How to Choose the Right Football Boots this Christmas?

If you’re the parent of a football-mad kid, you probably already know: football boots are likely to be right at the top of their Christmas list this year!

With so many options, though, choosing the right pair can feel daunting – and pricey. For instance Nike’s range of football boots includes different levels – Elite, Pro (sometimes) and Academy – and it’s tough to know which is best for your child’s needs without breaking the bank. Here’s a quick Laceeze guide to help you make sense of it all and pick the right pair this Christmas.

The Different Tiers: Elite, Pro and Academy

First up, let’s look at Elite boots. These are Nike’s top-tier option, designed with the best materials and technology. They’re built for performance, with lightweight materials and features that can improve ball control, speed and comfort. These are the boots you’ll see on professional players and elite youth players. But they come with a hefty price tag – they can cost over £200 – so they’re ideal if your child is at a high level and playing very frequently.

Next is Pro. Not every model has a Pro version, but when available, it sits between Elite and Academy. It offers a good mix of quality and cost, using some of the same features as Elite but with more budget-friendly materials. For kids who play regularly, Pro is a solid choice.

Finally, there’s Academy. This is the most affordable line, perfect for kids who are new to football or don’t play as often. While they don’t have the top-notch features of the Elite range, they’re comfortable, durable and still have Nike’s sleek look. Academy boots are ideal if you’re looking for something reliable without the eye-watering price tag.

Why Do They All Look the Same?

One of the hardest things for parents is that, at first glance, all these boots look nearly identical. Nike designs each tier with the same colourways, styles and branding, so to an untrained eye, they’re easy to mix up. This means you could end up with a much more expensive pair without realising it! While they look similar, the differences are in the materials and tech. So, while your child might not see the difference on the surface, you’ll certainly feel it in the price!

Price Difference – Is it Really Worth It?

With the holidays coming up, it’s tempting to go all out, but keep in mind the purpose of each tier. Elite boots can set you back over £200, while Academy boots range from around £50-70. Pro lands somewhere in the middle, but not every model includes it. If your child plays a few times a week or at a high level, it might make sense to invest in the Pro or Elite level. But for those who just enjoy a good kickaround, Academy will more than do the job – without adding extra strain to the Christmas budget! Also, we all know children’s feet grow at an unpredictable rate so choosing an Academy pair might be good short-term option if they are likely to have a growth spurt!

What’s with All the New Colours?

Nike, and other popular brands, tend to release new colours almost every month, sometimes twice a month, so the pressure for the “latest” boots can be intense. But rest assured, new colourways don’t mean a new design – it’s just a fresh look for the same boots. So, if you’re looking for a Christmas gift that keeps up with the trends, you can find a pair in the newest colours even if they’re from the Academy line. 

Final Tips for Parents this Christmas

As Christmas shopping begins, start by thinking about how often your child plays. For competitive or frequent players, Pro or Elite could be worth the investment, while Academy works well for occasional players. And remember, whatever level you choose, the boots will look nearly identical on the pitch. A new colourway can keep them feeling current without breaking the bank – a win for both you and your child this Christmas!

Need some more budget friendly ideas? Head over to our Christmas Stocking Gift Guide  blog – for 20 top gifts for under £20.