5 Types of Soccer Cleats

Soccer cleats have a variety of characteristics that should be matched to the playing style and the type of field. The cleats with removable stubs are a versatile option, but the players that only play on one type of field it is worth buying the footwear to match. Here are a few of the soccer cleats available:

Firm ground (FG)

The firm ground is the most popular option and a practical choice for wearing on an outdoor soccer field. The field should be firm earth and natural grass. The studs give great stability, which is appreciated for giving fast and multi-directional performance. But, the studs can vary. Most of the firm ground cleats have molded studs and either conical or bladed in shape.

Firm Ground/Artificial Grass (FG/AG)

The firm ground/artificial glass is a type of hybrid cleat that gives great versatility. The artificial grass fields are becoming more common, so it is important to invest in the footwear to match. However, there are still plenty of natural earth fields. To avoid the cost of having to invest in both types of cleats, the FG/AG Hybrids are a perfect solution for both playing surfaces. The cleats have multiple stud lengths and shapes for great movement and acceleration on the artificial grass and natural surfaces.

Soft Ground

The soft ground option is great for the players that play on the outdoor fields that are often wet and muddy. For the perpetually softer grounds it helps to have longer studs that give the desired traction even on the difficult surface. The studs are often metal-based to give the highest level of stability. Also, most are removable to increase the versatility of the cleats, and even use on hard or firm ground with the proper studs in place.

Artificial Grass/Hard Ground

The AG/HG cleats are designed with stubs in higher numbers that are well spread and short in length. This gives the preferred traction on the hard playing surfaces. Plus, they are quite durable to last a long time, even when played regularly on the solid ground conditions. The hard rubber stubs give great stability and support.

Indoor

The indoor cleats are the preferred choice for playing in an indoor recreational facility or gym. The cleats have no real studs and feature a rubber type flat outsole. They are designed with a lower profile cut and lightweight to give the right comfort and performance for ball dribbling and running. This type of cleat looks much like a common pair of sneakers.