Real Madrid: Rise of Predator and 'BelliGold'
When Jude Bellingham transferred to Real Madrid in 2023, his presence immediately shifted the spotlight onto his footwear, becoming the official face of the revitalized Adidas Predator silo.
This era saw him transition fully into a true central attacking midfielder, and his boots reflected that change, blending control with aggressive strike zones.
Specific Models Worn at Real Madrid
- Predator Accuracy (Launch): Bellingham began his time at Madrid wearing a version of the Predator Accuracy. This boot aligned with his playmaking role, offering grippy High Definition Grip elements on the striking surface and a stable fit essential for distributing the ball under pressure.
- Predator 24 (Current Focus): In early 2024, he spearheaded the launch of the next generation, the Predator 24 (or Predator Elite). This boot focuses on a lighter, more aggressive feel while maintaining the rubberized Strikeskin elements for added control when receiving and shooting. The junior versions (Club/League) echo this design philosophy, offering better lockdown for young players.
The Story of the 'BelliGold' Boots
The term "BelliGold" is a nickname coined by fans and media to refer to the white and gold colorways that Bellingham often debuts during major club moments or key milestones.
While not an official Adidas product name, it captures the royal, winning aesthetic associated with the Los Blancos kit and his exceptional performance.
The gold elements often appear on the three stripes, the soleplate, or as an accent color on the collar. For junior players, Adidas often releases general release white/gold color packs across the youth Predator line (Club, League) that allow children to capture the "BelliGold" look on the pitch.
These colorways symbolize his growing influence and winning mentality at the Bernabéu.
For kids in Ireland who want the 'BelliGold' look, we recommend the Adidas Predator Club:
For example, the two most common full names for the entry-level boot are:
- Adidas Predator Club FG/MG Boots (Kids): (The most versatile option for natural grass and artificial turf in Ireland).
- Adidas Predator Club TF Boots (Kids): (For hard turf/astro pitches).
The model number can also sometimes be referred to with a size designation like Predator Club (GS) (Grade School) or Predator Club (J) (Junior).
.Ensure you choose the right soleplate (e.g., FG/MG or TF): choose FG for weekend grass; if training also happens on 3G/4G, go MG/FG-AG so the feel stays consistent all week.
Bellingham Boots for Kids
Table: Kids’ Bellingham‑style boots — secure lockdown, grippy strike zone for passing/shooting, and plates that suit Irish grass & 3G/4G. Pick MG/FG‑AG for mixed schedules, FG for grass, TF/IN for astro/indoor.
*Prices are approximate and may change. Kids’ ranges rotate each season—check current plate labels (FG, MG/FG‑AG, TF, IN).
How to choose the right tier (Elite vs mid‑tiers)
Elite tiers are the lightest with the most responsive plates, great for sharp toe‑off and acceleration. Mid‑tiers (League/Academy/Pro, depending on brand) keep the same stud map and shape but are better value and a touch more durable for fast‑growing feet.
Tongue, collar & lacing (for real lockdown)
Speed boots often use a minimal tongue or one‑piece knit that hugs the midfoot; some versions keep a separate tongue for easier entry and finer lace tension. If heels slip, try a runner’s loop (lock‑lacing) and a true football sock to stabilise the back‑of‑boot.
Matchday vs training‑day (FG vs MG/AG)
If you only buy one outdoor pair, start with FG for most Irish grass. If mid‑week is mostly 3G/4G, choose MG/FG‑AG to spread stud pressure and keep touch predictable between sessions.
Team rules to check
Ask the team coach about studs—many clubs allow FG year‑round, some prefer SG in winter, and most use AG/MG for 3G training. If there are colour restrictions, black or white uppers are the safest pick.
Black vs White/Gold (cleaning & wear)
Blackout editions hide scuffs and look sharper after winter sessions. White/Gold pops under lights; just brush off rubber crumb after AG training and wipe down after muddy matches to keep them bright.
Madrid‑look colourways (kids): White/Gold vs Blackout
Tip: If your week splits grass + 3G/4G, choose MG/FG‑AG regardless of colourway.
On the world stage (special packs)
Major tournaments and club milestones often bring special colour packs. Kids’ versions usually mirror the look with more durable materials—ideal for heavy school and club usage.
Stud/surface guide
- AG (Artificial Grass): Short, numerous studs + reinforced plate for regular 3G/4G. (Avoid SG metal on astro; check local club rules for metal studs on grass.)
- TF (Turf/Astro): Rubber nubs for hard astro/school yards. (Avoid SG metal on astro; check local club rules for metal studs on grass.)
- IN (Indoor): Flat, non-marking sole for sports halls. Rubber nubs for hard astro/school yards. (Avoid SG metal on astro; check local club rules for metal studs on grass.)
After play: brush off mud/crumb and air out the insoles. Air‑dry only (
FAQ
What boots does Jude Bellingham wear?
The Birmingham City Era: Adidas Copa.
The Borussia Dortmund Era:
Adidas Predator Freak & Mutator (2020–2021)
Adidas Predator Edge (2022)
Adidas Predator Accuracy (2023)
Real Madrid: Adidas Predator 24 (The "Tongue" Era) 'BelliGold'
Does Jude Bellingham have a kids’ signature boot?
You won’t see a standing, named signature line for juniors—most options are player‑linked colourways in the adidas speed family; fans sometimes nickname white/gold looks “BelliGold.”
Which plate should my child get—FG or MG/AG?
FG if matches are on grass and training is grass; MG/FG‑AG if training is mainly 3G/4G; AG if your club asks for it on artificial pitches.
Are white/gold boots okay in Irish winter?Yes—just clean them regularly. If you want low‑maintenance, pick a blackout colourway for the wettest months.
How do I stop heel slip?
Use a runner’s loop (lock‑lacing), wear football socks, and check you’ve got a snug midfoot wrap without overtightening the forefoot.
Are kids’ “Bellingham‑style” boots the same as pros?
They mirror the design idea but use simpler materials. Prioritise secure fit and the right soleplate for your child’s pitches.
Predator vs Phantom vs Future — which for my child?
Predator = structured control & grippy strike; Phantom = creative touch zones; Future = adaptive wrap for more foot shapes. Try in match socks and pick the best lockdown.
Which plate should we buy first?
If training spans grass + 3G/4G, start with MG/FG‑AG. Mostly grass → FG. Hard astro → TF. Indoor → IN.
Good options for wider feet?
Try PUMA Future or NB 442 (roomier forefoot). If the midfoot pinches in a speed/control boot, size/shape is the issue—not just lacing.
How much growth room?
Roughly 7–12 mm. Younger kids ~10–12 mm; older ~7–10 mm. Ensure zero heel lift when properly laced.