Midfielders are a vital force on the team; therefore, soccer cleats for midfielders are an imperative piece of attire. Soccer cleats for midfielders are not mere shoes but a vital strength that enhances their skills and techniques and protects them at the same time.
10 Best Soccer Cleats for Midfielders
Here is a list of the best soccer cleats for midfielders available in the market.
1. Nike Tiempo Legend 9
An eminently established series of Nike, the Nike Tiempo Legend presents a blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative technological features. Likewise, the Nike Tiempo Legend 9 follows the same motif as its family line.
What we like
- Lightweight
Weighing 215 grams, the Nike Tiempo Legend 9 is one of the lightest cleats the market currently offers. Their lightweight notably aids in mobility during real matches.
- Kangaroo leather
Using premium soft kangaroo leather upper, Nike never skimps on its traditional high-quality materials. The kangaroo leather not only warrants comfort but also allows for a superb feel of the ball.
- Traction
The chevron stud configuration grants optimum traction on natural ground like grass. It aids midfielders when they rapidly change directions while running around the field.
- Durability
The Nike Tiempo Legend 9 offers remarkable durability. It guarantees brilliant performance even after extended matches and regular training.
- Ball control
Midfielders require exceptional ball control in order to pass, cross, and dribble the ball strongly and efficiently. The Nike Tiempo Legend 9 – with Flyknit touchpads on the tongue and heel of the shoe – enhances the midfielders’ skills.
What we don’t like
- Price
The Nike Tiempo Legend 9 has a higher price tag because of its premium materials, technology, and craftsmanship.
- Maintenance
The Nike Tiempo Legend 9 is undoubtedly far more durable than other products. Nevertheless, it does require maintenance according to its manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Puma Future Ultimate
PUMA is yet another trade name that has established itself with remarkable sportswear and equipment. The Puma Future Ultimate is a cleat that offers appreciable innovative designs to help midfielders implement their skills proficiently without compromising comfort.
What we like
- Ball control
The Puma Future Ultimate features a soft meshed instep and textured outstep. This allows for an adequate energy return, which grants midfielders superb ball control. They can also swiftly accelerate, decelerate, and change directions.
- Fitting
Implementing nifty mechanisms such as the NETFIT Lacing System and the evoKNIT Pro Ankle Collar warrant a snug fit. With the former, you can customize your foot size; the latter promises a secure and supportive fit around the ankle.
- Traction
Optimum traction is guaranteed with its stud configuration that works on both natural surfaces (such as grass) and artificial turf.
- Lightweight
The Puma Future Ultimate is designed to be lightweight, despite all the innovations that could potentially make it bulky.
What we don’t like:
- Price
Even if this product is lightweight the same cannot be said about its price tag – it is on the expensive side.
- Maintenance
All merchandise comes with a manufacturer’s guide on how to best care for the product to maximize its performance over a longer period. Be sure to follow it!
3. Nike Phantom GX Elite
The Nike Phantom series has made an extraordinary contribution to the sportswear industry with its ball control advantage. The Nike Phantom GX Elite – belonging to the same series – also boasts superb ball control with its capable devices.
What we like
- Ball control
In order to optimize the striking surface of the shoe, the Nike Phantom GX Elite employs a full ghost lacing system that boosts ball control, helping you pass it proficiently and accurately.
- Gripknit upper
The Gripknit upper allows not only a comfortable fit but also improves the feel of the ball on the feet.
- Traction
The Nike Phantom GX Elite features a stud configuration (comprising a mix of blades, conicals, and tristars) that maximizes traction on any turf.
What we don’t like
- Price
The Nike Phantom GX Elite is an expensive premium product.
4. Adidas Predator Accuracy.1
The Adidas Predator Accuracy.1 is a niche product of Adidas, manufactured using 50% recycled materials. It aims to reduce plastic waste without compromising the real purpose of soccer cleats for midfielders.
What we like
- Fitting and comfort
The Adidas Predator Accuracy.1 employs several modern mechanisms to provide a snug fit and comfort. For instance, the HYBRIDTOUCH upper calls for a customized fitting, and the two-piece Adidas PRIMEKNIT collar offers a secure fit around the ankles.
- Ball control
In order to maximize ball control, these soccer cleats feature FACETFRAME split tooling and a lace closure – both enhance the striking surface, optimizing the power transfer when passing the ball.
What we don’t like
- Price
Adidas is a premium brand, and its Predator Accuracy.1 falls under this category as well, so it has a higher price tag.
5. New Balance Tekela V4 Pro
New Balance has a celebrated reputation in the market for offering quality, innovative products. Their Tekela V4 Pro is a line specially made for midfielders, including ball feel and control.
What we like
- Ball control
The New Balance Tekela V4 Pro features Kinetic Stitch Technology to support ball control. The striking surface of the shoe is supported and stabilized to enhance the midfielder’s ball passing and shooting.
- Ball feel
This cleat employs a full-foot microfiber upper; it proposes an excellent ball feel despite not having any lace on the upper.
- Traction
A multipurpose stud configuration on these cleats offers superb traction on the field, enhancing a midfielder’s speed and mobility.
- Aesthetic appeal
The New Balance Tekela V4 Pro comes with stylish designs, catering to the aesthetic appeal of its audience.
What we don’t like
- Durability and maintenance
All cleats wear out unless maintained with care. The New Balance Tekela V4 Pro is no exception; it requires maintenance as instructed by its manufacturer’s guide.
- Weight
These cleats do not boast the lightweight that elite brands like Adidas and Nike do. You may find the New Balance Tekela V4 Pro heavier than what you are used to.
6. Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan
PUMA introduced its King Platinum 21 Vegan as a family of its leading King series, with the addition of vegan materials.
As its name indicates, the Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan is made entirely of animal-free, vegan products without forgoing the essential purpose of soccer cleat for midfielders.
What we like
- Ball feel
Despite animal-free leather, the most crucial aspect of a soccer cleat for the midfielder is not lost but enhanced. The Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan offers an excellent ball feel, boosting the midfielder’s game.
- Traction
The Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan has a stud configuration that warrants exceptional traction on natural grass, providing midfielders with superb ball control.
- Lightweight
These cleats are very light, which allows for optimum player mobility.
- Aesthetic appeal
If you are tired of standard iconic cleats due to their aesthetics, you will love the Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan’s stylish designs.
- Price
Despite being a highly sought-after product of PUMA, these cleats are moderately priced, falling within many people’s budgets.
What we don’t like
- Durability and maintenance
Like any other cleat, the Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan also requires constant maintenance as per the manufacturer’s guide. These cleats, if used in rainy weather, can wear out quickly, as they absorb moisture, so ensure you don’t use them in wet conditions.
7. New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG
The New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG (firm ground) is a premium product blending traditional craft with innovative technology. As its name suggests, these cleats are manufactured especially for firm grounds.
What we like
- Traction
The stud configuration of the New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG provides optimum traction and stability for midfielders who need to exercise agility and speed.
- Fitting and comfort
The New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG features a cushioned sole, a padded collar, and a REVlite midsole – all of these devices warrant comfort and a snug fit. The REVlite midsole also enhances the ball feel.
- Aesthetics
Offering mainstream designs, the New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG will definitely catch your eye.
- Durability
The New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG can tolerate extended plays and regular use because of its premium leather upper and well-constructed soleplate.
What we don’t like
- Price
The premium materials used in the New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG make it more expensive than other similar products.
- Usage and Maintenance
Leather cleats demand consistent maintenance to prolong their brilliant performance. You should not use the New Balance 442 V2 PRO FG in rainy weather, as it absorbs moisture.
8. Adidas Predator Accuracy+
The Adidas Predator Accuracy+ is made up of 50% recycled materials – Adidas wishes to reduce plastic waste through this method. Nevertheless, there is no compromise in quality, fitting, ball feel, and ball control – the elements crucial for a midfielder.
What we like
- Ball control and comfort
The Adidas Predator Accuracy+ features a hybrid touch synthetic upper, along with high-definition grip rubber elements in the strike zone. These nifty innovations guarantee excellent ball control on the striking surface, as well as a comfortable feel during the process.
- Mid-cut Adidas PRIMEKNIT collar
The Mid-cut Adidas PRIMEKNIT collar on the ankles offers a secure fit of the cleat over the ankles, providing both comfort and agile mobility.
- Firm ground outsole
The Adidas Predator Accuracy+ also comes with a firm ground outsole – this provides an unyielding grip on firm ground, guaranteeing a great mobile advantage for midfielders.
What we don’t like
- Price
The Adidas Predator Accuracy+ is a high-quality product of a premium brand, so it’s on the pricier side.
9. Mizuno MORELIA II ELITE
Mizuno is a Japanese brand with outstanding sportswear merchandise. Its MORELIA II ELITE from the MORELIA series is especially distinguished for its premium quality and durability.
What we like
- Premium kangaroo leather
The Mizuno MORELIA II ELITE employs premium kangaroo leather to ensure the highest quality, comfort, and ball control for midfielders.
- Traction
The Mizuno MORELIA II ELITE comes with a conical stud configuration; it smoothly allows for the flexible rotational movement of the midfielder without causing discomfort.
- Durability
The Mizuno MORELIA II ELITE is an extremely durable cleat, as all of Mizuno’s products are. They will not wear out easily and can withstand intense matches or regular training.
What we don’t like
- Price
A premium product of a premium brand – the Mizuno MORELIA II ELITE is an expensive cleat.
10. Adidas COPA MUNDIAL SOCCER SHOE
Having existed for several decades now, the Adidas COPA MUNDIAL SOCCER SHOES are an irreplaceable trend. Adidas has never compromised on quality products that offer superb traction and durability. After all, these are essential elements for midfielders.
What we like
- Kangaroo Leather
With its premium kangaroo leather upper, the Adidas COPA MUNDIAL SOCCER SHOES offer a comfortable and soft fit, adored by midfielders.
- Traction
These cleats feature a 12-stud outsole pattern, promising excellent traction on natural grass, giving midfielders great mobility.
- Durability
With premium quality material and superb craftsmanship, the Adidas COPA MUNDIAL SOCCER SHOES are highly durable, no matter if they’re used in an extended or regular match.
What we don’t like
- Price
Adidas is a premium brand, so its products come with a higher price tag. The Adidas COPA MUNDIAL SOCCER SHOES are no exception.
- Heavy Weight
The Adidas COPA MUNDIAL SOCCER SHOES are relatively heavier compared to other similar products. This extra weight can restrict mobility if you are not used to them.
What to Look for in Football Boots for Midfielders?
Comfort
Midfielders run around the whole field during a match; therefore, they require comfortable shoes that won’t become a burden.
Ball control
Excellent ball control is imperative for midfielders, so you should choose cleats made of kangaroo leather or soft synthetic material, as they offer the best ball control.
Traction
Stud configurations that offer agile mobility on all surfaces in all types of weather are ideal; however, such a perfect cleat does not exist. You can go for one that meets your needs.
Weight
An appropriate weight is crucial; heavyweight restricts mobility, while extremely lightweight does not offer the best ball control.
Protection
There needs to be adequate cushioning or padding woven into the shoe to protect the feet.
Fit
The correct fit is essential for a midfielder; a tight fit will cause discomfort, while a loose one will compromise ball control.
Durability
Soccer cleats for midfielders must be durable so that they can withstand extended matches and intense training.
Price
If you can afford premium products, go for it; however, if you can’t, there are quality, affordable goods in the market.
Why do Specific Soccer Cleats for Midfielders matter?
Midfielders play a pivotal role on a soccer field – their attires must, therefore, be carefully selected, particularly their shoes that protect their feet while they sprint around the whole field. Specific cleats for soccer midfielders cater to and enhance their comfort, ball control, traction, and protection.
Conclusion
There are numerous soccer cleats for midfielders in the market, each with its own pros and cons. In our opinion, the best soccer cleats for midfielders are the Puma King Platinum 21 Vegan.
They are the complete package, offering traction, durability, fitting, comfort, and an affordable price. Nevertheless, you must still give them consistent maintenance.
