So you got your new pair of soccer cleats and you can't wait to try them in a match. But something feels off. They're too tight! Don't worry though. If you selected the right size, they might feel tight only the first time you wear them. But where is the line when it's just too much?
How tight should soccer cleats be?
Soccer cleats, or soccer shoes, should feel tight, but not to the point that it hurts. They should be tight but at the same time, you should be able to flex with your foot. Usually, brand new cleats tend to feel too tight, but once you break in cleats, that tightness goes away. If it persists, consider getting a bigger size.
As you can see, it's kinda tricky because you never know if it's because of the wrong size or only because you still haven't gotten used to them.
There are a few more tips when it comes to tightness, so let's carry on with the article.
If soccer cleats persist to feel tight even after 2 training practices, and you're getting blisters on the feet, they are too tight. You will be better off with a half number bigger size. Blisters are the most common way to tell, that your soccer shoes are way too tight.
But here's a catch. If you are getting blisters, you should also ask yourself:
Cleats that are too tight are usually never comfortable, and it results in blisters so it's really easy to tell that they're too tight. Just listen to your gut and follow common sense.
If you want to learn more if your soccer cleats are too tight, read our guide here.
So you found out, that your current size is probably too tight.
Should you size up on soccer cleats?
If the size of your current soccer cleats feels way too tight, to the point that you are getting blisters, you might want to consider getting a bigger size. It's also good to try sizes of different brands in some local shops with soccer cleats. That way you will know if it's reasonable to size up.
Keep in mind, that brands have different size charts:
Just by looking at these you will find out, that they are a little bit different. Just something to keep in mind when choosing your next soccer cleats.
Suggestion: Read a guide on how to clean your Nike cleats
Let's say that you bought the right size of soccer cleats. You maybe bought the exact same size and model as your previous cleats. Where's the problem then? Why do they feel tight?
No worries! It's very common that you might experience a certain level of discomfort in your first training.
How long does it take to break in cleats?
In most cases, it takes at least 2 training sessions to break in soccer cleats. The reason why is because the material tends to be very stiff in the beginning, and it has to adapt to your feet for maximum comfort. The process of getting comfortable with your new soccer cleats can be sped up by putting them in reasonably warm water.
If you have no idea how to break in, here's a short video where it's all explained!
When you are not sure about the tightness of your current soccer cleats, just listen to your gut.
If you are getting blisters even after a second training session, that might suggest that you picked the wrong size.
if you are feeling a little bit of discomfort in your first training session, try to break in with the help of the video I attached and give it a chance in the next training session.
