Best Football Cleats in 2024
From Nike’s Vapor Edge Dunk to the adidas Adizero Primeknit, an overview of the greatest football cleats available now.
2024 has been a memorable year for American football. In the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs, led by stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, solidified their status as the league’s most dominant team by defeating the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl, claiming the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the second consecutive year and the third time in five years.
For gear enthusiasts, the excitement extended beyond the field as new cleat designs and colorways graced the feet of top players, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with striking aesthetics. Brands like Nike, adidas and Air Jordan delivered new styles that push the boundaries of both design and functionality.
Below, a guide to the best football cleats of 2024.
Best Football Cleats in 2024
Nike
Vapor Edge Dunk 'Panda'
Nike’s Vapor Edge Dunk recasts the legendary basketball-turned-skateboard silhouette in cleat form. The ‘Panda’ colorway emerged in 2021 and went on to become one of the most recognizable in the series’ history. The football version pays homage to this iconic design, blending the Dunk’s defining characteristics with the performance features needed on the field.
Vapor Edge 360 DT ’96 TD 'Diamond Turf’
The Nike Vapor Edge 360 DT ’96 TD 'Diamond Turf' is an homage to Deion Sanders' 1996 signature shoe. Executed with an adjustable midfoot strap, the football legend’s “Prime” logo adorns the front pull loop, employing black nubuck against a white synthetic underlay for a claw-like aesthetic. Gold embroidered mini Swooshes round out the style.
Vapor Edge Pro 360 2 'Black Iron Grey'
The Nike Vapor Edge Pro 360 2 'Black Iron Grey' features a monochromatic color scheme for a minimalist aesthetic. A 360-degree Flyknit construction provides a secure, adaptive fit, while React foam cushioning and a dynamic traction pattern optimize comfort.
Air Jordan
Jordan 1 Low TD Cleat 'Chicago' 2023
The Jordan 1 Low TD Cleat 'Chicago' 2023 brings the basketball cleat that started it all to the gridiron. Drawing from the iconic ‘Chicago’ colorway of the original Air Jordan 1, the cleat combines a striking red, black and white palette with football-specific performance features. Crafted with a durable synthetic upper and responsive cushioning, the silhouette has been worn by the likes of San Francisco 49ers Deebo Samuel.
Air Jordan 11 Low TD Cleat 'Cool Grey'
Designed by Tinker Hatfield and inspired by dress shoes, the Air Jordan 11 is updated in football form. The AJ11 Low TD Cleat 'Cool Grey' launched in 2018 and features the classic signature ballistic mesh and patent leather mudguard. Underfoot, a Lunarlon foam cushioning setup has been added for a forgiving ride.
Air Jordan 3 Retro TD Cleat 'Black Cement'
The Air Jordan 3 Retro TD Cleat 'Black Cement' translates the classic basketball shoe into a performance football cleat. Maintaining aesthetic elements from the original, the design is highlighted by the iconic elephant-print motif. The silhouette eschews Air cushioning from the 1988 design in favor of football-focused technologies.
adidas
Yeezy 350 Cleat 'Turtle Dove'
As the debut colorway of the Yeezy Boost 350, 'Turtle Dove' holds a notable place in sneaker history. The cleat retains the same makeup of the lifestyle original, with 12 studs attached to a rubber plate for maximum traction.
Adizero Primeknit ‘Grey’
Launched as part of the innovative Adizero line, the Primeknit 'Grey' cleat features a lightweight Primeknit upper for a snug, breathable fit. An innovative Sprintframe outsole ensures optimal traction and quick, explosive movements, making it an ideal choice for players who rely on pace.
Zubaz x Adizero Electric 'Black Solar Yellow Leaves'
Zubaz rose to prominence in the ’90s with its flamboyant athleticwear distinguished by day-glo color schemes and animal patterns. These sensibilities are adapted to cleat form as part of an official collaboration with adidas, exemplified by the Adizero Electric 'Black Solar Yellow Leaves.’
Elements to Consider When Buying Football Cleats
Traction
Good traction allows players to maintain stability, make sharp cuts and accelerate quickly, essential for executing plays and avoiding injuries. It ensures that players can grip the field effectively, whether on grass, turf or mud, reducing the risk of slipping or losing balance during crucial moments.
Rubber spikes feature broader studs and deeper grooves, offering superior traction and excellent shock absorption. TPU spikes, meanwhile, are crafted from thermoplastic polyurethane, providing a harder feel compared to rubber. However, they are lighter, enhancing speed and overall performance.
Ankle Support
Ankle support is crucial in football, where quick changes in direction and high-impact movements are common. Proper support helps prevent sprains and other injuries, especially during sudden stops, pivots and tackles. A cleat that provides adequate ankle support allows players to confidently execute plays without worrying about rolling or twisting their ankles.
Stability
Stability is essential for making quick cuts, turns and rapid directional changes on the field. A stable cleat ensures that players can maintain balance, preventing slips and falls. Stability not only enhances performance but also reduces the risk of injuries by keeping the foot securely grounded during intense plays.
Football Cleats FAQs
What are the best brands for football cleats?
What are the new football cleats that are coming out?
Football cleats are perennially released in new designs and colorways. Recent and upcoming football cleats include:
What cleats did Darnell Mooney wear?
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver wore a custom pair of Jordan Jumpman Jack cleats inspired by the 'University Red' colorway on October 3, 2024 in a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Can you use soccer cleats for football?
Yes, you can use soccer cleats for football, with kickers often preferring them as they offer better touch and feel of the ball. Additionally, soccer cleats are typically lighter than football cleats.
Are soccer and football cleats the same?
No, soccer and football cleats are not the same. Soccer cleats are generally lighter and do not have a toe spike. Football cleats are generally sturdier, feature a toe spike, and provide additional ankle support and traction for quick movements.
Related Articles: Best Soccer Cleats, Beginner’s Guide to Nike Sneakers, Beginner’s Guide to adidas