How to Choose the Best Nike Football Boots for Kids

A pair of football boots optimised for comfort and playing style can help the child in your life get the most out of the sport while performing at their best. When finding a new pair of football boots for kids, there are some important factors to consider, such as the type of surface they'll be playing on, their future performance goals and the boot materials they find most comfortable.

Use this guide to find the best kids' football boots by Nike.

(Related: The Best Nike Football Boots to Match Your Playing Style)

Mercurial boots are made for young players who prioritise support and comfort while dribbling, passing and kicking.

The Mercurial features a synthetic upper that moulds to a kid's foot and provides a snug fit and responsive touch. These boots are flexible and breathable, making them ideal for intense bursts of speed on the pitch while maintaining control of the ball.

Some Mercurial boots come with Nike Zoom technology, which helps absorb impact and adds cushioning to quick movements. Nike Jr. Mercurial Vapor boots have a low-profile design, while the Nike Jr. Mercurial Superfly boots feature a sock-like lining that wraps the ankle for a natural, close-fitting feel.

Find these football shoes for firm ground, turf, indoor courts and multi-ground surfaces.

The Phantom boot is designed with extra grip for young players who are building their footwork skills like fast turns, accelerated moves and precision for kicking the ball to the back of the net.

Synthetic leather and asymmetric lacing gives a clean touch zone on the inner arch of the boot, while a blend of conical and tri-star studs underfoot enables quick directional changes. Meanwhile, a supportive mesh collar gives comfort and breathability.

Some models, like the Nike Jr. Phantom Academy, don't have laces at all but rather a pull tab and adjustable tongue to get young players on the pitch even more quickly. These boots also feature an agility plate designed for swerves and sprints.

Like the Mercurial boots, Phantom boots feature either a sock-like fit at the ankles or a low-profile style. Find them for turf, indoor courts and multi-ground surfaces.

The Nike Jr. Tiempo boots favour comfort and consistency above all else. This style embodies traditional Nike designs and its reliability makes this boot work well for all players—from beginner to expert.

These football shoes are best suited for defenders, centre backs or players who want more protection. The upper on these boots has raised textures backed by soft foam pods to give padding and precision to dribbling, passing and shooting.

Soft, synthetic leather adds to the shoe's durability without sacrificing comfort. These boots feel comfortable from the start, meaning the young player in your life can go straight to the pitch without a painful break-in period. Find them for turf, indoor courts and multi-ground surfaces.

(Related: How to Clean Football Boots)

Words by Claire Tak