All too often, players invest in high profile boots that end up not working out quite right. It is a common trend as brand marketing impacts the impressions of everyday players, pushing them toward the same boots that their favorite pro players wear. Your performance is never going to improve if you are not comfortable in your boots, or if you are simply unsatisfied with the short term durability they offer. But, does that mean you always need to fork out on the most expensive pairs?
We refer to mid-tier boots as the secondary market boots. These are the pairs not worn by pro players but created with quality and an average $120 budget in mind. Most players have no choice but to go this route, and most will feel a little aggrieved at not having the opportunity to get their hands on a top tier boot. We are here to tell you that you shouldn't feel this way, and here is a breakdown on why that is the case! This is a list of why you need to reconsider your choice of soccer boot.
Bryan Byrne is the founder of SoccerCleats101. Got a question about boots? Hit up Bryan on Twitter.
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Top Tier Boots Are Developed For Pro Players
When Adidas or Nike start working on a new boot, they are factoring in the worlds best players that they want to see wearing them. After all, they are the players that will impact your decision. For that reason, they use minimal materials and define the boot to the highest level player.
Along with that, most pro players have their boots altered to match their specific needs. As an amateur player, you don't get the luxury of requesting personal modifications and simple touches to improve your performance. Don't fall into the trap of believing the most expensive boots are going to suit your playing style in the same fashion they will satisfy the needs of pro players.
More Expensive Doesn't Mean More Durable
How often have you seen a professional player wear the same pair of boots for an entire season? It doesn't happen very often. Instead, they take advantage of changing every couple of weeks to a new pair. Top brands are aware of this, and thus the reason they are able to release ridiculously lightweight boots, with minimal materials and not have to worry about how they look over time on the world stage. This is the reason why you purchase a $200 pair of boots and they last only a half a season.
With more materials, stitching and all around better construction, mid-tier boots are designed to last longer and will match the needs of amateur players more effectively.
Two Pairs For The Price Of One
Why buy one pair for $200 when you can pretty much get two pairs for the same price? It is pretty simple really. Given that mid-tier boots are constructed with durability in mind, you are going to increase the number of pairs you have and the overall lifespan.
And this also solves a problem for players that play on multiple surfaces. Why struggle with the traction performance of a boot on the wrong surface when you can get the right stud configuration? Pick up a mid tier pair of FG and AG for the same price as one high end boot!
What You Should Be Considering
Realistically, your choice in boots has a lot to do with confidence. Having the right pair is critical in your overall performance - there is no doubt that it can play a role in how you play on the pitch. But that doesn't always mean you need to spend big and you should be confident choosing a pair of mid-tier.
Over the past few season, Nike has lead the way in creating top notch mid-tier boots, with rave reviews coming in for pretty much everything they have released in the category. Puma and adidas have been close behind, but they haven't yet closed the gap in quality. Current boots to check out include the Nike Veloce II, Nike Magista Orden and the adidas Predator Absolado!
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