Best Soccer Cleats for Midfielders

The market provides a lot of choices when it comes to midfielder soccer boots. Compared to only ten years ago, the range of options is remarkable. Find the best cleats from leading brands and what makes them the best option for midfielders. 

What are the Best Soccer Boots for Midfielders?

TL;DR firm ground soccer cleats are the style choice for most midfielders. 

This section provides some answers. Here, I run through what I would choose if I were about to buy some new cleats. I list what I like about each shoe and why I think they’re ideal for players in this part of the field.

1. Nike Phantom GX Elite Firm Ground

The Nike Phantom GX Elite Firm Ground is suitable for midfielders for various reasons, including focus, precision, and control, which is why it is at the top of my list. I like its structured appearance and lacing and the Nike Cyclone 360 traction, which makes touch better on the ball.

As such, I recommend this boot for midfielders making quick decisions. It provides superior control, partly thanks to its Gripknit material upper (with a sticky texture) and its FlyTouch+ upper molds for a lightweight and secure fit.

2. Puma Future Ultimate 8 Firm Ground

The Puma Future Ultimate 8 Firm Ground is another one of my top choices for midfielders, and a boot I’d recommend to anyone wanting to control play. This cleat’s appeal comes from its FUZIONFIT upper, which is handy for players who prefer unrestricted movement. It’s so realistic that it almost feels like a second sock.

I also like the GripControl Pro finish. Like other brands, Puma has put a lot of R&D into figuring out which materials control the ball best. The stud configuration is also a nice touch for midfielders wanting to make quick turns and controlled passes.

3. Adidas Predator Elite Laceless Firm Ground

What about the Adidas Predator Elite Laceless Firm Ground? Again, this boot is a solid choice for midfielders. Because it does away with traditional laces, you get a more direct connection to the ball for cleaner contacts. Furthermore, no laces also means it is easier to slip your boots on, which is ideal for players waiting on the subs bench.

The Adidas Predator Elite#d HybridTouch 2.0 upper synthetic suede provides a cushioned touch, while its forefoot rubber fins deliver even more control on the ball when performing tight maneuvers. The ControlFrame 2.0 soleplate is also useful, especially the reinforcements around the heel.

4. Adidas Predator Elite Firm Ground

The Adidas Predator Elite Firm Ground is also well worth considering. As with many other Adidas cleats, it comes with the HybridTouch 2.0 upper, which I like because it makes you feel more connected to the ball.

However, this shoe is more for midfielders who prefer a snug fit than anyone else. It comes with a Primeknit collar, meaning that it offers a mix of comfort and support for midfielders who want to focus on the game without worrying about blisters. Some of history’s greatest midfielders have also worn this shoe, like Steven Gerard, contributing further to its appeal.

5. New Balance Tekela V4+ Firm Ground

The New Balance Tekela V4+ Firm Ground is another option for midfielders. I like it because of its low-laced closure and angled rim studs for quicker movement and passing. It makes you feel more energetic during gameplay, allowing you to dart toward defenders and fire off more accurate passes.

The Hyupoknit upper is another nice feature because it reduces the amount of material between your foot and the ball. This enables better contact, allowing for masterful dribbling to penetrate deeper into the opposing side’s half.

6. Adidas Copa Pure 2 Elite Firm Ground

Some midfielders also consider the Adidas Copa Pure 2 Elite Firm Ground. This shoe offers a bit of everything and is suitable for natural grass surfaces.

Adidas designed this shoe specifically for control during its R&D process, meaning it was built for the midfield position. However, you can also use them in defense, depending on your play style. These shoes offer a decent level of comfort and allow more control on first touches for quick passes back to defenders or threading shots through defenders in the box.

7. Nike Tiempo Legend 10 FG / MG

Finally, I also sometimes recommend the Nike Tiempo Legend 10 FG / MG for midfielders. The outsole features semi-conical studs that support directional changes, while the upper allows for more accurate passing.

The reinforced soleplate is another feature I think is worth mentioning on these boots. This extra strength gives you more unconscious confidence if the tempo changes on the field, allowing for more piercing movements through defensive lines.

Soccer Cleats for Midfielders FAQ’s

Having said all this, midfielder soccer cleats can be confusing, so I’ve answered some of the most common questions I get below:

1. Can midfielders wear Nike Mercurials?

Yes, midfielders can wear Nike Mercurials, and many do. These boots are suitable for players wanting speed and agility, thanks to their lightweight construction and reasonable traction. However, alternatives are available if you don’t like the feel after trying them on.

2. Are Nike Phantoms for midfielders?

Yes, you can wear Nike Phantoms as a midfielder, and they will serve you well. These shoes are built around offering players superior precision and comfort on the ball. The Phantom GX and Lune have proprietary Gripknit uppers, which make first touches more predictable and reliable without adding weight.

3. Should I choose firm ground or soft ground cleats as a midfielder?

Whether you choose firm or soft ground cleats as a midfielder depends on the conditions. Most midfielders opt for firm ground boots for well-maintained grass surfaces or firm, dry ground. Soft ground is only really suitable for wet and muddy conditions, which will vary depending on where you live.