Soccer cleats should be replaced every six months to a year at most. So, if you’re about to lace up your soccer cleats from last season—stop—it’s probably time to replace them.
We get it. Sometimes, a pair of cleats is a lucky charm that netted a game-winner or made a key steal. But not replacing soccer shoes can have a serious impact on your game, so it’s worth looking into some tell-tale signs that it’s time for a fresh start with some new cleats.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Soccer Cleats
Your eyes, feet, and gameplay will all tell you when it’s time for a swap.
Separation or Holes
Inspecting your cleats for any holes on the upper or separation between the upper and the sole is as clear an indication as any that those cleats have reached their end. Opponent cleats might puncture a hole, or your foot’s movement in the cleat can cause tearing. Sometimes, the materials we loved at the start of the season become our enemy. Even quality materials that mold to our feet can stretch too far, resulting in a potentially hazardous cleat.
Lost Traction
Before lacing up those cleats, take a look underneath. If the studs are worn down, you should pick up a new pair before stepping on the pitch. If you notice during a practice or game that you can’t make the same cuts you used to, this is a sign that the studs have worn down. At this point, the cleats aren’t performing their primary purpose, so it’s time to retire them to your hall of fame.
Pain and Discomfort
If wearing your cleats for a full game or practice results in pain afterward, the cleats are the main culprit. Likewise, if putting the cleats on for any length of time is uncomfortable, it’s a warning that it’s time to replace them. A growing foot can cause this issue, or the materials within the cleat have degraded. In either case, it’s best to pick up a new pair.
Factors Impacting Longevity
Materials
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing new cleats is the material used. Rugged synthetic leather uppers, durable plastic outsoles, and sturdy studs will take you farthest. Look for Puma Soccer cleats, Nike soccer shoes and Adidas cleats to offer these materials in their mid-tier or top-of-the-line cleats.
Usage
Multiple practices weekly and frequent matches wear out soccer shoes. Even the highest-quality materials can only last so long when regularly exposed to harsh conditions. A stretch of rainy games, muddy conditions, or daunting turf stack up. If these cleats have seen multiple uses per week, odds are they’ll need to be replaced closer to six months.
Ready For an Upgrade?
When you need to replace that old pair or upgrade to the next generation of soccer shoes, trust SoccerPro to help you put your best foot forward. With Haaland-fast shipping, we can have you in a new pair before your next game!
