Be it for leisure or playing football professionally, football
boots impact to your performance on the pitch is immense.
Big name manufacturers like Nike, Adidas and Puma constantly release new boots all powered by latest innovative designs for enhancing performance and comfort.
Factors to consider when
acquiring new boots:
Surface you will be playing on – is the foremost factor to consider. Almost all popular boots
will come in versions designed for Firm Ground (FG), Soft Ground (SG),
Artificial Ground (AG) and Indoor Boots.
- Firm Ground (FG) Boots – Used on dry grass, but can also handle damp pitches too. They are great option for 3G pitches made from artificial grass. The boot features moulded studs.
- Soft Ground boots (SG) – these are built for muddy grounds. The boots feature canonical metal studs or a mixture of both moulded and metal studs. The studs are longer than standard ones for better stability.
- Artificial Ground boots (AG) – they are created for 3G and 4G artificial pitches. These football boots have short hollow studs for maximum grip on artificial grass.
- Indoor Boots – as the name suggests, they are not meant for outdoor grass pitches. They feature flat soles with small studs
Should I go for leather or synthetic
boots? Traditionally, leather boots are preferred as they offer
more protection during challenges. They are also more durable and comfortable.
Synthetic
boots on the other hand, are inexpensive, while they are also considered a
better option for wet conditions as they are less absorbent.
So,
whether to choose leather or synthetic boots, it’s simply a question of
preference.
What else do I need to consider? It is
important to pick a pair of boots perfectly suited to your position on the
pitch. For a player in defensive positions, a highly resilient boots equipped
with a wide striking surface to clear balls are for you.
For
offensive players, you need boots created for acceleration, stability and
accuracy. Such, should have a clear striking area, light uppers & soles for
agility and a secure stud formation.
Skipping the chitchat and getting down to the nitty gritty, you are here because your current boots are no longer in excellent shape. Whether a speedster, master at finesse or a tackling wizard, we have prepared a list of the best football boots in 2021.
9. Nike Mercurial Vapor 14 Elite
An upgrade for Mercurial Vapor 13, the Mercurial Vapor 14 features a Flyknit upper stripped down to the minimum for the lightest, fastest feeling.
The boot’s cushioned insole deliver nonstop comfort while its Chevron
studs maximise agility, delivering multidirectional traction with every step.
Buy Nike Mercurial Vapor 14 Elite from Amazon
8. Nike Mercurial Superfly 8 Elite
Yet another Vaporposite boot by Nike released in 2021.
It was designed to replace Superfly 7. Although it’s not as comfortable
as Superfly 7, its internal Avail Q microfibre gives Superfly 8 almost the same
on-feet experience as Superfly 7.
Buy Nike Mercurial Superfly 8 Elite from Amazon
7. Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite
Equipped with a streamlined upper and a re-engineered soleplate, the Tiempo Legend 9 Elite is one of the lightest Tiempos ever.
Tiempo Legend 9 Elite comfort and breathability is enhanced further,
thanks to an adaptive mesh tongue while its lighter soleplate gives a more
agile feel as you make cuts and runs.
Buy Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Elite from Amazon
6. Puma Future Z 1.2
Launched before the start of 2021/22 season, the Future Z 1.2 is built for attacking players like Neymar.
The boot features an eye-catching FUZIONFIT+ compression band at the
mid-foot. The band provides adaptive lockdown to suit your individual foot
shape and movements.
Its innovative “Z” shaped outsole also enhances multidirectional
movements.
Buy Puma Future Z 1.2 from Amazon
5. New Balance Furon V6+ Pro (FG)
New Balance latest addition to their Furon series, the Furon V6+ Pro is by far superior to previous editions.
An excellent speed boot capable of competing with other top speed boots,
the Furon V6+ features a refined fit weave upper for superior ball contact
& streamlined speed.
It also equipped with a ‘responsive’ design capable of easily adapting to the shape of your foot.
Buy New Balance Furon V6+ Pro from Amazon
4. Puma Ultra 1.3 (FG & AG)
The latest generation of Puma’s Ultra cleats, the Puma Ultra 1.3 boots arrived in two variants – a unisex fit and a women’s fit.
Tech-wise, Puma Ultra 1.3 are similar to 1.1 and 1.2 although they are a
bit lighter.
The boots feature a MATRYXEVO woven upper but with a glow up which
offers great stability and lockdown.
Buy Puma Ultra 1.3 from Amazon
3. Adidas X SpeedFlow (FG & AG)
The boot was designed to replace Adidas X Ghosted released last year.
They possesses an improved upper design and an AG specific option
underfoot was added.
The speed boots are available both in laced (Speedflow.1) and lace less
(Speedflow+).
In terms of tech, you get a form
fitting, lightweight PrimeKnit upper that provides an adaptive fit. There is
also a new engineered Agility Frame outsole that connects player to boot. It
features a lattice structure that wraps around the foot, providing lockdown and
stability in every direction while staying as lightweight.
Buy Adidas X Speedflow from Amazon
2. Mizuno Morelia Neo 3 Beta
If you are a player that prefers traditional feel, yet still want speedy boots, Mizuno Morelia Neo 3 Beta are the ones for you.
The boots feature a barefoot knit midfoot, with a synthetic layer
overlaying it for durability.
As with most leather boots, and every Made in Japan (MiJ) Mizuno boots, Mizuno Morelia Neo 3 Beta are comfortable as they mould around the shape of the feet perfectly.
Buy Mizuno Morelia Neo 3 Beta from Amazon
1. Adidas Predator Freak.1
The latest generation of Adidas Predator, the PREDATOR FREAK feature's 360 degrees of Adidas DEMONSKIN 2.0 technology – provides unrivalled ball control thanks to the rubber spikes on the upper.
Other notable improved features includes a prime knit upper and a new 2 piece
sock construction that offers a faster easier fit while providing an adaptive,
supportive fit.