Best soccer cleats under $50: The latest ranges for cleats offering great value from Nike, Puma and more
After a new pair of soccer cleats on a tight budget? Our guide looks at the best soccer cleats under $50, with plenty of options and excellent quality
In a world where top of the range soccer cleats cost at least $200, there are still plenty of options when it comes to the best soccer cleats under $50.
But if you know where to look, there is still some real value on the market. Sure, the most expensive cleats generally offer the best features, but that's not to say the best soccer cleats under $50 are lacking in quality.
If you are need of a solid cleat that won’t require you to take out a mortgage to buy - you've come to the right place. After countless hours of research, FFT collated and reviewed some of the best soccer cleats currently on the market that will cost $50 or less.
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 or even the best soccer cleats for $100, then be sure to check out our other reviews.
But here you'll find the best soccer cleats under $50....
The quicklist
Puma Ultra 5 Play
A lightweight yet durable synthetic upper equals uncatchable speed. Puma's offering is worth considering if shopping on a budget.
adidas F50 Club
If you prioritise speed on the pitch and a lightweight feel for the ball, the F50 Club is an excellent option for less than $50.
Nike Tiempo Legend X Club
Still able to offer the reliable ball control provided by a higher-end Tiempo model.
Best overall
Modern technology, an 'optimal strike zone', yet an affordable price. Kipsta's latest offering ticks every box.
Best for value
Another hidden gem in Kipsta’s arsenal of affordable soccer cleats. Astonishing quality at such a low price.
Adidas Copa Pure 2 Club
Still the king of comfort, even at an affordable price. If you have problems finding cleats that fit your foot smoothly, the Copa Pure II could be the way to go.
Best lightweight
Puma Ultra 5 Play
Specifications
The Puma Ultra 5 Play's lightweight synthetic upper provides a decent touch on the ball, with vibrant color schemes helping you standout on the pitch.
While it’s not packed with the advanced tech seen in Puma’s top-tier cleats, the Ultra 5 Play still delivers solid performance. The soleplate provides good traction on firm ground and artificial surfaces.
The fit to the foot is snug, which benefits speed but could potentially feel restrictive for players with wider feet. Puma have produced an excellent value-for-money choice for those who want a lightweight, comfortable cleat at a lower price point.
Best for speed
Adidas F50 Club
Specifications
This budget-friendly option from the iconic F50 series features a lightweight synthetic upper that aims to enhance feel for the ball without compromising comfort.
Design is both sleek and modern, with vibrant colorways that echo the fast-paced identity of the F50 line. The soleplate provides reliable traction on firm ground surfaces, helping players make quick cuts and sprints on both firm ground and artificial playing surfaces.
The Adidas F50 Club is an excellent option for players seeking an affordable, yet stylish cleat that captures the essence of the F50’s speed-focused design, without the high price tag.
Best for durability
Nike Tiempo Legend X Club
Specifications
The Nike Tiempo Legend Club is a solid, entry-level soccer cleat aimed towards players who value durability and comfort.
Indeed, comfort is assured, making them one of the best soccer cleats for comfort at this price range. The cleat has a cushioned interior that makes it easy to wear for extended periods, and the lace-up design helps achieve a snug fit. The outsole - designed for firm ground - provides good traction and stability, making it a versatile choice for different pitch conditions.
Featuring a synthetic leather upper, this cleat provides a decent touch on the ball while maintaining durability for long-term use. Though not as soft or premium as the higher-end Tiempo models, the upper still offers reliable ball control and a classic feel that will instantly appeal to traditionalists.
Overall, the Nike Tiempo Legend Club - a takedown model of one of the best Nike soccer cleats - is a dependable option for players of all levels seeking a more affordable, durable cleat that delivers both comfort and a traditional playing experience.
Best overall
Kipsta Viralto III 3D AirMesh
Specifications
Kipsta might not be a household name in the soccer cleat market, but they are something of an unearthed gem. Kipsta products are known for durability with each cleat is given their own unique XP* number, detailing the number of uses they should last for.
In this case, the Viralto III 3D AirMesh has an impressive score of 168XP* meaning it should stand the test of time. The most unique aspect of the cleat is the upper. The 3D AirMesh technology improves comfort levels, provides better ball feel, as well as being breathable. The soleplate is also very flexible to support push off and sudden changes in direction.
This is because of two technologies. The first, Flex-H, on the front of the outsole, allows the sole to bend following the shape of a horizontal "H". The second, Dual Hardness, combines TPU with different hardness properties, providing more flexibility or support depending on the targeted zone.
The cleats also also feature what is called, an optimal strike zone. By using an asymmetrical lacing system, this cleat provides a larger sweet spot, allowing for players to feel more of the ball when taking a shot at goal. A cleat seriously worth considering if you're on a tight budget.
Best for value
Kipsta Viralto I
Specifications
Even when compared with other cleats under $50, the remarkable value of the Kipsta Viralto I FG shines through.
Like all great cleats, they are made with comfort and flexibility firmly in mind. The soleplate provides multi-directional flexibility using Flex-H and Dual Hardness technologies, to help players with push offs and rapid changes of direction. The cleat also features 10 degree offset lacing system to provide the player with a larger area to control and strike the ball.
The upper is made from a soft PU on the forefoot, mesh fabric lining on the heel, preformed insole, wide tongue attached at the base that does not twist and keeps the foot nice and snug in place while playing, to help ensure you users won't be distracted when out on the pitch.
As with all of Kipsta’s cleats, they made with the consultancy of a podiatrist who specialises in sports, meaning performance won't come at the expense of your feet. If you’re looking for a good cleat at a great price, then the Viralto remains a solid choice.
Best for comfort
Adidas Copa Pure 2 Club
Specifications
The Copa Pure 2 Club is all about providing pure comfort. The upper features grooves on the upper that help enhance the touch on the ball.
Made from a synthetic leather substitute that helps to provide that classic Copa feel, this cleat enjoys a streamlined, ergonomic design to enhances the player's connection with the ball.
The FG version of the cleat is dynamic and made with agility in mind. Adidas have designed the outsole so that it can be used on both firm grass pitches and artificial grass as well. The cleat is lined with a soft cushioned material meant to provide comfort to the player’s feet.
If you’re looking for a cleat made with comfort in mind at an affordable price from one of world soccer’s most premium brands, this could be the smart choice.
How we test soccer cleats
Here at FourFourTwo, our testing procedure involves getting cleats on our own feet and personally using 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 where it matters - out on the pitch.
All of our reviews are honest (despite working with brands, nobody can "buy" a good review from us) and we always have real players in mind when giving recommendations.
How to choose the best soccer cleats
Selecting the right pair of cleats can often prove a tricky task with 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 important before making a decision.
Getting the right fit
The single most important factor to take into account is how a pair of cleats fit. After all, the appearance won't affect 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.
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A self-proclaimed football boot scientist and long-time boot collector, Subomi is better known as Sub on his platform SubStance Football, creating content across YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. He creates content around football gear, while using his expertise in Material Science & Engineering to explain certain aspects of football gear technology that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Jack Lacey-HattonFreelance writer