Dean Ariola is the Chief Writer at FootballBoots.co.uk, a role he has held since 2020. Joining the site allowed him to combine two long-standing passions: football boots and writing. His focus is on translating what a boot actually feels like on the pitch into clear, useful advice players can trust.

While modern boot reviews are often driven by video and imagery, Dean believes strong writing remains essential. Whether spoken or written, words are what give context to design, materials, fit, and performance. His aim is always to help readers imagine the real experience of wearing a boot, not just understand its specifications.

Covering New Boot Releases

Dean is typically among the first to cover new football boot releases, whether that means a fresh colourway, a new generation update, or the launch of an entirely new silo. He breaks down what has genuinely changed, what has stayed the same, and where improvements or compromises have been made. His work also includes special editions and player signature boots, exploring the stories, inspirations, and design decisions behind them.

Boot Secrets Guide & Published Work

Dean plays a key role in maintaining and updating the Boot Secrets guide, ensuring it stays accurate as brands refresh models, adjust tiers, and introduce new technologies. The guide is designed to make sense of the often confusing boot landscape by explaining silos, price tiers, materials, and value differences in a clear, practical way.

He is also the co-author of 24/25 Boot Secrets: How To Choose Your Football Boots, written alongside Ian Ebbs and available on Amazon. The book exists for players who prefer a more considered, offline way to learn about boots, and it reflects the same philosophy as the site: informed choices based on real understanding rather than marketing claims.

Personal Approach to Boot Fit

Dean’s own journey with football boots shaped how he evaluates them today. What began as a simple search for the right size quickly became an understanding of how foot shape, materials, and lockdown systems affect comfort and performance. He naturally gravitates towards boots that accommodate a wider or flatter foot profile and prioritise comfort over an ultra-tight, aggressive fit.

One standout example was the Puma Future 5.1, which suited his flat feet, offered a genuinely premium knit feel, and delivered adaptable lockdown through the Netfit lacing system. Experiences like this influence how he assesses boots and who he believes each model is truly best suited for.