At BEST, we do not require cleats for our youth sports training or toddler sports programs. However, we get the question often about picking out the right cleats for their child. So, we have a couple tips to help you pick out the right cleat for your youth sports star.
Figure Out What Sports They Will Participate In
The first question is always, “what sport or sports does your child participate in?” Here at BEST we offer a wide range of youth sports, so we typically suggest a universal cleat. At the young age of the superstars it is okay for your child to wear a soccer cleat for softball or a football cleat for soccer. However, there are benefits to different cleat styles. Get to know what sports your child will participate in and choose the right cleat for the right sport.
Look For Comfort
Once you have the right cleat for the right sport, it is important to look for comfort. We want your child to enjoy playing sports and having blisters is not fun. Look for lightweight cleats that are going to be easy to break in. Youth cleats have a short life span and your child will not have a lot of time to break them in before graduating to the next size. Sorry parents.
We also recommend your child wear the cleats around the house as long as they have a rubber spike. This will help break in your child cleats much faster.
Get The Right Size
Along with getting comfortable cleats, it is important to get the right size. While you are measuring your child’s foot and trying on cleats, make sure that your child is wearing the proper socks for the sports that they will be playing. Typically, sports socks are thicker than normal socks.
Know The Surface
Make sure that you are buying the right cleats for the right surface. There are tons of indoor leagues that will not allow normal cleats. Also, get to know the rules of the league your child is going to participate in. Many leagues will not allow cleats.
Finding the right cleat for your child can be a challenging task. Make sure to get the right tool for the right sport. We also know that the way the cleats look are important, but try to encourage your child to look past the looks and focus on the use. I know that is easier said than done.