Another exciting season of soccer action is underway, and we at The InStep consider it the perfect time to reflect on the past year and pick out the best soccer shoes for 2024. Like Messi digging into his bag of tricks, major brands keep innovating cleats to bring out the best in every player. So here are the five best cleats for 2024 broken down by silo.
Best Boots for Midfielders and Defenders
If you’re a midfielder or defender, you need a reliable soccer boot that keeps the ball in your possession as long as possible. With grippy uppers and a locked-in cage, these two boots stand out for control.
Nike Phantom GX II and Luna II Elite
The Nike Phantom GX 2 Elite and Phantom Lunas are some of the best control boots around. Preferred by superstars like Erling Haaland, these are made for players who take charge. The Phantom GX and Luna 2’s Gripknit upper sets it apart. The coated synthetic fibers create a sticky texture right where your foot comes in contact with the ball. Add the Strikezone to the toe area and you have a boot that can do it all, just like the best midfielders.
adidas Predator Elite
Before we talk tech, let’s take a minute to appreciate the adidas Predator’s awesome vintage look. The retro-inspired foldover tongue doesn’t just look sweet, it creates more surface area for controlling the ball. The Hybridtouch upper, composed of lightweight and responsive materials, doesn’t just withstand poor conditions, it performs better because of them. Don’t forget the strategically placed Strikefins, which make for sure-footed passing and shooting. These adidas soccer shoes are a defender or midfielders’ dream.
What Wingers are Wearing in 2024
Sometimes you need to throw caution to the wind and sprint down the pitch for glory. Best go with this boot, then.
Sprint Away in the Puma Ultra Ultimate
Arguably one of the most comfortable Puma soccer shoes, the Puma Ultra Ultimate puts you on the fast track to soccer glory. The sock-like feel of Puma’s FUTUREFIT and PWRTAPE technologies locks your foot in place, giving you the confidence to push off at full power. But what about those moments when you need to fire a cross to your striker? Rely on the Ultra Ultimate’s PWRPRINT to deliver a supple and sticky grip on the ball.
Best Soccer Boots for Striking
It’s the waning seconds of the game and you need a goal to win. This is the boot you want.
Nike Mercurial Superfly 10 Elite
Take the best of the control boots and mix it with the best speed boot—the result is the monster that is the Nike Mercurial Superfly 10 Elite. Borrowing a Gripknit upper from other Nike soccer shoes like the Phantoms, the Mercurial has a durable, soft, and tacky upper. The Air Zoom unit inside returns more energy and provides for a spring in each step, while the wavy outsole provides enhanced traction in various conditions. If it’s good enough for Mbappe, it’s good enough for this list.
Best Boot For Keepers
We can’t have a list of best cleats without including something for the keepers!
New Balance Tekela V4+ Pro Low
Stability, traction, bounce. The New Balance Tekela V4+ Low provides everything a keeper needs to stay sharp for the full 90 minutes. The Hypoknit upper dissolves the foot to ball barrier for a natural dribbling and control experience. The outsole is dedicated to traction with bladed studs that make diving for a ball or jumping after a header easier. Want more ankle support? Take a look at some other New Balance soccer shoes like the Tekela V4+ Pro FG.
Wherever you play on the pitch, find the best soccer cleats for you at SoccerPro. Get free shipping on orders over $75!
