Football: how to look after your feet

Every footballer must pay particular attention to one part of their body - the feet. That must come as a surprise to you! I know, nothing like stating the obvious! All jokes aside, are you asking yourself where I'm going with this? Don't go anywhere, what's coming next is sure to prove very useful.

Boots suitable for the type of pitch you're playing on

First and foremost, it is very important to play in boots suitable for the type of pitch you are learning on.

Several different types of soles are available. HG, for short synthetic fields. FG, which you may know as moulded, for natural dry or long synthetic grass. SG, or conical studs, for wet grass fields.

Ideally, every football player should have a pair of each. The player's advantage is to have a good grip, no matter the type of field, so they can concentrate on their performance. Additionally, all competitors will be interested to know that this reduces the risk of injury. I've lost count of the number of footballers I've seen injure their adductors or ankles because their boots didn't provide enough comfort and safety for the pitch we were playing on.

To sum up, having several pairs of football boots equipped with HG, FG, and SG soles will be a true advantage. And for those players who do not want to change their model based on the pitch, it is possible. The AGILITY 900 MID from Kipsta is available in HG, FG, and SG.

Boots suitable for your playing style and body type

The second element to consider when buying your football boot is your playing style. Certain models are designed to provide extreme comfort while others offer a unique ball feel and/or optimal support. Therefore, it is essential to understand the advantages you are looking for before jumping in. If you are only going for a certain look or the model your favourite player wears, you might run into a few surprises! While these studs may suit you, there is a high possibility that they won't…

Your body type is another factor to consider. Footballers with wide feet will surely agree with me, a boot that is too tight is not ideal when you are trying to do your best.

A sock equipped with ventilated zones…

You must pay particular attention to your choice of socks so that your feet are sure to be comfortable.

I am very aware that, during matches, you must wear your club's uniform. But for training or quick games between friends, opt for durable models equipped with ventilated zones and an elastic band around the midfoot for improved support. You must also ensure that your socks are not too thin as rubbing inside the boot can cause blisters and sores.

Tips from the master

Finally, I have set aside a few tips that I'm sure you will be interested in.

Preferably, you should wear a new pair of studs at the beginning of the season every now and then. To give you an idea, during an hour and a half session, you should ideally play with your football boots from last season for the first hour and fifteen minutes and finish your training in new boots for the last fifteen minutes. As the training sessions go by, increase the time spent in your new boots by 5 minutes each training session until you feel comfortable enough to wear them for an entire session pain-free.

I also recommend applying talcum powder and/or vaseline to the back of your boot at the heel to prevent rubbing and lower the risk of blisters.

You can also insert damp newspaper into your boot and leave it for the entire night. Repeat this process for about a week, this will help the boot "take shape" and provide improved comfort.

Always respect your opponent

The match is going well and you're having a good time.~Be careful not to underestimate your opponent. They have qualities that set them apart. Always stay focused on the ball and avoid aiming for your opponent's ankles. You've been injured before and you know how hard it is for a footballer.~Lastly, always shake your opponent's hand at the end of the match, regardless of the result. Because, if you've had a good match, it's partly thanks to them and there will no doubt be a return match!

As you've no doubt guessed, technique is important but motivation is just as important.

Our coach often said: « you can miss a ball but, never give up ».

Sofiane boumezbar

Kipsta communication manager:

I've been passionate about football since I was a kid, and played with a club for several years. During my career, I was never afraid to attack the opponent's goal. I started out as a right/left midfielder before switching to playmaker and then striker. Nowadays I play with friends and colleagues, and still watch all the football I can.

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