Being decked in the right AFL equipment is essential in the Australian Football League (AFL), and your football boots are the most important part of your gear. Wearing the proper footy shoes gives you the speed, skill, and confidence to play your best in the field.
Ideally, you’ll want boots that have a good heel counter, adequate toe box width, good fixation, excellent shock absorption, and great grip—much like the perfect pair of runners. Football shoes are also good for AFL, with the firm ground (FG) or artificial grass (AG) soles working depending on the surface you’re playing on. But there’s really no substitute for proper AFL boots, especially if you’re performing in a professional capacity.
Types of Football Boots
For many players, the point of reference used for their footy boots is football boots. These are categorised by their soles, which correspond to the type of surface you’re playing in. But is there a difference between football and AFL boots, and more importantly, can you use one for the other? The main difference between the two is that the toe of a football boot has a slightly different shape, which could affect how you kick an AFL ball and put a spin on it. That said, it’s generally okay to use football boots for casual footy matches. Here’s a guide on the types you can use:
Firm Ground
Firm ground (FG) football boots are used on firm, natural grass ground that’s somewhere in between hard and damp. FG boots feature moulded studs or blades in multiple shapes and sizes across the sole, which provide traction and stability. They’re what many consider to be the classic football cleat.
Artificial Grass
Artificial grass (AG) football boots are the go-tos of players who play a lot on fake grass or AstroTurf. These have smaller and rounder studs, which make for an even grip and lightweight feel and allow you to pivot more easily on the pitch. They also have a more densely populated sole, so the shoe is stiffer than FG shoes.
Multi-Ground
For people playing on both natural and artificial grass, multi-ground (MG) football shoes are an excellent option. These have hollow and conical studs, which give it a good grip and an airier feel and let you twist easily on the field. They also have more studs like the AG boots, allowing them to reduce the impact on your knees and ankles.
Choosing the Right Football Boots
Choosing the right football boots can affect your performance on the pitch. Here are some factors to consider when picking your shoes:
Fit
Your boots must fit properly to ensure that you’re comfortable running around the field and kicking the ball. You don’t want something tight, as that might end you up with injuries; you also don’t want something loose, or you’ll have to worry about losing your shoes in the match. Finding a well-fitting shoe also affects its durability–the better it fits, the longer it will last.
Weight
Lightweight shoes are the way to go when it comes to the AFL. The sport requires a lot of running and tackling, and you don’t want to be dragged down by your feet. Look for a boot that’s closer to the ground and lighter in weight.
Material
There are usually two types of materials to choose from for AFL boots: leather or synthetic. The fabric affects your comfort and stability; whichever material you choose, it has to be strong enough to support your foot during the match. If you’re choosing leather boots, be prepared to give them some constant TLC; if you’re choosing synthetic shoes, consider breathability and the amount of time it takes to break them in. If you can, opt for boots that have an upper made of both materials.
What are the Best Football Boots for AFL?
ASICS boots are mainly used in AFL, as well as in Rugby League and Union codes. Because these shoes are designed with the foundation of running shoes, they have an elevated heel and a midsole, which minimises the risk of injuries while providing ample cushioning and support. That said, these shoes tend to be a bit heavier than other football boots.
Some players prefer boots from Adidas, Nike, or Puma. With these brands’ experience in creating football boots, they have come up with AFL shoes that are close to the ground and lightweight, which helps in ball control, speed, and agility.
The Right Foot Forward With AFL Equipment From Intersport
You’ll need the right AFL equipment to play the sport with confidence. Intersport can provide you with all the gear you need, from proper AFL boots to jerseys of your favourite team. Find what you need today–just in time for your next match!
Comments