Influence of cleat design on knee joint moments during cutting maneuver and instep kick in soccer

Abstract

Background. This study aimed to compare the influence of different cleat designs on specific soccer movements. Methods. The sample consisted of 10 recreational players who performed cutting and kicking movements using soccer shoes with three different cleat shapes: C1 (Circular), C2 (Rectangular) and C3 (Mixed). Kinematic data were collected using the Vicon system and an AMTI force platform. The moments were calculated by the Nexus System and the peaks extracted in Matlab at every 10% of the stance phase. Repeated measures ANOVA and the Bonferroni post-hoc test were conducted at α<0.05 for statistical analysis. Results. C1 exhibited a higher external rotation moment (P<0.05) at the onset of the stance phase than C2 and C3. In the kicking movement, C3 showed a higher valgus moment (P<0.05) than C2 and C1 in the first 10% of stance. C3 also obtained a higher internal rotation moment (P<005) at 60% of stance. Conclusions. These results suggest that C1 may offer greater stability at the onset of the stance phase. In kicking, the different physical traits of C3 allow faster transition and deeper soil penetration. Soccer cleats influence the knee joint moment during cutting movements and kicking. These results are important form to reduce the risk of injury.