Picking the Right Footy Boot

It is that time of the year again where the sun is setting earlier, the mercury is rapidly dropping and the backyard cricket gear is put in the shed until November. Fortunately, footy is back! With the footy season now underway, it is time to get serious about what footy boots you will be using for season 2018. Frankston Foot Clinic have compiled a list to help make that choice a bit easier.

FIT
When trying on your boots in-store, be sure to leave approximately a thumb width free at the tip of the toe-box. This is to ensure there is no damage to the nails or unnecessary pressure points that will cause irritation; especially towards the end of the game. Any more than a thumb width can present a tripping hazard and substandard performance when kicking the ball. Not only do we recommend getting your shoes properly fitted, but you should also wear footy socks at the time to give you a better representation of in-game wear.

STOPS/ STUDS
Basic rule of thumb is to use screw-in stops for wet, softer conditions to avoid slipping and moulded studs for hard and drier conditions. If you are playing at an elite level, a pair of each is highly recommended with quarter time and half time changes a regular occurrence. However, if you are playing a lower, local or even junior level than perhaps a hybrid stud orientation should be considered. This can suit both conditions while not being as financially taxing.

MATERIAL
Over recent years footy boots have generally moved away from heavy leather, with more synthetic models being available on the market. This was an attempt to make the shoe lighter with less deformation as the season progresses. However, generally speaking leather footy boots are more durable and often adjust to the foot better with repeated use. Keep in mind that if you are playing on paddock-like, second tier playing surfaces, that mud and rain soaking conditions can weigh down the leather boot even further and should be considered before purchase.
Hopefully your only concern this footy season is how to fix the leather poisoning you get from best on ground performances! If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact the clinic on 9783 9990 or book online.