Trent Alexander-Arnold's Boots Over the Years: The Predator Pivot
Trent Alexander-Arnold's career is marked by two distinct boot eras, defined by his long-time loyalty to one brand and his highly publicized switch to another, placing him at the heart of one of football's most iconic silos.
1. The Under Armour Era (Youth to Senior Breakthrough)
For the majority of his career at Liverpool, from his teenage breakthrough until late 2023, TAA was the main ambassador for Under Armour (UA), a brand with a smaller presence in top-tier football.
- Key Model: The Under Armour Clone Magnetico Pro. He primarily wore this line, known for its UA CLONE technology—an internal layer of synthetic material that precisely molds and stretches for a truly customized, glove-like fit. This focus on a custom, snug feel aligns with the need for precision control.
- Signature Moments: During his time with UA, he received several special editions:
- The 'The 66 Collection': A series of limited-edition signature colourways for the Clone Magnetico Pro 2 that celebrated his continued evolution and the iconic number he wears on his back.
- The Activism Boot: Most notably, he wore a custom-made boot bearing the "Black Lives Matter" message for a match in 2020 and subsequently donated them for auction.
2. The Adidas Predator Era (The Beckham Comparison)
In late 2023, TAA made a high-profile switch to Adidas, immediately becoming a central figure in the re-launch of the Predator line.
This move was particularly symbolic because his playing style—visionary long passes and curving free-kicks—is often compared to previous Predator legends, most famously David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane. Adidas officially released a limited edition TAA 'Pure Strike' Predator colourway in 2024 to cement this partnership.
- Debut Boot: Predator Elite (Whiteout). His first public appearance in the new brand was in a special pre-launch, whiteout colourway of the Predator 24 (now called Predator Elite), scoring a decisive equalizer against Manchester City in November 2023—a perfect statement to announce the new partnership.
- The Fold-Over Tongue (FT): Unlike many modern players, TAA actively chooses the Predator Elite FT (Fold-Over Tongue) model. This feature is a nostalgic nod to the 2000s Predator design and creates a clean striking surface, perfectly suiting his renowned crossing and passing accuracy. Adidas later released the TAA signature colourway exclusively in this FT style.
- Current Role: Today, TAA is positioned as a key face of the Predator line, emphasizing the boot's legacy of control and precision. This alignment provides strong guidance for parents: if their child’s game is built on vision, passing, and set-piece quality, the Predator line (with its StrikeSkin/Hybridtouch control elements) is the ideal choiceS.
Below you’ll find a curated list of kids’ boots that support a “Trent‑style” game: grippy control zones, confident passing surfaces and stable traction for Irish pitches. Use the table to pick by budget, surface (FG/AG/TF) and availability in junior sizes.
Note: Pro players change silos and colourways through the season. The picks below focus on features (control grip, strike clarity, stability) that help your child play with Trent‑like confidence—regardless of brand.
Trent Alexander‑Arnold–Inspired Kids’ Boots
*Prices are typical online RRP for junior sizes and may vary by retailer, colourway and stock.
Fit first (no blisters): aim for a snug mid‑foot and a thumb‑nail of toe space.
If your child jogs and the heel lifts, it’s too big. If laces bite or toes press, it’s too small.
Stud/surface guide
- FG (Firm Ground) — Natural grass in dry/normal Irish conditions. Conical/bladed studs for traction + stability.
- TF (Turf/Astro) — Rubber nubs for astro or hard courts; ideal for school yards.
- SG (Soft Ground) — Replaceable metal studs for very wet, muddy grass. Check league rules before buying for kids.
- Control & passing features to look for: slightly textured uppers, asymmetric lacing (or laceless for a clean strike), and stable heel counters so kids can put pace on a cross without slipping.
FAQ
What boots does Trent Alexander‑Arnold wear?
For the majority of his career at Liverpool he has been wearing The Under Armour Clone Magnetico Pro.
In late 2023, TAA made a high-profile switch to Adidas Predator 24 'Purestrike'.
Today, at Real Madrid Trent Alexander-Arnold is wearning Adidas Predator '25 Radiant Blaze.
Are laceless boots good for kids?
They give a clean strike and are easy to slip on, but some feet still prefer laces for adjustable lockdown. If your child has narrow feet or needs extra midfoot security, go laced.
What’s the best surface plate for Irish pitches?
If unsure, pick FG/AG or MG. They’re versatile for grass + 3G/4G. TF is for astro/hard courts; SG metal is usually for older age groups and often restricted.
Should I size up for growth?
Avoid buying “to grow into.” Oversizing causes heel slip and blisters. About 5–7 mm of toe room is perfect.
How can my child improve “Trent‑style” passing?
Look for textured contact zones, a stable heel, and practise technique: open body shape, plant foot angle, follow‑through and head up.