Search Elverys Site
Search Elverys Site
SEARCH BY TYPING BELOW AND PRESSING BELOW
FREE DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER €60*
FREE RETURNS TO STORES
STORES OPENING HOURS

Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Football Boots

Written by

Here at Elverys, we pride ourselves on having a wide range of football boots from all the top brands to suit everyone. Whether you play football, GAA, or rugby, we will have something to suit your needs.

Having all the key information is vital when you are considering which are the best football boots for you.

Elverys has you covered if you need to get the perfect fit, too.

We offer a comprehensive foot measuring service in-store for adults and kids, to ensure that the football boot you pick fits like a sock. If you’d rather shop from home, we also have a comprehensive guide on how to measure your feet correctly yourself!

Below is all the information you need when selecting which football boots are best for yourself or your kids.

If you already know what size and shape you are, you don’t want to miss our Ultimate Footbal Boot Review Guide for 2024 here!

Football Boot Types

It matters what pitch you typically play on when it comes to choosing the right football boot.

Whether you play on firm ground, soft ground, or Astroturf, we’ve got a comprehensive guide to choosing the best football boots for that surface.

Firm Ground (FG) Boots

Firm ground football boots are the most popular boot type sold.

They are designed to give maximum grip and comfort on natural grass pitches in dry to slightly wet conditions. These are perfect for summer when the ground is dry and firm, or even in winter when pitches tend to freeze over.

Players often ask if they can use firm ground football boots on Astroturf? The simple answer – Yeah, you definitely can!

While Astroturf boots are best for, well, Astroturf (more on that a minute), firm ground boots can get the job done. Especially if you play on firm ground more often and only need them for Astroturf every once in a while.

Firm ground boots usually have moulded studs -perfect for use on hard or dry surfaces. The studs are strategically placed to help relieve stud pressure on the foot.

With firm ground boots, studs come in all sizes, shapes, and patterns.

Two of the most popular stud types are conical and bladed.

  • Conical studs offer more mobility and quicker releases from the ground.
  • Bladed studs offer better traction because of a larger surface area.

 

Soft Ground (SG) Boots

Soft ground boots have aluminum studs in order to grip wet and muddy grass surfaces. They’re actually ideal for use in Ireland due to the unpredictability of the weather, and many grass surfaces stay soft all year round.

With soft ground football boots, there are two different kinds of stud configuration — the traditional 6-stud configuration and the modern mixed sole configuration.

  • The traditional 6-stud configuration uses 2 metal studs at the rear of the boot and 4 at the toe of the boot. For a long time, this was the best pattern for total traction on a soggy pitch. But the trade-off was the stud pressure it caused because of the distribution and the smaller number of studs.
  • The modern mixed sole configuration takes the standard firm ground sole plate and mixes in interchangeable metal studs to create even better traction and grip. Plus, it adds more comfort than the 6-stud configuration because the studs are more evenly placed!

Astroturf Boots

Football players playing on astroturf pitch with astroturf football boots

(alt-text: Football players playing on astroturf pitch with astroturf football boots.)

Can you use football boots on astroturf? Absolutely! Especially if you snag football boots designed specifically for astroturf.

Astroturf boots usually have a lower profile to keep you closer to the ground to prevent slipping on the turf. These are usually more cushioned than traditional firm ground and soft ground football boots.

They’re perfect for anyone playing five-a-side football with their friends. And they’re great for kids who play outdoors because they withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Other Considerations When Buying the Best Football Boots

Other than the type of football boot, there are a couple of other things you should consider.

How Wide Should Football Boots Be?

Most boots are made for standard-width feet, but some are made with wide or narrow feet in mind. If you’ve got a narrow or wide foot, make sure you get a football boot that’s tailored to your size. Find what fits your foot best.

What is the Best Weight for Your Football Boots?

Make sure the weight of the boot is suited for you and the position you play. If you rely on speed for your position, you may want to go with a lighter boot. But if you’re playing a defending position, you can get away with a slightly heavier one.

How Tight Football Boots Should Be

As you’re trying out new football boots, you’ll probably wonder just how tight football boots should be. Your football boots shouldn’t be tight so much as snug. You want to make sure your new boots aren’t cutting off your circulation, but you don’t want them to be slipping around your ankles, either.

A snug (not tight) football boot means you have some room to wiggle your toes, but not enough room that you feel like you’re falling out of them.

What Features Do My Football Boots Need?

Can the boot do something extra for you and your match? Do you need more control, and does it offer that? Do you need more intensity in your shooting, and does it help you with that? Figure out what features will help you based on your position, and find a boot that helps you do it!

What’s The Difference Between P1, P2, and P3 Football Boots?

  • P1 = top end on field boots worn by Nike and Adidas sponsored athletes
  • P2 = mid-level top end club player
  • P3 = entry level / part time player

What to Know When Buying Football Boots

Once you’ve considered which football boots are best for you, it’s time to get to buying. When you start the process of buying your next pair of football boots, it can be easy to get carried away and rush through the process.

So, to help you keep a level head while you pick out your next pair, we’ve got more advice to keep in mind.

Football player wears firm ground football boots on dry, hard pitch

Get a Boot That is Durable and Long Lasting

Make sure you get a pair that is durable and will last a long time through normal wear and tear, especially if you play often!

Don’t Buy The Coolest or The Most Colourful Pair You Can Find

The football boots that look the coolest are always tempting to buy. If you look better, you play better, right? Uh, no. Not necessarily true. Those boots might be the nicest on the pitch, but if they don’t meet your needs as a player, don’t buy them!

Get The Right Ones For Your Specific Position

Different positions will have different needs and features when it comes to football boots. Don’t snag a pair that’s made for strikers if you don’t play that position. You’ll need something geared more to what you do play. Find the right boots for what you play on the pitch so you can get the most out of them.

Don’t Just Buy What Everyone Else Has

Buy what’s best for you and what feels the most comfortable to you, even if your mates have something (or recommend something) completely different. Ultimately, you’re the one playing in them — not anyone else. Find what feels best for you!

Trust The Process and Don’t Rush Into Buying A Pair

Keep doing your research and trust the process of finding the right football boots for you and how you play. It’s easy to rush and buy the first pair you see or the ones that look the coolest. But if it doesn’t feel right, or even if you’re having trouble finding the right pair, the worst thing you can do is rush it and buy ones that don’t fit your needs.

No matter what type you need, we have a wide range for you to choose from.

And now that you have the information you need to find the best football boots for you, go ahead and buy your perfect pair!

Conclusion

Shop the full range of football boots at Intersport Elverys HERE.

best football boots

Intersport Elverys Announce FAI Summer Schools Partnership

Written by

We’re delighted to announce Intersport Elverys partnership with the Football Association of Ireland‘s Summer Soccer schools. This is a fantastic opportunity for Intersport Elverys to partner with the FAI throughout the summer months and further emphasise us as Ireland’s authentic sports retailer. This partnership fits into our already diverse portfolio, which also included the IRFU, Connacht Rugby, Mayo GAA, Dublin GAA to name just a few.

Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy and FAI Interim Deputy CEO Niall Quinn visited the INTERSPORT Elverys store on Dublin’s Henry Street today to help launch the partnership.

McCarthy announced the long-term agreement, which includes the 25th anniversary of the FAI Summer Soccer Schools, in 2021.

The FAI Summer Soccer Schools caters for boys and girls aged 6 to 14 in a fun and inclusive environment, with training provided by FAI accredited and Garda vetted coaches.

Last year, over 36,000 children took part in the FAI Summer Soccer Schools at over 320 venues around the country.

“Over the years, INTERSPORT Elverys have invested significantly in Irish sport and promoting participation at a grassroots level,” INTERSPORT Elverys CEO Patrick Rowland announced.

“Our latest investment in grassroots soccer is designed to get more people playing soccer, leading to a more active, healthier nation.

“As part of this new deal, we intend to embark on an exciting programme of events with the FAI to help support the already hugely successful Summer Soccer Schools, bringing the best product to the participants as well as some exciting incentives for all involved.”

FAI Commercial Director Mark Russell, speaking at the launch, said; “We are delighted to join forces with such a well-respected and indigenous Irish brand in INTERSPORT Elverys.

“With branches all around the country, we feel they are an ideal partner for our FAI Summer Soccer Schools and most importantly, they fully support our objectives and ambitions for this great grassroots programme.

“They have a great team at INTERSPORT Elverys and we very much look forward to working closely with them in making the FAI Summer Soccer Schools even better ahead of next year’s 25th anniversary in the FAI’s centenary year.”

Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy said; “I saw first hand in Meath last summer just how great the FAI Summer Soccer Schools are.

“The enthusiasm of the kids was great to see, in such a fun environment and it’s a great way to celebrate Irish football.”

For more information on the INTERSPORT Elverys FAI Summer Soccer Schools, please visit fai.ie and elverys.ie

 

Intersport Elverys Kids’ Footwear Measuring Service

Written by

When buying new footwear, it is essential that the fit is perfect, especially when it comes to kids. 

When in-store, our Sports Advisors will be happy to help you, enquiring about previous injury history, style preference and budget.

Kids Footwear: How it Works

We start by understanding your child’s activity level, the sports they play and any injuries they may have had.

We measure the length of the foot to the longest toe. Next we measure the arch length – that’s the measurement from the heel to the ball joint of the foot.

Then we do it all again with the other foot. It’s common for people to have different sized feet so that’s why we always fit for the largest foot.

We help you choose the right footwear for your child’s needs. Comfort and support with just the right amount of growing room!

The perfect fit in just a few minutes. That’s the Intersport Elverys PERFECT FIT SERVICE.

Get your child properly measured for FREE whenever you shop – click HERE to find an Intersport Elverys store near you.

SHOP KIDS FOOTWEAR

Kids footwear measuring

FootBalance for Football

Written by

One question we always get asked in store is ‘what exactly is FootBalance?’.

Essentially, it’s a 100% customised insole that we specially mould to your feet, it’s 100% unique to you. It actually adjusts your alignment from your feet up through your entire body improving full-body movement whether you are walking to work or doing your long run on Sunday. FootBalance improves your performance by correcting your posture and reducing impact through your body. Easing plantar fasciitis and shin splints, FootBalance is a must if you suffer from injury and a go-to for injury prevention. It’s a quick and easy process to get moulded by one of our experts in selected stores. 

Here’s what you need to know when it comes to your feet:

Arch type
  • Collapsed arch: leading to poor foot function and are commonly associated with overpronation foot type. This arch type can lead to instability and poor shock absorption causing pain and increasing susceptibility to injury.
  • Low arch: lead to excessively poor foot motion, instability and minimal shock absorption, and if untreated can fall further into a collapsed arch.
  • Normal arch: good shock absorbing ability but can still be at the risk of overpronation particularly if your arch types differ from right to left foot.
  • High arch: often too rigid or inflexible which increases supination through foot motion. This results in poor shock absorption, much of which is then transmitted up the kinetic chain into the leg, hip and back.

Foot type
  • Overpronation: foot rolls excessively inward, distributing weight unevenly across the foot. Commonly known as having flat feet, this foot type is commonly associated with increased risk of injury.
  • Underpronation/Supination: the least common of the three foot types. This foot type vastly reduces the body’s natural shock absorbing capability. Highlighted by an external rotation, pushing the body’s weight along the outside of the foot.
  • Neutral: where your foot and ankle maintain a straight line. Weight is distributed evenly across the forefoot and down through the heel.

 

Football

We all know Football is demanding for your feet. Further to this we all know there is minimal arch support in your football boots and without proper support underfoot we sacrifice speed, endurance, agility and the ability to control the ball. FootBalance QuickFit Control provide proper support underfoot to help improve efficiency for better endurance, shock absorption, stability and ball control.

Get the most out of your game with FootBalance 100% Custom Insoles.

FootBalance Locations

Click to see our FootBalance Store Locations

Shop the  footbalance range at Intersport Elverys HERE

An In-Depth Look At The New Liverpool FC Jersey

Written by

It’s been some journey for Liverpool this season in Europe. From beating Hoffinheim in the play offs, coming through a tough group including Sevilla, easing past Porto in the last 16, demolishing Manchester City at the Quarter Final stage, just overcoming Roma in the Semi Finals to now facing Real Madrid in the Final, it has been Jurgen Klopp’s heavy metal football at its best. Not to mention, they are also the highest scoring team in the competition.

Liverpool are no strangers to the Champions League final. They are a football club that has long been steeped in great European tradition, with the club winning the elite trophy in Europe 5 times. This Saturday night, they look to add number 6 to the trophy cabinet but the mighty Real Madrid stand in their way. Ronaldo and Co are looking to win the competition for the 13th time and for the 3rd year in a row. But there is every chance that this Liverpool team with their lightening fast attack, mobile midfield and ever improving defence, can triumph in Kiev against Madrid.

Take a closer look at the New Balance Liverpool 2018/19 Home Jersey

Saturday night’s final will be the last time that Liverpool will wear the 2017/18 jersey.  From the start of next season, ‘The Reds’ will be wearing their brand new retro New Balance home jersey. Liverpool have reintroduced a collar to the home shirt, a tipped two-button polo collar that gives the 2018/19 shirt a lifestyle look, making it even more wearable for fans. It also includes the New Balance dry, moisture wicking material which keeps you cool and dry. The new home jersey also has the Eternal Flame 96 embroidered on the nape which was designed as a special tribute to the 96 fans that passed away in the Hillsborough disaster in 1989. Gear up for the final with the new 18/19 jersey, available in-store and online at elverys.ie.

ys

 

PUMA FUTURE AT INTERSPORT ELVERYS

Written by

Puma’s newest innovation now available at Intersport Elverys.

According to the design team, Puma Future is not an evolution but a revolution in football footwear. It has been designed to improve the fit based on the wearer’s foot shape and comfort needs. Unlike anything you’ve seen before, Puma Future gets a lot of positive reaction.

Puma Future has a remarkable look, a snug, form-fitting upper, customisable lacing and a knitted ankle sock. Your foot will feel secure and supported. The all-new, lightweight and durable thermoplastic polyurethane outsole is flexible. It provides grip and manoeuvrability and allows you to play on hard natural surfaces and artificial grass.

Revolutionary technology combines base material and NETFIT upper lacing.The innovative infinite lacing system can be customized to your specific requirements for a narrow foot, wide foot and optimal fit.

Future is designed for dazzling skills, superior ball control, and aggressive power.

Click to buy new Puma Future in Intersport Elverys

 

Available to buy online or in-store where you will get the best advice from the football experts. Call in and let our staff answer all of your football-related questions.