Buying a new pair of football boots can prove to be something of a minefield for anyone who is new to the game. There are a number of factors you must consider in order to find a boot that is suitable to your needs.

What Type Of Upper?

The two most common types of uppers found in modern football boots are leather and synthetic, both of which have different qualities.

A leather upper will mould to the shape of your feet and is very durable meaning it will age well. The soft nature of leather means it is very comfortable. Although it is water repellent, it can still often stretch in wet conditions.

Examples include: Puma King XL, Umbro Speciali Trophy, Uhlsport Kickschuh Legende

Synthetic uppers vary in quality at either end of the price scale. High quality synthetic upper is found on many modern football boots as it is strong, light and waterproof. However, some cheaper synthetic uppers will rip and tear easily under strain and tend to be found on boots at the lower end of the market.

Examples include: Puma Esito XL, Umbro Vortex II, Puma v5.08 SL Junior

Many manufacturers are now producing boots that have a side or hidden lacing system as opposed to the traditional lacing on the top of the boot. The result of a side or hidden lacing system is the creation of a larger “sweet-spot”, i.e a larger and clearer area for the player to make contact with the ball. Side-lacing also reduces pressure on small nerves at the top of the foot.

What Are The Conditions?

The type of conditions that you will be playing on make a significant difference to the type of boot that you should consider buying. A boot will not allow the player to function correctly if the conditions are not suitable for the type of sole.

Conditions are normally classified into three categories – soft ground, firm ground and hard ground.

Soft ground boots use studs and are suitable for use on soft, natural surfaces. Players will use soft ground boots throughout the autumn and winter when pitches are soft, wet and muddy.

Firm ground boots use moulded studs or blades on firm surfaces that are too hard for a soft ground boot. The studs or blades are spread out across the base of the boot to provide greater stability, whilst also reducing pressure on the foot.

Hard ground boots are designed for surfaces where there is very limited give, unlike a natural surface where a firm ground boot could be used. Hard ground boots are usually used on artificial, astroturf and 3G pitches.

Comfort

Perhaps most important is the comfort and feel of a boot. If a player does not feel comfortable, relaxed and at ease with the boot that he or she is wearing, then their performance will be directly affected. The combination of the correct upper and stud for the condition will help in increasing comfort levels.

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