Heel pain in active children can be a challenge, particularly for those young athletes who participate in sports requiring football or soccer boots.
Currently, football boots are becoming more and more lightweight and minimalist. While this may seem appealing visually and on initial use, these boots do not offer a great deal of protection for the growing athlete experiencing or predisposed to some discomfort of the heel.
Fortunately, some football boots have features that may help offload and protect sore heels.
What should I look for when buying football boots for my child?
Cushioning
Traditionally football boots have been constructed on a plastic base. A thin piece of cushioning inside the shoe is all that separates the foot from the firm plastic base and often hard playing surfaces.
There is a thin piece of foam material incorporated into the sole of some select brands and models. This foam aids to cushion a sensitive heel and separates the foot from the ground.
Heel height
Often the heels of young athletes become sore due to excessive traction or irritation at the heel growth plate. This may be due to tension from the Achilles tendons. A football boot with a slight heel can dramatically reduce the stretch and pull at the heel.
Which football boots should I buy?
In my opinion, it's hard to go past the ASICS range when selecting football boots for young athletes. All ASICS models use foam within the sole to elevate the heel height.
The ASICS Lethal Ultimate GS is an excellent boot for young athletes with a history of heel pain or who are currently experiencing heel pain. This boot features a 10 mm cushioned heel lift, gel in the heel region and a full-length foam midsole.
For young athletes who don't experience heel pain but want to protect the heel, the ASICS Lethal Tigreor IT 2 GS is a great all-around boot. This boot features a 10 mm cushioned heel lift with a three quarter length foam midsole.
Should your young athlete require any assistance or advice with football boot selection, our experienced podiatrists would be more than happy to assist. Contact us or book online today.
Author: Andrew Apolloni