Footwear
It is very important to have well fitting boots, there is a huge variety available, make sure you understand you foot shape and your running style. Ideally the boot will be sung, although if your feet are still growing make sure there is room for this.
Moulded studs - Anywhere between 12-16 studs on the base, these are normally best for dry pitches, the number of studs give good support over a wide area, and reduces blisters, but in the wet the studs will not give you the grip like screw-in studs.
Screw-in-studs - These are the most popular as it gives the player the opportunity to adjust their footwear to the conditions, they can use longer studs in muddy and shorter in dry, and extra studs are cheaper than extra boots.
Blades - A recent innovation said to make running easier, the sole is made up of a series of blades, the depth of which change depending on the model, and it is now possible to by interchangeable blades.
Astroturf - If you play of Astroturf then special shoes with multiple rubber pimples are best, they will give you the best grip, they also cushion your feet against the hard service, they can be used on dry, hard grass pitches at the start of the season.
Boots can be made from leather or synthetic materials. Leather moulds itself to the shape of your feet, but can stretch when wet. Synthetic boots are often lighter and less expensive. Try to find soft “uppers” to give you the best control of the ball.
Lace position also vary depending on the manufacturers - some offer boots with laces moved slightly down the outside of the boot to give a larger, cleaner surface area for control and kicking the ball.