Cleat Studs Cleat studs come in several lengths and materials and the ones that are most appropriate for you are best determined by the type of ground you play on. Longer studs (18 mm) are better for soft or muddy fields while the shorter ones (13 mm) are good for harder ground. The 16 mm offer a nice middle of the road option. Many new boots come with storter studs in the front and 2 longer ones in the back. This configuration is generally more comfortable on your feet. As far as the material, rubber provides the most cushion; however, it is a wider stud and may not give you the best traction on soft ground. Nylon provides a little more give than aluminum without scarificing much traction. The obvious advantage of boots with replaceable studs is that you can get several sets to cover a range of field quality. ©2001 BALL'S OUT! Rugby Goods. All rights reserved.