
My 6-Year-Old Is Starting Soccer for the First Time — Which Cleats Should I Buy?
Starting soccer for the first time is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming with so many choices. One of the most common questions we hear from parents is:
Which cleats should I buy for my 6-year-old?
We’re here to make that choice a little easier.
Step 1: Know the Playing Surface
Before you buy, check with your coach or club what type of field your child will play on. The right cleats depend on the surface:
Grass or 4G fields (artificial turf): Molded cleats are perfect for both and provide safe traction. In the US, 4G turf is increasingly common, so moldeds are a versatile option.
Mud or very wet natural grass: Metal studs can help with grip — but they cannot be worn on turf fields.
Indoor or turf gyms: Flat-soled indoor shoes or turf shoes (TF) are needed for traction without damaging the surface.
Why Your Child’s First Cleats Matter
The first pair of cleats sets the tone for your child’s soccer experience. Properly fitted cleats ensure:
Safety on the field — less slipping or tripping
Comfort for growing feet
Confidence and focus on the game, not sore toes or blisters
Uncomfortable or poorly fitting cleats can make your child’s first soccer experience frustrating — and no one wants that!
Don’t Overspend
It’s tempting to buy high-end cleats right away, but if it’s your child’s first season, keep it simple and affordable. Kids grow fast, and sometimes interest may fluctuate in the first year.
Big brands often release cleats in multiple tiers — Elite, Pro, and Academy — which can look almost identical. Don’t get caught out by the branding until you reach checkout!
Should I Buy a Size Bigger to Grow Into?
Football cleats should fit comfortably snug, not loose. Buying too big can cause:
Blisters and rubbing
Less control when kicking
Instability and possible injuries
Top tip: Always try cleats on with the soccer socks your child will wear. If there’s a little extra room, grip socks can reduce movement inside the cleat.
Laces or Laceless Cleats?
Many parents report that their child spends half the game re-tying laces. One parent on Reddit said:
“Kids spend so much time tying and retying their shoes … try the laceless ones.”
We get it — and that’s why we created Laceeze bands to keep laces locked tight for the entire game.
Laceless cleats can be trickier for young players to put on, so for most 6-year-olds, laced cleats with Laceeze bands are the best combination.
Break Cleats In at Home
Once you’ve picked your cleats, have your child wear them for short periods at home. This softens the material and prevents blisters on game day.
Cleat Care Tips
To make cleats last the season:
Clean them after every use
Dry naturally — avoid direct heat (can damage glue)
Use shoe deodorizing pouches to keep them fresh — the Defiance Fresh range works great.
Laceeze Is More Than a Brand
Your child’s first soccer steps are something special — and with the right cleats, they’ll feel confident, comfortable, and ready to play.
At Laceeze, we’re more than just a product — we’re a community of grassroots parents celebrating every goal, assist, and sideline smile. Share your Laceeze moments with us on social media — we love seeing your young soccer stars in action!
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