Pitch surface

When it comes to selecting your perfect pair of boots, the surface you usually play on is an important factor to bear in mind. If you’re playing on firm ground (i.e. natural grass), you’ll want boots with plastic studs. For soft ground, use ones with longer, metal studs which allow for deeper infiltration.

Those who play on artificial grass should purchase boots with short, hollow studs which provide better grip and therefore do not cause as much strain on your knees and ligaments. A boot with a rubber sole or just a pair of normal trainers can be used for indoor play, such as courts.

Your position

The position you typically play in will also determine the type of football boot you will want to select. If you’re a defender or goalkeeper, a strong and resilient pair of boots with good grip and which will protect your foot from injury during tackles is imperative. For wingers and strikers, a comfortable, light boot with good traction is recommended, so that you can pick up plenty of speed and easily dodge challengers.

Type of material

Football boots come in many different materials, so this is another aspect to consider when choosing your pair. Leather boots are generally softer, more long-lasting and durable than other boot materials and tend to mould well to the shape of the foot. However, the downsides are that their shape can stretch in the wet weather, whilst also taking longer to dry. They also tend to be more expensive.

Synthetic boots, on the other hand, are generally less costly, whilst the material is lighter and thinner. In addition, they are known for being comfortable and will usually require less maintenance than leather boots, which need special care.

Style and comfort

Perhaps the most important element is to find a pair of football boots that you are comfortable in, because if they don’t fit right, you simply won’t play to the best of your abilities. Similarly, you’ll want to invest in a pair of boots that you actually like the look of and are proud to play in.

It’s an age-old saying that if you look good, you feel good too – and this surely applies on the pitch as well. Luckily, football boots no longer need to look worn down and ugly, as there’s heaps of flashy options on the market for you to get your hands on these days. Just make sure you take care of them!

As Suzanne Nottingham, a spokesperson of the American Council of Exercise, put it to Weightwatchers: “Walking outdoors in winter is extremely invigorating and almost meditative. It’s like you’re part of nature, walking in the midst of howling winds, blowing snow and a bright sun.”

Make your winter hike as comfortable and enjoyable as possible by following these handy tips:

Kit yourself out in appropriate clothing

There is a good chance that you will be caught in a rain or snow shower while exploring the great outdoors throughout the winter.

Be prepared for such changes in the weather by wearing appropriate clothing for the time of year. A thick fleece will keep you cosy no matter how low the temperatures dip, while thermal clothing will give you that extra layer of warmth.

A little more thought will have to go into your choice of boots though. You will want the footwear to be suitable for climbing steep hills and traversing muddy terrains and streams, while also keeping your feet warm and dry. Merrell boots achieve all of this, on top of looking extremely stylish, and are available in a raft of designs at Millet Sports with free delivery.

Ensure you are seen

The days are shorter during the winter, with very little daylight when the sky is grey or the weather is misty and foggy. Therefore, it is very important that you are always seen when out on a hike.

Attempt to stay on paths dotted with streetlights or clearly marked tracks if you are heading out into the countryside. It’s recommended that you take a jacket with reflective strips or a hi-visibility vest to ensure you catch the eye.

Check your route

While you shouldn’t need to worry too much if you are just walking to a local park or around a neighbourhood, you will want to check the weather forecast before hiking across one of the UK’s mountain ranges.

Fortunately, the Met Office regularly updates its online mountain area forecast chartto ensure you know when it’s a good time to head on a trek and when it is best to plan a different walking route.