Trying to find the best cleats for kids can feel like a game of whack-a-mole, right? You want something that’s not just durable and performs well, but also comfortable enough for growing feet and, let’s be honest, looks cool! Whether your child is just starting out in soccer or already dominating the pitch, the right footwear makes all the difference in their comfort, confidence, and even their safety on the field.
We know how overwhelming the options can be, which is why we’ve put together this guide. We’ve dug into some of the most popular and highly-rated options to help you choose the ideal pair for your little champion. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect match for your young athlete!
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Cleats for Kids
Here are our detailed reviews of the top cleats that balance performance, comfort, and value for your energetic youngsters.
brooman Kids Firm Ground Soccer Cleats Boys Girls Athletic…
These brooman cleats are a fantastic choice for parents looking for convenience and performance. What really sets them apart is the adjustable hook and loop closure, which means no more struggling with laces – a huge win for younger kids or those who just want to get on the field faster! The textured upper is also a neat feature, designed to give kids better ball control, helping them develop their skills with every touch. With a focus on stability and grip, these are solid youth soccer shoes for firm ground.
Key Features:
– Upper textured for better ball control
– Adjustable and durable hook and loop closure for a great, lace-free fit
– Rubber molded cleats with rotational traction for stability and grip
– Soft padded tongue reduces foot friction and fits the instep well
– Versatile for football courts, rugby fields, sports halls, and roads
Pros:
– Easy for kids to put on and take off themselves (no laces!)
– Enhances ball control with textured upper
– Provides good grip and stability on firm ground
– Comfortable thanks to padded tongue
– Durable design suitable for various outdoor sports
Cons:
– May not offer the same ankle support as some high-top options
– Brand less recognized than some major players
User Impressions:
Parents consistently praise the hook and loop closure, making mornings much smoother. Kids seem to love the comfort and the feeling of improved ball control. Many have noted their durability holds up well to energetic play.
DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats Youth Firm Groud… (Lace-Up, Mesh Interior)
DREAM PAIRS steps up with a vibrant and functional lace-up cleat designed for secure performance. These cleats boast a traditional lace-up design, ensuring a snug and adjustable fit that can be tightened exactly how your child likes it for maximum security during quick moves. The lightweight TPU sole plate, combined with strategically positioned rubber studs, offers excellent stability and grip on firm ground. Plus, the mesh interior keeps little feet cool and comfortable, even during those long, intense matches.
Key Features:
– Lace-Up Design for a snug, secure, and adjustable fit
– Lightweight TPU Sole Plate with strategically positioned rubber studs for firm ground play
– Cushioned and breathable Mesh Interior keeps feet cool and comfortable
– Available in a range of eye-catching, Colorful Designs
– Synthetic PU upper enhances ball control for dribbling or striking
Pros:
– Secure fit through adjustable laces
– Excellent traction and stability on firm surfaces
– Breathable design helps prevent discomfort and odor
– Stylish looks help kids stand out
– Good for developing ball control skills
Cons:
– Lace-up might be a challenge for younger kids
– Firm ground specific, less ideal for other surfaces
User Impressions:
Many customers rave about the attractive colors and how comfortable these cleats are right out of the box. Parents appreciate the secure fit for active play, and kids love how they feel on the field, often mentioning the great look.
adidas Child-Unisex Goletto VII Firm Ground Soccer Cleats
When it comes to athletic footwear, Adidas is a name synonymous with quality and performance, and their Goletto VII cleats for juniors are no exception. These cleats are engineered for traction and speed on firm ground, helping young players make swift moves and sprint down the field with confidence. The synthetic upper ensures lightweight comfort, so kids can focus on the game without feeling weighed down. It’s a straightforward, reliable option from a trusted brand.
Key Features:
– Juniors’ soccer cleats designed for traction and speed
– Synthetic upper for lightweight comfort
– Cleated outsole for firm ground play
– The outsole provides solid traction on firm ground
Pros:
– Reputable and trusted Adidas brand quality
– Lightweight design promotes speed and agility
– Excellent traction on firm natural grass pitches
– Durable synthetic material
Cons:
– Important: Runs small, so buying one size bigger is recommended
– Specific to firm ground surfaces
User Impressions:
Customers generally trust the Adidas quality and appreciate the lightweight feel. The main point of feedback is consistently about the sizing – nearly everyone advises going up a size to ensure a comfortable fit for their child’s foot. Once sized correctly, they perform very well.
DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats Youth Firm Groud… (Anti-Slip, Cushioned Insole)
Another strong contender from DREAM PAIRS, this version focuses on superior grip and comfort. These soccer cleats for kids feature rubber molded anti-slip studs, which are crucial for maintaining superb grip and maneuverability during fast-paced play. The stylish, colorful, and textured synthetic upper isn’t just for looks; it’s crafted for durability and comfort, perfect for young athletes who give their all. The real game-changer here is the cushioned insole, providing extra comfort and reducing foot fatigue, allowing kids to play longer and better.
Key Features:
– Rubber molded anti-slip studs for superior grip and maneuverability
– Stylish, colorful, and textured synthetic upper for durability and comfort
– Lightweight and soft design ensures comfort without feeling weighed down
– Supportive Cushioned Insole reduces fatigue and boosts performance
– Ideal for common firm natural grass pitches
Pros:
– Exceptional grip for quick cuts and sprints
– Durable construction holds up to hard play
– Cushioned insole provides long-lasting comfort
– Lightweight design enhances agility
– Attractive and vibrant appearance
Cons:
– Primarily designed for firm ground
– Lacks a lace-free option for younger children
User Impressions:
Parents frequently highlight the excellent grip these cleats provide, giving them peace of mind about their child’s stability. The comfort from the cushioned insole is also a common positive, with kids reporting happy feet even after extended practice sessions.
DREAM PAIRS Boys Girls Soccer Cleats Youth Firm Groud… (Lace-Up, TPU, Ball Control Focus)
Rounding out our list is another versatile option from DREAM PAIRS, focusing on ball control and lightweight design. These youth cleats combine a secure lace-up closure with a lightweight TPU sole plate and injection-molded rubber cleats, providing excellent traction and stability. What truly makes these stand out is the synthetic PU upper, specifically designed to enhance ball control, whether your child is dribbling, passing, striking, or shooting. Kids can practice and play for hours without feeling bogged down, thanks to their light build.
Key Features:
– Lace-Up Design for a snug, extra secure, and adjustable fit
– Lightweight TPU Sole Plate with injection-molded rubber cleats for traction & stability on firm grounds
– Lightweight design ensures kids can play for long hours comfortably
– Available in a range of eye-catching, Colorful Designs
– Synthetic PU upper enhances ball control when dribbling, passing, striking, or shooting
Pros:
– Highly effective for improving ball control
– Offers superb traction and stability
– Very lightweight for agility and endurance
– Secure, adjustable fit with laces
– Visually appealing colorful options
Cons:
– Solely for firm ground surfaces
– Logo variations may occur (though quality remains consistent)
User Impressions:
Users often point out how well these cleats help their children feel the ball and control it, boosting their game. The lightweight aspect is also highly praised, making them a favorite for kids who are constantly on the move and want to feel fast on the field.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Cleats for Kids
Finding the ideal pair of junior sports footwear involves a few considerations beyond just looks. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Fit is King: Cleats should fit snugly but comfortably. There shouldn’t be too much room for the foot to slide around, as this can cause blisters and reduce ball feel. While you might want a little growing room, avoid buying cleats that are significantly too big.
- Playing Surface: Most kids’ cleats are designed for “firm ground” (FG), which is natural grass. However, if your child plays on artificial turf (AG) or indoors, they’ll need cleats specifically designed for those surfaces. Multi-ground (MG) cleats offer versatility.
- Closure Type:
- Lace-up: Offers a secure, customizable fit, great for older kids or those who can tie their own laces.
- Hook-and-loop (Velcro): Fantastic for younger children who can’t tie laces yet, providing independence and ease of use.
- Material:
- Synthetic: Common, durable, often water-resistant, and usually more affordable. Good for kids whose feet are still growing.
- Leather (less common in kids’ specific models): Offers a more natural feel and molds to the foot, but requires more maintenance.
- Comfort & Support: Look for features like padded insoles, breathable materials (like mesh), and good ankle support, especially if your child has had ankle issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How do I choose the right size cleats for my child?
A1: Measure your child’s foot and compare it to the brand’s sizing chart. It’s often recommended to go up half a size, or even a full size for some brands (like Adidas, as noted above), to allow for growth and thick socks, but avoid sizes that are too big as this can cause tripping and blisters. A snug, comfortable fit is key.
Q2: What’s the difference between firm ground (FG), artificial ground (AG), and multi-ground (MG) cleats?
A2:
– Firm Ground (FG): Designed for natural grass fields that are dry and firm. They usually have conical or bladed studs for good traction.
– Artificial Ground (AG): Designed for synthetic turf fields. They have more, shorter, hollow studs to distribute pressure and reduce stud-to-turf friction.
– Multi-Ground (MG): A hybrid option with a versatile stud configuration suitable for both natural grass and artificial turf, offering a good all-around choice.
Q3: How often should I replace my child’s cleats?
A3: This depends on how quickly your child’s feet grow, how often they play, and the intensity of use. Generally, expect to replace them at least once a season or yearly, or whenever their feet grow out of them, the studs wear down, or the upper shows significant damage.
Q4: Are lace-up or hook-and-loop cleats better for kids?
A4: For younger children (toddlers to early elementary), hook-and-loop closures (Velcro) are fantastic for promoting independence and quick changes. For older kids who can reliably tie laces, lace-up cleats offer a more secure and customizable fit, which can be beneficial for performance and preventing slippage.
Q5: Do expensive cleats make a big difference for kids?
A5: While top-tier professional cleats offer advanced technology, for most kids, mid-range options provide excellent performance, comfort, and durability without the hefty price tag. Focus on fit, comfort, and appropriate stud type for the playing surface rather than just the highest price.
Q6: How should I clean and care for kids’ cleats?
A6: After each use, wipe off mud and dirt with a damp cloth. You can gently brush off stubborn dirt. Allow them to air dry away from direct heat (like radiators or sunlight), which can crack materials. Remove insoles to help them dry faster and prevent odor. Avoid machine washing.
Q7: Can kids use soccer cleats for other sports like rugby or flag football?
A7: Yes, firm ground soccer cleats are often suitable for other field sports like rugby, flag football, and lacrosse, as they provide similar traction needs on grass. However, always check the specific rules of the league or sport, as some may have restrictions on stud types.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cleats for kids doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering factors like fit, playing surface, closure type, and comfort, you can ensure your young athlete has the right gear to succeed and enjoy their sport. Our top picks offer a range of features, from easy-on hook-and-loop designs to performance-enhancing ball control uppers, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every budding star. Here’s to many fun and successful games on the field!