Boys soccer cleats aren’t as easy to buy as many parents are lead to believe. By the time many of these parents realize they were a little too hasty in their purchase, it is often times too late to return the cleats (since most stores don’t usually take back muddy, used cleats).

If you want to avoid this problem and not throw your money out of the window, here are a few tips to help you pick out the perfect boys soccer cleats:

Obviously the most important aspect to be aware of is the fit. If your son has cleats that are too big, he will be stumbling all around the soccer field. If they are too tight, he will be left with painful sores and blisters. Also, since soccer players use their feet to kick the ball, it is imperative that they have close-fitting shoes that give them the right “feel”.

When you visit the store, be sure to that you bring along a pair of soccer socks and the shin pads your child will be wearing when he plays. This will give an accurate fit as possible. In general, you will want the shoe to have about a half inch of space between the heel and back of your son’s foot. Have him jog around and make sure that the cleats feel comfortable – but watch for any slippage.

You will want to look for cleats that have regulation studs for soccer. Keep in mind that football and baseball cleats use various sized studs and materials, and a referee may not let your child play with illegal studs on his shoes (since they can be dangerous to other players).

You should understand that if your son is younger, you will most likely be buying a new pair of boys soccer cleats every year. Don’t try to squeeze a couple of years out of the cleats by buying a size too big. It will only result in blisters and a poor performance on the field.

Finally, explain to your son that he needs to take care of his cleats. They should be cleaned after every game so that they don’t become hardened and uncomfortable, since the leather will mold to your child’s foot.