Regular |
| Fit | Snug fit |
| Weight | 6.9 oz |
| Surface | Firm ground |
| Comfort | Padded heel, FlyTouch+ upper for soft, close feel, zero break-in time |
| Performance | 3D microdot touch zones, molded foam pods for improved control, All Conditions Control (ACC) for better ball grip |
Why we recommend it
The Nike Tiempo Legend series has made a name for itself as the go-to choice of soccer cleats for defenders. But you might be surprised by the difference between the Tiempo Legend 9’s and Tiempo Legend 10’s.
Are the changes for the better? Well, all I can say is that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.
We love how Nike’s FlyTouch+ upper feels right out of the box. It offers a snug, glove-like fit with zero break-in time. Whether you’re tackling, passing, or clearing the ball, these cleats deliver excellent touch and control.
What really makes these cleats stand out for defenders is the combination of All Conditions Control (ACC) and the 3D microdot zones. It gives you the grip and accuracy needed to keep control even in wet conditions.
The added molded foam pods ensure that every touch is cushioned.
Plus, with the padded heel and Flyknit collar, your feet stay comfortable.
Although we did notice that some users found the durability of the heel lining lacking over time (the pair we got still works fine).
We also weren’t a fan of the upper, especially for a defender. As a defender, I’d want my upper to feel more secure against the studs of the opponent player.
But that’s where Nike seems to have made the trade-off in the Tiempo Legend 10. It’s made more with the modern “ball-playing” defenders in mind rather than the old-school no-nonsense tacklers.
Regardless, I still think that Nike Tiempo Legend 10 is the best cleat available in the market for defenders. And if you’re not a fan of the lightweight upper, the Tiempo Legend 9 cleats won’t disappoint you.
How to choose the perfect soccer cleats
But the question remains. How do you select which soccer cleats are right for you?
Here’s a breakdown of the key factors you should consider before making a purchase:
Material
Leather Cleats
- Leather cleats are the traditional choice of soccer cleats.
- They offer excellent comfort and a reliable feel.
- Leather cleats are perfect for player value precision when striking the ball.
- They tend to be heavier than other modern material. This can slow you down, especially in wet conditions.
Synthetic
- Synthetic cleats are lightweight and are a great option if you prefer speed over power.
- They don’t absorb water, meaning they stay light even in wet conditions.
- These cleats won’t overstretch either.
- Synthetic cleats are the most popular cleat material on the market today.
Knitted
- If you want a more premium feel but don’t want to be bogged down by the weight of leather, then knitted cleats are for you.
- They are the lightest option available in the market.
- Knitted cleats are perfect for speedsters.
- Naturally, they’re more expensive than the synthetic counterparts.
Fit
Proper fit is the most essential part of a good soccer cleat. If your cleats don’t fit well, you’ll likely face issues on the pitch, from discomfort to poor control.
One thing you should always do is check the reviews on the multiple websites and check how the cleats fit before buying. The reviews will give you a good idea whether you should size up or down.
Also, a snug fit is ideal. But you should leave a small space at the toe. That is to say, your toes shouldn’t press against the end of the cleat.
Surface of Play
The type of surface you play on will dictate the type of cleats you should choose:
Soft Ground (SG)
- Best for soft or muddy pitches, especially in the fall and winter.
- Longer studs provide stability on boggy surfaces.
Firm Ground (FG)
- Designed for harder pitches.
- FG cleats have molded studs that offer better traction without digging too deep into the ground.
Artificial Ground (AG)
- AG cleats are built for 3G and 4G artificial surfaces.
- These cleats release easily from the ground while maintaining traction.
Turf (TF)
- For turf pitches, these cleats have smaller studs.
- They give you grip without excessive digging in.
Indoor (IN)
- As the name suggests, indoor cleats are built for indoor courts and futsal.
- They have flat soles that offer grip without studs.
Price Range
Does a higher price always mean a better product? That’s not necessarily the case with soccer cleats. Especially, keeping in mind the level of soccer you play.
You don’t need the exact same cleats that Lionel Messi wears if you’re playing for your high school team.
Here are the different price ranges of cleats you can look at:
Premium ($200+)
- Ideal for highly competitive play.
- These cleats feature cutting-edge technology and are worn by professional soccer players.
- The premium cleats will mostly have “Elite” tier written on it. e.g., Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 Elite.
Mid-range ($100 – $200)
- Great for semi-competitive play like Sunday leagues or high school teams.
- They’re mostly sold as “Pro” tier of the series. e.g., Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 Pro.
Budget (Under $100)
- The budget cleats are best suited for recreational players and school kids.
- These cleats are sold as the “Academy” tier in Nike, and “League” and “Club” tier in adidas. e.g., Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 Academy.
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