The FIFA World Cup has inspired many to look into soccer as a great way to integrate some physical activity into their lives. Soccer is a great sport to play to elevate your cardio, but you also need to think of your safety. Choosing the right soccer cleats can mean the difference between playing a great game or being injured and put on the sidelines.
There are many different factors that go into picking the right pair of cleats. Even if you’ve played before, it might be time to consider all of your options. Here are just some of the things to think about:
- Your playing style and position: Different positions need different qualities in their footwear. For example, a defensive player will want something more heavy duty for protection, while a forward will want something more lightweight for faster movement.
- Field conditions: The soccer pitch you will be playing on will determine what kind of shoes you need. You wouldn’t want the same pair of cleats for a muddy field as you would for artificial ground or indoor soccer.Picking the right soccer cleats
- Materials used in the upper:
This is the part of the shoe that comes into contact with the tops and sides of your feet. Some people prefer leather, which fits more like a glove. Others prefer synthetic material because of its consistent nature.
- Size and shape: You want to make sure that the cleats fit your unique feet. Everyone’s feet are different, and so are cleat styles, so not every pair of shoes will fit you the same way. If you settle on a pair that doesn’t fit properly, you put yourself at risk for developing all kinds of foot problems—from blisters to tendinitis.
If picking the right pair of cleats seems daunting, call Dr. Marco Vargas and Dr. Joyce Lee at (888) 784-5335 to schedule a consultation. Here at Foot and Ankle Associates in Houston we can talk about all of these factors and more to help you make an educated decision.
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