From the muddy fields of medieval Europe to the pristine pitches of today’s stadiums, the evolution of football boots mirrors the game’s rise from a simple pastime to a global phenomenon. This journey through football footwear history reveals a fascinating timeline of innovation, style and the relentless pursuit of athletic excellence. And when it comes to football, Gola is one of the founding brands in the British sport. Heralded for its football past, British trainer brand Gola has a whole range of football boots for men, women and kids playing the beautiful game.
What is the history of the football boot?
The Humble Beginnings
In the early days of football, there was no such thing as a specialised football boot. Players simply wore their everyday work boots, which were often heavy, cumbersome and ill-suited for the game. These early “football boots” featured metal-tipped toes and steel-reinforced soles, more out of necessity for protection rather than for enhancing performance. As you can imagine, playing in these boots was far from comfortable and the risk of injury was high.
The Victorian Era: A Step Towards Specialisation
The mid-19th century saw the formalisation of football rules which spurred the need for more appropriate footwear. The first dedicated football boots began to emerge in the 1860s, designed to offer better grip and support. These early versions were still quite heavy, made of thick leather and extending above the ankle to provide extra protection. They weighed around half a kilogram each and were equipped with studs or tacks hammered into the soles for traction.
The Early 20th Century: Enter the Modern Boot
The dawn of the 20th century marked a significant shift towards lighter and more functional football boots. In the 1920s and 1930s, manufacturers like Gola and Valsport began producing boots that were lower cut, allowing for greater flexibility and freedom of movement. Leather remained the primary material, but the design became more refined, focusing on a better fit and improved comfort.
Post-War Innovations: Function Meets Style
The post-World War II era was a transformative period for football boots. This innovation allowed players to adjust their boots to different pitch conditions, revolutionising the game. The 1950s saw the rise of other trainer brands, but Gola football boots continued to be a popular choice for players seeking both style and functionality. This era introduced screw-in studs, a revolutionary feature that allowed players to adjust their boots to different pitch conditions, significantly influencing the game’s dynamics.
The 1960s and 1970s continued this trend of innovation. Football boots became even lighter and more streamlined, with a greater emphasis on design and aesthetics. Gola football boots were known for their durability and classic design, making them a favorite among many players during this time.
The 1980s and 1990s: The Technological Revolution
The last two decades of the 20th century saw an explosion of technological advancements in men’s football boots. Synthetic materials began to be used alongside traditional leather, offering improved durability and performance. The 1990s, in particular, witnessed the birth of some iconic models. Gola football boots maintained their reputation for quality, continuing to cater to a loyal customer base that appreciated their blend of tradition and innovation.
The 21st Century: A Fusion of Art and Science
As we entered the new millennium, men’s football boots became a sophisticated fusion of art and science. Modern boots are the result of extensive research and development, utilising cutting-edge materials and technology. Other advanced fabrics offer a second-skin fit, while innovations like carbon-fibre soles provide lightweight strength.
Gola football boots have continued to evolve, embracing new technologies while staying true to their heritage. The brand’s commitment to producing high-quality football boots has kept them relevant in the market.
The Future of Football Boots
Looking ahead, the future of men’s football boots promises even more exciting developments. Concepts such as smart boots equipped with sensors to track performance metrics and adaptive materials that respond to changing conditions are on the horizon. Sustainability is also becoming a key focus, with brands exploring eco-friendly materials and production methods to reduce their environmental impact.
Gola football boots will continue playing a role in this evolving landscape, combining their rich history with modern advancements to meet the demands of today’s players.
How are football boots made?
Football boots are essential for any player, providing the grip, support and comfort needed to perform at the highest level. But how exactly are football boots made? The process combines advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship to create the high-performance footwear seen on pitches worldwide. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the steps involved in making football boots.
1. Design and Concept Development
Football boots begin with detailed design and concept development. Using computer-aided design (CAD) software, manufacturers create models focusing on performance aspects like speed, control and comfort. The selection of materials, such as synthetic fabrics, leather or knitted materials, is also determined during this stage.
2. Material Selection and Cutting
The materials are carefully selected based on their properties—synthetic materials for lightweight and water resistance, leather for touch and durability. These materials are then precisely cut, forming the upper part of the football boots.
3. Stitching and Assembly
The cut pieces are stitched together to assemble the upper, incorporating control zones and branding elements. Precision stitching ensures strength and comfort, especially in high-end football boots where hand-stitching may be used.
4. Outsole and Stud Attachment
The outsole, crucial for traction, is made from materials like rubber or carbon fiber. It is attached to the upper using strong adhesives and may be stitched for added durability. Studs, either molded or screw-in, are then added, tailored for different playing surfaces.
5. Midsole and Insole Insertion
The midsole, often made from lightweight foam, is added for cushioning, while the insole provides comfort directly under the foot. Some football boots feature removable insoles for customisation.
6. Shaping (Lasting)
The football boot is shaped around a mold called a “last,” ensuring a snug fit. This step is critical for providing the necessary support and comfort during play.
7. Final Touches and Quality Control
After shaping, the football boots undergo final touches, such as applying logos and colour details. A rigorous quality control process ensures the boots meet performance standards.
Why choose Gola’s range of men and women’s football boots?
Within the range of football trainers at Gola, you will find high-performance footwear that you can wear whilst playing the beautiful game. Designed to be worn on artificial surfaces, Gola’s football boots have been technically constructed for maximum comfort and grip; featuring microfibre uppers and moulded 3D stud outsoles to enhance stability. You will also find that a carbon fibre footplate has been added to the footwear design for extra precision and grip. In addition, we offer a selection of court sports footwear that provide comfort, grip and feature a non-marking sole.
Gola was well supported by Bill Shankly, who famously managed Liverpool and re-launched them on the English and European football stage. A pair of size 8 Gola football boots were worn by the legendary Liverpool football manager at Anfield during the 1970s. The boots are inscribed ‘W. S. Shankly is considered to be “the Reds greatest ever manager.”’
“Football’s not a matter of life and death… It’s more important than that.”
Gola’s football boots for kids
For footballing pros of the future, our collection of kids’ football boots includes designs for all terrains. Gola offers children’s football trainers for astroturf, court surfaces or firm ground with outdoor and indoor kids’ football shoes. Available in striking black and white, our football shoes for kids offer a neoprene sock fit for added comfort. Tailored for sports, you’ll find a pair of kids’ football shoes that they’ll love to build their confidence whether they’re total beginners or seasoned professionals.
Roy of the Rovers
1981 saw Gola feature in the Roy of the Rovers comic as the brand sponsored Roy Race of the Melchester Rovers. The partnership became an iconic feature of the popular comic and Gola once again sponsored Roy for the 2018/19 season. Read more here: https://royoftherovers.com/news/1626
From football to fashion
Heritage is having a real moment of late, as are football-inspired trainers. Both the fashion set and the everyday dressers alike are donning trainers that feel both functional and stylish. A football style trainer oozes the sportscore trend we are seeing everywhere yet somehow still remains sleek for both men and women. It’s a trend that requires minimal effort when the trainers are already so good.
The iconic Gola silhouette named Harrier is a prime example of a 1960s trainer that has been continuously reimagined for everyone who loves trainers, football and fashion to enjoy. Harrier for men, women and kids is always a popular silhouette and has never failed to bring the true to Gola football feel, while keeping the wearer looking sleek and stylish. As referenced in ‘80s Casual Classics’ article ‘Introducing The Gola Harrier Leather Trainer‘:
The multi-purpose, late ‘60s training shoe was actually one of the first ever trainers to be worn with jeans. Worn by everyone from Paul Weller to the Gallagher brothers, the Gola Harrier is steeped in British subcultures from the Mod revival of the late 1970s to mid ‘90s ‘Cool Britannia‘. But just like most stuff we like to talk about here at ‘80s Casual Classics it’s usually got some form of football fascination attached it. The Harrier trainer is no different and although it wasn’t technically a trainer worn by the like of the Inter City Jibbers, the football connection of Gola & its legendary Harrier trainer is still absolutely huge.
While Gola’s Torpedo silhouette fashioned in leather takes inspiration from classic football styles combined with a terrace gumsole that is trending right now. Loved by influencers, Torpedo Leather is a staple trainer for adding a sporty vibe to a feminine outfit, and looks as good with jeans and a blazer as it does with a floral midi dress. Similarly to Torpedo, the Tornado shape has a football feel. Gola’s Tornado women’s trainer have a heavy weave nylon upper in complemented with matching suede trims to the toe, heel and lace facing and are contrasted with a Gola wingflash side trim with sawtooth edges. Sat upon a slight wedge gum sole, Tornado for women offers the full old school trainer package. And as highlighted by Sheerluxe:
It might be hard to believe, but FOOTBALL-INSPIRED FASHION is on the rise and few brands have STRONGER CONNECTIONS TO THE SPORT THAN GOLA. These Tornado Trainers are one of our favourites.
Sheerluxe, This Cool Trainer Brand Is Making A Comeback
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The history of football boots is a testament to the relentless innovation and passion that drives the beautiful game. From the crude, heavy boots of the past to the sleek, high-tech models of today, each evolution in football footwear has helped shape the way the game is played and experienced. Brands like Gola have been integral to this journey, contributing to the rich legacy of football boots. As technology continues to advance, one can only imagine what the next generation of football boots will bring to the pitch. The journey is far from over and the best is yet to come.
Shop Gola’s range of football boots now in time for your next match!
