Indoor soccer is a fun way to improve your soccer skills during the winter months. The different variations each build different skillsets that add valuable layers to your game, preparing you for your spring and summer outdoor season.

In order to extract every ounce of skill from these games and training sessions, it’s crucial to have the right equipment so you can focus on what matters most: your game. The most important aspect is finding the right footwear for you, and one of the best ways to do that is to figure out which surface you’ll primarily be playing on.

Futsal

If your coach has you playing futsal, you’re in for a technical whirlwind, and you’ll likely be playing and training on a court or similar flat surface. Futsal is a small-sided version of indoor soccer that uses a smaller, weighted ball and smaller goals, with only five or, sometimes, six players on the field at a time. 

For futsal, it’s important to wear flat-soled footwear, so you can stay in control as you change direction, pivot, and step on the ball. Some popular options include Nike Gatos and Mercurials, while a traditional adidas Samba works well for younger kids who want to wear their indoor shoes casually after the season ends.

Indoor Soccer

Transitioning from the court to turf, Indoor Soccer comes in several variations. One popular version utilized tall boards with goals built into the walls, similar to a hockey rink. Often called “Futbol Rapido” in Spanish, this fast and often chaotic game allows more cerebral players to stand out thanks to an advanced understanding of how to create space and use the boards to your advantage. 

Another form is much closer to the outdoor game we’re all so familiar with. Facilities will lay down turf indoors and create smaller fields with no boards or walls. This allows coaches to train players and continue playing outdoor soccer during the colder months.

For both instances, turf shoes would be ideal. Turf is an incredibly abrasive surface, tearing up traditional outdoor or Firm Ground (FG) cleats with ease. Additionally, turf footwear puts less pressure on the joints and creates a more comfortable playing experience. While some players may lament the “lost traction” or grip, it’s important to remember that too much grip can easily lead to injuries, especially on artificial turf, and sometimes, a slip is an injury avoided. 

Turf footwear comes in various styles, so finding the pair that feels best for you is paramount. The Nike Tiempo embraces comfort, while the adidas F50 is all about speed. If you play a combination of futsal and indoor soccer, specifically with different playing surfaces, but would like one shoe for both, it’s hard to go wrong with a Nike Streetgato. The subtle sole texturing works well in both environments without breaking the bank. 

Before hitting the field or court, don’t forget to stock up on the other gear you need, like a futsal ball, calf sleeves, or grip socks. Visit your local Soccer Post, where our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you find your essentials, or go to SoccerPost.com to shop our full selection of footwear and indoor soccer gear from anywhere!