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Soccer players

Soccer Cleat Stud Patterns Linked to Lower Extremity Injuries in Elite Players

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine has found a significant correlation between soccer cleat stud patterns and lower extremity injuries in elite players. The research, conducted by the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, analyzed data from the English Premier League (EPL) 2021-2022 season and identified a link between aggressive cleat stud patterns and increased risk of injury. The study's findings have important implications for football players and coaches seeking to reduce the risk of lower extremity injuries.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed data from 510 players and 221 injuries in the English Premier League (EPL) 2021-2022 season.
  • Players who wore cleats with very aggressive (VA) stud patterns had significantly higher odds of lower extremity injury (ORVA, 1.362 [95% CI, 1.008-1.842]; P = .023).
  • Players who wore cleats with mildly aggressive (MA) stud patterns had significantly lower odds of lower extremity injury (ORMA, 0.579 [95% CI, 0.352-0.952]; P = .016).
  • The study found that older age and player position, combined with cleat type, were associated with increased risk of injury.
  • The research used a cohort study design, with cleat models categorized as VA, MA, and nonaggressive (NA).
  • Poisson regression, multinomial linear regression, chi-square tests, and t tests were used to assess the relationships between age, position, cleat type, and injuries.

Statistics:

  • 510 players were analyzed in the study.
  • 221 injuries were identified in the English Premier League (EPL) 2021-2022 season.
  • Players wearing VA stud patterns had a odds ratio of 1.362 [95% CI, 1.008-1.842]; P = .023).
  • Players wearing MA stud patterns had an odds ratio of 0.579 [95% CI, 0.352-0.952]; P = .016).

Sources:

  • Effects of Soccer Cleat Stud Patterns Worn Versus Lower Extremity Injuries In the English Premier League. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, 2025;13(7). doi: 10.1177/1938640025127
  • NewsRx. Reports on Sports Medicine Findings from University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston Provide New Insights (Effects of Soccer Cleat Stud Patterns Worn Versus Lower Extremity Injuries In the English Premier League). Health & Medicine Week. August 1, 2025; p 3601.

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