If you’ve got a little athlete in your home, you know how crucial the right gear is. Especially when it comes to playing on artificial turf fields, having the proper footwear isn’t just about performance; it’s about safety and comfort too. That’s where finding the best turf for kids comes in. Unlike regular sneakers or even traditional cleats, turf shoes are specifically designed to provide optimal grip and support on synthetic surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and strains.
We know how overwhelming it can be to navigate the endless options. To help you out, we’ve rounded up 10 fantastic turf shoe options, perfect for everything from soccer practice to baseball games. We’ll break down what makes each pair shine, so you can confidently pick the best turf for kids that suits your child’s needs. Let’s dive in!
Why Proper Turf Shoes Matter for Kids
Artificial turf, while durable and consistent, can be a different beast than natural grass. Traditional cleats often dig too deeply, causing discomfort and potential injury, while regular sneakers might not offer enough traction. Turf shoes, on the other hand, feature numerous small rubber nubs or patterns on their outsoles. This design ensures consistent grip and better pressure distribution across your child’s foot, making them ideal for quick cuts, sprints, and overall agility on synthetic pitches. Plus, they often offer more cushioning, which is a huge bonus for growing feet spending hours on harder surfaces.
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Turf for Kids
Here are our detailed reviews of the top turf shoes available for your young athletes:
adidas Goletto IX Turf Sneaker, Black/White/Black
This classic adidas turf sneaker is a fantastic entry-level option for any young soccer enthusiast. It’s built with lightweight comfort in mind, ensuring your child can focus on their game without feeling weighed down. The adjustable laces offer a secure, personalized fit, which is paramount for energetic play on artificial turf surfaces. It’s a reliable choice that blends performance with everyday wearability for young athletes.
- Key Features:
- Kids’ lightweight soccer shoes for play on artificial turf
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- TEXTILE LINING: The shoes are lined for a soft, comfortable feel
- TURF SOCCER OUTSOLE: Rule the pitch with a lugged rubber outsole specially designed for artificial turf surfaces
- Pros:
- Excellent traction on artificial turf
- Lightweight design for agile movement
- Comfortable textile lining
- Durable synthetic upper
- Cons:
- May not offer advanced features for competitive players
- Basic design might lack visual flair for some
- User Impressions: Parents often praise the secure, adjustable fit, which keeps active kids’ feet stable during play. Kids love the comfortable, lightweight feel that lets them run and kick with ease.
- See it on Amazon here
adidas Goletto IX Laceless Turf Sneaker, White/Black/Lucid
For young players who prefer an uncluttered feel and maximum ball contact, the laceless version of the adidas Goletto IX is a game-changer. This laceless design not only makes for super easy entry but also provides a snug, locked-down feel, ensuring excellent performance on the field. The synthetic leather upper offers a premium touch and feel, while the perforated design keeps feet cool, making it one of the best turf for kids who value convenience and comfort.
- Key Features:
- Juniors’ durable soccer shoes with an artificial turf outsole for excellent performance
- LACELESS: Laceless construction for ease of entry, maximum comfort and lockdown, and maximum ball contact
- SYNTHETIC LEATHER UPPER: Lightweight polyurethane leather upper has a leather-like look and feel
- BREATHABLE: Perforated upper for maximum breathability and light weight
- TURF SOCCER OUTSOLE: A lugged rubber outsole specially designed for artificial turf surfaces provides great traction
- Pros:
- Laceless design for easy on/off and enhanced ball control
- Breathable upper keeps feet cool
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Great traction on turf surfaces
- Cons:
- Laceless fit might not suit all foot shapes perfectly
- Less adjustability compared to laced models
- User Impressions: Kids really enjoy the freedom and direct ball feel that the laceless design offers. Parents appreciate the durability and how quickly their children can get ready for practice.
- See it on Amazon here
adidas Goletto Turf Soccer Shoe, Black/White/Metallic
Another solid pick from the Goletto series, this turf soccer shoe offers juniors lightweight comfort and reliable grip. It’s designed for consistent performance on artificial surfaces, featuring a snug fit provided by adjustable laces. The synthetic upper ensures durability while maintaining a light feel, making it perfect for kids who need dependable footwear for their regular soccer sessions. Just remember its unique sizing note!
- Key Features:
- Juniors’ turf soccer shoes for lightweight comfort and grip
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- SYNTHETIC UPPER: Synthetic upper is comfortable and lightweight
- TEXTILE LINING: Textile lining provides a soft, comfortable feel
- TURF SOCCER OUTSOLE: Rule the field with a lugged rubber outsole specially designed for artificial turf surfaces
- RUNS SMALL: Buy 1 Size Bigger
- Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Reliable grip on artificial turf
- Durable synthetic upper
- Soft textile lining for comfort
- Cons:
- Runs small, requiring careful sizing
- Standard design might not stand out visually
- User Impressions: Many parents recommend following the sizing advice, as buying a size up leads to a much better fit. Once sized correctly, children find these shoes incredibly comfortable and effective for soccer.
- See it on Amazon here
New Balance Boy’s FuelCell V7 Youth Turf-Trainer Baseball
Stepping away from soccer briefly, the New Balance FuelCell V7 is an outstanding choice for young baseball players. This turf trainer boasts an aggressive outsole pattern specifically engineered for superior traction on artificial baseball fields, giving your child the edge for quick sprints and sharp turns. The durable rubber outsole and synthetic upper are built to withstand the rigors of the diamond, ensuring these trainers last through the season.
- Key Features:
- Aggressive turf outsole provides superior traction on artificial fields
- Synthetic upper
- Durable rubber outsole
- Adjustable lace closure for a customized fit
- For pitchers with excessive toe drag, we recommend using a toe-protection product to extend the life of your cleat.
- Pros:
- Exceptional traction for baseball-specific movements
- Durable construction suitable for tough play
- Customizable fit with lace closure
- Good support for active young players
- Cons:
- Specific recommendation for toe protection for pitchers might indicate wear concerns
- Primarily designed for baseball, less versatile for other sports
- User Impressions: Baseball parents rave about the grip these shoes provide, noting a noticeable improvement in their child’s agility on the field. The durability is also a big plus for active young athletes.
- See it on Amazon here
adidas Club Predator Turf Sneaker, Lucid Red/White/Black
The adidas Club Predator brings an iconic look and performance-driven design to artificial turf. These juniors’ soccer shoes are built for fast play, helping young athletes accelerate and change direction with confidence. The synthetic upper is both durable and lightweight, while the rubber outsole delivers excellent speed and control. A fantastic feature is its commitment to sustainability, using at least 20% recycled materials, making it a conscious choice for the planet and a top contender for the best turf for kids.
- Key Features:
- Juniors’ soccer shoes for fast play on artificial turf
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- RUBBER OUTSOLE: Rubber outsole for speed and control on artificial turf surfaces
- MADE IN PART WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: This product features at least 20% recycled materials.
- Pros:
- Optimized for speed and control on turf
- Durable and lightweight design
- Environmentally conscious with recycled materials
- Secure and adjustable fit
- Cons:
- “Club” tier might lack some advanced features of higher-end Predator models
- Vibrant color might not appeal to everyone
- User Impressions: Kids love the striking look and how responsive these shoes feel during intense play. Parents appreciate the sustainable aspect and the overall quality that holds up well during frequent use.
- See it on Amazon here
adidas Boy’s Adizero Impact Turf Baseball Sneaker
If speed and responsiveness are what your young baseball star needs, the adidas Adizero Impact Turf sneaker is a strong contender. Designed for quick movements around the bases or chasing down fly balls, these shoes feature adidas Lightstrike cushioning, offering an incredibly lightweight yet responsive feel. The lugged rubber outsole provides superior grip on turf, and like the Predator Club, it incorporates recycled materials, aligning performance with eco-friendliness.
- Key Features:
- Boys’ baseball shoes for speeding around the bases or running down fly balls in the outfield
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- THE LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMP: adidas Lightstrike reinvents the feeling of lightweight cushioning while retaining superb responsiveness
- TURF SOCCER OUTSOLE: Rule the diamond with a lugged rubber outsole specially designed for artificial turf surfaces
- MADE IN PART WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: This product features at least 20% recycled materials.
- Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight with responsive Lightstrike cushioning
- Excellent traction for baseball-specific movements
- Durable synthetic upper
- Partially made with recycled materials
- Cons:
- Specific to baseball, less versatile for other turf sports
- Premium features might come at a slightly higher price point
- User Impressions: Young players frequently comment on the incredible lightness and comfort, making them feel faster on the field. Parents note their child’s enhanced performance and the shoes’ ability to withstand tough baseball play.
- See it on Amazon here
adidas F50 Club Turf Sneaker, White/Black/Solar Yellow
Channeling the legacy of speed, the adidas F50 Club Turf Sneaker is all about fast play on artificial turf. These juniors’ soccer shoes feature a lightweight Fiberskin upper for durability without added bulk, and a perforated tongue for enhanced breathability and comfort. The rubber outsole is specifically engineered for speed and control, making it an excellent choice for attacking players who need to outmaneuver opponents.
- Key Features:
- Juniors’ soccer shoes for fast play on artificial turf
- SNUG FIT: Adjustable laces provide a secure fit
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Synthetic Fiberskin upper for durability and light weight
- PERFORATED TONGUE: Lightweight perforated tongue for added breathability and comfort
- RUBBER OUTSOLE: Rubber outsole for speed and control on artificial turf surfaces
- Pros:
- Designed for speed and agility
- Lightweight Fiberskin upper
- Breathable perforated tongue
- Secure, adjustable fit
- Cons:
- “Club” tier might not have the most advanced F50 tech
- Bright colors may not be universally preferred
- User Impressions: Kids often report feeling nimble and quick on the field with these shoes, appreciating the lightweight design. Parents find them durable enough for regular practice and games.
- See it on Amazon here
DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Turf Indoor Soccer Shoes Lace Up
DREAM PAIRS offers a highly functional and affordable option for young soccer players with their turf and indoor soccer shoes. These shoes are built with a durable, non-slip sole featuring rubber cleats, ensuring superior stability and grip on turf pitches. The textured synthetic upper enhances ball control, and the reinforced artificial leather back heel provides crucial support. With breathable lining and a padded insole, these shoes prioritize all-day comfort, making them a strong contender for the best turf for kids on a budget.
- Key Features:
- Durable and non-slip sole with rubber cleats provides extra stability and grip, perfect for turf soccer pitches
- Designed with durable textured synthetic upper, providing superior ball control. It is easy to clean.
- Flat fabric shoelaces can be adjusted freely, which provides an adjustable and secure fit
- Artificial leather back heel is reinforced, providing secure support to ensure safety during sports
- With breathable lining and padded insole, these turf shoes provide all-day comfort
- Warm Reminder: Upgraded lining material and printed logo may vary due to random dispatching.
- Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Good traction and stability on turf
- Durable and easy-to-clean upper
- Comfortable with breathable lining and padded insole
- Cons:
- Brand may not have the same recognition as major sports brands
- Material upgrades can lead to slight variations in appearance
- User Impressions: Many buyers are pleasantly surprised by the quality and performance at this price point. Kids find them comfortable for long practices, and parents appreciate their durability and ease of cleaning.
- See it on Amazon here
adidas Copa Pure 3 Club Turf Sneaker, Black/Carbon/Lucid
The adidas Copa Pure 3 Club Turf Sneaker brings a touch of classic comfort and modern performance to the artificial pitch. These juniors’ soccer shoes are designed for fast play, featuring a textured synthetic upper that offers durability and a lightweight feel. The perforated tongue adds breathability, ensuring comfort even during intense matches. With a rubber outsole optimized for speed and control, and made in part with recycled content, this shoe is a well-rounded choice for the environmentally conscious young athlete.
- Key Features:
- Juniors’ soccer shoes for fast play on artificial turf
- PERFORATED TONGUE: Lightweight perforated tongue for added breathability and comfort
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Textured synthetic upper for durability and light weight
- RUBBER OUTSOLE: Rubber outsole for speed and control on artificial turf surfaces
- MADE IN PART WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: This product features at least 20% recycled materials.
- Pros:
- Comfort-focused design with perforated tongue
- Lightweight and durable textured upper
- Excellent traction for speed and control
- Sustainable choice with recycled materials
- Cons:
- “Club” tier might not offer the premium touch of higher-end Copa models
- Black colorway might be considered less exciting by some kids
- User Impressions: Kids often describe these as very comfortable and well-fitting, making them a joy to wear for long training sessions. Parents appreciate the sustainable manufacturing and the overall robust quality.
- See it on Amazon here
PUMA Attacanto Turf Training Soccer Cleats Sneaker
PUMA enters the list with their Attacanto Turf Training Soccer Cleats, offering a blend of soft feel and dynamic style. These cleats feature a soft yet durable synthetic upper, providing a comfortable fit that adapts to your child’s foot. The fast and dynamic graphic print adds a visually appealing touch, ensuring your young player looks as good as they play. Designed for training on artificial surfaces, the Attacanto provides reliable grip and support.
- Key Features:
- Soft yet durable synthetic upper.
- Features a fast and dynamic graphic print.
- Pros:
- Comfortable soft synthetic upper
- Eye-catching design
- Durable construction for training
- Reliable performance on artificial turf
- Cons:
- Fewer detailed features listed compared to other brands
- Might be more focused on training than competitive match play
- User Impressions: Kids are often drawn to the cool graphic prints and find the upper material very comfortable from the first wear. Parents find them a sturdy option for regular practice sessions.
- See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Best Turf for Kids: What to Consider
When picking out turf shoes for your child, keep these key factors in mind:
- Fit and Comfort: This is paramount. The shoe should be snug but not too tight, with a thumb’s width space at the toe. Ensure there’s no slipping at the heel.
- Traction: Look for outsoles with numerous small rubber nubs or a multi-directional pattern designed specifically for artificial turf to prevent slips.
- Durability: Kids are tough on shoes! Synthetic uppers and reinforced stitching tend to hold up well.
- Material: Breathable materials like perforated synthetics or mesh can help keep feet cool and comfortable.
- Lacing System: Traditional laces offer adjustability, while laceless designs provide a clean strike zone and ease of entry.
- Sport-Specific Needs: While many turf shoes are versatile, some, like baseball trainers, have specific features for their respective sports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between turf shoes and regular cleats for kids?
A1: Regular cleats have fewer, longer studs designed to dig into natural grass. Turf shoes, on the other hand, feature many shorter, rubber nubs or patterns that provide optimal grip and distribute pressure evenly on harder artificial turf surfaces, preventing discomfort and reducing the risk of injuries like twisted ankles.
Q2: Can my child wear turf shoes on natural grass or indoors?
A2: While turf shoes can provide some grip on natural grass, they won’t offer the same deep penetration and stability as traditional cleats. For indoor surfaces, the rubber outsole might work, but specialized indoor soccer shoes often have a completely flat, non-marking sole for better court performance.
Q3: How do I know what size turf shoe to buy for my child?
A3: Always measure your child’s foot and check the specific brand’s sizing chart, as sizes can vary. It’s often recommended to leave about a thumb’s width of space between their longest toe and the end of the shoe for growth and comfort, but ensure the midfoot and heel are snug. If a shoe is known to run small (like one of our adidas picks), size up accordingly.
Q4: How long should turf shoes last for a child?
A4: The lifespan of turf shoes depends on how frequently your child plays, their playing style, and the shoe’s quality. Generally, a good pair should last at least one full season. However, children outgrow shoes quickly, so you might need a new pair before they wear out structurally.
Q5: Are laceless turf shoes a good idea for young children?
A5: Laceless turf shoes can be great for young children as they offer convenience, a clean strike zone, and a potentially snug, secure fit without the hassle of untied laces. However, it’s crucial to ensure the laceless design truly fits your child’s foot shape well, as there’s less adjustability than with laces.
Q6: How do I clean my child’s turf shoes?
A6: To clean turf shoes, first, knock off any loose dirt. Then, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) and a mild soap-and-water solution to scrub the outsole and upper. Rinse with a damp cloth and let them air dry away from direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage materials. Avoid putting them in a washing machine or dryer.
Q7: What materials are best for kids’ turf shoes?
A7: Synthetic leathers and durable synthetic uppers are common and effective. They offer a good balance of durability, lightweight comfort, and often better water resistance than natural leather. Look for options with breathable features like perforated panels to keep feet cool.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best turf for kids is about more than just buying another pair of shoes; it’s an investment in their comfort, safety, and performance on the field. Whether your child is a budding soccer star, a future baseball pro, or just loves to run around on artificial turf, finding the right footwear makes a world of difference. We hope this guide helps you confidently select the perfect pair to help your young athlete shine!