Undeniably, the right pair of football cleats does not only provide valuable traction in several conditions but also form a protective environment for the ankle and foot in one of the toughest games out there. They literally keep you grounded. However, selecting the perfect pair of football cleats for a particular position or player comes with a challenge given the wide range of cuts and models available. Ill-fitting cleats, even the most expensive ones, can cause damage to the feet, blisters, and a great deal of discomfort. Same goes for choosing football pads for that matter. For that reason, we have found the 3 best-rated models that sell like hot cakes for a good reason; each offering much-appreciated, unique features.
1. Nike Vapor Speed Low TD
Ready to endure the toughest conditions on the field, the Vapor Speed football cleats impress with their lightweight design (synthetic leather upper) and comfy fit. While able to run like the wind with them on, you can also rest assured that irritation or slipping/sliding issues won’t be bothering you during play thanks to the fit sleeve and comfort collar, which also help reduce bulk; a feature not many other football cleat makers offer.
The strategically placed molded cleats allow incredibly easy change of direction and superior acceleration while the injected outsole molded with a TD pattern is designed to provide support to larger speed players with its distinct wider base in the forefoot. As for the new TD pattern with the 3 different football cleat shapes, it offers max traction, exceptional grip, and precise cuts, even on turf.
It should be noted, though, that since Nike only offers medium fit, you should go a size up or down if your foot is narrower or wider than normal.
Sizes run from 8-15 and are available in 2 colors (black/white and white/navy).
With optimal comfort and durability ensured and features that make a difference when out on the field, Nike’s Vapor Speed has definitely raised the bar high. An affordable option that delivers everything you’d want from a football cleat and more.
2. UA Highlight MC Football Cleats
Compared to the Vapor Speed, UA Highlight MC comes with a higher profile and offers an additional feature: a lock-down fit, thanks to the form-fitting ClutchFit ankle sleeve (molds to your ankle when you move), which also provides extra stability, making the pair an excellent choice for players in speed positions. This means that the cleats fit well in all areas including the heel cup, which has been a pain point for make cleat makers for far too long.
In the absence of a midsole, the 4D Foam footbed will provide the much-needed cushion while the game-ready outsole with the bladed cleats and Core speed chassis gives you the traction, support, and mobility you demand. And, if you are looking for added comfort and protection, the 3D-molded tongue will give you exactly that.
Over-extension is avoided with the V56 technology while the foot’s natural motion is fully supported by the Plasma X plate, delivering unbeatable stability on the field.
Another great thing about the UA Highlight MC is that it comes in a rich variety of colors (11 different colors), making it easy for athletic organizers and players to match them with the colors of their team’s uniforms. Sizes from 8-13. Again, if you have a narrower or wider foot than normal, you should opt for a size up or down, like with the Vapor Speed, as the Highlight MC’s fit is true to size.
For those looking to get into the game with a comfortable, durable, lightweight, and highly supportive cleat that offers max traction and locked-in speed, the UA Highlight MC will tick all their boxes.
3. Adidas Performance Men’s Filthyquick 2.0 MD Football Cleat
Adidas is known for providing footwear with paramount comfort, and the Filthy quick 2.0 football cleats are no exception. The model features a synthetic upper and sole and a stunning, eye-catching design.
Besides its great looks, the Filthy quick 2.0 is loved for its superior fit, too. The forefoot overlays give you the necessary support to keep your foot centered over the plate, which, in turns, allows you to enjoy significantly faster lateral movements and quicker cuts.
The design of the new Quick frame plate is the result of 12 months of collective research on the field and offers a gradual increase in flexibility mainly heading to the forefoot, and not just one breakpoint, to protect players from injury. The brand has used data from a player study that lasted the entire season and kept track of players’ movements on the field.
Adidas has also made sure players that wear the Filthy quick 2.0 football cleats on the field get cleats that conform to their foot’s shape. For that reason, the molded ethylene vinyl acetate insole is specifically designed to shape to the foot and provide extra support.
For added comfort and extra support, the cleats feature a molded rubber plate outsole and mid-cut upper respectively. What is also great about these cleats is that they are super-lightweight thanks to the sprint cleat studs they feature.
However, protection to the mid foot area is not overlooked. The inside comes with a molded synthetic skin that delivers unmatchable support. Other features worth mentioning include the unbelievably durable synthetic toe overlay, as well as the tech fit heel strap that offers Achilles protection.
With low-quality football cleats, playing football can take a toll on your feet and end up facing an injury or other serious condition. Cleats constructed from the right, breathable materials that can move with your foot and come with a good grip are more than welcome. Before you choose cleats, though, it’s important to refer to the sizing charts provided by the brands and use them as a guideline, so you make sure you land on the pair of football cleats that fit you like a glove and meet league regulations. All three pairs described above come with their own set of unique features to meet your needs for forefoot support, improved speed, locked-in fit, protection or any other.
