Turf Shoes vs. Cleats: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Wear?

Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned player determined to enhance your performance, choosing the right footwear can make a big difference. One of the most common questions we hear from players is: “Should I wear turf shoes or cleats?”

  • Pampa Pro Turf Shoes - sole image | Senda Athletics
  • Pampa Pro Soccer Cleats | Senda Athletics
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While both are designed for playing soccer, the type of surface you’re playing on—and your style of play—should determine what’s on your feet. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between turf shoes and cleats, and when to use each. 

  • Pampa Pro Turf Shoes - action image | Senda Athletics
  • Pampa Pro Soccer Cleats | Senda Athletics
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What Are Turf Shoes?

Turf shoes are designed for artificial turf surfaces, like the short, tightly packed synthetic grass found in indoor soccer fields or newer “turf-style” outdoor fields.

  • Pampa Pro Turf Shoes - action image | Senda Athletics
  • Pampa Pro Turf Shoes - sole image | Senda Athletics
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Key Features:

  • Low-profile rubber soles with dozens of small, grippy studs or patterns.
  • Provide excellent traction on turf without digging in.
  • Designed to support quick cuts, short sprints, and close ball control.
  • Often more comfortable and cushioned for hard surfaces.

Best For:

  • Indoor turf facilities
  • Hard, artificial surfaces
  • Training sessions or casual pickup games

What Are Cleats?

Cleats are made for natural grass fields. They have longer, molded studs that penetrate the grass and provide stability, traction, and grip on softer surfaces.

  • Pampa Pro Soccer Cleats | Senda Athletics
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Key Features:

  • Metal, plastic, or rubber studs, often arranged in circular or bladed patterns.
  • Better traction on grass by "biting" into the surface.
  • Help with acceleration, pivoting, and changes in direction.
  • Not recommended for turf or hard surfaces (can be uncomfortable or cause injury)

Best For:

  • Outdoor grass fields
  • Dry or slightly damp natural surfaces
  • Competitive matches and league play

Can You Use One for Both?

  • Pampa Pro Soccer Cleats - Product Image | Senda Athletics
  • Pampa Pro Turf Shoes - product image - sole | Senda Athletics
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Technically, it is not recommended to wear cleats on turf and turf shoes on grass. Why? Because:

  • Wearing cleats on turf can wear down the studs faster and even increase the risk of injury, especially to knees and ankles, due to the lack of give on hard surfaces.
  • Wearing turf shoes on grass won’t provide enough traction, especially if the field is wet or uneven.

If you regularly play on both surfaces, consider having a pair of each to match the field conditions.

Surface: Artificial TURF (indoor or short outdoor turf)

Pampa Pro Turf

Available Here | Turf
Pampa Pro Soccer Cleats - Product Image | Senda Athletics

SURFACE: Natural grass (firm/dry fields)

Pampa Pro Cleats

Available Here | Cleats

Knowing the difference between turf shoes and cleats isn’t just about performance—it’s about comfort, safety, and getting the most out of every game.

At Senda, we’re committed to helping players find the right gear for their game. Whether you're playing under the lights on a natural pitch or grinding it out on indoor turf, having the right shoes underfoot makes all the difference.

Need help choosing the right pair? Drop us a message or check out our latest line of ethically-made turf shoes and cleats—designed for performance, built for purpose.

CHOOSE YOUR NEXT PAIR OF TURF SHOES OR CLEATS NOW!

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