Back to School 2024
Summer is winding down, and the 'Back to School' season is kicking off—bringing with it the excitement (and a bit of stress) of getting everything ready for the new term.
For parents preparing for Back to School 2024, this means more than just ticking off uniforms and stationery from the list; it's also about finding the best kids' football boots and essential gear.
One of the most crucial—and often overlooked—items is the PE kit, especially those all-important football boots. Making sure your child has the right gear can set them up for a year of success on the pitch, and we’re here to help you make the best choice with ease.
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When Do the Kids Go Back to School?
Understanding Surface Types: How to Choose the Best Football Boots for Kids
What day do UK schools go back?
Get ready parents! Most kids will be heading back to school on Monday, September 2nd, 2024.
To make sure you’re all set, check the specific dates for your area on the GOV.UK website.
How to Choose the Best Football Boots for Kids in 2024
First things first: when it comes to football boots, making sure your child has the right pair is crucial.
When selecting the best football boots for kids in 2024, comfort, performance, and injury prevention should be your top considerations.
While this may seem challenging, understanding the surface type your child will be playing on at school is the key starting point. By following our guide below, you’ll find the perfect football boots for your child in no time.
Understanding Surface Types
The most important aspect to consider when choosing the right football boots for your child is the surface they’ll be playing on.
If you’re new to football, you might be thinking, “Well, on the football pitch, surely?” And while you’re right, it’s unfortunately not that simple!
But don’t worry!
If you have an itinerary from your child’s school that lists the type of boots they’ll need—whether Firm Ground (FG), Soft Ground (SG), Astro Turf, or Indoor—then that’s a great place to start.
If not, don't worry, we're on hand to make this as seamless as possible, and it all starts with understanding what surface type they will be playing on.
Firm Ground (FG)
Firm Ground Football Boots, or otherwise known as 'FG Boots' are designed for use on natural grass pitches where the ground is firm under foot and the grass is short-cut.
This type of boot is most commonly used within UK schools due the football fields being typically dry or slightly wet.
As such, FG Football Boots, such as the Mercurial Vapor Elite below accommodate for these surfaces by featuring moulded studs or blades that cut, lock and detach from firm-ground with ease.
The purpose of these are to offer excellent traction and stability on Firm Ground surfaces.
Soft Ground (SG)
Soft-Ground Football Boots, also known as ‘SG Boots’, are reserved for use on natural grass pitches that are soft or wet.
These boots typically feature longer studs compared to their Firm-Ground counterparts.
SG football boots are designed to dig deep into the ground and usually have either metal or plastic studs to provide superior traction and stability in muddy or slippery conditions.
Astro Turf (TF)
Astro Turf Football Boots are designed for 2G, 3G, and 4G pitches, which are sand-dressed or sand-filled.
These pitches are often used for PE lessons when natural grass pitches are too muddy, as they provide a consistent playing surface regardless of weather conditions.
Durable and capable of withstanding heavy use, Astro Turf boots replace studs with patterned rubber grip textures. This design ensures excellent grip on sandy surfaces, significantly reducing the likelihood of your child skidding or sustaining an injury.
While some retailers might mistakenly suggest these boots for indoor courts, the TF soleplate doesn’t offer the necessary traction for slippery indoor surfaces.
Indoor Court (IC)
Offering a flatter sole than your typical Astro Turf trainer, Indoor Court shoes feature uniquely embossed stud-like grooves on the sole for enhanced grip on maple, polyurethane and vinyl floors typically found within school sports halls.
Perfect for traditional games of 5-a-side or Futsal, the slightly raised partitions towards the forefoot help your child keep their feet firmly on the ground.
The Best Back-to-School Deals
Blackout Boots are all the rage for the new 2024/25 football season!
It’s a fantastic coincidence that they also conform to school guidelines for PE sessions, making them a perfect choice for kids (it’s almost like it was planned!).
Below, you can find the best back-to-school deals on kids football boots. We’ve taken into consideration every type of player, from beginners to amateurs, and the pros who revel in the limelight at club level.
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Beginner Level Football Boots (£28-50)
For many parents out there, cheap is understandably cheerful and who doesn’t love a back-to-school bargain with some of the best kids football boots under £50?
Below you’ll find some fantastic deals on the Best Football Boots for Kids who are just starting out on their footballing journey.
In this section:
Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Club
Even legends can find ways to evolve, and with the Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Club Football Boots, no matter your child's playing level, you can guarantee they'll be the envy of their classmates wearing these bad boys.
Jam-packed with performance-enhancing tech, these boots feature a super-stretchy double-layered mesh that ensures a snug fit, while strategically placed micro-dots on the upper enhance shooting, dribbling, and passing.
Nike’s FlyTouch Lite leather provides exceptional comfort, and the soft, springy foam midsole offers additional support. With these boots, your budding football star can enjoy a distraction-free game, focusing on perfecting their playmaking skills.
Get ready for a school year filled with goals, assists, and standout performances with the Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Club Football Boots, available now from as little as £45!
Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Club Junior Firm Ground Football Boots - £45
Tech Specs:
+ Durable synthetic leather upper for improved touch and durability; cushioned EVA insole for shock absorption; molded rubber outsole designed for optimal traction on Firm Ground (FG) surfaces.
adidas F50 Club
The adidas F50 Club football boots, among the best football boots for kids in 2024, offer fantastic value for young footballers looking for quality on a budget.
adidas F50 Club Junior Firm Ground Football Boots - £35 at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
While they don’t have all the advanced tech of their Elite variant, the F50 Club still delivers impressive performance with targeted support and cushioning. The Fiberskin upper and textile lining are not only comfortable but also exceptionally breathable.
With 3D lines at key contact zones, every touch, strike, and dribble is enhanced, ensuring quick and agile movement on the pitch.
Complete with the iconic three stripes and ‘F50’ branding, the F50 Club is one of the sleekest speed boots available. Perfect for helping your child shine in school football!
Tech Specs:
+ Lightweight Fiberskin upper for comfort and agility; textile lining for breathability; 3D control lines enhance touch during play; TPU outsole for stability on FG surfaces.
Puma Future 7 Play
As the new school year kicks off, why not give your child the edge on the pitch with the Future 7 Play football boots? These boots are a game-changer, offering incredible value at just £28.
Puma Future 7 Play Junior Firm Ground Football Boots - NOW £28 (Was £39.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
Designed for speed demons, they feature a stretch collar for a snug fit, textured print detailing for superior ball control, and a Dynamic Motion System soleplate with an advanced stud configuration for lightning-fast moves.
Whether your child dreams of making the school’s A team or just wants to dive into the action, these boots will help them start the school year off with a bang!
Tech Specs:
+ Stretch-fit collar for a snug, sock-like fit; textured upper for enhanced ball control; Dynamic Motion System soleplate with conical and bladed studs for multi-directional traction on FG surfaces.
Intermediate Level Football Boots (£35-85)
If your child is an intermediate player, they’re really stepping up their game and starting to shine with more advanced skills!
They’ve moved beyond the basics and are now mastering the essentials like passing, dribbling, and shooting with impressive consistency.
Whether they’re part of a school team or playing at a local club, they’re beginning to grasp team strategies and positioning. It’s an exciting time to watch their progress as they continue to develop into a strong and confident player on the field!
In this section:
Nike Mercurial Superfly 10 Academy
One of the best selling football boots for kids playing at the intermediate level, the Nike Mercurial Superfly 10 Academy is a steal at just £65.
Lightweight in nature, the synthetic NikeSkin upper, embedded with chevrons mimics the feeling of playing barefoot, and houses an intuitive pull tab and strap design that makes the need for laces a thing of the past.
Nike Zoom Mercurial Superfly 10 Academy Juniors Firm Ground Football Boots - £65 at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
A secure dynamic fit collar and upgraded stretch mesh knit further enhance the boot's fit, offering next-level flexibility and support.
To the soleplate, a wave-like traction pattern with cascading studs steals the show, offering an enlarged surface area that guarantees next-level grip and agility across the pitch, whether a midfield maestro or a sensational striker.
Tech Specs:
+ NikeSkin upper for close ball control and barefoot feel; dynamic fit collar for ankle support; Chevron and circular studs arranged in a wave-like pattern for enhanced traction and speed on FG surfaces.
adidas Predator 24 League
The adidas Predator 24 League truly stands out in a league of its own (we couldn’t resist the pun!).
But seriously, this boot offers exceptional value for money at just £35, packed with features perfect for PE training sessions, local school competitions, and even Sunday league matches—ideal for your budding intermediate player.
adidas Predator 24 League Junior Firm Ground Boots - NOW £35 (Was £49.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
With a synthetic Hybridfeel upper featuring 3D texturing and Strikescale fins, your child will enjoy the enhanced grip and precision these elements provide. The low-cut collar ensures a secure yet comfortable fit, making quick push-offs a breeze.
The standout Controlplate 2.0 outsole allows your child to dig in and side-step opponents with ease, making it a top choice for any young player looking to finesse their skills on the pitch!
Tech Specs:
+ Hybridfeel upper for adaptive comfort; Strikescale 3D fins for superior ball grip and control; Controlplate outsole with hybrid stud configuration for stability and precise movements on FG surfaces.
Puma Ultra Match
This one’s for the speedsters who dream of becoming the next Antoine Griezmann, Kingsley Coman, or Kyle Walker.
At an attractive price of just £55, the Puma Ultra Match is built to impress, featuring everything from GripControl skin technology for precise ball control to an innovative SPEEDSYSTEM soleplate that’s lightweight, responsive, and perfect for delivering optimal energy return.
Puma Ultra Match Junior Firm Ground Football Boots - £55 at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
Like the Mercurial Superfly 10 Academy we mentioned earlier, the Puma Ultra Match sports a low-cut slip-on design with a handy pull tab on the heel for an easy, hassle-free fit!
Tech Specs:
+ GripControl Pro coating for enhanced ball handling; ultra-light SPEEDSYSTEM outsole with optimised stud configuration for rapid movements; low-profile design for a close-to-ground feel on FG surfaces.
Pro-Level Football Boots (£70 - 175)
If your child is a pro-level player, you’ve probably already seen them excel with exceptional skills and a deep understanding of the game. They’ve honed their technique to a high degree, making them standouts on the field.
These players are often the stars of their school teams, local clubs, or even regional squads.
With advanced dribbling, passing, and shooting abilities, they’ve got a strong grasp of tactical play and positioning, making them key players in any game.
In this section:
Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 Pro
Pro-level boots don’t get much better than this…
For the first time in the Mercurial’s storied reign on the pitch, Nike has introduced a full one-piece Flyknit upper into their Pro silo—a design that makes this the lightest and most durable Pro Mercurial yet.
Every detail has been carefully crafted to boost your child's on-pitch performance.
Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 Pro Juniors Firm Ground Football Boots - NOW £105 (Was £109.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
From strategically placed side panels that provide extra support and enhance their control and connection with the ball, to a revolutionary wave-like traction pattern on the soleplate, these boots deliver where it counts.
The combination of cascading chevron and bladed studs maximises the surface area of the Air Zoom unit, ensuring unparalleled traction and enabling swift, decisive movements straight toward the goal.
Tech Specs:
+ One-piece Flyknit upper for an adaptive, sock-like fit; supportive side panels for stability during lateral movements; Air Zoom unit integrated into the sole for responsive cushioning; innovative traction pattern with chevron studs for maximum grip on FG surfaces.
adidas Predator 24 Elite
Widely regarded as this season's must-have boot, the adidas Predator 24 Elite is "crafted for goals" and represents the pinnacle of peak performance.
Endorsed by top players like Bellingham, Pedri, Russo, Diani, and Gabriel Jesus, it's no wonder this boot is turning heads.
adidas Predator 24 Elite Junior Firm Ground Boots - NOW £70 (Was £84.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
With cutting-edge features such as the HybridTouch 2.0 synthetic suede upper and Strikeskin elements strategically placed in key contact zones, the Predator 24 Elite equips your child with the precision and power to truly excel on the field.
The traditional lace closure combined with a comfortable two-piece collar design makes these boots perfect for school match rivalries. Get ready to see your child play with enhanced speed, accuracy, and confidence this school year!
Tech Specs:
+ HybridTouch 2.0 synthetic upper for superior touch and lightweight comfort; Strikeskin elements for enhanced power and control in striking zones; Controlframe outsole with split tooling for stability and agility; aggressive stud configuration for optimal traction on FG surfaces.
Puma Future 7 Pro
As your kids head back to school, make sure they step onto the field in style and confidence with the Puma Future 7 Pro football boots. These Pro-level boots are making waves this season for all the right reasons.
Puma Future 7 Pro Firm Ground Football Boots Juniors - NOW £70 (Was £84.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
In the striking ‘Eclipse Pack Colourway’, these boots are designed to turn heads. But they’re not just about looks—performance is key.
What makes the Puma Future 7 Pro truly unique is the PWRTAPE technology. Strategically placed on the upper and extending to the toe box, this feature ensures unbeatable foot lockdown. Paired with an advanced lace closure system, these boots offer a secure, comfortable fit that adapts to the natural shape of your child's foot.
Why have your child blend in when they can stand out on the field? Equip them with the Puma Future 7 Pro and let them shine this school year!
Tech Specs:
+ PWRTAPE technology on the upper and toe box for unparalleled foot lockdown; Advanced lace closure system for a secure, comfortable fit that adapts to the natural shape of the foot; Eclipse Pack Colourway for a striking design that ensures standout style on the field.
Want to Make Their Boots Truly Unique?
Looking to give your child’s football boots a unique touch?
At Lovell Soccer, you can personalise their boots with their initials or even the name of their favourite player—at no extra cost! Imagine the excitement on their face when they see their name printed on their very own boots.
It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in how they feel stepping onto the field.
Don’t miss out on this special feature—add a personal touch to your back-to-school shopping today!
Essential Back-to-School Football Accessories
It's only understandable that you want your child to perform their best at school, and ensuring they're equipped with the right football accessories is a great way to foster their love for the game!
In this section:
Football Socks
An essential item for any PE kit: Football Socks!
To keep in line with school policy, we recommend these sleek Nike Academy football socks in black. Designed for comfort, they feature a ribbed ankle opening and are perfect for PE sessions.
Nike Academy Football Socks Childrens - £11 at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
Plus, with Nike's Dri-Fit technology, these socks wick away moisture, keeping your child cool and comfortable even when the game heats up!
Shin Pads
Premium protection doesn’t have to come at a high price!
Shin pads are a must-have for kids hitting the pitch this school season, offering crucial protection for the soft tissues and bones in the lower legs from tackles and collisions.
Engineered to provide optimal shock absorption and energy dissipation, they significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries on the field.
Nike Charge Shin Pads Kids - NOW £18 (Was £20.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
Our top pick is the Kids Nike Charge Shin Pads. Stylish and highly durable, these pads feature dense foam to diffuse impact while the contoured design ensures a snug, tailored fit.
A secure strap at the heel keeps them firmly in place, allowing your child to focus on scoring goals without worrying about their shin pads slipping.
Goalkeeper Gloves
A must-have football accessory for any budding Jordan Pickford—Goalkeeper Gloves!
While it’s tempting to splurge on premium gloves with all the bells and whistles that claim to "guarantee" game improvement, sometimes the more affordable option is just as effective.
adidas Tiro Club Goalkeeper Gloves Junior - NOW £10 (Was £12.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
These kids' adidas Tiro Club Goalkeeper Gloves are an excellent choice for any aspiring keeper, perfect for both matches and PE training sessions.
With a durable soft grip palm that ensures easy ball handling and a positive finger cut for a comfortable fit, these gloves also feature a touch tape fastening strap at the wrist cuff for a secure, snug fit.
And at just £10, down from £12.99, they’re an unbeatable deal for the back to school season!
Boot Buddy Boot Cleaner
For a quick and effective way to clean their boots before the next PE session, the Boot Buddy Shoe & Boot Cleaner is a miracle worker!
As a winner of the prestigious Horner Bottlemarkers' prize and featured on Dragons’ Den, this innovative product boasts a 3-in-1 design that delivers ultimate boot care, both on and off the pitch.
With a generous 300ml water capacity, a mud scraper, and a bristle head, the Boot Buddy goes above and beyond your typical boot care routine.
Boot Buddy Shoe and Boot Cleaner - NOW £13 (Was £14.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
Just fill it with water, scrub with the bristles, and marvel as even the most stubborn grime is effortlessly removed!
Not only will this keep their boots looking spotless, but it will also help extend their lifespan.
School PE Bags
A no brainer in our opinion!
After all, how else is your child expected to carry all of their school essentials?
adidas Essentials Gym Bag- NOW £8 (Was £9.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
With a whole array of price points, styles, designs and club bags to choose from, you really are spoilt for choice at Lovell Soccer.
Boot Bags
Ever wonder how your child manages to come home with their PE kit absolutely caked in mud? It’s like they’ve been rolling in it!
We totally get it…
The solution? A Boot Bag!
Sondico Boot Bag - NOW £6 (Was £11.99) at Lovellsoccer.co.uk
Starting at just £6 from Lovell Soccer, a Boot Bag is a lifesaver for keeping their kit separate from those muddy boots. Say goodbye to last-minute panics and hello to stress-free PE lessons!
Like what you see?
There’s plenty more where that came from! Browse the best deals on Kids Back to School boots and accessories at Lovell Soccer now for a stress-free shopping experience.
This article was written by the experts from our partners at lovellsoccer.co.uk
