All those letters printed on soccer cleats can look confusing at first. SG, FG, AG, MG, TF, and IN are not random codes. They are short for the surfaces each cleat is built to master. Understanding what they mean will help you stay on your feet when it matters most.

Soft Ground (SG): Built for the Mud and the Rain

Soft ground cleats are designed for wet, muddy natural grass. They are easy to spot, with their metal studs built to dig into heavy soil and stop you from sliding. When rain turns a pitch into a swamp, SG cleats provide grip and stability while others slip.

Modern SG models often use a hybrid soleplate, combining metal studs with shorter molded ones. This setup improves balance and comfort while keeping the cleats light. If you play in a country where winter means waterlogged fields, SG is the essential choice.

A reliable example is the Nike Mercurial Vapor SG-Pro, one of the best performers in thick, unpredictable conditions.

Firm Ground (FG): The All-Rounder

Firm ground cleats are the standard for most outdoor play. They use molded plastic studs to create traction on natural grass that is dry or only slightly damp. Think summer matches, pre-season training, and everyday league games.

Most professional players wear FG cleats, which is why almost every major brand releases new models in this setup first. They provide balance between traction, comfort, and versatility.

A standout option is the adidas Predator FG, trusted for its control and stability on natural grass.

Artificial Grass (AG): Made for 3G and 4G Turf

Artificial grass surfaces are firmer and more abrasive than natural grass. AG cleats are designed to handle that difference with shorter, rounded studs that spread pressure evenly and reduce stress on your joints.

Wearing FG cleats on turf might feel similar, but it is not ideal. The longer studs can grip too tightly, increasing the risk of twisting injuries and causing premature wear. AG cleats are reinforced to last longer on synthetic surfaces and protect your body through quick turns and sprints.

If you play regularly on 3G or 4G pitches, AG is the safest and most comfortable option. Save your FG pair for real grass.

Turf (TF): For Hard Ground and Small-Sided Games

Turf shoes are made for older astro-turf or compacted hard surfaces. Instead of tall studs, they feature small rubber bumps across the sole. This pattern gives steady traction without digging in.

They are perfect for five-a-side soccer, training sessions, or casual matches where you play several times a week. Turf shoes are also more durable than traditional studded cleats and often more affordable, making them a practical choice for regular players.

Indoor (IN): Fast Play and Flat Floors

Indoor soccer shoes are built for gym floors, futsal courts, and polished indoor turf. They have flat, non-marking rubber soles that grip without sticking. The focus is on speed, precision, and control in tight spaces.

Because indoor soccer rewards first touch and agility, these shoes are made to feel light and direct underfoot.

The adidas Copa Mundial IN remains a timeless favorite for futsal players who value a classic touch and dependable traction.

Multi-Ground (MG): One Pair for Every Pitch

If your soccer week moves between grass and turf, multi-ground cleats are designed for you. Their stud layout mixes shapes and lengths to provide traction across both natural and artificial surfaces.

MG cleats give you flexibility without forcing you to carry multiple pairs. They perform consistently across varied fields, offering a stable middle ground for players who never know where the next match will be.

Choosing the Right Cleats

Every surface demands something different. Heavy weekend matches in the rain call for SG studs. Summer sessions on dry grass reward FG designs. Midweek games on synthetic turf need AG setups. Indoor players thrive in IN shoes, while TF pairs dominate small-sided cages.

The best approach is simple. Match your cleats to the surface, clean them after each session, and pay attention to small design features that make a difference. Anti-clog plates stop mud buildup on SG models. Reinforced outsoles protect your feet on turf. Hybrid studs help transition between surfaces.

These details are what keep you balanced, confident, and injury-free.

Smarter Surfaces, Smarter Choices

Soccer's beauty is that it can be played anywhere. The right pair of cleats lets you enjoy that freedom without compromise. Whether you play on grass, turf, or polished court floors, understanding ground types ensures your cleats work with you, not against you.

For the full range of SG, FG, AG, MG, TF, and IN models, visit Pro:Direct Soccer, where you can find every surface, style, and fit covered from grassroots games to professional play.