Football boots come in all shapes, sizes, and colours. Boots come in different types and players need to know the difference between the various kinds they can buy.
Football boots are not just about Nike, Adidas, or Puma. They are about the types of studs players have on the bottom of the boots.
So, what are the differences between boots and which ones should you purchase for next season?
Soft Ground
Soft ground boots are used on wet and muddy turf. The longer, thicker studs allow players to keep their footing on a slippery surface. Unlike hard ground studs, a pair of soft ground boots will have its studs spaced wide apart to prevent the dirt, grass, and mud from accumulating on the bottoms. Due to the wet weather experienced in the United Kingdom during the autumn, winter, and spring, players will often wear soft ground boots for training and games.
Hard Ground
Hard ground boots are worn by players on hard, dry pitches. These boots have smaller studs that are moulded plastic pieces. Hard ground football boots are often worn by players who play football in countries with hot, dry summer months. Players in the United States may choose hard ground boots as the football season takes place during the summer. The studs on hard ground boots are short enough to provide traction but not to dig into the pitch.
Firm Ground
Firm ground boots have rubber or plastic, moulded studs or blades on the bottom. Firm ground boots have more studs than soft ground boots. Each boot will have up to 14 studs on the soles. The number of studs allows players to gain maximum traction. Many players who play on astroturf surfaces will wear firm ground boots.