In the wide world of soccer, not all fields are the same. Therefore, not all soccer cleats are the same. From the youth level all the way to the pros, matches are played on both artificial turf and real, natural grass. 

For turf, players typically wear specialized artificial ground (AG) cleats—and for natural grass, they typically wear firm ground (FG) cleats, or sometimes soft ground (SG) cleats. However, if you’re the proud owner of a prized pair of AG cleats, you may be wondering: can I wear them on natural grass fields? 

The short answer: it depends. The long answer? That’s what this guide is for.

AG Cleats vs. FG and SG Cleats: What’s the Difference?

To get an idea of how the experience of playing in AG cleats on natural grass may differ from using FG or SG cleats on natural grass, it’s important to get an idea of the basic design differences between these soccer shoes.

FG and SG Cleats

First, FG and SG cleats. Short for “firm ground” and “soft ground” respectively, FG and SG cleats are specially designed for real, natural grass growing from real natural dirt. They have long studs that penetrate the ground more effectively, providing better traction on softer, more variable surfaces. 

This design aids in acceleration, turning, and overall stability on natural grass, where conditions can vary from soft and muddy to hard and dry. 

When the ground is particularly soft, SG cleats use removable metal studs in conjunction with plastic studs to facilitate secure footing tailored to the conditions. However, any amount of traction provided by metal studs is often too much for firmer natural ground, which is where FG cleats come in. 

FG cleats feature only plastic or rubber studs to provide a moderate amount of hold better suited to drier natural ground.

AG Cleats

Next, AG cleats. Short for “artificial ground,” AG cleats are specially designed for artificial turf made of synthetic grass fibers, granulated rubber, and some kind of shock absorbing base. 

While not all artificial turfs are the same, there is a higher degree of similarity between them and different types of natural ground. AG cleats are designed with this similarity in mind, featuring shorter, more numerous studs to provide the appropriate amount of traction without players getting stuck.

Using AG Cleats on Natural Grass: Factors to Consider

As a general rule: using AG cleats on natural grass is usually fine. AG cleats more closely resemble FG cleats than they resemble SG cleats—so a good rule of thumb (or foot) is: if it’s an FG situation, AG cleats are worth considering. 

Before you decide to suit up with AG cleats on natural grass, here are a few factors to mull over:

The ground. 

On very well-maintained natural grass, AG cleats might not provide enough penetration into the ground, which is essential for optimal traction and to prevent slippage. This could potentially impact your ability to accelerate, change direction, and maintain stability. 

On the other hand, in conditions where the natural grass is hard, compact, or somewhat worn — conditions somewhat closer to those of artificial turf — AG cleats may be a perfect fit.

The brand and model of your cleats. 

Nike cleats, adidas cleats, PUMA cleats. The list of brands goes on—and within each brand, so does the list of particular soccer cleat models. If you want a pair of AG cleats that can do double-duty on most natural grass fields, do your research and see which brands and models best fit your requirements (and feet). 

Some brands even offer “multi-ground” cleats designed to work on as many surfaces as possible.

The risks. 

In some cases, using AG cleats on natural grass will come with risks. At minimum, those risks involve dips in performance. Your cuts may not be as sharp. Your power may take a hit. Your mobility may suffer. 

At worst, using AG cleats in the wrong environment can lead to injury. A bad plant or slip without proper traction can lead to devastating results—so be sure to exercise good judgment before breaking out a pair of AG cleats on natural grass.

Shop AG, FG, and SG Cleats at SoccerPro

No matter which type of cleats you’re looking to wear next season, our team at SoccerPro has you covered. Shop AG, FG, SG cleats (and more) from today’s top brands right here.