Ankle injuries can become long-lasting too easily. Soccer boots with high tops add that extra protection layer for soccer players of any gender.
If you're considering buying new cleats, either for yourself or someone else, you’ve probably read plenty about finding the perfect pair. While there are many great options on the market, cleats are ultimately a very personal decision. The best cleats for one player might not work for another. Factors like your position, budget, previous injuries, and even your gender can influence which cleats are best suited for you. If, after all this consideration, you’ve decided on getting a pair of high-top soccer boots, this article is for you.
Why choose soccer boots with high tops?
When choosing soccer cleats, comfort is key—and that’s the foundation of high-top soccer boots. If you prefer a sock-like fit where your foot feels tightly integrated with your cleat, high-tops might be the right choice for you. Beyond comfort, brands are constantly innovating to make these cleats more functional for everyday players and set them apart from low-cut boots.
While low-cut options provide greater freedom of movement, the added support of high-tops can be a clear advantage for players with vulnerable ankles. High-top soccer boots offer increased ankle support, stability, and protection compared to other styles. They’re particularly beneficial for players in physically demanding positions or those with a history of ankle injuries. Additionally, their design lacks a traditional tongue — so there's no risk of it slipping down during play or being displaced if stepped on.
On our blog: learn about rare soccer boots that fans can buy →
The best high-top soccer cleat models
Most soccer cleats are available in both low-cut and high cut models. Here are the best models on the market right now with a high top option.
Adidas F50 Mid-cut
The iconic Adidas F50, worn by Messi in his early days, combine lightweight materials with a mid-cut collar, perfect for players who agility without compromising on ankle support. Its engineered textile upper ensures a sock-like fit, while the external heel counter adds stability for quick movements. These cleats were designed for firm ground pitches.
Source: Adidas
Nike Mercurial Superfly 10 Elite
The Nike Mercurials are always introducing the latest technologies. Its Dynamic Fit collar provides a neat connection between the cleat and the lower leg for better ankle support, while the Flyknit upper gives it a snug fit. The late and great Curtis Mayfield would have been proud that Nike decided to call the boots exactly like the beloved film he provided a soundtrack for.
Additionally, the newly designed traction plate features a more propulsive Air Zoom unit. Superfly’s are known for their lack of break in time, they feel game-ready out of the box.
Source: Nike
Nike Phantom Luna 2 Elite
The Nike Phantom Luna 2 Elite, engineered for control, offers a high-top design for added stability and Flyknit construction for a lightweight, supportive fit. Its advanced traction system promises excellent grip.
Designed in collaboration with U.S. defender Crystal Dunn and Brazil’s Debinha, the Phantom Luna caters to the female foot with a wider forefoot and snug ankle support to reduce injury risk. Features like the Cyclone 360 traction pattern and Gripknit upper enhance rotational movement and ball control in all weather conditions.
Source: Nike
Adidas Predator Accuracy+
The Adidas Predator Accuracy+ is set apart from most boots on the market thanks to its distinctive combination of thinness and padded protection. Favored by professionals like Jude Bellingham and Rodrigo De Paul, you can find the high-top collar option for extra support and a secure fit.
Source: Adidas
Zone Skin technology on the upper ensures precise control and power, while the laceless design creates a seamless strike zone. The Hybridtouch upper is comfortable right out of the box, so it requires minimal break-in time. Rubber elements provide enhanced ball grip and cover a larger surface area than previous models.
Puma Future Ultimate
The Puma Future Ultimate boot is designed with a strong knit base for a snug, sock-like feel on the ball. The FUZIONFIT+ compression band offers an adaptive fit that works with or without laces. Still, excellent stability requires some break-in time, so don't wear them for a game right out of the box. The lightweight outsole is optimized for quickness.
Source: Puma
The Future Ultimate also comes in a women's model, tailored to the anatomical shape of the female foot. It focuses on volume and instep height to provide a snug fit while minimizing the risk of injury.
Get the Leo Messi collectible boot
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a soccer fan but find the idea of choosing game cleats too tricky — finding out their preferred model, size, or color — you’re in luck. The Join The Planet Messi collectible is a replica of the iconic left boot of the soccer legend, and the best gift for any soccer lover.
Made from recycled materials, it’s not just an extraordinary gift, but also a nod to sustainability. The collectible comes with a sleek acrylic display case, Leo Messi’s official digitally rendered signature, and a blockchain-based certificate of authenticity, making it a truly unique keepsake.
Don’t miss out — buy your very own collectible Messi boot today.