Finding the right pair of Nike Soccer Kids Cleats or shoes can make a big difference for young players, improving comfort, confidence, and safety while they learn the game. This guide highlights the top 5 Nike kids’ cleats and shoes available in the USA, chosen for fit, traction, durability, and value so parents can pick the best option for practice, matches, or indoor play.
Nike’s top soccer shoes for young players are crafted to complement a child’s playing style, whether they prioritize speed, precision, or comfortable control.
Below is a quick guide to each model—why it’s ideal for youth players, which surfaces it works best on (firm ground, turf, indoor), typical U.S. price ranges, and the type of player it suits best (speedy wingers, developing midfielders, casual turf players, etc.). Use it to help match the right shoe to your child’s age, playing surface, and budget.
All the parents can select the Nike Soccer Kids Cleats and Shoes for the US Soccer Academy, for Daily use on the ground, and the US Soccer Learning Center
List of the Top 5 Nike Soccer Kids Cleats and Shoes
For youth players, we recommend scaled-down versions of the top models, plus affordable club options. Kids need shoes with good support and traction, but at a lower price point. Our top five include junior Mercurials and Tiempo cleats (often in Academy/Club grades) and kid-friendly indoor/turf shoes.
| Model | Type | Surface | Price Range (USD) | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Jr. Zoom Mercurial Superfly 9 Academy MG | Cleats (Collared) | Firm/Multi-Ground | ~$65–80 | Speed/dribbling (youth) |
| Nike Jr. Mercurial Vapor 15 Academy | Shoes (Indoor) | Indoor Court | ~$65 | Indoor play/energy return |
| Nike Jr. Tiempo Legend 10 Academy | Cleats (Lace-up) | Firm/Multi-Ground | ~$65 | Comfort/control (youth) |
| Nike React Gato | Shoes (Indoor) | Indoor Court | $150 (adult pricing) | Cushioning for kids’ indoor |
| Nike Premier 3 | Shoes (Turf) | Short Turf | $95 (adult pricing) | Leather turf trainer |
Nike Junior Zoom Mercurial Superfly 9 Academy MG (Youth Multi-Ground Cleats)
The Superfly 9 Academy (Multi-Ground) is a popular choice for juniors, offering the same sleek style as the pro version.
It features an ultra-thin NikeSkin upper for precise ball control and a Zoom Air unit in the heel for a touch of cushioning.
The Hibbett review notes it “fulfills everything on [kids’] wishlist” with its cool look and high-tech feel. Conical studs let kids play on turf or grass. Priced around $65–80, these cleats are great for young speedsters who want a professional feel.
Key Highlight: Perfect for young wingers and speedy attackers. These multi-ground cleats offer dynamic traction, a snug fit and explosive acceleration — ideal for kids who want a pro-level feel without breaking the bank.
Nike Jr. Mercurial Vapor 15 Academy (Little/Big Kids’ Indoor Shoes)
These are indoor court shoes (IC) inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s CR7 series. They include a special Zoom Air unit in the sole for extra bounce and a lightweight upper for ball control.
According to Hibbett, the Vapor 15 Academy CR7 IC is “made for indoor courts,” with NikeSkin mesh for a “completely controlled” touch. Young players who play indoor soccer will enjoy the high-energy return and sleek design of these boots.
Key Highlight: A great club-grade version of the Superfly that’s comfortable, lightweight, and easy to wear for matches on firm grass or synthetic turf. Excellent value choice for youth teams.
Nike Jr. Tiempo Legend 10 Academy (Youth Multi-Ground Cleats)
The junior Tiempo 10 uses FlyTouch Lite engineered leather, which is softer than natural leather and molds to the foot. Nike explains that this makes it lighter and more comfortable than past Tiempos.
This cleat is versatile for firm or turf surfaces and excels in ball control for its level. Young midfielders and defenders benefit from the enhanced touch and consistency the Tiempo provides. Priced around $65, it offers legend-level comfort on a youth budget.
Key Highlight: Designed for young playmakers and defenders who value comfort and ball control. These turf shoes are great for practice and games on short artificial grass.
Nike React Gato Indoor Court Soccer Shoes
The Nike React Gato is a responsive indoor and futsal shoe featuring full-length React foam and Touch 360 pods for excellent underfoot ball control and quick traction on the court. Its Flyknit upper provides a soft, snug fit, but the one-piece design tends to be narrow, making it more suitable for normal-to-narrow feet rather than wide feet.
Nike React Gato, listed as indoor at adult pricing (~$150), is accurate; it’s a premium futsal/indoor shoe with React cushioning and Touch 360 pods.
Nike Premier 3 (Youth Turf Shoes)
While not a dedicated youth model, younger players often wear this turf shoe. It offers “supple leather” construction for comfort.
The premium leather upper is soft for heightened touch on the ball, and a rubber turf outsole provides traction on synthetic fields.
Around $95 for adult sizes (junior sizing runs a bit lower), the Premier 3 is an economical choice that gives aspiring kids the feel of a classic cleat in a turf-friendly package.