Quick answer
Buy kids' cleats that fit now, with about a thumb's width of room at the toe, not two sizes up. Molded studs (FG or MG) suit most youth fields, and many youth leagues ban metal studs. Hook-and-loop straps help young children who cannot tie laces. Check fit every season, because feet grow fast.
Kids’ cleats need to fit the foot and the field.
Fit checklist
- About a thumb’s width at the toe
- Heel stays down when walking
- No pinching at the sides
- Try on with soccer socks and shin guards
Studs
Molded studs suit most youth fields. See soccer cleat types for surfaces. Check league rules on metal studs.
Related: shin guard sizing.
Common questions
Should I buy soccer cleats a size bigger for growth?
Only a little room. Cleats that are too big cause blisters and poor control.
Can kids wear turf shoes for soccer?
Turf shoes are great on artificial turf and hard ground. On grass, molded cleats grip better.
How should kids' soccer cleats fit?
Snug at the heel, about a thumb's width at the toe, with no pinching at the sides.