Choosing the Right Soccer shoes

You can have the most expensive shoe on the market, but, if the shoe doesn't fit and it isn't appropriate for the sport, don't wear it. Soccer shoes that fit properly help to improve your performance and help you to avoid injuries. Soccer shoes that are worn out or designed for the wrong type of field can lead to poor performance and possible injury.
How do you select the right shoe?
Soccer shoes come in a variety of styles and cleat patterns. Each cleat pattern is designed to perform under certain field conditions. Cleats can be screw-ins or the indoor type and they can be molded or have blades. The screw-ins can accomodate as many as 12 studded cleats or as few as 6. The indoor cleat generally has a multicleat surface or an overall tennis shoe look. The cleats are also divided into soft ground (SG) and hard ground (HG) styles (Fig. 1). There is a design for particularly muddy fields, and there are also a few styles that are made specifically for women.
Are you confused yet? Then visit your local soccer specialty store. During a short visit, you can learn about the different types of soccer shoes and what design is best for you.