Best Soccer Shoes For Men: Top Picks & Buying Guide

Best men’s soccer shoes combine traction, comfort, and ball control across pitches.

I live in the US, in Austin, Texas, and I’ve spent countless weekends testing cleats on sticky summer turf, slick rainy grass, and abrasive indoor courts. If you play pickup after work or coach a youth squad, the right pair of soccer shoes fixes three big problems: slipping on wet grass, aching feet after 90 minutes, and losing touch with the ball during quick moves. In this guide I’ll walk you through the best soccer shoes for men I’ve tested and trusted in real games and practices. I’ll highlight fit, traction, and value so you can pick the pair that fits your playing style and field type.

New Balance 442 V2 Team FG (7.5 W)

The New Balance 442 V2 Team FG fits like a classic leather-style cleat but with modern comfort tweaks. On firm ground I found the synthetic upper forms well around the forefoot, delivering a soft first touch and predictable ball roll when passing. The fit is snug but forgiving across the instep, and the 7.5 wide option helped when I used thicker socks during cold-weather matches. The stud pattern feels stable on natural grass, locking my foot into quick cuts without over-penetrating soft fields. For players who favor precise passing and a soft touch, this model sings.

Durability surprised me: after several weeks of intense sessions the upper held up with minimal creasing and the soleplate stayed rigid, resisting flex where I needed support. Break-in was short — two training sessions — and traction remained consistent on dry grass. If you play mixed surfaces (short grass and trimmed pitches), the 442 V2 keeps its grip and control. It isn’t the lightest boot, but its feedback and classic feel make it a go-to for players who prize ball control more than pure speed.

Pros:

• Classic touch with modern comfort
• Stable firm-ground traction for natural grass
• Forgiving fit for wider feet
• Durable upper resists early wear
• Quick break-in; predictable ball control

Cons:

• Not the lightest cleat for speed-focused players
• Less effective on wet, muddy pitches than specialty studs

My Recommendation

The New Balance 442 V2 Team FG is best for midfielders and playmakers who need consistent ball feel and all-day comfort. I recommend this model for players wanting classic leather-like touch with modern stability. If you frequently play on maintained natural grass and value passing precision, this shoe delivers. Overall, it’s a solid contender among the best soccer shoes for men, providing great value and reliable performance for club and weekend players.

Best for	Why
Playmakers	Soft touch and predictable ball control
Wider feet	Available in wider fits for comfort
Weekend leagues	Durable enough for regular use

New Balance 442 Team FG (10 W)

This New Balance 442 Team FG in a 10 wide fits like a comfort-first cleat tuned for firm ground. I tested it on well-kept pitches and found the cushioning underfoot reduces soreness when you’re logging hours of training. The upper offers a secure lockdown without squeezing, and the toe box breathes better than many synthetic models, making hot-weather practices easier to tolerate. Ball feel is balanced—slightly muted compared to ultra-thin uppers—but still precise enough for crisp passing and controlled touches.

The stud configuration handles quick turns and lateral movement well, with minimal stud pressure across the forefoot. I appreciated the stable midfoot platform during sprint drills, which reduced rolling risk on sharp direction changes. While not optimized for muddy fields or artificial turf, the 442 Team FG excels on trimmed grass and firm ground. For players who prioritize comfort for long sessions and play mostly on natural fields, this model is dependable and comfortable.

Pros:

• Roomy wide fit for comfort
• Cushioned underfoot for long sessions
• Good lateral stability during cuts
• Breathable upper for warm climates
• Reliable firm-ground traction

Cons:

• Less responsive for explosive sprinting
• Not ideal for artificial turf or wet muddy conditions

My Recommendation

The 442 Team FG 10 W is best for recreational wingers and midfielders who want comfort without sacrificing control. I recommend it for men with wider feet who train frequently; it’s a practical pick among the best soccer shoes for men for natural grass use. It offers excellent value by blending support and comfort for long practices and weekend matches.

Best for	Why
Wide-foot players	Extra room without compromise
Training-heavy players	Cushioning reduces fatigue
Natural grass	Optimized stud pattern for firm ground

adidas Goletto IX FG (7.5)

The adidas Goletto IX serves as a reliable budget option for firm ground play. I tested this 7.5 size on trimmed natural grass and short-turf fields; it performed with consistent grip and a stable ride. The synthetic upper is thin enough to let you sense the ball while remaining durable against regular scrapes and tackles. The midsole provides modest cushioning that feels firm but comfortable during short sprints and small-sided games. This is a no-nonsense shoe that gives consistent performance at a friendly price point.

Players who need basic lockdown and traction without luxury features will appreciate its straightforward fit. Break-in time is nearly zero, which is great when you want to start playing right away. While it won’t outclass premium models for elite speed or advanced touch, the Goletto IX is a solid option for beginners, high school players, and adult recreational leagues. It’s a pragmatic pick for those searching for one of the best soccer shoes for men on a budget.

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• Thin upper for decent ball feel
• Immediate break-in; little downtime
• Good traction on firm ground
• Durable for repeated recreational use

Cons:

• Lacks advanced cushioning for high-mileage play
• Not tailored for artificial turf or wet muck

My Recommendation

The adidas Goletto IX is best for beginners and players on a budget who want a dependable shoe for firm ground. I recommend this model as one of the best soccer shoes for men when cost and consistency matter more than pro-level features. It’s straightforward, durable, and ready to use with minimal break-in.

Best for	Why
Beginners	Affordable and reliable
Recreational leagues	Durable for frequent play
Immediate use	Minimal break-in required

PUMA ATTACANTO FG (Size 10)

The PUMA ATTACANTO is a modern firm-ground cleat built for agile attackers and playmakers. I wore these in a few high-tempo sessions; the shoe felt responsive, with a slightly tapered toe for better ball manipulation. The upper is contoured and grippy, so dribbling and flicks feel secure. The soleplate has a mix of conical and bladed studs that provide excellent acceleration and quick pivoting. I noticed faster first-step speed compared to heavier, more classic designs.

Comfort was solid, though the toe box is narrower, so I recommend trying your usual size first. The PUMA’s blend of traction and control makes it a versatile option for competitive amateurs who need quick cuts and reliable acceleration. If you want one of the best soccer shoes for men focused on agility and attacking play, this model is affordable and performant for its category.

Pros:

• Responsive soleplate for quick acceleration
• Grippy upper aids ball control
• Balanced stud pattern for agile turns
• Modern look with functional design
• Good value for performance-oriented shoes

Cons:

• Narrower toe box may not suit wide feet
• Less cushioned for long sessions

My Recommendation

The PUMA ATTACANTO FG is best for attackers and tempo players who need quick acceleration and tight-turn traction. I recommend it for men who want agile performance without pro-level cost. It’s a competitive pick among the best soccer shoes for men if speed and control are your priorities.

Best for	Why
Attackers	Quick acceleration and grip
Skill players	Tapered fit aids ball control
Club players	Good performance per dollar

adidas Goletto IX Turf (Size 10)

The adidas Goletto IX Turf is designed for artificial turf and short-pile surfaces. I used these on a city turf field and noticed the dense rubber sole offers predictable traction and great energy return on synthetic surfaces. The upper is lightweight and breathable, which helps keep your feet cool during long sessions under stadium lights. Stability is strong during lateral moves, and the shoe’s construction helps reduce the sting from small rubber pellets often found on turf fields.

For players who practice mostly on artificial turf, this model offers consistent grip and durability. It’s not ideal for natural grass where studded cleats perform better, but on turf it outperforms hybrid or FG options. If you’re after one of the best soccer shoes for men specifically for turf use, the Goletto IX Turf gives a secure ride and holds up to high-mileage training.

Pros:

• Specifically tuned for artificial turf
• Comfortable and breathable upper
• Durable rubber outsole resists wear
• Good lateral stability for quick moves
• Affordable turf-specific option

Cons:

• Not suited for natural grass or muddy fields
• Less ankle support compared to higher-cut trainers

My Recommendation

The adidas Goletto IX Turf is best for players who train and play primarily on artificial turf surfaces. I recommend it to city-league players and coaches who need dependable traction on synthetic fields. It’s a top pick among the best soccer shoes for men focused on turf performance and durability.

Best for	Why
Turf players	Dense outsole for synthetic grip
City leagues	Built for frequent turf use
Coaches	Reliable and durable design

PUMA Future 7 Play FG (Size 10)

The PUMA Future 7 Play caters to creative players who need a flexible fit and responsive touch. I tried this pair in several small-sided games and liked how the adaptive upper wraps the foot for secure lockdown during feints. The textured forefoot helps with ball control and spin on passes. On firm ground the soleplate supports quick steps and agile maneuvers while remaining stable in tackles and collisions. The design balances comfort and dynamic support.

If you play in multiple positions—midfield to attack—the Future 7 Play is versatile enough to support creative play and repeated sprints. It handles short bursts of speed and frequent touches well. For any player seeking one of the best soccer shoes for men that blends flair and functional support, this PUMA model brings modern tech at a reasonable price and performs well under match pressure.

Pros:

• Adaptive fit for a snug, secure feel
• Textured forefoot enhances ball control
• Good balance between comfort and support
• Responsive soleplate for agile play
• Versatile across positions

Cons:

• May be tight for very wide feet
• Not optimized for wet muddy conditions

My Recommendation

The PUMA Future 7 Play FG is best for creative midfielders and attackers who rely on quick touches and nimble footwork. I recommend it for men who want a secure, adaptive fit with modern control features. It’s a smart pick among the best soccer shoes for men for versatility and touch.

Best for	Why
Creative midfielders	Adaptive upper for control
Versatile players	Handles sprints and touches
Club competitors	Modern tech at good value

New Balance 442 V2 Team IN (Size 9 W)

The New Balance 442 V2 Team IN is an indoor trainer built for fast-tempo futsal-style play. I wore these for several indoor drills and small-sided games—grip on the gum rubber outsole was excellent on gym floors, and the low-profile design kept me close to the surface for quick touches. The upper is flexible and delivers good ball feedback. Comfort is impressive: padded collar and responsive midsole help absorb hard landings and reduce foot fatigue during back-to-back games.

This IN version is ideal for recreational indoor leagues and futsal nights. It handles the sharp turns and abrasive court surfaces with minimal wear. If you play mostly indoors, you’ll find it to be one of the best soccer shoes for men that balances durability and court-friendly traction. It’s a trustworthy indoor option that doesn’t overcomplicate things.

Pros:

• Excellent indoor traction on gym floors
• Low-profile feel for better touch
• Padded collar for comfort during play
• Durable gum rubber outsole
• Quick break-in for immediate use

Cons:

• Not suitable for outdoor grass or turf
• Less cushioning than running shoes for long walks

My Recommendation

The New Balance 442 V2 Team IN is best for futsal players and indoor leagues who want court-specific grip and a low-profile feel. I recommend it as one of the best soccer shoes for men for indoor performance—durable and comfortable for fast, tight play.

Best for	Why
Futsal players	Designed for hard court traction
Indoor leagues	Comfortable cushioning for quick play
Gym drills	Durable outsole for repetitive use

New Balance 442 V2 Team TF (Size 10 W)

The New Balance 442 V2 Team TF is tailored for turf fields (TF). I tested it on rubberized practice pitches and short artificial surfaces; the high-density rubber studs disperse impact and reduce stud pressure. The upper is supportive and resists tearing from repeated contact with turf pellets. Comfort is notable for longer training blocks; the cushioned midsole helps during endurance drills and conditioning. Overall, it’s a reliable turf option for players who practice on synthetic fields several times a week.

Compared to FG cleats, turf shoes like this one provide a safer, more stable platform on artificial surfaces. I recommend the TF model for players who don’t want stud pressure but still need traction for sprints and lateral moves. When selecting the best soccer shoes for men, the turf-specific 442 V2 is a smart choice for practice-heavy players who want longevity and comfort on synthetic pitches.

Pros:

• Turf-specific outsole reduces stud pressure
• Comfortable midsole for long trainings
• Durable upper resists wear from pellets
• Good traction for short sprints and cuts
• Stable platform for conditioning drills

Cons:

• Not for use on natural grass with mud
• Heavier than minimalist speed boots

My Recommendation

The 442 V2 Team TF is best for turf-focused players and practice-heavy routines. I recommend this model for men who train often on synthetic fields and need a durable, cushioned shoe. It stands out as one of the best soccer shoes for men for turf-specific performance and comfort.

Best for	Why
Turf players	High-density studs for synthetic fields
Training-heavy	Cushioning supports long sessions
Durability seekers	Resilient upper and outsole

PUMA Future 8 Turf (10.5)

The PUMA Future 8 Play Turf Trainer is a turf-specific trainer with a lively feel underfoot. I tested it on short-pile turf where agility and touch matter; the outsole pattern offers reliable grip without feeling sticky. The upper is flexible with a textured finish for added control on short passes. Comfort is above average for turf shoes, and I liked the trainer’s ability to handle repeated practice sessions without breaking down.

For players looking for responsive turf performance with a modern aesthetic, the Future 8 Turf is a solid pick. It’s particularly well-suited for creative players who need consistent ball feedback while running drills and short matches. If you’re seeking one of the best soccer shoes for men for turf training, this PUMA model performs well and holds its shape through heavy use.

Pros:

• Responsive and comfortable turf outsole
• Textured upper for better control
• Good durability for frequent practice
• Modern design and fit
• Handles quick direction changes well

Cons:

• Not intended for natural grass use
• May feel tight initially for wide feet

My Recommendation

The PUMA Future 8 Turf is best for turf-centric players who want responsive trainers with control-focused uppers. I recommend it for men who practice on short-pile synthetic fields and want a stylish, dependable shoe. It’s a competitive choice among the best soccer shoes for men aimed at turf play.

Best for	Why
Turf drills	Patterned outsole for grip
Creative players	Textured upper for control
Frequent use	Durable trainer construction

PUMA ATTACANTO Indoor (10.5)

The PUMA ATTACANTO Indoor trainer provides a nimble, court-ready ride for futsal-style play. I tested it on gym floors and indoor courts; the gum rubber outsole offers immediate grip, while the low-top build gives freedom around the ankle for quick pivots. The upper is sleek and feels natural for ball work in tight spaces. Comfort is solid, with enough cushioning to play multiple back-to-back matches without developing hotspots or blisters.

Indoor-focused players who want a reliable trainer for leagues and pickup sessions will appreciate this shoe’s blend of traction and comfort. It’s not a heavy-duty outdoor shoe, but for men who prioritize court control and responsive feel, the ATTACANTO Indoor belongs in the conversation of best soccer shoes for men tailored to indoor play.

Pros:

• Excellent court traction
• Low-top freedom for quick pivots
• Comfortable cushioning for long play
• Durable gum outsole for indoor use
• Sleek, low-profile design

Cons:

• Not suitable for grass or turf
• May feel tight initially for some foot shapes

My Recommendation

The PUMA ATTACANTO Indoor is best for futsal players and indoor league competitors who need instant court grip and nimble movement. I recommend it for men seeking the best soccer shoes for men specifically for indoor play—reliable, comfortable, and performance-focused.

Best for	Why
Futsal	Court grip and low profile
Indoor leagues	Built for frequent indoor play
Pickup games	Comfortable for back-to-back matches

FAQs Of best soccer shoes for men

How do I choose between FG, TF, and turf shoes?

FG (firm ground) is for natural grass with short grass, TF and turf shoes are for artificial turf and rubberized fields. Pick FG for natural fields, TF/turf for synthetic surfaces to avoid poor traction and premature wear.

Should I size up or down in soccer shoes?

I recommend trying your normal sneaker size first. Some models run narrow; if you have wide feet, consider a wide option or half-size up. Allow for a thumb’s width at the toe for safety.

Can I use turf shoes on grass or vice versa?

It’s best not to swap. Turf shoes on grass give less traction and can wear quickly. FG cleats on turf might be unsafe and cause stud pressure or damage the turf.

How often should I replace soccer shoes?

Replace shoes when traction drops, or the upper/sole shows major wear—typically every season for regular players, earlier if you train multiple times weekly on abrasive surfaces.

What’s the best way to care for soccer shoes?

Clean mud and rubber pellets after use, air-dry at room temperature, stuff with paper to keep shape, and avoid machine washing to extend life.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

For natural grass play, the New Balance 442 V2 Team FG and PUMA ATTACANTO offer strong balance of touch and traction. For turf and synthetic fields, the adidas Goletto IX Turf and New Balance 442 TF deliver comfort and durability.

Overall, the best soccer shoes for men depend on your surface and playstyle. Choose FG for grass, TF/turf for synthetic fields, and indoor trainers for court play to get the best performance and value.