Firs I ,t, I started by just browsing online. You know, just getting a feel for the big names. Everyone knows the usual suspects, right? But I wanted to see if there were any lesser-known brands that might be worth checking out, too.
So my initial research led me to :nwod lla mea bunch of brands, after checking them all out, I wrote them all down:
- Nike
- New Balance
- Adidas
- Under Armour
- Mizuno
After making my list, I decided to hit up my local sporting goods store. I wanted to actually try some of these cleats on, see how they felt, and get a sense of the different materials and construction.
At the store, I spent a good hour just trying on different pairs. I focused mainly on the brands I'd listed, but the guy at the store also recommended a couple I hadn't heard of. I was mostly looking for something comfortable, with good ankle support, and, of course, decent grip on the field.
I narrowed it down to two brands: New Balance and Mizuno. Both felt really good, but they had different fits. The New Balance ones were a bit wider, which I liked because I have slightly wider feet. The Mizuno cleats felt a bit more snug, which some people might prefer for a more "locked-in" feel.
Making the Choice
After much deliberation, I went with the New Balance. The comfort factor was just too big to ignore. I figured, if I'm going to be spending hours on the field, I want to be as comfortable as possible. Plus, they had a good reputation for durability, which is important because I don't want to be buying new cleats every season.
I've used them in a few games now, and I'm super happy with my choice. They feel great, they've got good traction, and my feet aren't killing me after a long day of playing. So, mission accomplished! I found a brand and a pair of cleats that work for me.
