Looking for the best football boots in 2024? Look no further: we've reviewed the latest releases from Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance and the rest.
With so many football boots available on the market right now, it's important to know what you're looking for. Boots are now tailor-made for specific roles on the pitch, with each position covered in expert ways - fortunately, we've been doing the leg work to categorise each and every boot to give you as much information to make an informed decision.
But while this guide focuses on the best football boots of the year, we also have other guides on the best football boots under £50, the best football boots under £100 and the best football boots for kids. Not only that, though, there's some great options when it comes to the best football boots insoles, best grip socks for football boots and the best goalkeeper gloves, too.
Whether you're after something comfy for your weekly five-a-side or you take football boots a little more seriously and need a pair amongst the greatest football boots of all time, we've got your back… well your feet, covered.
A football shirt and boot aficionado, Lolade Jinadu has over 40,000 followers on Instagram and a vast collection of football boots. With all kinds of equipment ranging from retro to brand-new releases and one-off special edition boots, Lolade has tested hundreds of football boots over the years from a range of brands, and has an encyclopedic knowledge of the market.
The best football boots in 2024
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The quick list
Improving on perfection is always a tough task. But Nike have smashed it out of the park with the GX 2 Elite. Traction is excellent, while a clean striking zone ensures you connect sweetly when shooting from distance.
The Copa Pures manage to provide genuine balance between comfort, protection and agility, thanks to a well designed soleplate. Ideal for the modern ball-playing defender.
Bringing back the tongue for the latest Predator has proved a masterstroke on Adidas' behalf. The Hybridtouch material allows for a padded feel to improve touch and protection.
Ideal for speedy, nimble wingers looking to get away from their opponents, the Superfly's lightweight vaporposite material creates an extremely responsive feel.
Not only boasting a grippy upper helping for greater ball control, the flexible soleplate ensures this boot is superior to its' predecessor in terms of comfort. Ideal for players with a wider foot.
The 360 cyclone soleplate is built specifically to aid rotational traction. This is crucial, due to the increased tendency for serious knee injuries in the women’s game.
Providing comfort, traction and flexibility the Furon V7+ Pro is something of a speed demon. If you're looking for an extra yard of pace this could be the boot for you.
The upper is covered with sticky Precise Strike Control texturing, aiding grip on the ball while the no frills soleplate does the job. Slightly cheaper than pairs from the more established brands, so worth a try particularly if you're on a budget.
With the ability to stretch slightly over time, this remains the perfect boot for those who need that extra breathing space out on the pitch.
Best overall
After leading the market in 2023, the Nike Phantom GX 2 Elite returns with the trademark Gripknit material remaining in place. This is now supported by the additional texturing, Nike call Strikezone, which ensures a clean area to provide a little bit of extra power on your shots at goal.
This results in an improved boot suitable for virtually every position and playing style on the pitch: from defenders to strikers, all can benefit greatly through the grippy texturing, which equals a sharp touch on the ball while still maintaining a relatively barefoot feel. Essentially, that's what makes them one of the best football boots for strikers, the best football boots for midfielders, and even the best football boots defenders.
It's hard to find any real weakness with the Phantom GX 2 Elite. The only minor issue is the soleplate, which for me was a little too flexible. But this is more of a personal preference - I'm normally looking for a boot that is a little stiffer for improved stability. Even so, this boot remains one of the very best and is currently my go-to when training or playing.
Best for goalkeepers
One of the best boots around when it comes to comfort, the New Balance Tekela V4+ Pro Low is perfectly designed for goalkeepers. Any keepers looking for something that is comfortable, yet also aids their dives when looking to make that match-winning save, should consider these boots.
Touch on the ball is also crisp to ensure goalkeepers can still be confident when playing out from the back.
The bladed studs placed along the side of the soleplate are the real gamechanger. They provide more bite when jumping or diving full-stretch across the goal. I also enjoyed the good energy return, provided by the high level of rigidity in the forefoot.
A great option for goalkeepers who don't want to mess around with laces, this version features New Balance's excellent Hypoknit material on the upper. And while many of the best laceless football boots struggle with lockdown that certainly isn't the case with the New Balance Tekela V4+ Pro.
This boot can legitimately claim to be one of the very best laceless options available on the market. Although the standard design will probably feel a little too snug for players with wide feet, there is also a tailored option designed specifically for wider-footed players.
The biggest difference from the previous design is the updated heel. The new shaping is curved in a way that feels more anatomical. This will allow players to push further back into the boot, not only aiding heel lockdown, but also improving comfort levels.
Best for defenders
A boot that offers plenty of protection, comfort and a great range of passing, the Adidas Copa Pure 2 Elite is perfect for the modern ball-playing defender. Built in a more traditional, two-piece upper, it manages to combine an old school feel with a modern look.
The padded heel, leather upper and quilting that provides an extra layer for defenders embroiled in hard-hitting challenges on a regular basis. Crucially for defenders, they are durable too and won't quickly become run down by frequent tackles.
In addition, the FG option features rounded, headed and bladed base studs to allow comfortable pivoting alongside an extra bit of aggression when taking off. To some it may feel a tad bulky, but defenders will still be able to keep up with fast, nimble attackers.
Not only are they one of the best football boots for defenders, they're also one of the most comfortable football boots, too.
A classic, popular option - and with good reason. The Nike Premier is a wide-fitting boot with a two-piece construction. The folding tongue is secured using Velcro but can also be cut off using scissors.
Naturally the classic comfort and design, means they heavily appeal to traditionalists and many old-fashioned centre-backs. The combination of the leather concentrated towards the forefoot and the soft synthetic in other areas creates an overall package that is perfectly-fitting straight out of the box.
It will fit even better, once broken in after a few wears. It is stripped back, with a sharp focus on comfort levels - and for many defenders this will be perfect. They are also a cheaper option that many of its counterparts, making them a low-cost option that refuses to compromise on quality or style. I found these a great option for those seeking the best football boots for flat feet.
Best for midfielders
The Adidas Predator Elite is undoubtedly one of the best boots made in recent years. Bringing an iconic line up-to-date, they're light yet still maintain the classic elements that make the Predator a strong, uncompromising boot - and are still a joy to play in.
They may not feature the leather that once made them so loved, but the classic tongue has returned in expert fashion while the rubber striking elements will help midfielders pull the strings.
A clean striking zone ensures players have more control with every touch on the ball. The latest design also offers an improved soleplate and stud pattern to further benefit players covering every blade of grass - perfect for those seeking the best firm ground football boots. Wear these and you'll be channelling your inner Zidane or Beckham in no time.
The Puma King has a strong claim to being the model to have been worn by the greatest players of all-time. Johan Cruyff, Pele and Diego Maradona were all sporting a pair as they wrote history.
Although the current model is an extremely different boot to the ones donned by those greats, the King Ultimate still provides one of the best options on the current market. The first King to feature a synthetic upper - it is soft, pliable and stretchy and does a good job of replicating the natural feel provided by leather.
The fact they are worn by the supremely talented Xavi Simons highlights Puma's attempt to bring this boot to a younger generation. A smart boot that maintains the series' rich heritage.
Best for wingers
Somethings are worth waiting for. The Puma Ultra 5 Carbon has been four years in the making. But the release could see the German brand overtake the competition in the speed boot department.
The boots are so incredibly technologically advanced that they feel super-futuristic. A smart design has ensured a ultra-thin and super lightweight feel that provides a barefoot feel on the ball - making them the best football boots for wingers.
The GripControl Pro skin texturing feels very gritty to touch and helps provide extra that bit of extra grip when dribbling at speed – great for wingers looking to jink past their opponents. Although carbon fibre soleplates often struggle to provide comfort - this isn't the case here, with Puma doing an excellent job to ensure it is nice to wear underfoot.
Best for strikers
The Nike Mercurial Superfly 10 Elite is lightweight, thin and is perfect for players who have lightning pace at their disposal. Nike's Gripknit upper gets full marks from me, offering a grippy, barefoot feel - they're truly one of the best lightweight football boots.
Previous iterations this boot have often required significant break-in time before players felt truly comfortable. Thankfully, that is not the case with the new edition.
This latest model is so comfortable, it could be used straight out of the box and into a proper game. A natural stretch ensures this boot can conform and accommodate a wide range of foot types.
Offering speed with a great touch on the ball, the Skechers Razor will perfectly suit plenty of centre-forwards looking to outwit defenders. One of the best options on the market for those with wide feet, the brand offers a more comfortable alternative.
However, this does not come at the expense of the lightness that is expected from a speed boot as the Razor avoids any feeling of bulk. The stud pattern on the soleplate is very aggressive, consisting entirely of chevron studs to ensure users have the traction needed when taking off at high speed.
The Razor also features a carbon fibre insert for that extra bit of stability and responsiveness when twisting and turning in the penalty area. The only major downside at the moment is the lack of a dedicated AG or SG option, an issue Skecher will hopefully look to remedy. A unique option that is well worth a look at if you're in the market for the best football boots for speed.
Best for wide feet
One of the best-looking and best-feeling boots of the year also provide well for those with wider feet.
The Nike Phantom GX Elite boasts arguably the best piece of innovation recent years on book market. With its sticky Gripknit upper geared towards greater control of the ball. The soleplate is superb, combining both agility and stability in a way that allows the artists among us to flourish.
And it is that soleplate that makes them perfect for players with wide feet. Both flexible and stretchy, it helps players slip straight into these with both ease, comfort and a certain elegance. Most other options on the market are unable to offer this.
Although Nike have taken the bold step of moving away from leather and towards synthetic, the Tiempo remains one of the better options on the market for players with wide feet.
Replacing the kangaroo leather that has made up the upper of all of the previous elite Tiempo models is the new Flytouch Plus technology. This is a material made specifically to recreate the fit and feel of natural leather - and it does the job.
Generally speaking, synthetic materials haven't always resulted in the best boots for wide feet. That is not the case with the Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Elite, with comfort levels that can match the very best.
Best for women
The Nike Phantom Luna is the very first boot released by the brand designed primarily for women (although they are also perfectly suitable for men).
It comes with a 360 cyclone soleplate built to aid rotational traction and combat the increased tendency for serious knee injuries - something the women's game has been crying out for.
Add all of this to a comfortable flyknit upper and you'll find a boot that is one of the best designs ever made for women, yet also a great option for those who want to try something new - while sticking with one of the most tried and trusted manufacturers out there. Certainly a top pick for players wanting the best football boots for women.
Best for speed
As the name suggests, the New Balance Furon V7+ Pro is a slight update on the Furon V7. But that is all that was needed. The Furon V7 was already one of the quickest speed boots on the market.
New Balance has a very strong claim to having the best options on the market outside of Nike and Adidas, with the impressive Hypoknit material my favourite knit upper of all the brands.
The Hypoknit material that forms the upper of the Furon V7+ (and the Tekela V4+), is New Balance's true gamechanger. Wonderfully comfortable, straight from the box and requiring no break-in time whatsoever, this boot is flexible enough to remain faithful to every movement with the ball.
With each passing month the Mizuno Alpha seems to creep further into the mainstream consciousness - and with good reason. The Japanese manufacturer have designed one of the best speed boots money can buy.
Super thin and extremely lightweight, the Mizuno Alpha doesn't come at the expense of any comfort levels or structure, and the quality of the materials can be felt immediately.
The upper is about as comfortable as it gets from a synthetic material and still manages to make the boot extremely lightweight. The use of high end technology means they don't come cheap. But they perform on the pitch.
Best value for money
The hype around the Skechers SKX 01 - following a massive launch fronted by England skipper Harry Kane - was always going to be difficult to live up to. But these boots have proven to be well worth the initial fuss.
Not only can they be worn fresh from the box, these boots also offer instant comfort on the pitch, despite coming in at a lower price tag than their market rivals. The boot's upper is covered with sticky Precise Strike Control mean grip on the ball is maintained even on a poor playing surface.
The soleplate is simple, but effective. If you are looking for a viable alternative to the higher end of the market, Skechers have you covered.
If any boots need no introduction, it's the Copa Mundial. Still quite possibly Adidas' finest creation, they remain one of the best boots on the market. It is a simple, yet beautiful design that manages to cross generations with a universal appeal. The Copa Mundial just does the job.
Also in the current market, a full kangaroo leather upper is something that is generally not all that common, ensuring the Mundial remains an attractive option for younger players. Crucially, they are reliable and you won't have to break the bank to get yourself a fresh pair.
Best for comfort
A significant upgrade on the previous Future Ultimate, the new model is a lot more comfortable straight out of the box. This is primarily thanks to the the placement of Puma's Pwrtape technology.
The updated design sees the Pwrtape placed centrally, rather than along the side of the boot as was the case previously. The result is a much more comfortable fit, although the boot retains the benefits of the technology from the previous model - with my feet remaining locked down and stable.
The use of Puma's Fuzionfit360 material means they'll stretch slightly over time due to how soft and pliable they are - which is good news for those with wider feet. If comfort is your top priority when looking for a new pair of boots, the Future 7 Ultimate is worth considering.
How we test football boots
Here at FourFourTwo, our boot testing procedure is all about getting boots on our feet and personally trying them where it matters - out on the pitch in kickabouts, training sessions and matches. Our writers don't just test each pair once, but review over a number of weeks, in various playing conditions. This is done in order to get a proper idea of what they're like, and where a boots strengths and weaknesses lie.
This helps us decide which boots are better suited for firmer or softer ground, what level of traction they offer and how else they're geared towards improving a player's game.
We're passionate about football boots and regularly attend launch events and Q&As looking to get as much information as possible from manufacturers and designers before we begin.
All of our reviews are honest (despite working with brands, nobody can "buy" a good review from us) As ever, we always have real footballers in mind when giving our recommendations.
How to choose the best football boots
The modern day football boot market can be a bit of a minefield, with an array of options available while brands champion their latest tech that will have you jumping higher, running faster and never miscontrolling a ball ever again.
Ultimately, your choice should come down to what best suits your own game and style of play. Here are some factors to consider when looking for your next pair...
Leather or synthetic
The material of the upper is a vitally important factor to consider when looking at what pair of boots suits you best. There was a time back in the day when the vast majority of boots were made from natural leather. But these materials are slowly being phased out by many brands in favour of man-made options.
However, some ample leather options are still on the market. Leather offers a traditional fit, naturally moulding to the shape of your feet. It is also offers greater durability as well as being soft and pliable.
Most synthetic uppers are slightly thinner and offer less padding than their natural leather counterparts. On the plus side they offer a much closer connection to the ball. In fact, the thinnest synthetics will provide players with a close to barefoot feel.
You can also look at an option somewhere in middle, with a leather-imitating synthetic that represents a nice in-between. Although these boots are often more lightweight than natural leather, they do provide much of the same comfort and pliability.
Soleplate
The soleplate is where the bulk of the technology of a cleat lives, so it is very important to consider this when choosing a pair.
‘Speed’ boots, such as the Nike Mercurial range, feature responsive, aggressive outsoles with high levels of traction, but more traditional pairs, such as the Copa Mundial or the Nike Tiempo, are slightly lower tech and the soleplates concentrate more on comfort under foot than raw speed.
There is also surface to consider. If you play exclusively on artificial turf then an Artificial Ground (AG) specific soleplate is the best option, whereas if you are playing on turf every week then a Firm Ground (FG) pair is the best bet when it is relatively dry and a Soft Ground (SG) when it is wet or slippery.
Getting the right fit
We would always recommend trying a pair in person before making a final purchase when boot shopping. This is because making sure your boots are the perfect length and width is key.
Pairs of the same size can often vary slightly in length across models and between brands. So it's important to try a pair on in order to know whether it is better to go a half size up or down for a particular pair or brand.
Always consider the shape of your feet when looking for a pair. There is a vast difference between boots that are narrow and those that naturally mould to the shape of your foot over time. Know which end of the spectrum you're at.
Boots that are very narrow will not suit anyone with wide feet and likewise very wide fitting pairs can sometimes feel slightly awkward on the pitch for those with a narrower foot.
This is especially important when considering a pair of laceless boots. Yes you won't have to mess around tying them up on a cold, muddy winter morning, however, the lack of laces means there is very little adaptability. Naturally, they will either work for your feet or they won’t.
