Buying Your First Pair of Football Cleats for Your Kid
How to Buy Your First Pair of Football Cleats For Your Kid
When it comes to buying your child’s first pair of football cleats, the process can feel overwhelming. As a parent and as a former athlete, i have purchased countless cleats. I have also help quite a few friends and family members buys cleats for their kids too, AND I’ve learned a few tricks along the way.
When buying your kids cleats, there is one ultimate goal: To find cleats that let your kid focus on the game - not their feet.
The Most Important Factor: Cleats Shouldn't Be a Distraction
Kids need to feel comfortable in their cleats to perform their best. The most common issue I’ve seen with young players is discomfort. Cleats that pinch, rub, or cause pain can quickly turn an exciting game into a frustrating experience. The solution? Proper fit and breaking them in.
A well-fitting cleat should be snug but not too tight. Always try them on with the socks your child will wear during games or practices. And don’t make the mistake of sending your kid to the field with brand-new, stiff cleats. Breaking them in is essential.
Breaking in Cleats the Right Way
Breaking in cleats doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take a little effort. Our go-to method involves warm water and some time on a hot turf field. Here’s what we do:
Run the cleats under warm water to soften the material.
Have your child put on their socks and cleats, lacing or strapping them tightly.
Head to a turf field and let them practice for 40-45 minutes.
Keep the cleats moist throughout practice by spraying or pouring ice water on them.
The combination of heat, moisture, and activity helps the cleats mold to your child’s feet, ensuring they’re comfortable and game-ready. This process might take a few practices, but the results are worth it.
Tips for Choosing the Right Cleat
Not all cleats are created equal, and what works for one child might not work for another. When selecting cleats:
Consider weight and support: Lightweight cleats work well for younger, smaller kids, while bigger, heavier players might need more ankle support and durability.
Ease of use: For younger players, cleats with Velcro straps instead of laces can be a lifesaver. They’re quicker to adjust and allow your child to focus on the game.
Prioritize comfort over style: While kids might be drawn to flashy designs, comfort should always come first. A cool-looking cleat isn’t worth it if it causes pain or slows them down.
A Word of Caution
One common mistake I see—even with high school and college players—is waiting until game day to break in new cleats. This often leads to discomfort, foot cramps, and even injuries. Always break them in during practice to ensure your child’s feet are ready for action.
Final Thoughts
The right cleats can make a huge difference in your child’s performance and enjoyment of the game. They should feel so comfortable that your child doesn’t even notice them. At the end of the day, football is about having fun, building confidence, and creating memories—not worrying about sore feet.
With a little preparation and the right pair of cleats, your child will be ready to hit the field with confidence. Happy shopping and good luck this season!
Share Your Experience
Have a cleat recommendation or tip for other parents? Drop it in the comments below—we’d love to hear what’s worked for you!
Starting Your Kid's Social Media Checklist:
Here is a quick checklist to get you started with you website blow. Remember imperfect action beats inaction, get started and keep publishing.
Create a Gmail account for your kid
Create a square Profile Pic for your kid's Gmail Account. (1:1 headshot)
Create a FB account for your kid - use the Gmail you just created
Create an IG account for your kid - connect the FB account you just created
Create a Hudl account for your kid - use the Gmail you created
Create a YT account for your kid (this will be your Google login)
Make a FB Cover Pic (use canva, and check suggested dimensions on FB)
Make a YT Cover Pic (use canva, and check suggested dimensions on YT)
Make a Hudl Cover Pic (use canva, and check suggested dimensions on Hudl)
