What Does TF Mean in Soccer Cleats? Get The Lowdown.

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It’s no secret that having the right football (soccer) boots can take your game to the next level. But what do you need to know before investing in a pair? Which ones do you need? What does TF mean?

We’re here with everything you need to know to get the right boots for you. Let’s kick off!

What does TF mean in football (soccer) boots?

TF stands for turf, which is a type of soccer boot designed specifically for use on artificial turf surfaces.

The soles of turf football boots have small rubber studs that provide extra grip on artificial surfaces like artificial grass or AstroTurf while also reducing the amount of dirt or debris collected by the sole.

They are essential if you intend to play on fields with artificial turf as they provide the grip and traction needed to perform at your best and remain safe during play. 

What are the different types of football boots?

When it comes to choosing the right pair of soccer boots there are several factors to consider such as size, material, shape, and type.

The type of football boot you choose is particularly important because different kinds are designed for specific surfaces: firm ground (FG), soft ground (SG), artificial grass (AG), turf (TF), and indoor (IN). Let’s start with TF (turf-specific) boots. 

What does TF mean in football (soccer) boots infographic - TF=astroturf boots infographic photo of boot sole and studs

1) TF (Turf/Indoor Court)

These astroturf cleats feature small rubber studs that provide maximum flexibility when playing in artificial turf surfaces such as those found in indoor courts or outdoor turf fields with synthetic surfaces.  

2) FG (Firm Ground) infographic photo of boot sole and studs

2) FG (Firm Ground)

Firm ground football boots are designed for use on a natural grass pitch and feature studs made from metal or plastic that provide good grip and stability when running at high speeds.

They are not suitable for use on artificial surfaces such as sand or turf pitches but are ideal for regular grass pitches. 

SG (Soft Ground) infographic photo of boots sole and studs

3) SG (Soft Ground)

Soft Ground football boots feature longer studs that offer extra grip when running through mud or wet grass surfaces. They are not suitable for hard ground pitches as they will cause excessive wear and tear to the field surface over time.  

AG (Artificial Grass) infographic photo pf boot sole and studs

4) AG (Artificial Grass)

AG soccer cleats feature shorter studs than SG or FG cleats, providing an optimal balance between grip and stability when playing in artificial grass surfaces such as those found in stadiums or public parks with AstroTurf 3G and 4G pitches.  

Watch and learn: What’s the difference between turf and artificial grass?

Here’s a great video that tells you all you need to know about the differences between turf and artificial grass when it comes to football boots.

YouTube player

What is the difference between AG and FG football (soccer) boots?

When it comes to picking out your football boots, knowing the difference between AG (artificial grass) and FG (firm ground) boots can help you avoid an embarrassing slip-up on the pitch.

At a glance, they look pretty similar but there are some key features that set them apart.

AG boots are designed with shorter, multi-directional studs or blades, perfect for providing grip on synthetic surfaces like turf and astroturf.

FG boots have circular studs which dig deeper into natural grass surfaces – giving you more stability when tackling your opponents!

So make sure you check what type of football pitch you’ll be playing on and select the right pair of boots for your game!

What does DF stand for in football boots?

If you ever come across the letters DF in a football boot’s name, then it stands for Dynamic Fit Collar.

Football boots with this feature have a unique sock-like construction that provides extra comfort and stability, allowing players to make the most of their performance.

Some of us find these trickier to put on, especially of you have wider feet. But if you need more support at the ankle, this style of boot is worth giving a go.

Can you wear Turf shoes for indoor football (soccer)?

Wearing the right type of shoe for indoor football (soccer) is critical for your performance and wellbeing.

Turf shoes are designed for outdoor playing, where the ground provides more stability than indoors.

The advantage with playing outdoors is that you don’t have to worry about slipping on a slick surface or footwear that isn’t built to take on higher traction and tougher surfaces.

But if you do prefer turf shoes, you can opt for specific types that offer some cushioning support, making them more suitable for indoor play.

For example, many sole manufacturers now produce turf shoes with specialized features like rubberized outsoles, extra midsole padding, and comfort collars made of bouncy foam that provide extra cushioning throughout the duration of a game or practice.

So although turfs aren’t necessarily ideal for indoor football (soccer), they can still be suitable if you choose models designed to work better on an indoor surface.

What’s the difference between astroturf shoes and indoor football boots?

Astroturf shoes and indoor football boots may look similar, but they’re made for two very different kinds of playing surfaces.

Astroturf shoes have lots of little studs which are perfect for gripping the woven carpet of an astroturf field. 

Indoor football boots are made with flat rubber soles which are designed to grip a hard, smooth surface like an indoor hall or court. The soles also provide extra cushioning and shock absorption, so you won’t feel every tackle on your feet.

You can wear Astros indoors, but they’re not ideal and you may slip about on them. Similarly, indoor football boots won’t do you any good on astroturf where you need lots of grip.

So if you want to make the most of your performance, make sure to pick out the boots which are best suited for your chosen playing surface.

Ultimately, if you play on a variety of surfaces – both indoors and outdoors – then investing in both types of boots is totally worth it.

Which football (soccer) boots should I buy?

What’s the difference between men and women’s soccer boots?

Did you know that women’s and men’s football boots are designed differently?

Women’s boots tend to be lighter than their male counterparts, so they’re easier on the feet while still providing plenty of protection during tough tackles.

Women’s boots also feature narrower toe boxes and higher arches for added comfort, as well as brighter colorways so you can make a fashion statement on the pitch.

When it comes to playing your favorite sport, there really is no better way to take your game to the next level than investing in a quality pair of boots!

The final score.

Having the right pair of football (soccer) boots can make all the difference when it comes to performance – so knowing what TF means is essential!

If you’re looking for something lightweight but flexible so you can move quickly around a hard surface such as artificial grass or turf then look out for TF soccer boots; they’ll help you stay in control throughout the game.

And if you’re an all-rounder who plays in both indoor and outdoor settings then investing in both TF and FG boots might be worth considering too!

With so many different features available – from uppers to outsoles to cleats – there’s something out there that suits every player’s needs – so get researching today! Good luck!

This article was written by

  • Anna Adams, Creative Director & Content Lead

    Hi there! I'm Anna Adams, your go-to source for all things women's soccer. I've been crazy about soccer for over 20 years, ever since I was kicking a ball around with my brothers as a kid. I've turned my passion into a career where I get to share all the cool stuff about soccer with you. As a content lead, I've had the awesome opportunity to work with various sports brands and publications. Whether it's the latest gear, pro tips, or just some cool soccer trivia, I'm all about making soccer ac...