3 Steps for How to Remove Cleats from Soccer Shoes

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Removable or detachable soccer cleats are mostly common for soft ground soccer cleats. They’re great for rainy and wet field conditions. The detachable studs have better penetration in soft, wet, and sloppy field surfaces giving you the best grip among other types of soccer cleats. 

However, these studs do wear down and you sometimes need to replace them if they break. You need to know how to remove cleats from soccer shoes so you can clean them or replace them. 

How to Remove Cleats from Soccer Shoes

Removing your cleats from soccer shoes is quite easy. It’s just a matter of using your hand and twisting them off. However, there are certain precautions you need to do before removing them. 

First off, good detachable cleats improve your game and make acceleration easier. The better your cleats grip the field, the better the acceleration it gives. That’s why learning how to remove cleats is useful for properly cleaning your soccer cleats

Person playing soccer on field

Steps in Removing Cleats from Soccer Shoes

  1. First off, you have to remove excess dirt on your cleats as it can damage them. You can use a stiff-bristled brush to remove the dirt and grime from the bottom area of your soccer cleats. Make sure you include the cleats. 
  2. Tap the soccer shoes gently on a hard surface to shake off the dirt not brushed off. This might also remove dirt on the areas unreachable by your stiff-bristled brush. After tapping, use the brush again to make sure you remove the dirt. 
  3. Turn the cleats counterclockwise to remove them. Then, tap the shoes again gently facing downward to shake off any dirt inside the cleat. You can brush off the cleats in order to clean them. That’s how you properly remove cleats from soccer shoes. 

If you want to place back the cleats on your soccer shoes: 

  1. Pick up the cleat by its pointed tip. Place the opposite side on the cleat hole or well. Turn the cleat clockwise to lock it inside. Make sure it fits using your fingers to feel it. 
  2. You can use a stud key wrench for an easier turning of the cleat. Fit the stud key wrench onto the stud or cleat. Turn it clockwise until it becomes hard to turn. Don’t force to turn it or else you’ll damage the cleat. Damaged cleats are a lot harder to remove and can even damage your soccer shoes. 
  3. Loosen the cleats on your soccer shoes after every use. This will make it easier for you to remove or replace them when it’s time for maintenance. It also prevents rusting of the metal components. Tighten them again before you go back to playing in the soccer field

Why Replace Your Cleats from Soccer Shoes?

Cleats play an important role in your soccer shoes. They’re the reason your soccer shoes have a greater grip and traction on any type of soccer field. Replacing your soccer cleats can help keep them in good condition and ensure that the grip and traction are consistent. 

Worn out or damaged cleats can:

  • Make your feet slide inside the shoes: When your cleats are damaged, they may cause you to lose the feel on your cleats and give you inconsistent traction. This can cause your feet to slide over especially when you’re running fast. 
  • Your heels can come out of your soccer shoes when running: damaged or worn-out cleats can cause imbalance to the stability of your soccer shoes. This makes your heels likely to come out of your soccer shoes. 
  • You’ll feel uncomfortable when your cleats dig on the ground: The damage cleats may cause unevenness. As you run through the soccer field, you’ll feel an imbalance and will affect your game. Worse, it can lead to injuries
  • Making shots will be more difficult: The decrease in traction and instability will make it difficult for you to execute a shot properly

Multi-field soccer shoes also benefit from replaceable cleats. Remove cleats and change them to whatever field surface you’re gonna play in. Instead of buying 2 or more pairs of soccer cleats for different field surfaces, you can buy 1 pair and use them anywhere. 

Molded Vs. Detachable Cleats 

Molded CleatsDetachable Cleats
Permanently attachedCustomizable
Less expensiveGreat for wet fields
Great for turf surfacesMore expensive

Soccer cleats come in two types of cleats: molded or detachable. The type of soccer field defines the design of the soccer cleats. Make sure you know what field you play in before you go in and use detachable cleats. 

A pair of green and black soccer cleats on the floor

How Do You Clean the Cleats on Soccer Shoes?

If you’re cleaning your soccer shoes, don’t neglect cleaning the cleats. Keeping your cleats clean will make them last longer and retain their grip strength and traction. 

When you clean your soccer shoes, remove the cleats first as we’ve shown you. Separate the cleats from your soccer shoes. Clean the cleats using a stiff-bristled brush to remove the dirt in the cleats. 

You also need to clean the cleat hole using the stiff-bristled brush. Make sure there isn’t any dirt stuck inside it or it can cause your cleats to fit improperly. Air dry them and make sure they’re completely dry before putting them back on your soccer shoes. 

Related Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about removing cleats for soccer shoes.

What Tool Is Used to Remove Cleats?

The tool that is used to remove cleats is called cleat remover. This tool helps you to detach and attach the cleats of any soccer or golf shoe. By using it, you will have an easier time getting them out.

Can I Wear Soccer Shoes Without Cleats?

Yes, you can, however, it will be much harder for you to move through the field. The purpose of the cleats is to add traction and stability, therefore, if you take them off, you will be more prone to slipping.

Are All Cleats Made From the Same Material?

No, not all cleats are made out of the same material. Some cleats are made of metal, some are made of plastic, and some are made of rubber. All of these offer different characteristics, so you can choose which one to wear.

However, metal cleats are banned in professional soccer. These cleats are dangerous, after all, if a player accidentally fouled another using these cleats, the injury could be severe.

Conclusion

Removing cleats from soccer shoes is easy to do. Simply, twist the cleats from the cleat hole. If you have a hard time doing it, you can use a cleat key wrench to remove cleats from the soccer shoes. You need to know how to remove cleats so you can replace them and for proper maintenance. 

Tim Frechette is an avid athlete, having played sports like soccer and basketball his entire life. He brings a wealth of athletic knowledge to his writing.