Lotto shares useful tips on choosing that perfect footwear for maximum performance on the pitch
Given the rich cultural backgrounds and racial diversity of our country, football is definitely one sport that will unite all Malaysians. With so many different types of football boots in the market, do you know which is the most suitable for you? Choosing the right pair of shoes depends on understanding your feet and your style of play.
1. What surface are you playing on?
The footwear you choose largely depends on the type of surface you intend to play on. Wearing the wrong boots on any surface can risk of serious injury. There are 3 main types of surfaces: natural turf or grass, astroturf (artificial turf) and hard ground.
Grass: These boots have shorter moulded studs or blades which are fixed to the sole of the boot. Firm Ground boots provide traction and stability on hard ground surfaces. Being the most versatile, these boots come with either blades or conical stud’s underneath, moulded from plastic. For softer grass or muddy ground, select boots with few, and spaced-out studs typically made from metal. But be aware, there is a much higher risk of ankle injuries if used on hard ground.
Astroturf: Astroturf boots have many short studs distributed across the whole outsole of the boot.
Indoor Court: These boots will typically feature a gum rubber flat outsole. These are very versatile and can even be used for leisure walking.
2. Determine your playing style
Everyone has a different playing style and a different position when it comes to football. Knowing your style and the position you like to play will determine the type of boots you should look out for.
Top tips on how to choose a new pair of football boots based on your playing style:
Strikers/Forwards – It’s best to use a lighter pair of boots to be able to accelerate and change direction quickly
Midfielders – Go for a pair of boots that offers better control and comfort
Defenders – Find an ideal pair of boots that offers slightly more protection and allows for a clean pass on the ball.
Wingers – Look for a lightweight boot that provides the ability to accelerate and change direction quickly
3. Size Matters – Not too big or too small
It is important to choose the right size. A general rule of thumb is to have a ¼ – ½ inch gap between your toes and the top of the boots. If you have a thumb space between your toes and the top of the boots, they are too big. The right amount of space to look out for is roughly a pinky (smallest finger) space between your toes and top of the boots. If your toes are pressing against the upper side of the boots, they are too tight which means you need a size bigger.
4. Consider the materials used
If your game is largely based around speed, you may want to look for a lightweight pair of boots made from a synthetic material. However, if you are a hard-tackling defender or you are playing in the heart of midfield, go for a pair that uses natural leather as they offer more protection.
If you are unsure of where you are going to play football, just buy a basic pair of boots for grass with moulded plastic cleats. These are the most versatile boots which are great on grass, muddy pitches and astroturf alike.