How long should soccer cleats last?

This is a question asked shortly after purchasing, say, a pair of high-end soccer cleats that cost close to $ 300.

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

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

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

2. The playing surface is important. If you buy firm ground studs, they are designed to play on firm grass surfaces. It is recommended not to use them on artificial grass, as it would be a sure way to break them ahead of time. Buy a pair of soccer cleats that are appropriate for the surface you play on, be it firm ground, soft ground, artificial grass, 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 is distributed between the two pairs.

4. The intensity of the game – here self-knowledge is the key. You have to know if you go to the field just to play some kicks, or some side games or if you like to play hard and move 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 pretty tough on your shoes and therefore expect to replace them frequently. Basically, your soccer cleat track record is key here.

If you want your soccer cleats to last as long as possible, it is important that you take good care of them. Here’s a soccer cleat care regimen.

1. You can get new cleats by jogging with them during warm-ups or just before a game. The more you engage them, the more they will relax and provide the correct fit.

2. Air dry the studs after each set and place some newspaper on them to absorb moisture and also hold their shape until dry. They will crack if you expose them to the sun while it dries.

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

4. Clean your soccer cleats shortly after the game to prevent dirt and dust from settling on the leather and causing damage. Gently brush dirt from dented areas of the seams. If you are using cleaning products, make sure they do not affect the soccer cleats.

5. Use a leather foot and leather creams regularly to keep the leather upper of your soccer cleats soft and supple.

6. Never clean them with hot water, as this ruins the shoes.