The Boot Room Guide
Find the right boots for your game
The playing surface matters when choosing football boots. Understand the differences between FG, SG, AG, MG, TF and IC so you can make a more informed choice before you buy.
FG
Firm Ground
Natural grass Ā· Firm conditions
Firm Ground boots are designed for natural grass pitches that are firm and relatively dry. Their stud configurations provide traction for typical grass playing conditions.
Best suited to
- āFirm natural grass pitches
- āRegular outdoor matches
- āPlayers who mainly play on natural grass
Remember: Not every FG soleplate is suitable for artificial grass.
SG
Soft Ground
Natural grass Ā· Soft conditions
Soft Ground boots are designed for softer, wetter natural grass pitches. They often feature longer studs to help provide traction when the ground is soft.
Best suited to
- āWet natural grass
- āSoft or muddy pitches
- āConditions where additional penetration is needed
Remember: Check stud configuration and pitch conditions before playing.
AG
Artificial Grass
Synthetic grass surfaces
Artificial Grass boots are designed for artificial grass pitches. Their soleplates use stud configurations intended for synthetic playing surfaces.
Best suited to
- āArtificial grass football pitches
- āPlayers who regularly train on synthetic grass
- āThose looking for footwear designed for artificial surfaces
Remember: Artificial grass and short-pile turf are different surfaces.
MG
Multi-Ground
Multiple compatible surfaces
Multi-Ground boots are designed to offer versatility across multiple compatible playing surfaces. The exact surfaces depend on the individual boot's design.
Best suited to
- āPlayers who use different compatible pitches
- āTraining and recreational football
- āThose looking for a versatile soleplate
Remember: Check the manufacturer's guidance for the specific model.
TF
Turf
Short-pile synthetic turf
Turf boots typically feature numerous small rubber studs designed for traction and movement on short-pile synthetic turf.
Best suited to
- āShort-pile artificial turf
- āSmall-sided football
- āTraining on suitable turf surfaces
Remember: TF boots are not the same as AG boots.
IC
Indoor Court
Indoor football surfaces
Indoor football shoes generally use flat rubber outsoles designed to provide grip and movement on suitable indoor court surfaces.
Best suited to
- āIndoor football courts
- āFutsal and similar indoor games
- āSuitable smooth playing surfaces
Remember: Check that the outsole is suitable for your particular court.
A final tip: FG, SG, AG, MG, TF and IC are useful starting points, but labels alone don't guarantee compatibility with every pitch. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations and the rules of your playing venue.