Sophia Smith Cleats: What Soccer Cleats Does She Wear?

Last Updated on: 26th August 2025, 12:10 pm

When you think of modern women’s soccer, few names shine as brightly as Sophia Smith. Known for her explosive pace, quick changes of direction, and ruthless finishing, Smith has become a star for both the U.S. Women’s National Team and the Portland Thorns.

Smith wears the Nike Phantom GX II Elite FG and the Nike Phantom Luna II Elite FG, both part of Nike’s United Pack. These boots are more than flashy gear; they’re finely engineered tools built for players who demand control, agility, and speed.

Why Sophia Smith Chooses These Cleats

1. Built for Control

Both models feature Nike’s Gripknit technology, a sticky yet natural-feeling upper that helps players maintain close control of the ball, whether dribbling past defenders or striking on goal. For a forward like Smith, who thrives on sharp touches and quick releases, this feature is a perfect match.

2. Agility Without Limits

The Cyclone 360 soleplate is unique to the Phantom GX and Luna lines. Instead of traditional stud patterns, it uses a circular stud configuration that makes cutting, pivoting, and accelerating smoother. This is ideal for a player like Smith, who constantly shifts gears to create scoring chances.

3. Lightweight Support

The Phantom Luna II adds an asymmetrical Flyknit collar for a sock-like fit around the ankle. It’s supportive without being restrictive, giving Smith the balance of freedom and protection that attacking players need.

4. A Statement of Style

Sophia Smith doesn’t just wear these cleats for performance. The bold purple and volt colourway of Nike’s United Pack mirrors her fearless approach to the game. It’s footwear that makes a statement on and off the ball.

How Sophia Smith’s Cleats Influence Her Game

Sophia Smith’s style of play is dynamic, demanding cleats that can keep up. Here’s how her Nike boots support her performance:

• Speed & Acceleration: The lightweight build ensures she can reach top speed quickly, perfect for making runs behind defences.
• Ball Control Under Pressure: Gripknit allows her to keep close control when weaving through defenders or receiving long passes.
• Agility for Dribbling: The Cyclone 360 soleplate makes sharp directional changes smooth, helping her beat defenders one-on-one.
• Confidence in Striking: Whether it’s a powerful shot from distance or a composed finish inside the box, the Phantom’s strike zone is built for precision.

Are Sophia Smith’s Cleats Right for You?

If you’re an aspiring forward, winger, or creative midfielder, Smith’s cleats can be a great fit. They are designed for players who:

• Rely on fast dribbling and tight ball control.
• Need sharp cuts and quick pivots in their game.
• Want a boot that feels both lightweight and supportive.
• Value both performance and style in their gear.

That said, the Nike Phantom GX II and Luna II are elite-level cleats; they’re an investment, built with professional-grade technology. Casual players may find Nike’s Academy or Pro tiers more budget-friendly while still benefiting from similar design principles.

Sophia Smith’s Cleats Compared to Other Stars

• Alex Morgan often favours the Nike Mercurial, a boot built for raw pace.
• Megan Rapinoe has leaned toward the Phantom series in the past, appreciating its balance of control and creativity.
• Kylian Mbappé and other global stars also gravitate to Nike Mercurials, emphasising acceleration.

What sets Sophia apart is her commitment to the Phantom GX/Luna line, signalling her preference for control and agility over pure speed.

Final Words:

Sophia Smith’s success isn’t just down to natural talent; it’s a combination of skill, work ethic, and the right equipment. By choosing the Nike Phantom GX II Elite FG and Nike Phantom Luna II Elite FG, she equips herself with cleats that amplify her strengths: ball control, agility, and attacking precision.

For fans, these boots represent more than just gear; they symbolise a pivotal moment in Sophia Smith’s journey as one of the brightest stars in women’s soccer today.

FAQs:

What brand does Sophia Smith wear?

Nike. She is a Nike athlete and wears boots from the Phantom line.

Are her cleats available to buy?

Yes, the Nike Phantom GX II Elite FG and Phantom Luna II Elite FG are available through Nike and major soccer retailers.

What type of surface are her cleats made for?

They are Firm Ground (FG) cleats, designed for natural grass pitches.

Can youth players wear them?

Absolutely. Nike makes Phantom GX and Luna models in youth sizes, with similar technology scaled down.