For futsal, kids need flat-soled indoor court shoes (not cleats or turf shoes), shin guards, a water bottle and comfortable athletic clothes. A futsal ball for home practice is a great extra. Indoor court shoes with non-marking gum or rubber soles give the best grip on gym floors.
Updated 2026-11-07 · Fortaleza 269 Futsal Club, Kalamazoo, MI
The checklist
- Indoor court shoes with flat, non-marking soles
- Shin guards and soccer socks
- Water bottle with your child's name on it
- Comfortable clothes: t-shirt and shorts
- Optional: a futsal ball for practice at home
Shoes: the most important item
Futsal is played on a hard gym floor, so cleats are not allowed and are unsafe. Turf shoes, with their small rubber studs, also don't grip well on a court. Look for:
- Flat gum or rubber soles that won't mark the floor
- A snug fit with a little room at the toe
- A thin upper for good feel on the ball
Many brands make "IN" or "IC" (indoor court) versions of their soccer shoes. For young kids, any clean, flat-soled sneaker is fine to start.
Do we need a futsal ball?
Not for training; coaches provide balls. But a futsal ball at home is great for practice in the basement or garage because it doesn't bounce away. See futsal drills kids can do at home.
What not to bring
- Outdoor cleats or turf shoes
- Jewelry (it's a safety risk)
Ready to play? Fortaleza 269 Futsal Club trains kids ages 4–16 in the Kalamazoo area. Join the interest list.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you wear cleats for futsal?
- No. Futsal is played on a hard court, so players need flat-soled indoor shoes.
- Are turf shoes OK for futsal?
- They're not ideal. Flat indoor court shoes grip a gym floor much better.
- Do kids need shin guards for futsal?
- Yes, shin guards are recommended for training and required for most games.