How Long Do Soccer Cleats Last?

Soccer cleats are an essential piece of equipment for any player.

They provide traction, support and stability on the playing surface which makes it possible for players to pivot quickly and remain agile.

However, just like any other piece of equipment, they experience wear and tear over time.

In this article, we’ll explore how long this sort of gear normally lasts under normal conditions of usage.

From their very first use to their eventual retirement, we’ll delve into the factors that contribute to their deterioration, as well as cover and how to maximize their overall lifespan.

Now, let’s start with a quick answer…

Based on average playing conditions, soccer cleats can last a full season of friendly matches, training sessions and official matches. This is the equivalent of approximately five to 10 months of usage, assuming the user takes proper care of them and that they’re made of a durable material.

how long do soccer cleats last - 5 to 10 months

As a result, thicker cleats tend to last longer due to the enhanced durability compared to thinner boots made out of synthetic materials.

Read on for even more insight on the topic of soccer cleat longevity.

 

How do you know when soccer cleats are worn out?

As soccer cleats are continuously used over time, there are several factors which can help determine whether the footwear you’re using has worn out as a result of normal wear and tear.

Here are some signs that your soccer cleats are ready to be dumped in the trash can:

 

1. Sole wear

The sole of your soccer cleats is one of the most important areas to check for wear and tear.

As you use your cleats on the field, the sole will gradually wear down over time.

You can check the soles of your cleats by looking at the bottom of them.

If the studs are worn down or if the sole has lost its grip, it’s time for a new pair.

 

2. Upper wear

The upper part of your footwear is another area to check for wear and tear.

The upper material is the part of the shoe that covers your foot and provides support.

Over time, this upper material can become stretched out or weakened, especially in areas where the foot flexes.

If you notice holes, tears, or other forms of structural damage to the upper material, it’s a good time to order a replacement for your cleats.

 

3. Comfort and fit

One of the most important aspects of soccer cleats is how they fit and feel on your feet.

As your cleats wear out, they may no longer fit properly, which can cause discomfort or pain.

If you notice that your cleats no longer fit snugly or realise that they’re causing blisters, it’s time to replace them.

 

4. Foul odor

If your soccer cleats have a strong odor, even after you have cleaned them, it may be a sign that they are worn out.

As soccer cleats age, they can start to hold onto odor-causing bacteria, making them difficult to clean and freshen up.

If your cleats continue to have a strong smell, even after cleaning, it may be time to replace them.

 

5. Age

Finally, it’s important to remember that soccer cleats have a limited lifespan.

Even if they don’t show any signs of wear and tear, they may simply be too old to provide the support and protection that you need on the field.

If you’ve had your cleats for several seasons or more, it may be time to retire them and invest in a new pair.

 

Do more expensive soccer cleats last longer?

When it comes to the lifespan of soccer cleats, price is not necessarily a determining factor.

More expensive cleats are often made with higher-quality materials and may offer additional features, such as better traction or improved comfort.

However, these features do not necessarily mean that more expensive cleats will last longer than less expensive ones.

For example, expensive cleats can have fancy designs to appeal to the public which is factored into the cost of the shoes.

As a result, this factor does not affect the lifespan of the shoes as the price difference between a cheaper one and an expensive one is due to the design.

Another possibility to consider is that expensive cleats are made of thinner materials to reduce the overall weight of the shoe, so as to maximize the player’s speed.

Consequently, the durability of the shoe is compromised and this could reduce the lifespan of the shoe.

However, such an assessment is largely inconclusive because it doesn’t apply to all expensive soccer cleats.

 

How do you make soccer cleats last longer?

In order to extend the lifespan of your soccer cleats, consider adopting the following maintenance measures…

 

Buy the right size

To maintain the durability of your soccer cleats, ensure that you buy the right size that fit tightly.

Wearing loose-fitting cleats increases the occurrence of wear and tear, as the extra space occupied results in a more gradual degradation of that section.

 

Clean them regularly

Another key to extending the lifespan of your soccer cleats is to clean them regularly.

After each use, remove any excess dirt or mud with a soft brush or cloth.

If your cleats are particularly dirty, you can use a mild soap and warm water mixture to gently clean them.

Also be sure to dry your cleats thoroughly after cleaning in order to prevent damage.

 

Store them correctly

Proper storage is also important for keeping your soccer cleats in good condition.

After cleaning, store your cleats in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Avoid leaving them in a damp or humid environment, as this can promote the growth of mold or mildew.

 

Rotate multiple pairs

One of the easiest ways to make your soccer cleats last longer is to rotate them.

By alternating between two or more pairs of soccer cleats, you can reduce the wear and tear on each pair and give them time to dry out between uses.

This can help prevent odors and reduce the risk of mold or mildew, which can damage your cleats over time.

 

Factors that affect the lifespan of soccer cleats

There are several factors that affect the lifespan of soccer cleats.

In the following section, we’ll go in depth and expound on each factor.

 

Build quality

The quality of the materials used to make soccer cleats can have a significant impact on their lifespan.

Higher quality materials such as leather, tend to be more durable and can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.

On the other hand, synthetic materials, while often more affordable, may not be as durable and may break down more quickly over time.

 

Frequency of wear

The more often soccer cleats are used, the faster they will wear out.

Cleats that are used multiple times a week are likely to wear out faster than those that are used less frequently.

If you’re a serious player who spends a lot of time on the field, you may need to replace your cleats more often than someone who plays soccer recreationally and more sporadically.

 

Quality of care

Proper care and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your soccer footwear.

Regularly cleaning your cleats after each use can prevent dirt and debris from building up and causing damage.

Storing your cleats in a cool, dry place can also prevent mold and mildew from forming, which can damage the materials.

 

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the lifespan of soccer cleats can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the quality of materials, frequency of use, proper care and maintenance, and fit and comfort.

While some high-quality cleats can last for several seasons, others may need to be replaced after just a few months of use.

Here’s a video summary worth watching, as it answers this very question quite well:

It’s important to invest in a good pair of cleats but also to take care of them properly to ensure they last as long as possible.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help extend the lifespan of your favourite soccer footwear and get the most out of your investment.

For further reading on the topic of soccer cleats, have a look through the content below:

 

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Samuel Waihenya
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