How to Break in Soccer Cleats Quickly: 7 Simple Steps

If you’re in the market for new soccer cleats, it’s important to choose the right pair for your needs. But even the best-fitting cleats can cause discomfort if they’re not properly broken in. That’s why we’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to break in soccer cleats quickly and efficiently. 

These tips will help you avoid blisters and other foot injuries that can come from wearing new soccer cleats. So, read on to learn how to make your soccer cleats comfortable and ready to go. And if you need help choosing the right cleats, check out our article on how to choose soccer cleats.

How to Break in Soccer Cleats?

If you want to learn how to break in soccer cleats with ease, there are a certain steps you need to follow. The steps are given below:

Step 1: Choose the Right Size Cleats

Choosing the right size cleats is crucial when it comes to comfort and injury prevention. Wearing cleats that are too small can cause blisters and soreness while wearing cleats that are too big can lead to foot slippage and instability.

To ensure that you’re getting the right size cleats, start by measuring your feet accurately. You can do this by tracing your feet on a piece of paper and measuring the length from the heel to the longest toe. Once you have your foot measurements, refer to the sizing chart provided by the brand you’re interested in buying from. 

It’s also essential to consider the width of your feet when choosing cleats. If you have wider feet, look for brands that offer wider options, or consider buying a half size up. You can also check out our article on how should soccer cleats fit to choose the right size cleats for yourself.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s essential to try the cleats on and test their fit. Wear the same socks you’ll be wearing during games and walk around in the cleats to get a feel for them. Make sure your toes aren’t touching the front of the cleats and that they fit snugly but not too tight. Remember that cleats will stretch slightly with wear, so choose the size that fits you comfortably from the start.

By choosing the right size cleats, you’ll be setting yourself up for success on the field and avoiding potential discomfort and injury.

Step 2: Wear Proper Soccer Socks

Wearing the right socks while playing soccer is just as important as wearing the right size cleats. Not only do they help to protect your feet, but they can also prevent blisters and other foot injuries. When choosing soccer socks, it’s important to avoid cotton material as it can retain moisture and lead to discomfort.

Instead, opt for moisture-wicking socks made of synthetic or wool materials that can help to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the game. It’s also essential to make sure the socks fit properly and are not too tight, which can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.

By wearing the right socks, you can improve your overall comfort on the field and reduce your risk of foot injuries. So be sure to invest in quality soccer socks that are designed to keep your feet dry, comfortable, and protected while playing.

If you’re on the lookout for soccer socks, make sure to check out our recommendations for the best soccer socks.

Step 3: Use Insoles

One great way to add some extra cushioning and support to your soccer cleats is by using insoles. Insoles can help distribute pressure evenly across your foot and provide arch support, which can help prevent discomfort and injury.

When choosing the right insoles, it’s important to consider the type of cleats you have and your personal needs. There are various types of insoles available, from those designed specifically for soccer to those made for running or other sports. Some insoles even offer added features such as moisture-wicking or odor control.

Before purchasing insoles, make sure to measure your feet to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, consider the thickness of the insoles and how they will affect the fit of your cleats. It’s important to choose insoles that won’t make your cleats too tight or uncomfortable to wear.

Overall, adding insoles to your soccer cleats can provide a more customized and comfortable fit, allowing you to focus on your game and perform your best on the field.

Step 4: Apply Petroleum Jelly

The constant rubbing and friction of your cleats against your feet can lead to painful blisters. However, applying petroleum jelly to your feet before putting on your cleats can help reduce friction and prevent blisters from forming.

To apply petroleum jelly, start by washing and drying your feet thoroughly. Then, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the areas of your feet that are most prone to blisters, such as your heels and toes. Be sure to spread it evenly and avoid applying too much, as this can cause your feet to slide around inside your cleats.

It’s also important to note that while petroleum jelly can be helpful in preventing blisters, it won’t necessarily make your cleats more comfortable. For that, you’ll want to follow the previous steps and make sure you have the right size cleats and socks, as well as insoles if necessary. By combining these steps with petroleum jelly, you’ll be well on your way to breaking in your cleats quickly and comfortably.

Step 5: Start with Loose Laces

When you first start wearing your new soccer cleats, it’s important to keep the laces loose. This allows your feet to adjust to the new shoes without causing any discomfort. Tight laces, on the other hand, can cause unnecessary pressure on your foot.

To start with loose laces, simply tie them in a loose knot, leaving some space between the laces and your foot. As you wear the cleats more, you can gradually tighten the laces to achieve a better fit. Be sure not to overtighten, as this can cause discomfort and even injury.

It’s also important to adjust the laces evenly on both sides to prevent any unequal pressure on your feet. By starting with loose laces, you can ensure a more comfortable and safer experience on the field.

Step 6: Wear Your Cleats for Multiple Days

Wearing your new soccer cleats for multiple days is a crucial step in breaking them in. This process allows the cleats to mold to the shape of your feet and become more comfortable. However, you don’t want to wear them for too long at first, as this can cause blisters and discomfort.

To start, wear your new cleats for short periods of time each day, gradually increasing the length of time you wear them. You might want to wear them around the house or during light practice sessions, rather than in a full game or intense training session.

Moreover, it’s important to listen to your feet and not push yourself too hard. If you start to experience discomfort or blisters, take a break and let your feet rest. Remember, the goal is to break in your cleats without causing unnecessary pain or injury.

Step 7: Allow Time for Break-In

After following the previous steps, it’s important to give your cleats time to break in naturally. Even with all the preparation and tricks, new cleats can still feel stiff and uncomfortable. But by wearing them for multiple practices or games, the leather or synthetic materials will start to soften and mold to your feet.

During this process, it’s important to pay attention to any discomfort or pain in your feet. If the cleats are still causing blisters or sore spots, consider using additional remedies or adjusting the fit. Don’t push yourself too hard to break them in quickly, as this can lead to injury or it can lead to damage in the cleats.

Once your cleats have fully broken in, continue to take care of them properly. Clean them after each use, store them in a dry and ventilated area, and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or sunlight. By doing so, you can extend the life of your cleats and continue to enjoy the benefits of a properly fitting pair.

Remember, breaking in new soccer cleats can be a process, but it’s worth the effort to ensure your comfort, performance, and safety on the field.

Bonus Tip: Use the Frozen Water Trick (Optional)

If your cleats are still feeling a bit too tight after following the previous steps, you can try using the frozen water trick. This technique involves filling a bag with water and placing it inside your cleats, then freezing the whole thing. As the water freezes, it will expand and stretch out the material of your cleats.

It’s important to note that this trick should only be used as a last resort, as it can potentially damage your cleats if not done correctly. Make sure to use a small bag and only fill it with a small amount of water, as too much water can cause your cleats to become misshapen. Additionally, always check your cleats for any signs of damage or cracking before attempting this trick.

If you do decide to try the frozen water trick, make sure to allow the ice to fully melt before wearing your cleats again. This will help ensure that the material is properly stretched out and the cleats are ready for use.

Final Thoughts

Breaking in soccer cleats can be a frustrating and painful process, but it’s important to take the time to do it properly in order to ensure comfort and prevent injury. By following these steps, you can make the break-in process easier and more efficient.

Remember to choose the right size cleats and socks, use insoles for added comfort, apply petroleum jelly to reduce friction, start with loose laces, and gradually wear your cleats for multiple days. And if necessary, try the optional frozen water trick to stretch out tight cleats.

It’s also important to remember to take care of your cleats after they’ve been broken in. Keep them clean and dry, and store them in a cool, dry place to ensure their longevity. If you’re looking to take care of your soccer cleats effectively, you might want to check our article on 5 ways to extend the life of your soccer cleats.

With these tips, you’ll be able to break in your soccer cleats and enjoy comfortable and safe games on the field. So get out there and score some goals!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to break in soccer cleats?

The time it takes to break in soccer cleats can vary based on the brand, style, and materials of the cleats, as well as the individual’s foot shape and playing conditions. In general, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days of wearing the cleats for them to fully break in and become comfortable.

2. Can you wear new cleats in a game?

While it is possible to wear new cleats in a game, it is generally not recommended. New cleats can be stiff and uncomfortable, which can affect your performance and increase your risk of injury. It is best to break in new cleats before wearing them in a game.

3. Can you speed up the process of breaking in soccer cleats?

Yes, there are several steps you can take to speed up the process of breaking in soccer cleats. These include wearing the cleats around the house before playing in them, using insoles or applying petroleum jelly to reduce friction, and gradually increasing the amount of time you wear the cleats over several days. However, it is important to avoid using extreme methods, such as heat or stretching, which can damage the cleats and decrease their lifespan.