Best laceless football boots 2023
2026-04-13T16:16:58.631Z
They’ve only been around since 2006, but laceless football boots have really caught on since then.
Adidas stepped up to the plate in 2016 with their game-changing ACE 16+ model. That’s when things got serious for the laceless scene.
Since then, adidas and New Balance have been the major brands battling it out to create the best laceless designs.
Laceless technology has advanced massively over the past decade, which means it’s now like nudging your feet into your favourite slippers for a game.
Lace-free boots are an ideal choice for players who love to feel every mm of the ball and yes, those who can’t be bothered tying and untying laces.
We’re here to explore laceless football boot culture and then pick the best ones available, so slip in and get comfortable…
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What's the difference between laceless and laced football boots?
Ah, a nice simple one to start us off. ‘Laceless’ simply means there isn’t a lace fastening on the boot. None at all.
The entire design is made to fully cover the top and sides of the foot, removing the need to tie laces to adapt the lockdown.
What are the benefits of laceless football boots?
Clearly, the biggest benefit is not having to tie and untie your laces before, during or after you play.
Laceless boots are easy to slip in and out of, offering a sock-like fit which is both comfortable and secure.
If you want to stretch them or make them tighter, you can. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to break in football boots.
Are laceless football boots good?
Laceless boots are every bit as good as their laced counterparts. Secure and comfortable with a clean, stylish aesthetic.
You’ll see several fits and shapes from the latest silos, but you’re sure to find something to suit your foot shape and playing style.
Do any pros wear laceless boots?
Yes! All the stars from Achraf Hakimi and Pedri, to Alessia Russo and Paulo Dybala.
Top players are choosing to wear laceless models, which proves that they can be trusted to do the business on the pitch.
What was the first ever laceless football boot?
The first ever recognised laceless football boot is the ultralight Lotto Zhero Gravity (remake, pictured above), released in 2006. Cafu wore them. Cafu.
Although it wasn’t well received by players, it lit the fire for other designers to try their hand at going laceless.
The first adidas laceless design didn’t come until 2016, 10 years later. It was called the ACE 16+ (pictured above) and it sent shockwaves through the footballing world.
Now, the adidas Copa, Predator and X all have their own laceless ‘+’ versions, available in every new colourway.
Our 5 best laceless football boots this year
It’s true, adidas are the leaders when it comes to laceless design. That’s why our ranking is packed with their models.
Whilst we wait for Nike and Puma to step up to the plate, these are the best laceless boots you can slide your feet into.
5. adidas Copa Sense+
Now overtaken by the Copa Pure (more on that later), the adidas Copa Sense is still a fantastic laceless option.
The elite ‘+’ laceless model is made from a blend of premium kangaroo leather and Fusionskin, meaning it’s durable and comfortable.
Sensepods in the heel and Touchpods in the uppers help the boot to mould around the foot, keeping you snug.
It’s a brilliant option, and it’s now even cheaper to get hold of. Lovely.
4. adidas Predator Edge+
The adidas Predator has long been an advocate of removing laces. The earlier Freak and Mutator models both offered ‘+’ options.
This Edge+ design has a high-cut collar which wraps the ankle for a tight fit. The Primeknit collar will help you slip in and out with ease.
Incredibly durable. That’s the main take away from the Predator Edge. It’s a tough boot with enough ball feel to deliver accurate passing and shooting.
Available in cheaper ‘.2’ and ‘.3’ takedown options too, this could be a perfect boot for any grassroots kitbag.
3. New Balance Tekela V4
Our only non-adidas entry on this list, but the New Balance Tekela V4 is well worthy of its spot.
Packed with a full-foot, stretchy Hypoknit upper, you’re going to get a complete feel for the ball wearing these.
Make no mistake. This is a high quality, lightweight agility boot. It’s built for players who need maximum control and awareness on the field.
The Tekela is cheaper than most elite laceless models, and you can grab the takedown ‘Magia’ version for even less. Lace-less, pay less.
2. adidas Copa Pure+
As we mentioned earlier, this is adidas’ latest in a long line of Copa releases. The adidas Copa Pure is classic, but modern too.
Moving on from the Sense, the Pure has a quilted Fusionskin and cow leather upper which delivers the ultimate feel.
It weighs a mammoth 48g less than the Sense. And its Primeknit collar will help keep you locked down for 90 minutes and more.
With a regular fit (unusual for laceless models), the Copa Pure is definitely one of the most comfortable boots of the year.
1. adidas X Speedportal+
The adidas X has been a trusted partner to many top players since its initial release in 2015. The X Speedportal continues that joyous tradition.
Including a Primeknit upper for a hugging feel, this elite ‘+’ laceless X also has a Carbitex chassis for lightweight support underfoot.
A slick design and one of the best boots of the year for sure, the Speedportal+ has players like Hakimi, Russo and Pedri regularly turning in game-changing performances.
Available in cheaper ‘.2’ and ‘.3’ models, you can slip into the Speedportal and send your opponents into another dimension, for less.
Looking for laceless football boots in a certain colour and surface type? You’re in luck, because we’ve found them all.
We compare deals to find the lowest price. From adidas, New Balance and Pro:Direct to Lovell Soccer, Sports Direct and more.
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