KELME Master MG Review
If you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly leather cleat that offers something a little different, the KELME Master MG might be worth a closer look. Retailing for just $70 at time of posting, this pair blends a classic leather upper with one of the most unique multi-ground (MG) soleplates we've come across. While it’s not without its quirks, there’s a lot to like here — especially if you play on artificial grass or turf. Let’s break it down.
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The Upper
The forefoot of the KELME Master MG features a calfskin leather upper, integrated into a supportive K-frame in the midfoot. The leather has a textured, almost football-like grain, which gives it a premium feel and decent grip on the ball without going overboard on stickiness.
The upper is padded and embossed with small “K” patterns, giving it a unique look and tactile feel. Out of the box, the leather is a bit stiff, so we recommend a few training sessions to break them in before you hit a match.
If you're a fan of thicker, more padded uppers — this one's for you.
The Fit
One of the main drawbacks of the KELME Master MG is in the heel area. It's on the wider side, with a bit more volume than I prefer. Even going down half a size, the heel lockdown fairly loose — something that could be improved in future models.
There’s a knit collar around the ankle, which adds comfort but unfortunately doesn’t help much with lockdown. That said, the heel padding is solid and contributes to overall comfort during play.
**FIT TIP**
Go ½ to 1 full size down from your normal size. If you have narrow or medium-width feet, opt for a full size down. Wider feet might get away with just ½ size down. And remember, the leather will stretch a bit over time.
MG Soleplate
Here’s where the KELME Master MG really stands out — its soleplate.
At first glance, it looks like your standard AG or MG layout. But once in-hand, it’s clear this is something different. The studs are much shorter than expected, with a pattern and feel that falls somewhere between a turf and a traditional MG plate.
This makes the cleats feel more like a turf shoe, with increased traction but reduced stud pressure, making them a solid option for players who:
Often play on older artificial grass or astroturf
Like the feel of turf or indoor shoes but want more grip
Need a reliable cleat for casual or small-sided play
It's a refreshing departure from overly aggressive stud patterns, especially for players looking to reduce injury risk or discomfort on harder synthetic surfaces.
Weight and Durability
At 9.4 oz in US Men’s size 8, the KELME Master MG leans toward the heavier side, which again, aligns more with a turf shoe feel. This added weight likely comes from the thicker leather and heavily padded construction — and honestly, it works well for players who prioritize comfort and durability.
These cleats feel solid and built to last on artificial surfaces.
Final Thoughts
The KELME Master MG cleats aren’t trying to compete with the latest speed boots or top-tier elite models — but that’s not the point. They deliver a leather cleat experience at an affordable price, with a soleplate that’s ideal for turf and AG surfaces.
👍 Great for:
Players looking for a comfortable, padded leather cleat
Those who often play on artificial turf or short AG
Fans of looser-fitting shoes with a wider heel
👎 Not ideal for:
Players needing elite-level heel lockdown
Those preferring a sleek, lightweight speed boot
Matches on firm natural grass (the soleplate is too shallow for that)
Wishlist for Next Generation:
Tighter heel fit & improved lockdown
Slightly thinner or even K-leather upper
More consistent sizing across the line
If you’re interested in other KELME models, especially those designed for AG, make sure to check out our review of KELME’s AG soleplate cleats — honestly one of the best AG soleplates on the market right now.