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If you're the parent of a budding soccer player, you'll know how tough it can be to find the right pair of soccer cleats for your child. This is especially true when you don't know where their next match will take place or what kind of ground they'll be playing on.
So, what soccer cleats are best for children? What do all the technical-sounding terms like FG, AG, GT or DF mean to you? We've rounded up the best soccer cleats and decoded those acronyms, so the mystery is finally solved. Here are the best kids' soccer cleats for most playing surfaces - and a few extras.
Click here to skip ahead to our round-up of the best kid's soccer cleats.
FAQs:
How should kids' soccer cleats fit?
Kids' soccer cleats should give a snug, sock-like fit, but still with enough room, so their toes aren't pinching at the forefoot. It's always better to opt for a size or half bigger if you're stuck deciding between two sizes. This is so that the cleats aren't uncomfortable for kids. Although, cleats for kids are crafted with a little more bulk to add extra protection and their stud configurations may well be lesser to reduce the need for consistent maintenance.
What kind of cleats are best for soccer?
The best soccer cleats for kids will depend on what surface they will be playing on primarily. Six kinds of soccer cleats are available, and each one is custom-built to tackle a particular surface. For safety reasons, anyone, whether children or adults, must have the proper cleats. There are Firm Ground (FG), Soft Ground (SG), Multi-Ground (MG), Artificial grass (AG), Astroturf (TF), and Indoor Court (IC) shoes, we've outlined options for all of these surfaces in this guide.
How do I take care of soccer cleats?
Soccer cleats are straightforward to clean, and you don't need any fancy equipment to do so. A soft brush and warm soapy water will do the trick to clean the upper and studs. But, products like the Boot Buddy can make life so much easier, as it comes with multiple brush heads attached to a water bottle that you simply squeeze to clean your cleats. Leather soccer cleats need a lot more care, and GOAL has an in-depth cleaning guide to keep them in top condition.
Shop: The best soccer cleats for kids
adidas Predator Edge+ FG
adidasBest overall cleats for kids
The Predator range is one of the most reliable from adidas. They're laceless, so there's no messing around with laces, perfect for young kids. The PRIMEKNIT collar is breathable for superior comfort and makes slipping the cleats on and off a breeze. Finally, the control zones on the upper give you great control of the ball to wrap up a pair of cleats which are the ultimate package.
Reasons to buy:
- Rubberized ribs on the upper to optimize ball manipulation
- A weighted forefoot redistributes weight towards the front of the foot
- It has an all-new soleplate construction
Get them from Soccer.com for $149.99
Puma Ultra Play FG/AG
PUMABest budget-friendly cleats for kids
The Puma Ultra Play cleats are specifically designed for power and performance, giving you an edge ahead of the competition. The lightweight design boosts your speed and power, while the vibrant pastel lime colour is right on trend with the hottest soccer cleats colourways available right now.
Reasons to buy:
- A lightweight upper that won't hold you back on speed
- Regular tongue construction fits various foot shapes
- It has striking print and embossed details
Get them from Soccer.com for $24.99
Nike x Kylian Mbappe Jr. Mercurial Zoom Superfly 9 MG
NikeBest stylish cleats for kids
You can't get more stylish than the latest special edition Nike cleats in collaboration with PSG striker Kylian Mbpape. The cleats come in a bold Dark Beetroot, University Blue and Metallic Gold colourway, making your child stand out from the crowd. The inspiration behind the design comes from Parisian Afropop and the iconic Jordan 7 trainers.
Reasons to buy:
- The design is one of a kind and a Nike special edition
- The Air Zoom unit provides responsive cushioning
- Internal speed cage makes you faster
Nike Jr. Zoom Mercurial Superfly 9 Academy
NikeBest firm ground cleats for kids
These Zoom Mercurials are from Nike's latest soccer cleats pack, the Blast pack. The cleats feature a brand new Zoom Air unit with a spring underfoot to help you move faster on the pitch. So, whether it's making a pacy run past the last defender or scoring screams from the halfway line, you'll be able to do it all with these cleats.
Reasons to buy:
- A speed cage structure on the inside secures your foot to the outsole
- A Flyknit collar wraps your ankle for a secure fit
- The minimalist upper is lightweight and breathable
Get them from Soccer.com for $69.99
Nike Jr. Phantom GT2 Academy
NikeBest multi-ground cleats for kids
If you're looking for accuracy on the ball, you're in luck with the Phantom GT2 Academy soccer cleats. An updated patterning and design on the upper are engineered to help you place your shots with perfect accuracy. Plus, an off-centre lacing system gives you a clean strike zone so you can dribble, pass and score with pinpoint precision.
Reasons to buy:
- The grippy texture on the upper gives you great control of the ball
- The synthetic leather upper is easy to clean and maintain
- A cushioned insole adds superior comfort
Puma Future 3.4
PUMABest artificial grass cleats for kids
Channel your inner Neymar.Jr with the brand new Puma Future cleats, dressed in the most amazing Parisian night and Pistachio colourway. The cleats feature FUZIONFIT+ adaptive compression technology that locks your foot down for explosive movement on the pitch. These are a great option if you're looking for soccer cleats that give you freedom of movement on the pitch.
Reasons to buy:
- Advanced creator zones give you superior touch
- A Dynamic Motion System outsole gives you freedom of movement
- They have a lightweight Peba base material
Nike Jr. Zoom Mercurial Superfly 9 Academy
NikeBest astro turf cleats for kids
These Superfly 9 editions of the Zoom Mercurial range are another excellent option for laceless cleats, perfect for getting on the pitch quicker to showcase your best skills and tricks. Nike's famous swoosh and Air branding adorn either side of each boot, with a high collar for a snug fit.
Reasons to buy:
- A textured upper gives you better control for dribbling and passing
- The rubber outsole gives you exceptional traction on turf surfaces
- Zoom Air cushioning provides a quick off-the-ground sensation
Nike Jr. Tiempo Legend 9 Academy
NikeBest indoor court cleats for kids
The Tiempo range has long reigned as the best Indoor Court cleat option from Nike, and its latest facelift makes it the perfect choice for young kids. The Baltic Blue and Pink Blast make for a sleek and stylish look, while the rubber sole gives supercharged traction for small-sided games.
Reasons to buy:
- Suede toe tip and premium leather lets you place shots with precision
- A comfortable lining of the interior gives you a snug fit
- The rubber outsole gives you multidirectional traction