Question Number: 23820

Law 4 - Players Equipment 8/23/2010

RE: Varsity High School

Joshua Herrmann of Springfield, NH USA asks...

I have started wearing football cleats for soccer. I haven't noticed any difference in my control and am much more comfortable playing in them.
Recently during a scrimmage, a ref noticed that I was wearing the football cleats. HE asked to see them, then said something. I could not hear him well, but he said something about them being football cleats. He did not kick me out or penalize my team. I did not believe that football cleats are illegal. There have been several players who have worn football cleats and they have not been called on it. Does anyone know if they are illegal under NHIAA rules? Thanks!

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

By NFHS rule, 'baseball' cleats are not legal. Although the rule doesn't address football cleats, these often have the same problem: a cleat centered at the front of the shoe which can be dangerous in a tackle. The referee is charged with determining whether the cleat is safe.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

It is up to the referee on your game to determine whether or not the cleats are safe to wear in that game. Generally speaking, if the cleats are a molded part of the shoe, are not metal, long or pointed, most referees will allow some leeway to wear the football cleats.

Be forewarned there are referees who will not allow them. If they question it, you'd best have a spare pair ready, as there is no appeal from the referee's decisions on equipment safety.