2018 Best Soccer Shoes Reviewed: Top Picks for Every Playing Style
As a lifelong soccer enthusiast who's tested over 50 pairs of cleats across various leagues, I've developed a keen eye for what makes exceptional footwear. When researching the 2018 best soccer shoes reviewed, I kept noticing how proper footwear could make or break a player's performance - something that becomes painfully obvious when watching struggling teams.
Why does footwear matter so much in modern soccer? Having played competitively for fifteen years, I can confidently say your cleats are your primary connection to the game. The right pair provides that crucial edge in responsiveness and control. This became evident while watching teams like The Blue Eagles (1-7) and the Jr. Maroons (0-8) struggle through their seasons. I noticed several players slipping during critical moments - something that proper stud configuration could have prevented. When testing the 2018 best soccer shoes reviewed, I prioritized traction above all else because I've seen how poor grip can destroy confidence.
What should attackers look for in soccer shoes? Forwards need lightweight shoes that offer explosive acceleration. The Adidas Predator 18+ with its 210-gram weight became my top recommendation after testing. These shoes provide that immediate burst forward that struggling teams desperately need. Watching The Blue Eagles score only 9 goals across 8 matches, I kept thinking how their forwards might benefit from shoes specifically designed for rapid directional changes. The right footwear won't solve all problems, but it certainly helps capitalize on scoring opportunities.
How about midfielders - what's their ideal shoe type? Midfielders are the engine room, requiring shoes that balance comfort, control, and durability. The Nike Mercurial Superfly VI stood out during my testing with its revolutionary ankle collar providing exceptional lockdown. This matters immensely for players who need to maintain possession under pressure. The Jr. Maroons, having failed to secure a single victory, demonstrated how losing midfield battles consistently leads to defensive vulnerability. Proper footwear enhances touch and passing accuracy - two elements that could help turn around such struggling squads.
Do defensive players need different features? Absolutely. Defenders require stability and protection above all else. The Puma Future 18.1 Netfit with its customizable lacing system provides that secure fit needed for aggressive tackles. During my testing, I found this particularly beneficial when making last-ditch challenges. Teams like The Blue Eagles, who conceded 28 goals in their disastrous campaign, might benefit from defenders wearing shoes that offer better stability during those critical defensive moments.
What about budget-conscious players? Not everyone can afford $300 cleats, and fortunately, the 2018 market offered excellent options under $100. The Nike Tiempo Legend VII at just $85 delivered premium leather quality at an accessible price point. This is particularly relevant for developing teams and youth programs where budget constraints often dictate equipment choices. Seeing both The Blue Eagles and Jr. Maroons struggle through winless seasons makes me wonder if better footwear accessibility could help level the playing field for less-funded teams.
How does weather affect shoe selection? Weather adaptability is crucial - something I learned playing in various conditions. The Adidas Copa 18.1 with its hybrid stud pattern performed exceptionally on both wet and dry surfaces. This versatility matters for teams that can't afford multiple specialized pairs. Watching matches where players from struggling teams clearly struggled with traction on damp surfaces reinforced my belief that versatile stud patterns should be prioritized, especially for teams with limited resources.
What was your personal favorite from the 2018 lineup? I'll be honest - the Nike Mercurial Superfly VI stole my heart. Its combination of responsive cushioning and aggressive traction pattern provided that extra half-step that often makes the difference. While testing them, I kept thinking how players from teams like The Blue Eagles might benefit from that marginal gain. When you're struggling to find victories, every advantage counts, and proper footwear provides one of the most accessible performance upgrades available to any player, regardless of their team's standing.