Adidas has been a leading manufacturer of soccer cleats in the market for a while. Shortly after its official launch, the Adidas SBamba became the first soccer shoes to have a multi-sided rubber sole. Although shoe technology has improved a lot since then, Adidas remains a major player in the market.
There are quite a few different boots out there, so it’s a little difficult to pick out the best of the best. There are plenty of options to choose from so it’s easy to find the right fit. Here are the best nine players right now.
1. Adidas Performance Copa 20+
The first Copa Mundial Shoe was released in 1979. Since then, it has been updated many times. It now features the latest technology and a lot of high-quality materials. The sole purpose of the leather is to mold the shoe to your foot.
It provides a glove-like feeling that players love, which is especially useful for those who depend on a great touch on the pitch.
It’s not the flashiest looking shoe in some colorways, but it is a performance model that stacks up well against anything out there. It provides players with a shoe they trust every time they play.
It’s very lightweight and durable, with excellent traction. It might not be the best cleat for everyone, but it’s a true stand out as a cleat that does a lot of things very well.
Pros
- Amazing traction
- You can feel the ball’s touch and feel.
- Not necessary to break-in
Cons
- Some of the technology is not available in other cleats.
- It can be a little tricky to size.
2. Adidas Performance Nemeziz Messi 17.3 FG
Adidas is the signature shoe of Lionel Messi and must have great technology. Adidas’ standout Argentinian is a long-standing customer. This shoe adds a lot of value and makes it a great choice.
The boot’s standard features include high-quality traction and an outsole that is designed for aggressive and fast play. There are also great technology throughout the boot. Although the cleat can be used by players in many positions, strikers seem to prefer them.
The focus should be on the outside here, as it’s one of the things that helps it stand out from others from Adidas. The outsole was inspired by Messi and the studs were designed to increase the speed of the players. They can be used in any type of ground, and players can dictate their own terms.
The shoe also features all the latest technology. The mesh upper makes it very breathable and is extremely supportive. Although it feels very different from a leather cleat for some, others prefer the modern technology feel.
Pros
- The shoe is made with top-end technology and very lightweight
- The outsole offers great traction
- Lionel Messi has endorsed it
Cons
- Not everyone will appreciate the shoe’s design with Messi’s name on it
- Some people complain that it feels too lightweight and fragile in certain conditions.
3. Adidas Performance Nemeziz 17.3 FG
Players don’t necessarily have to get the shoe that is fully endorsed by Lionel Messi. Adidas also makes a version that is a little cheaper and doesn’t have the branding of the superstar on it. It still functions pretty much the same exact way, so it’s more of a stylistic difference than anything.
The same cutting-edge technology is used on the shoes and on the field to benefit players. The futuristic look of the boot is a huge draw for players. It also plays better than other options.
They tend to have a few more colors available that aren’t endorsed by Messi as well, which is a positive for some people out there.
Pros
- A little less expensive than the Messi option
- Use the same technology as other Nemeziz
Cons
- It feels a bit lighter than the rest.
- The most popular sizes and colors go quickly
4. Adidas Predator Mutator 20.1
These cleats will grab your attention at first glance. These cleats are very distinctive because of their unique texture and high cut. These are a popular choice for people who like to be intrigued and feel instantly attracted to them. Others might find it a little too complicated.
For people who need great support and weight loss, the Sockfit collar is ideal. Even though it is a high-top type of fit, it certainly doesn’t feel that way from a weight perspective. This cleat is more stable and provides better support for the ankles of players than other lower-cut options.
For any soccer player, spin and control are vital. The 406 spikes on this cleat stand out. For players who can do that, the Demonskin allows for some incredible swerving on the ball.
This makes it an advanced soccer shoe that is perfect for top players looking to up their game. These cleats are being used by top players more than ever.
The cleat is built for any surface, so there isn’t much to hate on with the Predator Mutator 20+. They aren’t for everyone, but a certain type of player will really enjoy these.
Pros
- Excellent ankle support
- Amazing spins can be made with spikes
- Very stable
Cons
- It’s difficult to profit from the additional spin for lower-level players
- Laceless design isn’t for everyone
5. Adidas Freak X Carbon
Some players like a higher-end design. The Adidas Freak X Carbon is that.. Players will feel lighter and more comfortable, while the extra protection around the ankle will be a huge benefit.
For obvious reasons, soccer players consider their ankles very important. While some players are just fine with low-cut shoes, they aren’t for everyone. For high-top designs to have success, it’s still must be very lightweight and not restricting at all. Adidas’ Freak X Carbon is a great example of this.
Beneficial for any type of player, it’s worth trying out for a different fit if other Adidas shoes don’t really feel right. A high top can make you fall in love and then never want to leave.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Excellent ankle support
- Works for all positions
Cons
- High top design adds some weight
- The cleat is not the most long-lasting.
6. Adidas Predator 20.3
Adidas’ Predator line is well-known for offering high-quality shoes at a reasonable price, particularly the 20.3. Although they may not have the same technology as some other models, the Predator 20.3 is an affordable option.
People will find some things they love about issues that are lower-priced than the ones that are. The laceless design provides a large strike zone and will allow for greater accuracy.
It doesn’t have the same type of spikes as some of the other cleats out there, but there is a bit of texture to add spin to the ball on the shoe as well.
The Predator has a mid-cut option which supports the ankles. If players prefer that, there is a lower cut option. The final decision is up to you.
Pros
- Great budget option
- Support for the ankle with quality
- Laceless design
Cons
- Added texture doesn’t make too much of an impact
- A little bulky
7. Adidas Performance Goletto VI
If you are looking for great value, the Adidas Performance Goletto VI can be a great choice.. It is made of very light leather and can withstand real grass very well.
The shoe lacks the same type of premium technology that people might be used to, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. For those just starting out, it’s a great option because it offers simplicity.
The cleat remains very comfortable on the feet throughout the match. Even though it weighs a little heavier than some of the premium options, it doesn’t feel that way in real-world situations. This is an excellent takedown option that players will appreciate for matches or practice.
Pros
- It is lightweight and affordable
- Great traction on grass
- Very affordable
Cons
- A little heavy
- Cleats don’t do that well on wet surfaces
Final Decision
Although all the above mentioned soccer cleats can be great, there are other options. Adidas Performance Nemesis 17.3 I recommend it most. Try it out at least once and I would be surprised if you didn’t end up buying a pair. You can check the current price on Amazon here.
This cleat is the best option for average players, no matter if they are Lionel Messi fans or not. It is very comfortable, fits most feet well, allows for position flexibility, and has a wide range of color options. While it’s not the ideal cleat for everyone, many will find it helpful.
The complete list of top Adidas soccer cleats is here