Soccer (or “football” in European terms) shoes are generally made of leather or synthetic materials. Which is better?

Leather – Leather shoes tend to fit better and provide a better feel of the ball. They mold to the foot providing great comfort for the player. Leather also allows the foot to breathe, preventing excessive overheating and sweating. Leather shoes do absorb more water than synthetic shoes, however with proper maintenance they can last longer than synthetic shoes.  We always recommend Chelsea Leather Food, an excellent product to protect and waterproof all leather footwear.

Synthetic - Synthetic materials have come a long way since first synthetic shoes were introduced as a cheaper alternative for occasional player.  Many leading sports footwear manufacturers upgraded synthetic upper with special microfiber. This makes shoe softer and stronger while providing similar feel to a natural material.  They also are generally lighter, do not absorb water in wet conditions and require less maintenance. However synthetic upper would never mold to a player foot the way leather does. Technological advancements also made top of the line synthetic shoes climb at the same or higher price level that leather boots.

A final word of wisdom – many aspiring players become influenced by advertisement and endorsements while shopping for soccer shoes, sometimes consciously, sometimes not.  Star athletes often have boots they endorse custom-molded for them and then are paid to advertise its superb qualities. We advise our customers to base their choice on their own personal requirements for comfort and support, a strategy that would guarantee best performance and enjoyment of the game.