Football is commly known as 'the king of sports' not only because of the millions of fans who follow the games on TV, but also because of the millions of players who compete at all levels: beginners, semi-professional, professional and amateur. Just as there are many types of athletes, there are also many kinds of fields with differing characteristics: natural or artificial grass, hybrids and dirt. And of course, there is a sole that has been developed for each of these surfaces.
What types of soles are there? Where to use each type?
The FG stands for Firm Ground and is the classic boot we all know and love. Maybe you have heard them referred to as ‘rubber studs’, although sometimes they are not strictly rubber. This sole is perfect for use on fresh natural grass.
Sometimes you'll see people use these boots on the latest generation of artificial grass. These replicate natural grass pitches quite well, so it's a completely valid boot preference. However, it is important to know that it's still not the most advisable choice, as this is not covered by warranty and not all boots are compatible in this situation. For example, boots with long studs are not a suitable choice for artificial grass pitches.
In this case, SG stands for Soft Ground. These are the traditional aluminium boots. We are currently working with two types: Multi-ground (or hybrid) and SG football boots.
SG football boots are the ones we have seen the most throughout the history of our beloved sport. They feature 6 studs for support and present a greater capacity for penetration on the pitch. It is advisable to use them on muddy ground and rainy days.
Multi-ground football boots are the most used in professional football matches and training sessions, as the ground they play on is soft, but not enough to need the depth and length of 6 studs in all cases. Likewise, since they feature more footholds, many players feel like they are more comfortable. Most brands' studs are made from aluminium. However, Nike has revolutionised the market by creating steel stud SG boots. This makes it impossible to take the studs out as usual and swap them for other types, increasing their durability.
Artificial grass boots are, as the name suggest, the most suitable option for use on artificial grass pitches. We are seeing them being chosen by players more and more as time passes. 'What makes them different?', you may ask. Generally, this type of boot has a greater number of shorter studs, which makes for gentler steps. Artificial grass pitches have no soil under, so there is no need to go deep with classic, longer studs.
Puma in particular deserves a spot on the highlight, since they have been dishing out plenty of FG/AG models lately. Due to their length, material and stud grip, this type of sole adapts perfectly to both firm ground and artificial grass. We have noticed this is something especially valuable for those of you who alternate between both terrains during the seasons.
Moving on to the opposite case, these are the type of boots we see less and less of everyday. The reason lies in the fact that these boots were developed with the first ever artificial grass pitches in mind. Turf soles present an array of studs that have proven to be great for a more urban grounds.
This sole presents much more support, and therefore the tread is adapted to a very versatile range of terrains: carpeted football pitches, first generation artificial grass, concrete or dirt. Still a nice option for beginner football players.
The type of boot designed to be suitable for as many kinds of surfaces as possible. Multipurpose soles with (usually) conical studs seeking to provide athletes with infitine potential on their ground of choice.
Personally, these are not our cup of tea. Considering they are sometimes halfway between AG and FG boots, they don't offer any kind of useful specialisation. Nevertheless, MG boots are still a better alternative than some for certain surfaces, or when playing on different pitches during the season.
Cement, parquet or the classic sports hall rubber floor are where this final type of boot truly shines. Especially made for indoor football lovers!
We are of the opinion that soles designed for indoor play are best when it comes to grip and comfort around sports facilities, although it is true that if you play on cement, you look for a harder sole or even a turf one. The Nike Street Gato models are one of the best to choose at this level, since they have achieved a perfect balance on concrete floors.
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![Indoor boots Street Gato Black-Summit White-Off Noir]()
Indoor boots Street Gato Black-Summit White-Off Noir
£53.35Go to technical description -
![Indoor boots Lunar Gato II Green Frost-White]()
Indoor boots Lunar Gato II Green Frost-White
£75.03Go to technical description
In a nutshell, these are the soles at our disposal nowadays. We have seen significant progress on FG/AG soles, more changes in aluminium studs and even anti-mud soles. Now there really is no excuse to fumble our bootsole choices! And you folks are in luck, because in our next blog post, we further help you choose the perfect boot for your style of play.
