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Featuring cutting-edge picks and timeless classics from Umbro, adidas, Nike and more

If you're looking to get onto a football pitch for the first or the five-hundredth time, it's always a great occasion to pick up a fresh set of football boots. There are more boots than ever to choose from today, but arguably, you still can't beat the feel of an old-fashioned leather boot.

Today's leather boots come with all the added features of modern boots, so you won't miss out on any cutting-edge improvements that have been made over the years.

We've rounded up the best leather boots you can get on the market today, depending on what you want out of your game – alongside answering the most commonly asked questions by players looking to get the most out of their purchase.

Are leather boots best?

Whether leather boots are better than their synthetic is debatable. Still, it's hard to deny that they produce superior stability widely treasured by some of the game's leading players.

Their leather uppers tend to be rigid in support and able to weather frequent usage. In contrast, their construction makes them heavier than the rest of their counterparts – a double-edged sword that makes them typically heavy-set but more traditionally durable.

Their well-honed construction, honed over decades of boot-making techniques, means that while some consider them old-fashioned, they stand the test of time.

What surfaces can leather boots be used on?

Leather boots can be used on any surface, so what kind of leather boot you need depends on what surface you intend to play on.

A studded option is preferable if you're playing on turf surfaces, while indoor courts will require a springy rubber sole instead. Luckily, leather boots can be found for every terrain.

If you're looking for football boots suitable on other surfaces, read GOAL's comprehensive round-up of the 

best football boots in 2023.What is the difference between leather boots and others?

Several differences – some large, some subtle – exist between leather boots and boots designed from other materials. Studded soles, for example, are a non-starter for indoor courts.

Leather boots tend to be wrought with more obvious markings and may well be marginally heavier than expected – but they will still deliver the same functionality and support found with other boots, possibly even more so. With that in mind, here are the best leather football boots you can get.

Shop: The best leather football boots

adidas' Copa Sense+ is a top-of-the-line leather shoe that delivers superb comfort and ball control – balancing stability and softness for a top-drawer moulded finish that takes the breath away.

A suede-like inner lining beneath a leather Primeknit upper delivers the quality material touch you'd demand. At the same time, foam SensePods bulk up the space between heel and ankle to offer more command. Meanwhile, its laceless finish means you'll be able to strike the ball sweetly.

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There's no need to break the bank for a pair of leather boots – and these adidas shoes, designed for the traditional firm ground terrain, are proof that you do not need to skimp on quality when buying a great pair.

You can count on the adidas Copa to help you be one with the ball and sharpen your football senses. An all-lace fastening for a snug fit with a comfy synthetic upper reduces distractions when making those sharp turns on the pitch, leaving your opponents in the dust – designed in primarily black colour, with white adidas embellishments throughout for a classy finish.

The Copa Mundial, made famous on the stages of Spain in 1982, is still a superb leather boot all these years later. The fact that it has stood the test of time is a testament to the quality infused throughout its design.

The premium, soft K-leather upper boldly features adidas' iconic three stripes, while the signature tongue covers the top of the laces and the inner is lined with nylon. It's simple but effective, providing durability, comfort and a cushioned first touch.

Those who play their games in sports halls can also get a top pair of leather boots with the Umbro Speciali Eternal Team NT, which delivers on its promises.

Marrying a full-grain leather vamp and memory foam insert to create a comfortable fit provides intelligent response over challenging terrain – and a removable sockliner insert helps mould it to the foot with satisfaction.