How long should soccer cleats last?

This is a question that gets asked shortly after purchasing a pair of quality football straps that cost close to $300.

If you are an active player, playing 3 to 7 times a week, say seven, and have only one pair of quality soccer cleats, you can expect them to last one full season (three to four months) and if you are lucky, maybe two seasons.

There are four main variables to determine how long soccer cleats should last

1. A lighter shoe will be less durable. The material is thinner and more likely to break faster than a heavier shoe.

2. The playing surface is important. If you purchase Firm Ground cleats, they are designed to be played on hard grass surfaces. It is advised not to use them on artificial turf as that would be a sure way to break them before time. Buy a pair of soccer cleats that are suitable for the surface you’re playing on, whether it’s hard ground, soft ground, artificial turf, or indoors.

3. If you are an active player, playing every day, it makes sense to get an extra pair of cleats so that the wear and tear is distributed between the pair.

4. Intensity of play – here self-knowledge is key. You should know if you are going to the field to play only a few kicks, some side games, or you like to play intensely, moving around a lot on the field. In the latter scenario, no brand will last longer than another. You have to be realistic and admit that you are very hard on your shoes and therefore expect to replace them more often. Basically, a proven track record in ball cleats is key here.

If you want your soccer cleats to last as long as possible, good care is important. Below is the soccer cleat care system

1. Breaking into new cleats can be achieved by running into them during warm-ups or just before a match. The more you engage them, the more they will loosen up and provide the proper fit.

2. Air-dry the cleats after each game, stuffing some newspaper inside them to absorb moisture as well as maintain shape until dry. They will crack if you expose them to the sun while drying.

3. Remove the detachable cleats shortly after the match. Walking in them on any other surface weakens them and renders them useless in their function of providing you with grip.

4. Clean the soccer cleats immediately after a match to prevent dirt and dust from settling into the leather and causing damage. Carefully wipe off any dirt from the dented stitching areas. If you use cleaning products, make sure they are gentle on soccer shoes.

5. Use leather and foot cream regularly to keep the leather uppers of your soccer cleats soft and supple.

6. Never subject them to cleaning with hot water, as this mars the shoes.