[FanInTheStands]

There are a lot of pros/cons to both sides. IMO since the shoes are disposable (they belong to the player) or are not reused (like uniforms, football equipment, etc), any funds used for shoes might be better spent elsewhere. Again, speaking from personal experience, shoes (cleats or basketball) that fit well make a difference (actually the difference is when a player plays in shoes that don't fit well). Too many times, we give up comfort to look good. There should be guidelines (i.e. all white shoes, only one color trim or whatever the coach decides) when the players are allowed to purchase their own shoes to eliminate fashion ($$$) statements.