Studded football boots for thick grass
When the grass gets soaked, only the firm ground football boots with screw-in studs dig deep enough to keep your footing. SG soles with metal studs, mixed MxSG soles from Puma or Mix from Mizuno: find the adidas, Puma, and Mizuno models designed for mud and winter matches.
The grip you need when it’s slippery.
Why use metal studs on a waterlogged pitch
On natural grass saturated with water, the top layer of the ground becomes soft and short moulded studs slip on it. The SG sole, for Soft Ground, relies on longer studs, usually six, that are screwed into the sole and often made of aluminium, which penetrate the mud to find a ground that is firmer. You gain better grip on your footings, during full-speed strikes, and in duels. Since they are removable, these studs can be replaced when they wear down, which extends the life of the shoe.
This sole is reserved for soft natural grass: on a dry and hard ground, longer studs create uncomfortable pressure points underfoot.
A different surface, a different sole
As soon as the pitch becomes firm and dry again, switch to moulded studs for natural ground, which are lighter and more comfortable. Screwed studs are not suitable for artificial grass, so sessions on synthetic surfaces require AG shoes. For 5-a-side football on carpet or stabilised surfaces, Turf soles with studs are a better fit, and for futsal in a gym, Indoor shoes. The complete range of soles is waiting for you on the Pitches page.
SG pure sole or mixed MxSG and Mix sole
Manufacturers offer two designs. The classic SG, found at adidas on the Predator, the F50 Hyperfast or the Copa Pure, relies on screwed studs alone. The mixed soles combine some metal studs with moulded studs: this is the principle of MxSG at Puma, featured on the Future, the Ultra or the King, and Mix versions at Mizuno. This mix maintains grip in the mud while increasing the number of contact points, making the shoe more stable when the pitch is only muddy in parts. If your club plays on heavy grass all winter, the SG pure remains the most effective option.
Predator, King, Morelia Neo: models designed for winter
On the adidas side, the Predator, born in 1994 from Craig Johnston's idea of adding rubber elements to the upper for better ball control, comes in Elite and Pro with screwed studs, with or without laces. The F50 Hyperfast, a speed line introduced in 2004, is also available in SG for attackers who don't want to lose their agility in the mud.
At Puma, the King continues the shoe that Pelé wore during his third World Cup win in 1970. Mizuno, finally, offers the Morelia Neo in a Beta version, a lighter take on its historic line, with a mixed sole for heavy pitches.
Equip yourself for winter football at the right time
Screwed studs need to be prepared before the first frosts: November's Black Friday is just right for gearing up just before the heavy pitches, and the end-of-year festivities offer a second opportunity. The winter sales arrive right in the midst of the wet pitch season, while the French Days for football shoes in spring and the summer sales let you gear up for the following autumn, before training resumes. Between key moments, check out the discounted football shoes and the Goal-Foot clearance sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change the studs on an SG shoe?
Unscrew the worn studs with a stud key, clean the thread, then hand-tighten the new ones before securing them with the key. Check their tightness before each match, as a loose stud can damage the sole's thread.
Can you play in SG on a synthetic pitch?
No. Aluminium screwed studs are too long and too rigid for artificial grass: they can trap the foot, increase the risk of injury, and damage the surface. Keep a pair of AG or FG/AG for sessions on synthetic surfaces.
Are there soft ground shoes without laces?
Yes, adidas offers the Predator and the F50 Hyperfast in lace-free versions with screwed soles. The encompassing upper holds the foot in place by itself and provides a smooth striking area, as long as you choose the right fitted size.
How do you dry muddy shoes?
Remove the bulk of the mud with a brush immediately after the match, take out the insoles, and stuff the inside with newspaper to absorb moisture. Leave to air dry at room temperature: a radiator hardens the leather and weakens the adhesives.
Are aluminium studs allowed in competitions?
Yes, as long as they do not have any sharp edges: the referee can check the shoes before the match and refuse any damaged or sharp stud. Some youth categories ban them, so check with your club.
