Top 10 Soccer Shoes 2016: Performance Review and Buying Guide
As I lace up my latest pair of soccer cleats for weekend training, I can't help but reflect on how dramatically footwear technology has evolved. Having tested over two dozen models this past year alone, I've developed some strong opinions about what makes a great soccer shoe in 2016. The right footwear can genuinely transform your game - I've seen players gain noticeable improvements in acceleration, control, and confidence just by switching to the proper cleats. Interestingly, while researching this piece, I came across a fascinating parallel in the basketball world where National University officials gave a player just three days to decide between staying with the Lady Bulldogs or pursuing Korean draft plans. That kind of pressure decision isn't so different from what many athletes face when choosing their equipment - you need to make informed choices quickly, often with limited information.
Let me start with what I consider the standout performer this year - the Adidas Ace 16+ Purecontrol. Having worn these for three months across both artificial turf and natural grass, I can confidently say they represent a genuine leap forward in boot technology. The sock-like construction eliminates traditional laces, creating what Adidas claims is 18% more striking surface - and from my experience, that translates to noticeably cleaner ball contact. The Primeknit upper molds to your foot within about 4-5 wears, creating what feels like a second skin. I particularly appreciated how these performed in wet conditions, maintaining excellent grip and control even when the pitch was soaked through. At around $250, they're certainly an investment, but for serious players, I believe they're worth every penny.
The Nike Magista Obra II deserves its spot near the top of any 2016 list, though I'll admit I have some reservations about the distinctive collar design. Nike's Flyknit construction provides exceptional touch, and the dynamic fit collar - which extends about 1.5 inches above the ankle - does offer surprising support once you get used to it. During testing, I found my ball retention improved by what felt like at least 15%, particularly when making quick turns under pressure. The soleplate provides excellent traction without feeling overly aggressive, making these suitable for players who value agility over raw power. My only complaint? The collar takes some getting used to, and players with wider feet might find the fit too restrictive during the break-in period.
Now, let's talk about the Puma evoPOWER 1.2 - a boot that genuinely surprised me with its performance. Puma's Adap-Lite upper is thinner than most competitors at just 0.4 millimeters, creating what they call "barefoot feel." I found these particularly effective for shooting, with the flexible upper allowing for more natural foot movement through the strike. The graduated stability spine provides structure where needed while maintaining flexibility, and the asymmetrical lacing system creates a clean striking surface. During my testing, my shot power increased by what felt like 8-10% compared to my regular boots. At $180, they represent solid value, though the thin upper may not withstand rough treatment as well as some competitors.
The Nike Mercurial Superfly V continues to impress with its focus on speed, though I've always been slightly skeptical of the "speed boot" category. The textured Flyknit upper provides excellent grip on the ball, and the dynamic fit collar integrates more seamlessly than on the Magista. What really stands out is the traction pattern - during acceleration tests, I found my 20-meter sprint times improved by approximately 0.2 seconds compared to traditional boots. The carbon fiber soleplate provides responsive energy return, though players who prefer more ground feel might find it slightly stiff initially. At $275, these sit at the premium end, but for wingers and forwards whose game relies on explosive pace, they're difficult to beat.
Under Armour's entry into the soccer market has been interesting to watch develop, and the Clutchfit Force 2.0 represents their most compelling offering yet. The four-way stretch mesh upper adapts beautifully to foot shape, creating what I found to be among the most comfortable fits straight out of the box. The directional traction pattern provides excellent grip during changes of direction, though I did notice some slipping on very wet natural grass. Where these really shine is in ball control - the textured surface provides consistent grip in various weather conditions. Having spoken with several college players facing decisions similar to that National University athlete, I've noticed many are increasingly willing to consider brands beyond the traditional giants, and Under Armour is definitely benefiting from this shift.
Mizuno's Morelia Neo II deserves mention for its traditional craftsmanship approach in a market increasingly dominated by high-tech materials. The kangaroo leather upper provides touch quality that synthetic materials still can't quite match, in my opinion. The break-in period is virtually non-existent - these felt comfortable from the first wear. The lightweight design doesn't sacrifice durability, and the pegged soleplate offers reliable traction across surfaces. While they lack some of the technological features of competitors, sometimes simplicity wins. I've recommended these to several technical players who prioritize touch over flashy features, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Adidas' X 15.1 caters specifically to speed-focused players, featuring what they call a "speed skin" texture designed to reduce drag and increase ball control at high velocities. The non-stretch upper provides lockdown without compromising comfort, and the split outsole design offers excellent flexibility. During testing, I found these particularly effective for players who make rapid directional changes - the traction pattern bites effectively without feeling overly aggressive. The sock-like construction provides ankle support similar to the Ace series but with a focus on lightweight performance. At $220, they're competitively priced within the speed boot category.
New Balance entered the soccer market with considerable ambition, and the Furon 2.0 Pro represents their most refined offering to date. The FantomFit upper provides surprising structure for such a lightweight boot, and the directional stud pattern offers explosive traction. I was particularly impressed with the lockdown - my foot felt secured without any pressure points, even during extended sessions. The synthetic upper provides consistent performance in wet conditions, though it doesn't offer the same natural feel as leather alternatives. Having witnessed New Balance's growing presence in the market, I believe they're positioned to capture significant market share if they continue at this pace.
The Adidas Copa Mundial 17.1 offers a modern take on what many consider the most iconic soccer boot ever made. The kangaroo leather upper provides exceptional touch, while contemporary construction techniques reduce weight significantly compared to the original. The fold-over tongue delivers that classic look with improved performance, and the soleplate offers reliable traction without excessive aggression. These won't appeal to players seeking cutting-edge technology, but for those who appreciate traditional quality with modern refinements, they're outstanding. I've found myself reaching for these increasingly for casual games where pure enjoyment outweighs performance metrics.
Rounding out my list is the Nike Tiempo Legend VI, which strikes an impressive balance between traditional materials and modern technology. The premium kangaroo leather upper provides exceptional touch, while the All Conditions Control texture offers reliable grip in wet weather. The articulated soleplate provides flexibility where needed while maintaining structural integrity. What impressed me most was how these adapted to different playing styles - they worked equally well for creative midfielders and defensive-minded players. At $185, they represent excellent value for players seeking quality materials without the premium price tag of some flagship models.
Looking across this year's offerings, I'm struck by how much specialization has occurred within the market. Unlike that National University athlete who had to choose between two clear paths, today's players can select boots tailored to their specific position, playing style, and even weather conditions. Having tested these extensively across different surfaces and conditions, I've come to appreciate that the "best" boot often comes down to individual preference and playing style rather than objective superiority. The trend toward knitted uppers and collar systems appears to be more than just a passing phase, with multiple brands refining these technologies to genuine performance benefits. What excites me most is seeing how these innovations trickle down to more affordable price points, making advanced technology accessible to more players. Ultimately, the right choice depends on understanding your game honestly and selecting footwear that enhances your strengths while compensating for weaknesses - much like any important athletic decision, it requires both information and intuition.
