Types of Soccer Shoes

Footwear for soccer depends on a number of factors: the level of your game, the types of fields you play on, and how much you want to spend. Most leagues require you wear the proper type of soccer cleat during play, so it is most important to understand which type you need. The following is a list of the different kinds of shoes available:

Molded - For grip and comfort on firm, natural surfaces.

These are the most common style of shoe
Rubber or hardened plastic provides the traction, control and support on firm, natural surfaces
Ideal for beginning and intermediate level players. Most youth and many adult recreational leagues prefer this style of shoe be used.
Suitable for use on most types of playing surfaces.
Suitable for use in all weather conditions.

Detachable cleats - For use on soft natural surfaces . These shoes offer you the ability to change the studs to address particular field conditions.

There are studs on the bottom usually longer than the molded cleats, that can be screwed on and off and be replaced easily
Cleats vary in length and are usually made of hard plastic or metal tips.
The type and length of the studs can be changed depending on the weather and field conditions of that day's game or practice.
Ideal for experienced players who can tailor the cleats to their playing field and weather conditions.
Suitable for use on wet, soggy fields, or on well-groomed, soft grass fields.

Turf - multi-studded outsole for use on hard, natural surfaces and artificial turf.

Outsole is usually made out of a rubber surface
Provides excellent traction on harder surfaces where grass or turf is short.
The multiple studs a shorter and more numerous than in molded or detachable cleated shoes. They offer exceptional control on the ball when using the sole of your foot.

Indoor - Intended for indoor surfaces such as hard and flat, or artificial turf. Indoor shoes essentially come in the form of a flat outsole with a more traditional style of tread similar to what you would find in tennis or basketball shoes. Depending on the indoor surface, such as an artificial turf, you may opt for a turf shoe which may offer better traction.

Excellent for use in hard, flat indoor surfaces.
Soles usually offer great ball control