Updated on September 12, 2021 by Lyric Fergusson
If you’ve signed your child up to play football, you’ll need to make sure they have everything they need to be prepared to play. Cleats are an important purchase you’ll need to make to get your child ready for the field.
Unfortunately, finding the right pair can be pretty tricky. There are so many different brands and different types of cleats. To help you out, I’ve found the 7 best kids’ football cleats.
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Best Kids’ Football Cleats
1. Under Armour Unisex-Child Spotlight Franchise Rm Jr Football Shoe
(Most versatile — $$)
Why it’s great: These cleats are made with a rubber sole that provides traction on every kind of terrain, making them great for indoor or outdoor play. They have an engineered synthetic upper that provides durability and support, with a screen print overlay for a cool look. The ⅝ height is perfect for football, giving your child support while still allowing them to run as fast as they can. They have an EVA midsole that provides the proper cushion and support too. Plus, they come in four different colors, so you can choose one that matches your child’s team colors.
Keep in mind: These do run a little small, so you may want to order one size up to get the right fit.
Good for: Those who like to play sports indoors and outdoors.
2. Adidas Unisex-Child Goletto VII Fg J Football Shoe
(Most lightweight — $$)
Why it’s great: These cleats are lightweight and comfortable. They have a synthetic and mesh body, allowing for increased airflow. They’re also very flexible, giving your child plenty of room to maneuver, even if they have wider feet. The rubber sole is made for outdoor surfaces and works great for football or soccer. They come in black with blue accents or pink accents, so they’re great for little girls or boys. They’re durable and comfortable at an affordable price.
Keep in mind: These do need a little time to break in, as they’re stiff in the beginning.
Good for: Kids who want a lightweight and breathable football cleat.
3. Nike Kids Alpha Menace 2 Shark Football (Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid)
(Best quality — $$$)
Why it’s great: The Nike brand is synonymous with high-quality, and these football cleats are no exception. They’re made with FastFlex technology that allows your child to bend and maneuver their feet naturally. They also have a soft foam cushioning that allows for maximum comfort. The rubber sole gives more than enough traction, and the outer molding lends strength and durability with its scratch resistance. This shoe comes in three different color options, so your child can pick the one they like the best.
Keep in mind: This is pretty pricey compared to the other choices, but the quality and comfort are well worth it.
Good for: Kids who need the highest quality football cleats.
4. DREAM PAIRS Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid 160472-K Soccer Football Cleats Shoes
(Most options — $)
Why it’s great: This football cleat comes in many different color options suitable for boys or girls. They’re made with a synthetic upper that’s light and breathable. The inner lining is anti-stretch, comfortable, and durable. The rubber sole has conical cleats that offer great traction and are anti-slip. These also have a foldover tongue, which keeps the laces flat and contained out of the way. They offer a snug fit that won’t come flying off, even if the laces come untied.
Keep in mind: The opening is pretty narrow, so you’ll need to really loosen the laces to get them on.
Good for: Kids who like to choose the color of their cleats.
5. JABASIC Kids Outdoor Soccer Cleats Athletic Firm Ground Football Shoes
(Most comfortable — $$)
Why it’s great: These cleats have so many features that make them super comfortable for your child. They’re made of a breathable, synthetic upper, so your little one’s feet don’t get too sweaty. They’re also lightweight and durable. They have a nice round toe box, giving your child’s feet plenty of room. They also have a soft and comfortable lining and a lace-up closure for the most secure fit. The molded cleats offer traction on most terrain, and they come in 5 different color options.
Keep in mind: These are durable to last through football season but not as high quality as some of the others on the list.
Good for: Kids who outgrow shoes pretty fast but need a comfortable cleat for the season.
6. brooman Kids Firm Ground Soccer Cleats Boys Girls Athletic Outdoor Football Shoes
(Best for younger kids — $$)
Why it’s great: These do have laces for adjusting the fit, but they also have a velcro strap, making them quick and easy for younger kids to get on and off. They also come in smaller sizes, from toddler through little kids sizes, with just one or two big kid sizes. They come in four different color options, and the padded tongue allows for a more comfortable fit. The textured upper is great to control the ball if your child also plays soccer. The rubber cleats are molded and offer the best traction on grass and firmer ground.
Keep in mind: The velcro isn’t high quality, so you may have to reinforce it for longer durability.
Good for: Younger kids who need a cleat that’s easy to get on and off.
7. WETIKE Kids Soccer Cleats Boys Youth Cleats Football Boots High-top Cleats for Soccer
(Best budget option — $)
Why it’s great: These cleats are affordable and comfortable. They have a lightweight upper that’s ribbed for better ball control when playing soccer. They also have a knit upper that offers a sock-like fit for added comfort. It even has an anti-microbial top lining to help reduce odor and bacteria. The insoles offer just enough cushion and support to allow your child to maneuver and run. The rubber cleats are perfect for traction on grass and artificial turf. They come in multiple different colors, suitable for both boys and girls.
Keep in mind: These are wider than the other options, so they’re not the best fit for kids with narrow feet.
Good for: Parents who need cleats for their child at an affordable price.
FAQs about Kids Football Cleats
1. What is the purpose of football cleats?
Football and soccer cleats were designed with studs that stick in the ground, offering better traction. This allows the wearer to stay upright when they’re cutting and keeps them stable when they’re pushing off and sprinting.
2. Do football cleats fit like regular shoes?
This varies depending on the brands of both types of shoes. However, cleats will likely be heavier. Check the description on sizing and read reviews to figure out which size will fit your child the best.
3. What’s the difference between soccer and football cleats?
Soccer cleats and football cleats are very similar, and you can use soccer cleats for football. However, soccer cleats are low-cut, while you can find football cleats in low, mid, or high cuts. Football cleats often have a spike near the front of the foot to allow for better traction when someone needs to push off from a standing position, as you do in football.
4. What type of cleats are best for football?
You can use screw-on, molded, or rubber bottom cleats for football. The biggest thing you need to know is if your child will be playing on artificial turf or natural grass, or both. This will help you decide which type is best for them. Molded or rubber bottom cleats are best for artificial turf but can definitely be used on grass too. Screw-on cleats should really only be used on real grass.
5. What else should I consider before buying football cleats for my child?
You may want a different type or style of cleat, depending on the position your child plays. Defensive positions may need a sturdier and more supportive shoe, while offensive positions may prefer something a little more lightweight and flexible.
Conclusion
With so many different options available, finding the right pair of cleats for your child can be a challenge. Make sure to find a good balance between cost and comfort since kids outgrow their shoes pretty quickly when they’re younger.
You’ll find a good variety of cleat types and styles on this list, so there should be at least one that will work for your child.
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