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Choosing the right sports boots for your child is essential for their comfort, performance, and safety. With a variety of options available, finding the best boots for football or rugby can be daunting. This guide will help you navigate through the choices, focusing on black boots, budget-friendly options, and non-metal stud alternatives and I’ll explain why:
Black Boots
Black boots are often a requirement in many UK schools due to uniform policies, you will also find some football academies require black boots, so the actions of the player stand out over their boot colour. They are versatile, durable, and easy to maintain. Find my top choices by clicking here.
Cheap Boots
Budget-friendly boots don’t necessarily mean compromising on quality. There are many economical options that provide great value for money, whilst still looking like those worn by the pro players. With Nike try their Club (very entry level) or Academy (suitable for most) boots, adidas League options usually are sufficient for children at school and Puma you can try their Pro pairs. These options save our wallet, whilst still having the cool factor for your child. Also be on the look out for Back to School promotions.
Boots Without Metal Studs
Many schools and clubs require boots without metal studs to prevent injuries and protect playing surfaces. Metal studs are great for very muddy pitches, but can prove dangerous so schools often ban them. There are a lot of artificial surfaces used nowadays too, so look for a pair with circular shaped studs to work on grass and turf or a MG pair which is Nike’s multi ground offering.
Best Football & Rugby Boots For School
My top three picks of boots to consider are:
Nike Vapor Academy
The Nike Vapor Academy does a decent job of replicating the close, one-to-one foot wrap of the top-end Elite model. For those students who like their boot to be snug or just have narrow feet, the Mercurial I think best suit that preference. This also gives the best responsiveness among other options at this price point, and has that warranty the Multiground outsole provides should the boots be used for both natural and artificial grounds.
Nike Phantom Academy
You can look like Erling Haaland or Phil Foden without costing an arm and a leg by going with the Phantom Academy. They may not have any hint of that top-end tech, but at least the aesthetics are there and the fit is passable. Academy Phantom trends a bit toward wider-fitting, so keep that in mind when purchasing a pair for your growing kid.
adidas Predator League
Best thing about the Predator League: adidas give your child options to go laceless or laced, and low-cut or collared. Choosing among these all boils down to his personal preference. Just be on the watch for the depth of the heel, as the brand’s options at this budget range tend to suffer from a shallow heel. This might affect the lockdown and performance in long run.
Other Considerations
Fit and Comfort
Ensuring the boots fit well is crucial. Look for boots that offer good arch support, cushioning, and a snug fit. It’s advisable to try on boots with the same type of socks your child will wear during the game.
Durability
Children can be tough on their footwear, so durability is a key factor. Synthetic materials tend to be more durable and easier to clean than leather.
Brand Reputation
Established brands often provide better quality and support. Brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Canterbury have a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality sports boots and the kids will appreciate recognising their favourite players wearing the brand too.
Seasonality
Consider the playing season. For winter sports, ensure the boots provide adequate grip on wet and muddy fields. For summer, lighter and more breathable options might be preferable.
Player Position
Different positions can require different types of boots, especially in rugby. For instance, forwards in rugby might need boots with more support and protection, while backs might prefer lighter, more agile options.