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da wazamba： A classic for good reason

da dobrowin： If you're looking for a pair of soccer cleats but want something nostalgic and reliable, leather cleats are for you. There are tons of new options out there with the latest tech, but you just can't beat the old-fashioned look and the feel of a pair of leather cleats.

With hundreds on offer – including some that intertwine the modern features of cleats today with the classic leather cleat look – you can indulge in the best of modern tech and classic, durable leather.

Click here to skip ahead to our round-up of the best leather soccer cleats.

Our top three:

Best overall leather soccer cleats: adidas Copa Sense.2

Best budget leather soccer cleats: Nike Tiempo Legend 9 Club 

Best Firm Ground soccer cleats: adidas Copa Mundial 

FAQs:Are leather cleats better than synthetic ones?

It's hard to deny that leather cleats produce superior stability widely treasured by some of the game's leading players. Their leather uppers tend to be rigid in support and able to weather frequent usage. In contrast, their construction makes them heavier than the rest of their synthetic counterparts. Their well-honed construction, perfected over decades of cleat-making techniques, means that while some consider them old-fashioned, they stand the test of time.

What is the difference between leather cleats and others?

Several differences – some large, some subtle – exist between leather cleats and cleats designed from other materials. Studded soles, for example, are a non-starter for indoor courts. Leather cleats tend to be wrought with more obvious markings and may be marginally heavier than expected – but they will still deliver the same functionality and support found with other cleats, possibly even more so. 

How do I clean leather cleats?

Maintaining real leather or even sustainable, animal-free options, it's important to care for them properly in order to ensure that you increase their life, so you can enjoy them for longer. They also tend to be on the pricier side compared to synthetic cleats, so they're well worth maintaining on a regular basis. GOAL have put together an 8-step detailed step-by-step guide and the products you will need to make sure they stay in brilliant condition for a long time.

You won't get much better than the adidas' Copa Sense+ range which has been a staple silhouette for leather cleat options. They deliver superb comfort and ball control, balancing stability and softness for a top-drawer molded finish that takes the breath away.

Worn by the likes of Paulo Dybala, the soft leather upper delivers the quality material touch you'd demand. At the same time, TOUCHPODS on the medial side of each boot absorbs any extra impact energy off the ball.

For less than $50, these cleats from the Nike Tiempo range are a bargain and add a modern flair to the classic leather cleat look – with a new icy white and blue colorway from the Blast pack. The durable leather upper doesn't skip on quality either.

It also features a solid studded outsole for amazing traction on natural and artificial grass surfaces. These cleats are Nike's lightest Tiempo's to date with an offensive low profile, making it the perfect option for attackers.

The Copa Mundial, made famous on the stages of Spain in 1982, is still a superb leather cleat all these years later. The fact that it has stood the test of time is a testament to the quality infused throughout its design. The premium, soft K-leather upper boldly features adidas' iconic three stripes, while the signature tongue covers the top of the laces, and the inner is lined with nylon.

For the indoor court, these brand-new Nike React Legend 9 Pros are an excellent option for leather cleats. They feature a refined leather upper that helps you with ball control while looking fantastic with an iridescent maroon colorway.

The upper also has soft foam pods to help you with dribbling and passing, while a subtle raised texture is excellent for grip. The React foam cushioning on the interior finishes it all off, giving you a snug fit and comfortability all game long.