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When it comes to Football Sole Plates, things tend to get a little bit complicated. Your boots are your connection to the pitch, and getting the right soleplate can take your game from good to great.
Here at On the Line, we’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to!
Whether you’re playing on firm ground, artificial pitches, or indoors, understanding the differences in soleplates can significantly impact your game. Let’s break it down!
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#2. Artificial Ground Explained
What is “Firm Ground” in Football?
First things first, when it comes to Firm Ground, FG soleplates are made for natural grass surfaces.
Whether formed because of sweltering summer heat or frozen winter pitches, natural surfaces can get compact, meaning traction becomes key to turning quickly and confidently on the field.
Adorned by players of all levels, the FG soleplate is comprised of a blend of both blades and rounded studs for ultimate grip.
Whilst the boot type has been adapted significantly over time and varies from brand to brand due to patented technologies that seek to provide optimal traction for the player, the boot type effectively works towards the same goal.
FG soleplates aren’t just about stability; they give you the confidence to make sharp cuts and fast sprints on the field, whether you’re chasing a through ball or closing down an opponent.
In a bid to reduce weight, a characteristic of FG soleplates includes a split design toward the forefoot and heel to distribute the weight of the player more evenly. This is supported by an internal chassis structure.
Thanks to fixed studs molded onto a split soleplate, which uses the same material composition as the plate itself, you’ll certainly have no trouble gaining speed with this silo soleplate.
Can Firm Ground Boots be used on 3G pitches?
Yes, FG boots can be used on Artificial/3G pitches, but it’s not recommended. FG studs can be too long for the surface type, leading to reduced traction and increasing the risk of injury.
Artificial Ground/ Artificial Grass(AG)
When it comes to synthetic pitches, things change. Artificial turf is firm underfoot and requires a different approach.
Gone are the long stud configurations found on SG and FG boots. Instead, the AG soleplate ditches blades and removable studs for a more textured conical shape, and it’s all for a reason.
Unlike FG soleplates, which can snag on artificial terrain and leave you with twisted ankles or even ACL injuries, AG soleplates feature small, hollow studs designed for easier entry and release on 3G and 4G pitches.
AG soleplates not only protect against injury but help you stay light on your feet, making you more agile during training or matches.
What is a 3G pitch?
A 3G pitch uses sand and rubber crumb infill as a soil substitute with varying pile heights.
Accredited by governing bodies FIFA and SAPCA, 3G pitches are widely recognized for offering a consistent playing surface.
What is a 4G Pitch?
The latest generation of artificial turf, which consists of a single element – the turf itself. Though 4G is still awaiting official recognition, many pitches are marketed as such.
AG soleplates distribute pressure evenly, making them highly comfortable for players, while the molded studs give you the edge during training and matches. If you’re after comfort and performance on artificial surfaces, AG boots are your go-to.
What is “Soft Ground” in Football?
You guessed it – Soft-Ground boots are designed for, well, soft ground. When the pitch turns muddy and wet, these boots shine.
Say goodbye to slipping and sliding – SG boots help you stay grounded and agile, even in the toughest conditions.
Unlike their lighter FG and AG counterparts, SG boots are equipped with long metallic studs combined with shorter blades to help you gain traction on waterlogged, muddy pitches.
How does anti-clog tech work?
Certain pairs (Nike specific), such as the Nike Tiempo Elite SG come equipped with anti-clog technology, using a hydrophobic layer to prevent mud buildup.
An adaptive polymer layer is activated when exposed to water and loosens the grip of the mud as you play. When dry the sole has a textured rubber-like feel, but when wet it is slick to the touch.
Rejoice – gone are the days of bashing your boots together to shake off mud!
Multi Ground (MG) 404
Otherwise known as the ‘Hybrid’ boot, Multi-Ground soleplates sport the perfect balance between FG and AG soleplates, making them the perfect 2 in 1 soleplate for the go-getters who dare to take on more than just one type of terrain.
Showcasing the shortest studs of the bunch, the angled plastic studs provide maximum grip and enhanced acceleration on dry grass, whilst delivering performance on par with AG soleplates on 3G/4G pitches.
Worried about switching surfaces mid-game? MG boots ensure you stay comfortable and ready to perform, no matter where you play.
Astro Turf (TF)
Perfect for 2G sand-dressed or sand-filled pitches, the Astro Turf soleplate ditches traditional studs in favor of patterned rubber bumps.
These bumps provide reliable grip on sandy surfaces, helping you avoid skidding and injury.
Ideal for small-sided games, Astro Turf boots are your best friend for 5-a-side matches, offering the grip you need for quick, tight play.
One common mistake is using TF soleplates on indoor courts, but they don’t offer the traction needed for smooth, slick indoor surfaces.
Indoor Court
Futsal and 5-a-side lovers, this one’s for you.
Indoor Court (IC) shoes are designed for use on indoor surfaces like maple, polyurethane, and vinyl floors. Sporting a flat, patterned sole with embossed grooves, IC shoes help you keep your footing on smooth indoor courts.
Slightly raised partitions toward the forefoot ensure that your feet stay firmly on the ground. These are the go-to choice for indoor warriors!
Ready to take your indoor game to the next level? These shoes offer ultimate grip for quick footwork on indoor courts.
Wherever you train, we’ve got you covered. Check out our latest range of FG, SG, TF, and IC shoes available now at Lovellsoccer.co.uk.
Step onto the pitch with the right boots for the right surface and unlock your best game yet.
Wherever you train, we’ve got you covered. Check out our latest range of FG , SG , TF and IC shoes available now at Lovellsoccer.co.uk