The modern-day soccer cleat often costs a fortune, but the best soccer cleats under $100 are still able to offer brilliant performance levels.
But while we may see prices at $200 and even $300, with costs only increasing each year, there are still some steals available on the market. Sure, the most expensive cleats generally offer the best features, though that's not to say the best soccer cleats under $100 are lacking in quality in any way.
Having the right cleats can make a huge difference to a player's game, with certain ranges specifically designed to assist defenders, midfielders and attackers. FFT has been dedicating itself to categorising designs to make cleat shopping easier for you, so if you're simply looking for the best soccer cleats out right now, are looking for the best laceless soccer cleats, or need to keep an eye on the best soccer cleats for kids, then be sure to check out our other reviews.
But here you'll find the best soccer cleats for under $100...
The quicklist
Kipsta's Skin Touch Control technology ensures a barefoot feel on the ball at a relatively low price point, as Decathlon continues it's foray into the soccer cleat market.
Designed for those players who prefer bit more grip when dribbling and striking the ball due to the heavy texturing on the cleats upper, known as strikefin tech.
Players who prioritise precise ball control and a soft, natural feel, will instantly be at home in Nike's classic Premiers. Still one of the cleanest cleat designs on the market.
A cleat that is able to combine comfort and performance, yet is still affordable. Ideal if you are after a classic leather cleat feel but don't want to break the bank in doing so.
A great choice for players seeking a classic leather cleat - they still can't be beaten on pure comfort.
High-tech Air Zoom unit enables the player to change direction at short notice. The perfect cleat if you're looking to beat the opposition full-back for speed, on a budget.
Best value
Designed with a smooth, lightweight build, the Kipsta CLR.Elite cleats ensure excellent levels of mobility and acceleration. Even the sharpest movement will feel easy on your feet, thanks to a clever design.
The standout feature is a durable soleplate, which offers great traction on both natural and artificial surfaces. The snug fit, due to the sock-like collar and quality materials, means players can enjoy secure feel. It will also reduce the risk of blisters or any internal discomfort.
Due to the naturally narrow fit, the design won't suit every player. However, looking at the best soccer cleats for wide feet could help, with the slimmer profile perfect for players seeking speed, agility and control without breaking the bank. Indeed, they're the best soccer cleats for speed at this price point.
Best all rounder
With three distinct options (laced, laceless and fold-over tongue) Adidas are providing consumers with a real choice in their latest Predator League design.
These cleats come with a cushioned insole and supportive fit provide comfort throughout matches. In addition, the extra stability provided by the ankle collar does so without restricting movement.
A great budget option when it comes to the best soccer cleats for midfielders, the Predator League is a design made for players who enjoy every phase of the game - though they can obviouly still be worn by anyone on the pitch. If you’re looking for a cleat with a nostalgic look, or even a more modern one, the Predator League provides all of this. It also comes in at a much more affordable price than the more expensive Adidas Predator Elite.
Best for barefoot feel
A smooth design for those wanting comfort and simplicity, the Nike Premier 3 provides an unrivalled touch on the ball, leading to inch-perfect control. That's due to the premium kangaroo leather upper, which offers a natural feel for the ball.
The upper naturally moulds to the foot over time, enhancing the touch and fit. The minimalist design is another strong point, appealing to players who prefer cool but understated aesthetics over in-your-face flashy colours.
The Premier 3 are both durable and well-suited for long-term use, with the conical studs also offering reliability, regardless of the surface you use the cleats on. In my opinion, the Premier 3 remains one of the best options for soccer players looking to purchase a new pair of cleats, without spending a small fortune.
Best for shooting
The soft, supple leather upper of the cleat, which moulds to the foot for a snug fit, should enhance touch and ball control. Yet it still retails at a price point friendly to a smaller budget - the leather used offers a premium feel, typically found in top of the market models.
Kipsta include a lifespan on their cleats using an XP value that equates to the number of uses. This figure suggests the Viralto IV can last 95 wears, which makes it the most durable leather options currently on the market. Another benefit is that they're also one of the best soccer cleats for flat feet.
The material used for this cleat ensures pleasant, precise contact when striking the ball. So if you regularly take long-range shots, but don't want to spend crazy money on your next purchase, this could be the pair of cleats for you.
Best for comfort
A classic design but with a contemporary twist, the Gloro II is something of a steal at just $100 - or under, if found in the sale. A soft leather upper moulds to the foot making them one of the most comfortable soccer cleats, while they also offer a snug fit that enhances ball control.
The fold-over tongue not only offers a cleaner strike zone but also gives that timeless Copa look, reminiscent of old-school cleats. Comfort remains the standout feature, with reduced pressure on the foot ensuring long matches or training sessions can be completed without issue.
Though a takedown of the Copa Mundial, one of the best Adidas soccer cleats, the Copa Gloro II delivers a classic leather cleat for players seeking the magic balance of comfort, touch, and durability.
Best for speed
Driven by performance, the Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Superfly X Academy is one of the best cleats anyone can buy without spending a fortune, and are the takedown model of the brilliant Nike Mercurial Superfly 10.
Responsive cushioning underfoot enhances comfort during sprints and quick changes of direction. Automatically this means they are among the best soccer cleats for wingers currently available, as well as one of the best lightweight soccer cleats, too.
The cleat’s synthetic upper is textured for improved grip on the ball, giving players the confidence to make precise touches and dribbles when running at the opposition. If your preference is lightweight cleats with a soft touch on the ball, then this might be the cleat you’re looking for.
How we test soccer cleats
Here at FourFourTwo, our testing procedure is all about getting cleats on our feet and personally trying them out in kickabouts, training sessions and matches. Our writers test each pair over a number of weeks, in various playing conditions, in order to get a proper idea of what they're like on the soccer pitch.
All of our reviews are honest (despite working with brands, nobody can "buy" a good review from us) and we always have real soccer players in mind when giving recommendations.
How to choose the best soccer cleats
Selecting the right pair of cleats can often prove a difficult task when there are so many options available, but, ultimately, personal preference should always prevail.
Each brand may champion the latest piece of technology as something that will enhance performance, but that isn't always the case. Finding a pair that you like and work well with is always the best bet, so taking all of the technologies with a pinch of salt is extremely important.
Getting the right fit
The single most important factor to take into account is how a pair of cleats fit. After all, how they look won't affect your performances on the pitch, but how they fit your feet certainly will.
That's because some options can be extremely narrow, while others are a bit wider and offer more space. Some soccer cleats also feature different shapes in the forefoot - there are so many subtle differences that could have a negative impact in the long run if you don't choose the right pair.
