The game of soccer continues to evolve and so does the technology of soccer cleats! To help navigate the new 2024 cleat launches, I’ve put together my top five favorites from Nike, Adidas and Puma. Each of these cleats are a great option for soccer players this season!
#1 Top Overall New Cleat of 2024: Nike Phantom GX 2 Elite LV8 FG
A versatile boot by definition, the Phantom GX 2 is worn by a variety of players who play all of the eleven positions on the field. The stud pattern uses the Nike Cyclone 360 traction pattern which is designed for agility and lateral cuts.
What George likes best about this shoe: The revamped GX 2 incorporates the best parts of the GX 1 with new innovations. Specifically, the redesigned Nike Gripknit is made for exceptional ball striking and touching while on the ball, and the texture is designed to perform in all weather conditions.
#2 Best New Cleat of 2024: Adidas Predator Elite FG
Best for attacking players, especially strikers. Designed for scoring, this shoe delivers supreme flexibility and grip for shooting.
What George likes best about this shoe: The new Predator Elite still holds true to its origins, still featuring the classic 3-stripes on the side of the boot from the 1998 Predator Accelerator worn by the likes of Zidane, Beckham, and Del Piero but now with a modern upper perfect for anyone looking to score. The HybridTouch 2.0 upper is designed to be a flexible material and is complimented with Strikeskin fins on the instep of the boot to allow the wearer to strike the ball with precision.
#3 Best New Cleat of 2024: Puma Future 7 Ultimate FG/AG
Best for either attackers or midfielders, the Puma Future 7 Ultimate is a versatile boot that is worn by an array of players that play up front and in the middle of the park. The design of the cleat pattern is made to maximize agility and lateral movements for the player.
What George likes best about this shoe: The design of the shoe has received an update for the first time in a few years as Puma has opted for a cleaner and more modern design on the cleat. The FuzionFit360 upper is designed for maximum movement and freedom on the pitch. The Future is also uniquely one of the only shoes that is designed to be played with or without laces, allowing the player to explore how the shoe best performs for them.
#4 Best New Cleat of 2024: Nike Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 Elite
Best for attacking players looking to maximize their speed and agility, this shoe has a Zoom Air unit made just for soccer with a grippy texture to help with speed as you race around the field.
What George likes best about this shoe: A consistent staple of the soccer cleat world, the Vapor has always been built for speed. Introduced in 2002 as the lightest cleat on the market, and since has always been synonymous with speed. The 15th generation of the cleat has combined its iconic speed with fantastic touch by using the Vaporposite+ technology in the upper which is designed for superior grip and control while on the ball and maintaining a soft feel to make the cleat super comfortable.
#5 Best New Cleat of 2024: Adidas X Crazyfast Elite FG
Best for speed and agility. Most commonly worn by players that play in an attacking position but also used by a variety of players in the midfield and defense.
What George likes best about this shoe: A very lightweight shoe that allows the wearer to play quick without a clunky boot on their foot. The heal support offers cushion that isn’t available in a majority of other cleats, which gives it an edge of comfort.
Overall, there are a lot of great new cleats this year and it was difficult to just list five! Nike, Adidas and Puma have several cleats to fit your needs and budget. Check out our huge selection online or at your local European Sports. We look forward to seeing you and wish you and your team a great soccer season!