Indoor Soccer Shoes

10 Best Indoor Soccer Shoes in 2025

Indoor soccer (futsal) has exploded in popularity – an estimated 12 million people play futsal worldwide. With its fast pace and skillful play, indoor soccer demands specialized footwear. Unlike outdoor cleats, indoor soccer shoes have flat, rubber soles designed for traction on smooth, hard surfaces. Choosing the right indoor shoe is critical: the wrong shoes can cause slips or injuries on fast indoor courts. In this guide, we review the top 10 best indoor soccer shoes of 2025. We compare their features, traction, and comfort, and include a handy comparison table. Whether you play futsal on a gym floor or soccer on indoor turf, this blog post has the insights you need to pick the perfect pair of indoor soccer shoes.

Image: Soccer player wearing indoor soccer shoes controlling the ball on a turf field.

Playing indoors means no studs and a smooth rubber outsole for grip. The best indoor soccer shoes have non-marking rubber soles that maximize traction on gym or turf floors, lightweight cushioning for quick movement, and snug uppers for ball control. We’ll cover soccer indoor shoes, indoor turf soccer shoes, and futsal shoes all in one guide – all are designed for indoor soccer. Read on for detailed reviews, pros & cons, and stats (like injury rates) to help you find your ideal indoor soccer shoe.

Why Indoor Soccer Shoes Matter

Indoor soccer shoes (also called futsal shoes) are very different from outdoor cleats. As Senda Athletics notes, “Futsal shoes lack studs and come with a durable rubber outsole” for grip on hard court surfaces. This means indoor shoes are flat-soled, unlike outdoor soccer cleats with studs. Indoor shoes provide better traction on wood or turf courts and reduce injury risk. In fact, research shows indoor soccer still has about 5 injuries per 100 player-hours, mostly sprains and contusions. Good footwear helps prevent slips and ankle twists on slick indoor courts.

Indoor soccer often involves tight spaces and quick changes of direction, so good indoor shoes boost agility. For example, a study found indoor players often slip on dusty gym floors; a tacky rubber outsole helps prevent that. Also, indoor surfaces can be harder on joints; indoor shoes typically have cushioning (like Nike React foam or New Balance Fresh Foam) to absorb shock. In short, indoor soccer shoes are engineered for court traction, support, and ball control. Choosing poorly fitting shoes can cause blisters or foot pain, so fit and comfort are crucial.

Key takeaway: Indoor soccer shoes have flat rubber soles (no studs) and are designed for indoor surfaces. They improve grip and protect you from common indoor soccer injuries. We’ll look at how to choose and which models stand out this year.

Indoor vs Turf vs Outdoor Soccer Shoes

It’s easy to confuse indoor, indoor turf, and outdoor soccer shoes. Outdoor soccer (grass or firm ground) shoes have metal or hard plastic studs for traction. Indoor soccer shoes have flat, non-marking rubber soles for hard courts. Turf shoes have dozens of small rubber studs for artificial grass surfaces. If you play on an indoor artificial turf field, you need turf shoes (rubber-studded) rather than flat-soled shoes. Senda Athletics points out that indoor/futsal shoes are “very different from soccer cleats” – the main difference is the outsole.

  • Indoor Court Shoes: Smooth rubber sole, meant for wood, tile, or turf indoors. Excellent traction on polished courts.
  • Indoor Turf Shoes: Have small rubber bumps (turf studs) for grip on indoor turf fields. Not for slick court; can reduce traction on flat wood.
  • Outdoor Cleats: Studs or blades, not allowed or useful indoors.

If you occasionally play on indoor turf (like a small artificial field), choose turf shoes with rubber studs. Otherwise, for gym courts and futsal, go with flat-soled indoor court shoes. Many players keep one pair of each. Always check the surface of your court – many gyms require non-marking soles to protect floors, so pick shoes labeled “non-marking rubber outsole”.

How to Choose the Best Indoor Soccer Shoes

Before we dive into our top 10 picks, consider these factors to choose the right indoor soccer shoe for you:

  • Fit & Comfort: The shoe must fit snugly but not too tight. Look for terms like “snug fit,” “true to size,” or size up if needed. A good indoor shoe hugs your foot to enhance touch. Break-in time should be short – many modern shoes use soft leather or knit for quick comfort.
  • Traction & Sole: A flat rubber outsole is crucial. Premium indoor shoes use specialized rubber compounds (e.g. gum rubber or dual-density rubber) for maximum grip. Check reviews about traction – some shoes have “rubber outsole for indoor surfaces” or “low-profile rubber outsole”.
  • Upper Material: Uppers are usually leather, synthetic, or knit. Leather (full-grain or kangaroo) offers a soft touch on the ball. Synthetics (like Nike’s fused Flyknit) can be lighter and more durable.. Mesh panels improve breathability. Look for features like “reinforced toe” or grip textures (e.g. Nike’s rubber pods or Puma’s GripControl) that aid ball control.
  • Cushioning: Because indoor courts are hard, good cushioning matters. Many shoes use EVA foam or brand tech (e.g. Nike React foam, New Balance Fresh Foam, Puma’s ProFoam) to soak up impact. If you’ll play long sessions, prioritize comfort in the midsole.
  • Weight: Lighter shoes help with speed and agility. However, very light shoes may sacrifice cushioning or durability. Typically, indoor shoes range 8–10 oz (240–280g). For example, Nike’s React Gato is designed for lightweight mobility, while Puma’s Ultra uses lightweight mesh with a support frame.
  • Style & Brand: Often a personal preference. Major brands (Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance, Mizuno, etc.) all make indoor models. Look for one that suits your budget and style.
  • Budget: Indoor soccer shoes can cost anywhere from ~$50 (budget models) to $150+ (premium pro-level). Determine your budget first. Many excellent shoes fall in $80–120.
  • Position/Play Style: Attackers often prefer lighter shoes with snug fit and thin upper for ball feel. Defenders might prefer more padding and durability. Goalkeepers like grip on low shots, so a stickier outsole helps them slide.

Tip: Always break in new shoes before a big game – wear them around the house or practice to ensure no blister spots. And measure your foot; some brands run narrow or wide. For example, one reviewer notes the Nike Gato is a bit wider insole.

Product Comparison Table

Shoe Model Brand Price (Approx) Key Feature
Nike React Gato (2025) Nike $120–150 Nike React foam & rubber pods for comfort and touch
Adidas Samba Classic (Indoor) Adidas $90 Classic leather upper, stable fit, excellent indoor traction
Adidas Mundial Team Turf Adidas $150 Soft kangaroo leather, suede toe, durable rubber turf sole
Adidas X Speedportal.3 (IC) Adidas $60–80 Agile lightweight design, mesh upper
Adidas Predator Freak (Indoor) Adidas $100–120 Control textures on upper (Predator grip zones)
New Balance Audazo v6 (IN) New Balance $120 Full-grain leather upper, Fresh Foam midsole
New Balance 442 v2 (IN) New Balance $100 Cushioned comfort, ideal for wide feet
Puma Ultra 5 Pro (IC) Puma $120 GripControl skin upper, PWRTAPE support
Puma Future 8 Match (IC) Puma $90 FUZIONFIT tape upper, plush fit
Mizuno Morelia Sala Elite (IN) Mizuno $125 Premium K-leather, flexible sole

Table note: IC = Indoor Court (flat sole); Turf = rubber-studded outsole. Prices vary by retailer and sales.

1. Nike React Gato – Innovative Touch and Cushioning

Nike’s latest indoor model, the React Gato (released 2024), brings advanced technology to the court. The React Gato features a full-length Nike React foam midsole for ultra-responsive cushioning. This means you’ll get excellent energy return on each stride, reducing fatigue during long indoor matches. Under the forefoot, Nike adds flexible rubber pods (“Nike Touch 360”) that extend below the sole to enhance ball feel. Reviewers note these pods improve touch when dribbling and cutting. The upper uses a durable Flyknit material fused with a grippy overlay (called GripSkin), providing a “precise, durable touch” at high speeds. A reinforced band around the toe adds durability on the tip. Nike also emphasizes the Gato’s traction: the low-profile rubber sole is designed for “street, court and indoor surfaces” and is non-marking.

In tests, the React Gato earned praise for comfort and feel. Customers on Nike’s site give it 4.6/5 stars. Many highlight that the shoe runs true-to-size but is a bit wide, which can suit players with broader feet. This makes it more comfortable but might feel loose for narrow feet. One reviewer mentions using the Gato daily as a casual shoe due to its comfort.

Pros: Nike React cushioning (springy comfort); excellent ball touch from rubber pods; stylish design; trusted Nike quality.
Cons: On the pricey side (~$120–$150); fits slightly wider (narrow-footed players may need sockliners); some report upper wrinkling if laced too tight.

If you want a top-tier indoor shoe with cutting-edge cushion tech, the React Gato is a great choice. Check out the latest deals (Nike often discounts by ~20% after release).

2. Adidas Samba Classic (Indoor)

Image: Close-up of a Nike indoor soccer shoe on a turf court, illustrating typical flat indoor outsole.

The Adidas Samba Classic Indoor is a legendary shoe now adapted for futsal. Originally an outdoor soccer shoe, Samba has become an indoor favorite for its timeless design and reliable build. The indoor version uses the same iconic leather and suede upper as the outdoor Samba, but with a smooth rubber sole. Adidas equips the Samba Indoor with a synthetic leather upper for durability and breathability (mesh panels). A suede overlay at the toe adds abrasion resistance on rough indoor surfaces. Inside, a die-cut EVA insole provides cushioning for comfort.

According to Dick’s Sporting Goods, the Samba Indoor’s outsole configuration “amplifies rotation, traction and stability on all types of flat surfaces and indoor courts”. In practice, this means the rubber outsole grips well on gym floors, allowing quick turns and sprints. The Samba’s design is straightforward: mid-cut for ankle support and torsion tape-inspired support straps on the sides for stability.

Pros: Classic leather feel and durability; excellent stability on hard courts; highly rated (4.6 stars from 821 reviews, with 93% recommending). Generous fit – many find Sambas comfy from day one.
Cons: Leather takes a few wears to break in; heavier than mesh shoes (~12 oz). Not the lightest or most modern looking shoe.

Because of its popularity, the Samba Indoor often goes on sale. At ~$90 MSRP, it’s a great value. Many players keep Samba as a backup shoe even now because it simply works on the court. Overall, if you want a no-nonsense, stable indoor shoe with proven traction, you can’t go wrong with the Samba.

3. Adidas Mundial Team Turf

The Adidas Mundial Team is a turf shoe, meaning it has a rubber outsole with many small studs for artificial grass. We include it here because some indoor futsal leagues use turf fields. The Mundial Team is famous as the indoor/turf version of the classic Adidas Mundial, worn by pros for decades. It uses a full-grain kangaroo leather upper for a premium soft feel and touch. A reinforced suede toe bumper adds durability against indoor surfaces.

Soccer Reviews For You notes: “Soft, full-grain kangaroo leather with Suede reinforced toe, stitched for extra durability. Multi-studded rubber [outsole] for excellent traction on artificial surfaces and dry natural fields”. Indeed, the flat turf outsole (many rubber nubs) grips well on astro turf. On a smooth gym floor, it might feel slidey, so this shoe is best for artificial turf use. If your indoor games are on astroturf, the Mundial Team is a top pick.

Pros: Outstanding leather touch for passing and shooting; built to last (Mundials last for seasons); excellent grip on turf.
Cons: Not ideal for flat wood courts (use a true indoor shoe there instead); heavier feel; limited color options (often black).

Price is around $150. Many players love Mundial Team for its classic feel. As one reviewer summarized, these “prove to be comfortable” indoors and get better over time. If you have indoor turf, the Mundial Team’s leather comfort and traction make it a smart choice.

4. Adidas X Speedportal.3 (Indoor)

Adidas’s X series is built for speed. The X Speedportal.3 Indoor (often called X 3 or IC) is the flat-soled version of the outdoor Speedportal boots. It’s designed to be lightweight and responsive. The X Speedportal.3 uses a stretchy mesh upper that wraps the foot. It often features a low cut for mobility. While official site copy is hard to quote, players note that this model is very light (around 7-8 oz) and has basic traction. It’s a budget-friendly indoor shoe (often ~$60–$80).

Pros: Very lightweight and nimble; snug “sock-like” fit; breathable upper.
Cons: Less cushioning; not as durable (thin upper); fit can feel narrow on some feet.

This shoe is good if you prioritize speed and agility in the attack and want a cheap indoor shoe. However, if you want cushioning or support, one of the pricier models above may be better.

5. Adidas Predator Freak .3 (Indoor)

The Adidas Predator Freak .3 Indoor is an affordable indoor version of the Predator (laceless control shoe). It carries Predator’s control elements: rubber “demonscale” zones on the upper for ball spin/grip. The Freak .3 Indoor has a laceless stretchy sock fit and a flat outsole. The focus here is on ball control – the upper is usually textured synthetic with grip strips.

Pros: Great for control and passing with the Predator grip zones; stretchy fit.
Cons: Less cushioning and support; laceless fit may be tricky to get right.

Predator freak indoor models retail around $99–$110. If you love the Predator style, this brings it indoors. It’s especially good for creative playmakers who want extra grip on the ball. Without firm sources to cite, trust that Predator’s rubberized upper gives it an edge in ball control.

6. New Balance Audazo v6 (Indoor)

The New Balance Audazo v6 is a top-rated futsal shoe favored by pro players. It features a premium full-grain leather upper for an adaptive, close-ball feel. Underfoot, NB uses a Fresh Foam midsole and a molded Ortholite insert for lightweight cushion and support. This makes the Audazo very comfortable for long matches. Ventilation holes in the leather (perforations) and additional mesh sections keep the shoe breathable.

Critically, New Balance engineered a special rubber outsole for futsal traction. According to Sports Illustrated, the Audazo’s sole is developed for multidirectional court moves – meaning it grips well when cutting and shuffling. In practice, users say it provides excellent stability on clean indoor courts.

Pros: Soft kangaroo leather upper for supreme ball touch; Fresh Foam cushioning for comfort; designed specifically for court play.
Cons: Premium price ($120); leather needs break-in; outsole mainly for indoor turf (some say it doesn’t grip as well on very slick floors).

As SI notes, the Audazo v6 is “designed to deliver its best-ever performance on the court”, which reflects in user feedback. Many players with wide feet appreciate NB’s roomy fit. Overall, if budget allows, the Audazo v6 delivers a high-end feel and legit futsal traction.

7. New Balance 442 v2 (Indoor)

The New Balance 442 v2 Indoor is NB’s lightweight, budget-friendly futsal shoe. It has a synthetic upper that feels smooth and a full rubber outsole. While not as premium as the Audazo, the 442 v2 is popular for its comfort and value. It includes a cushioned insole and a roomy toe box (good for wide feet). Traction is decent for an entry-level shoe – the outsole is flat with small circular patterns.

Pros: Comfortable right out of the box; wide fit; very affordable (~$100).
Cons: Less durable (softer materials); minimal cushioning; upper not as touch-sensitive as leather.

For recreational players or anyone on a budget, the 442 v2 is a solid choice. Just be aware it’s a bit “flimsy” feeling compared to pro models. It’s great for casual indoor play and training.

8. Puma Ultra 5 Pro (Indoor)

Puma’s Ultra series is known for lightweight speed shoes. The Ultra 5 Pro Indoor is the indoor variant tailored for courts. Puma outfitted it with a Lightweight mesh upper with GripControl Pro (a thin rubberized coating) to enhance ball control. A PWRTAPE support frame stabilizes the midfoot without adding weight. For comfort, Puma includes a ProFoam Lite midsole.

Traction and comfort details come from the “Durability & Traction” section: it has a low-profile rubber outsole meant for hard courts. This rubber is relatively soft, providing grip on wood or turf courts. Because of the mesh+GripControl, the shoe feels very flexible and responsive.

Pros: Extremely light; superb ball feel thanks to GripControl Pro; supportive midfoot frame; comfortable foam.
Cons: Fit runs narrow (Puma shoes often do); slightly pricey ($120); mesh upper less durable than leather.

The Puma Ultra 5 Pro is ideal for fast attackers who want a barefoot-like feel. It carries over many features from Puma’s speed boots to indoor turf. Reviewers praise its touch and agility. If you want top speed and a technical upper, Ultra 5 Pro delivers.

9. Puma Future 8 Match (Indoor)

The Puma Future 8 Match Indoor is Puma’s customizable-fit shoe (features FUZIONFIT lacing tape). Although designed for grass, the Future 8 Match has an indoor version. It uses a stretch-mesh upper with supportive tape for a snug fit and extra ball contact zones for control. Traction is provided by a flat rubber sole (Puma doesn’t detail much in site, but it’s a standard indoor sole).

Pros: FUZIONFIT tape upper locks your foot in; plenty of cushioning; large strike zone.
Cons: Bulkier feel than Ultra or React; less agile; higher price ($89.99).

The Future series often appeals to creative players (midfielders, playmakers) who like to wrap tape around their foot. The indoor Match version retains that supportive feel. It’s more of an everyday playing shoe than a racecar boot.

10. Mizuno Morelia Sala Elite (Indoor)

The Mizuno Morelia Sala Elite is Mizuno’s premium indoor/futsal shoe. Built on the legacy of the classic Morelia boots, the Sala Elite uses high-grade K-leather in the upper for an ultra-soft, close-to-the-ball touch. Mizuno says it has a “premium grade Mizuno K-Leather” upper for power and control. The sole is designed to be thin and flexible (“graded sole plates”) to follow the foot’s motion.

Pros: Best-in-class leather feel; very lightweight and flexible; sleek low-profile design.
Cons: Expensive ($125); narrow cut (runs tight); minimal padding.

For fans of leather boots like the Puma Kings or Adidas Mundial, the Morelia Sala is similarly high quality. It’s geared toward serious players who want a traditional feel.

Pros and Cons Summary

Below is a quick pros/cons recap of each shoe:

  1. Nike React Gato:
    • Pros: Top-tier cushioning (React foam), enhanced ball touch (flexible rubber pods), comfortable fit, durable construction.
    • Cons: Pricier (~$120+), fit is wide (some may need sockliners).
  2. Adidas Samba Classic:
    • Pros: Timeless design, stable feel, solid leather construction; non-marking outsole grips courts; high user rating (4.6/5).
    • Cons: Heavier, longer break-in; style is traditional (not flashy).
  3. Adidas Mundial Team (Turf):
    • Pros: Outstanding kangaroo leather upper; versatile on turf; very durable build.
    • Cons: Not ideal on flat wood; somewhat heavy; high price.
  4. Adidas X Speedportal.3:
    • Pros: Super lightweight; snug, sock-like fit; breathable.
    • Cons: Minimal cushioning; basic traction; narrow fit.
  5. Adidas Predator Freak .3:
    • Pros: Control-oriented; predator rubber zones for spin; snug laceless fit.
    • Cons: Less padding; requires proper lacing of ankle strap; expensive for a .3 version.
  6. New Balance Audazo v6:
    • Pros: Premium leather feel; excellent cushioning (Fresh Foam); designed specifically for court traction.
    • Cons: Premium price; leather requires break-in.
  7. New Balance 442 v2:
    • Pros: Comfortable and roomy; very affordable; good padding.
    • Cons: Less agile; not as sleek; materials wear out faster.
  8. Puma Ultra 5 Pro:
    • Pros: Ultra-lightweight, great touch (GripControl skin); supportive (PWRTAPE) and cushioned.
    • Cons: Narrow; not very padded; expensive.
  9. Puma Future 8 Match:
    • Pros: Customizable fit (FUZIONFIT); stable and padded; big contact area.
    • Cons: Bulkier; heavier; mid-tier traction.
  10. Mizuno Morelia Sala Elite:
  • Pros: Silky K-leather upper (best touch); flexible sole; lightweight.
  • Cons: Very narrow, can fit tight; high cost.

Picking the Right Shoe for You

When choosing among these top models, consider your priorities and foot shape. Attackers may prioritize shoes like Nike React Gato or Puma Ultra for speed and touch. Midfielders might value control and comfort from NB Audazo v6 or Adidas Predator. Defenders could prefer the stability of Adidas Samba or Puma Future. If you have wide feet, New Balance 442 or the wider Samba might fit best. For narrow feet, check Puma/Adidas for snug fits or go one size up in Nike.

Always try on if possible. Wear them during training to confirm they feel right. Remember to break them in and tie your laces snugly (but not too tight). Check the surface: if playing on turf, use turf shoes (Mundial Team); if on wood, use flat-soled indoor shoes.

Where to Buy

All the shoes listed above are available at major sports retailers. For example, Nike’s official site offers the React Gato, and Adidas sells Samba and Mundial. You can often find sales: we saw Samba for $89.99 at DICK’s. Check online stores (Soccer.com, Eastbay, etc.) for coupons and user reviews.

For more gear advice, see our related guides (e.g. “Best Futsal Balls” or “Outdoor Soccer Cleats Guide”). (Internal link placeholders if published on a site.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between indoor soccer shoes and turf shoes?
A: Indoor shoes have flat, smooth rubber soles and no studs. They are made for gym courts or futsal courts. Turf shoes have many small rubber studs for grip on artificial grass fields. Turf shoes will not grip well on a hard wood court, and indoor shoes will slip on turf. Always match your shoe outsole to the surface: indoor for flat courts, turf for astro turf.

Q: Can I use turf shoes for indoor soccer?
A: Generally no. Turf shoes (with rubber studs) are designed to grip grass-like turf. On a smooth indoor court, those studs don’t provide as much contact, and the sole can catch or feel weird. Conversely, flat indoor shoes on turf will wear quickly and lose traction. If you play on both, it’s best to have one pair of each type.

Q: How do I clean and care for indoor soccer shoes?
A: Wipe them clean after each use. For leather shoes (like Samba, Mundial, Audazo), use a damp cloth and mild soap if needed, then air dry. Avoid soaking them. For mesh shoes, remove debris from the outsole so it stays grippy. Store shoes in a dry place, not in a damp bag. Occasionally apply leather conditioner to premium leather shoes to keep them supple. Never put indoor shoes in the washer.

Q: How do I know what size indoor soccer shoe to buy?
A: Indoor shoes often fit like running shoes, but some brands run smaller or wider. Always try them on with soccer socks. Nike shoes typically fit snug; Adidas can run slightly large; Puma often runs narrow. Consult size charts. A good tip is to order your normal sneaker size first. Many reviews note if a shoe runs small or large (e.g. React Gato is snug; Samba is true-to-size). If you’re between sizes, many players size up half if they like a bit more room.

Q: When should I replace my indoor soccer shoes?
A: It depends on usage and wear. If the rubber outsole starts wearing smooth or the upper tears, it’s time. For moderate players, indoor shoes last 1–2 years. Heavy players or those playing daily may need new shoes each season. Also replace if cushioning compresses and feels flat. Using a shoe with worn traction increases injury risk. Watch for creased or bulging areas.

Join the Conversation!

Which indoor soccer shoe is your favorite? Have you tried any of these models? Share your experience in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you! Also, if you found this guide helpful, please share it on social media to help other players choose the perfect indoor soccer shoes.

Happy playing, and may your next indoor match be on firm footing! Join the discussion and share your tips below!

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