Football boots Kids

How to choose the right children's football boots

Start with where they play. Natural grass, artificial grass, turf and indoor courts require different types of outsoles, so getting the surface right comes first. From there, it's about finding a size and fit that feels secure and comfortable on the foot.

Once those two things are sorted, there's more room for personal preference. Some players like lightweight, close-fitting football boots, while others prefer more cushioning, a softer upper or a different type of fit. And yes, colour and design can matter too. Football boots should be something you actually look forward to pulling on before training.

FG, AG, MG, TF or IC - choose the right outsole

The letters in the name of a football boot tell you which surface it's designed for. It's worth checking before choosing a pair.

FG - kids' football boots for natural grass

FG stands for Firm Ground and is designed for firm natural grass pitches. The studs are built to provide grip on natural grass. If that's where most of the football is played, explore our FG football boots for kids.

AG - kids' football boots for artificial grass

AG stands for Artificial Grass and is specifically developed for artificial pitches. The stud shape and configuration are adapted to the synthetic surface, so if most games and training sessions take place on artificial grass, AG football boots for kids are a natural place to start.

MG and FG/AG - for multiple surfaces

MG stands for Multi Ground and is used for boots designed for more than one type of surface. You'll also find FG/AG models made for both natural and artificial grass. They can be a practical option for kids who regularly switch between different pitches.

Always check the surface recommendation on the individual product, as intended use can vary between models.

TF - for turf

TF stands for Turf. Instead of longer studs, these boots have lots of small rubber studs under the outsole and are designed for harder synthetic surfaces and shorter artificial grass.

IC and IN - for indoor football

For football played indoors, look for IC or IN. Indoor football shoes have a flat outsole without studs and are made for hard indoor courts. Many models use a non-marking rubber outsole that provides grip without leaving marks on the floor.

How should kids' football boots fit?

Kids' football boots should fit relatively close to the foot and keep it secure when running, stopping and changing direction, but they shouldn't pinch or hurt.

Because kids grow quickly, it can be tempting to buy boots significantly bigger to leave extra room to grow. Too much space can allow the foot to move around inside the boot, which can feel uncomfortable and make it harder to get a stable feel and good control of the ball. Use the child's current foot measurement and the sizing information for the specific model rather than automatically going up a size. Keep in mind that fit can also vary between different models.

Nike, adidas or PUMA - which kids' football boots should you choose?

It's easy to start with a favourite brand, but the model tells you more about how a boot is designed to feel. Nike, adidas and PUMA all offer several football boot silos in kids' sizes, with different constructions and fits.

Nike Mercurial is the clear speed silo for players who like a close and responsive feel, while Phantom puts more emphasis on touch and control. At adidas, F50 is the speed-inspired option, while Predator is built around control. PUMA offers ULTRA for speed, while FUTURE focuses more on an adaptive fit and freedom of movement.

Think of these as a starting point rather than a rulebook. The child's foot and how the boot actually feels matter more than the playing style or position associated with a particular model. A striker doesn't have to wear a speed boot - and a midfielder doesn't have to choose a control boot.

Children's football boots at different price points

Ever seen two football boots that look almost identical but have very different prices? That's often because the same boot family is available at several levels. The overall design can be similar, while materials, construction, weight and technologies may differ between versions.

With Nike, you'll find levels such as Pro, Academy and Club, while adidas uses levels including Elite, Pro, League and Club. At PUMA, you'll come across levels such as Pro, Match and Play. The exact levels available can vary depending on the model and surface.

Premium - for players who want more from their boots

At the top of the model ranges, you'll find options such as adidas Elite and Nike and PUMA Pro. These normally feature a more advanced version of the model's construction and materials. They can be worth considering for kids who play a lot, already know what type of boot works for them and appreciate the features found in the higher-end versions.

Mid-range - a good balance for many players

Nike Academy, adidas League and PUMA Match are examples of levels further down their respective ranges. You still get much of the identity and feel of the model, but at a lower price than the premium version. For many kids who train and play regularly, this is a good place to start comparing options.

Entry level - a simpler first pair

Nike Club, adidas Club and PUMA Play are more affordable options. They can work well as a first pair of football boots, for kids who play less frequently or when you simply don't need the materials and features found in the more expensive versions.

More expensive doesn't automatically mean better for your child. The right surface, size and fit come first. Once those are sorted, you can choose the level based on how often they play, which features they actually value and your budget. If you're looking to get more for your budget, you can also explore our kids' football boots on sale.

Find the right football boots for your child

If you remember three things, make them these: choose an outsole designed for the surface your child plays on, measure their feet instead of guessing the size, and find a model that feels comfortable and secure.

Once those things are sorted, the rest gets a lot more fun. Then you can compare models, price points and colours - and find a pair they actually look forward to playing in.