Last Saturday, I took a quick survey of my fellow soccer referees to discover their current go-to shoes on the pitch.
With countless matches under our belts and various terrains conquered, who better to ask than the referees themselves?
The results were enlightening. Having the right shoes isn't just about looking professional; it's about feeling good, staying safe, and keeping up with the pace of the game.
Let's dive into what I found out.
1. The Rise of Trail Running Shoes
Trail running shoes, such as the Adidas Terrex Trail and Nike Pegasus Trail, are increasingly popular among referees. They offer an excellent grip on diverse surfaces, ensuring a referee remains steady-footed throughout the game.
Charlie, an experienced referee who I have reffed with for the past 5 seasons, swears by the Adidas Terrex Trail running shoe, highlighting its adaptability to various surfaces.
He also mentioned that Superfeet insoles, for added support, can also be a game-changer for our most treasured assets: our feet and knees.
2. Going Beyond Brand Loyalty
While brands like Adidas and Nike consistently receive high praise, it's essential to remember the importance of personal comfort. Caleb Harris, a ref I met in Pittsburgh, swears by the Saucony Perigrinne ICE 13 for its waterproof quality and superb traction. However, as Amy Jensen, a ref assignor, pointed out to me, the best shoe is one tailored to your feet and gait, emphasizing the importance of personal fit over brand.
3. Leveraging Professional Recommendations
Several referees rely on shoes designed specifically for soccer, such as the Adidas Mundial Team and the Adidas Copa Mundial. These options offer the durability and support necessary for natural grass. If trail running shoes aren't to your liking, these soccer-specific alternatives might be the answer. (Keep reading til the end, to discover MY personal favorite shoes).
4. Personal Health and Shoe Adaptability
For referees with specific health considerations or unique foot structures, customization is key. Brooks Adrenaline GTS22, for instance, is a preferred choice for those requiring extra cushioning or orthotic inserts. Taking care of our feet is crucial, especially for those of us who've been refereeing for years, if not decades.
5. The Importance of Expert Guidance
Many referees pointed out the value of seeking expert advice. Whether it's a running store that examines your gait or a specialized store offering recommendations based on foot structure, external input can be invaluable. Mark Hunter, a referee on the pitch almost every weekend, suggests that a thorough professional shoe analysis, combined with personal taste, can guide you to your ideal pair.
In Conclusion... From the poll, it's evident that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your perfect shoe might be a well-loved brand amongst referees, or a hidden gem tailored to your specific needs. By prioritizing comfort and safety, you're not just investing in shoes but in your performance on the pitch.
On a personal note, I've always worn Adidas Copa and Asics 2000. I’m wearing the Asics right now. The combination of comfort, grip, and durability they offer has never let me down.
And, to get my advice on the best socks for referees, please take a look at The Ultimate Guide to Soccer Referee Socks.
