Finding the best leather soccer cleats is becoming more difficult in the modern day as brands continue to focus on synthetic uppers, but that doesn't mean there aren't still some exceptional natural leather options on the market.
Much to the dismay of many professionals who still prefer the feel of a traditional leather soccer cleat, the best soccer cleats are generally dominated by synthetic options.
Fortunately, there are still some great leather options I am a huge fan of, which I've done my best to whittle down and present in this guide to the best leather soccer cleats. Be sure to check out our other guides on the best soccer cleats for flat feet, the best soccer cleats for strikers and even the best soccer cleats for firm ground.
Best leather soccer cleats 2025
Immediately comfortable straight out of the box, the Mizuno Morelia Neo Beta IV Made in Japan have a buttery soft leather upper in the forefoot and premium synthetic material in the midfoot. There's nothing better at the moment.
Combining the leather qualities of previous Copa generations while modernising them into new technologies, the Copa Pure 3 Elite competes among the best options of leather cleats, and is Adidas' latest release featuring the material.
Surprisingly lightweight despite being constructed with high-quality materials, the Mizuno Morelia 2 Made in Japan feel like you're playing with feathers on your feet - both when controlling the ball and when moving about the field.
Bargains are always well-received, so to see a quality option cost less than $100 is quite remarkable. The leather is soft and works brilliantly on the cleat, which itself is comfortable and durable throughout practice and games.
In my opinion, the Adidas Copa Mundial is the most recognisable soccer cleat in history, and there's a reason why it's managed to stick around after nearly 50 years. They still remain as a great leather cleat option, and appeal specifically to the traditionalists.
Perfect for the winter months when conditions are more interchangeable, the Adidas Copa Icon 2 feels like the perfect middle ground between the Mundial and Pure 3 - lightly more modern with a better leather upper.
Best overall
Head and shoulders above the best leather soccer cleats available to buy, the Mizuno Morelia Neo Beta IV Made in Japan is acutally one of my favorite cleats available. Period. Being handcrafted in Japan, there's an incredible attention to detail on these cleats, which also feature the highest quality kangaroo leather possible in the forefoot and a premium synthetic midsole for better lockdown.
They're also left on a special last for 24 hours to help them retain their shape for as long as possible, though this also means the sizing is a bit weird and should be considered a lot more. Regardless, the leather is buttery soft and comfortable straight out the box, with the soleplate brilliant underfoot and lockdown improved through some modern technologies.
Price can be a stumbling block for the Made in Japan pair, however, so it might be worth considering the Elite version instead. Though the Japanese workmanship won't have taken place, they still use high quality materials that offer extremely similar levels of performance - to be honest, if you want to save over $100, it might make more sense.
Most modern
Featuring modern technologies designed for high levels of performance in the modern game, the Adidas Copa Pure 3 Elite still manages to retain that classic feel through the leather upper. Though it's admittedly quite thin, the leather is still noticeable and works brilliantly as part of the fusionskin upper, which is a combination of calf leather and a thin textile layer on top that ensures they have a lightweight build while still using natural leather.
As a result, I found these cleats provided a lot more responsiveness than I did on other leather cleats - for some, that proves the leather is thin enough to get the best of both worlds; for others, it's far from the traditional feel they want.
The primeknit tongue also enhances comfort and offers more suitability to most foot types, while also providing improved lockdown during sharp changes of movement. There are also chevron studs combined with conical ones to aid with this specific aspect, too.
Most comfortable
Mizuno's Made in Japan range epitomises quality craftmanship, and the Morelia II are no exception. Blending premium materials to provide top-tier performance, these cleats feature a kangaroo leather upper that honestly feels the best out of any cleat I've had the pleasure of trying on when controlling a ball. Not only are they one of the best soccer cleats for comfort, they're also ranked highly within my leather cleats list, too.
Offering a glove-like fit, the Mizuno Morelia II Made in Japan will always conform to the shape of your foot throughout its lifespan, thanks to the micro-taffeta on the upper which prevents the leather from over-stretching.
Despite the leather upper, these cleats are still surprisingly lightweight. This ensures they still have a modern feel to them even with the traditional design, with Mizuno sticking to its heritage roots to bring something truly exceptional. On feet, there's a clear focus on quality and performance which helps to make it a top choice for traditionalists seeking elegance and reliability on the pitch.
Best value for money
One of the best soccer cleats under $100, the Kipsta Viralto IV Premium are a great option for those players on a budget but still wanting a high-quality option. They have a soft and supple leather upper which competes well against the other cleats found on this list. Not only does this upper mould to the foot, it also improves touch and softens upon impact when controlling the ball.
The leather quality left me personally really impressed, with the premium construction something more often seen in higher-end models. That's highlighted through their durability, with Kipsta claiming that these cleats will last 95 uses - I've not got near that number yet, but can already see how the brand has come to that conclusion.
What impressed me most of all, though, is the soleplate. Providing great levels of traction and cushioning, they felt comfortable while still maintaining an aggressiveness I want from my soccer cleats. Overall, these cleats are a solid choice for players of all levels, balancing performance with affordability.
Best for traditionalists
Where to start with the most instantly recognisable soccer cleats in history? Remaining in a practically unchanged state for the past 50 years, the Adidas Copa Mundial features a full leather upper that provides comfort, durability and a traditional touch on the ball, making them an ideal choice for someone also wanting the best soccer cleats for wide feet.
Just don't expect anything fancy when trying these on for the first time. There are no fancy new technologies incorporated into the design, just good old-fashioned materials that are quality and built to last. Because of this, they provide extra protection in challenges and could certainly be considered one of the best soccer cleats for defenders.
The firm ground outsole features several round rubber studs, making them suitable for both natural grass pitches and artificial pitches. What they lack in comfort sees them make up for in aggression. I rarely wear the Adidas Copa Mundial, but whenever I do it always reminds me just how good the classics can be.
Most durable
A sleek homage to the brand's timeless soccer heritage, the Adidas Copa Icon 2 blends classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Crafted with premium leather, the upper provides a supple touch on the ball, ensuring precision and control - ideal for those wanting best soccer cleats for midfielders on a budget.
Comfort has become the clear focus here, with the snug, sock-like fit and padded collar making those long practice sessions all the more manageable. Adidas has ensured they have plenty of durability, too, with the premium leather upper reinforced through extra stitching and a lip between the soleplate and upper.
I particularly enjoyed playing with the soleplate, too, which offered great traction on firm ground. The stud configuration allowed for swift turns and stable footing during intense gameplay.
