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How to Break in Soccer Cleats
This article is part of the What to Know about Soccer Cleats series.
Soccer cleats are an essential piece of gear for players, and breaking them in is important to ensure comfort and performance on the field. To help players and parents, our Footwear Experts walk you through the steps on how to break in soccer cleats so you’re ready to take the field!
Why Break in Your Soccer Cleats?
Failing to break in your new soccer cleats can increase the likelihood of getting blisters and chafing. Soccer cleats are usually constructed from stiff synthetic or leather materials that initially feel tight on your feet. However, breaking them in over a few weeks helps the upper to mold your feet, providing better comfort.
Expert Advice When Breaking in Your Soccer Cleats
"There’s really no shortcut when it comes to breaking in your soccer cleats. When I played, I would always start by wearing my new cleats to practice, but I made sure to bring an old pair too—just in case my feet started to hurt. After a few solid practices, they’d be broken in and ready for game day!"
Steps to Break in Your Soccer Cleats
When you first try on your soccer cleats, they will feel stiff, but by following these suggestions, they will loosen up and become more comfortable. You shouldn’t feel pain when trying on your soccer cleats. If you do, you need to choose a better-fitting pair.
1. Walk around the House
Start by wearing your new soccer cleats around the house for short periods. Be sure to wear your soccer socks too. This will help the materials soften and adapt to the shape of your feet without putting too much strain on them.
2. Gradually Increase Time
Slowly increase the amount of time you wear your cleats. Start with short sessions in your backyard and gradually build up to wearing them for a portion of practice.
- Expert Tip | If you notice any specific areas that are causing discomfort, use a shoe stretcher or your hands to gently stretch that particular area.
3. Use Warm Water
To speed up the breaking-in process for leather soccer cleats only, you can put your cleats on with your socks and soak your feet in warm water for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, walk around in your cleats for up to 1 hour. The warm water will help soften the leather so that it can mold to your feet.
4. Wear Them During Practice
Once your cleats start feeling more comfortable, wear them during practice. These movements are like what you’ll experience in the game so if you need to make more adjustments you have time.
Breaking in your soccer cleats is an essential step in ensuring optimal comfort and performance on the field. By following the steps outlined by our Footwear Experts, you can enjoy a customized fit that enhances your playing experience. If you have additional questions about choosing soccer cleats, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Footwear Expert.
About our Experts
Hanna started playing competitive soccer at a young age with her local club program. Her hard work and passion for the game led her to play four years at the Division 1 level with NDSU. With years of experience on the field, Hanna enjoys sharing her knowledge to help players of all ages and skill levels find the right gear and elevate their game.