Classification and Usage of Soccer Cleats
When it comes to soccer shoes, their most distinctive feature is the presence of cleats or studs, as soccer is often played on grass surfaces. During a game, players need to make quick starts, sharp turns, and sudden stops. Wearing cleats provides improved traction, allowing players to perform these movements with better control and stability.
Soccer cleats have been in use for over a century, and today there are various types available on the market, each with different stud designs. Choosing the right pair of soccer cleats can be overwhelming, so let’s dive into the classifications and uses of different stud types to help guide your choice.
1. Short Molded Studs
These cleats, often called “short studs” or “broken studs,” feature many small studs across the sole, usually around 3-4 mm in length. These are designed to provide slip resistance, making them suitable for artificial turf or fields with shorter grass. However, they don’t offer much support for high-speed, high-intensity movements, so they’re best suited for casual play or lower-impact games on artificial surfaces.
2. Plastic Studs
Plastic stud cleats typically feature between 13 and 20 studs, which may be round or blade-shaped. These studs are about 1 cm in length, making this type of cleat the most popular option among soccer players. Most international matches are played with players wearing this style of cleat, as they balance grip, stability, and comfort for natural grass fields.
3. Metal Stud Cleats
These cleats are similar in design to plastic-studded cleats, but the studs are made of metal, often steel. Some models have removable metal studs, allowing players to replace or customize them as needed. Metal-studded cleats are durable and provide strong traction, but they tend to be heavier, which is why they are less commonly used today.
4. Flat Soccer Shoes
Flat soccer shoes have a smooth sole without studs and are usually made of rubber or a material like beef tendon. They are designed for indoor play on hardwood or concrete surfaces and provide grip without damaging the surface.
Tips for Choosing Soccer Cleats
Since most people play soccer on grass or artificial turf, plastic-studded cleats are the most common choice. When choosing cleats, be mindful of the length of the studs in relation to the grass length on your field. The grass should be long enough to cover the studs. If the grass is too short and the studs are too long, you risk an uneven footing, which can lead to foot strain or cramping during play.