The fair market value of donated soccer cleats is $7–$30 per pair in 2026, depending on condition.
Sports Donation Values · Updated August 1, 2026
Soccer Cleats Donation Value: What Are These Worth in 2026?
The fair market value (FMV) of donated soccer cleats ranges from $7 to $30 per pair in 2026, based on ItsDeducted's valuation dataset and IRS fair market value principles.
Valuation data by ItsDeducted Team · Updated August 1, 2026
Based on aggregated U.S. resale-market prices and IRS Publication 561 fair market value principles. See how we calculate these values.
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Soccer Cleats donation values are most impacted by stud wear, upper scuffing, insole cleanliness, and completeness of pair.
A pair of soccer cleats in fair condition may have an estimated donation value of approximately $7, while those in very good to excellent used condition, with minimal wear to the studs and upper construction, could be valued around $15 to $30. The resale value of soccer cleats for charitable donation is significantly influenced by factors such as brand popularity, the integrity of the sole and cleats, and overall cosmetic appearance. These estimated donation values can support a deduction on your taxes.
Soccer Cleats Donation Values
2026 Soccer Cleats Donation Values by Condition
Use the item's actual condition and relevant used-market prices to estimate fair market value at the time of donation, rather than its original purchase price.
| Condition | FMV per pair | What it means | Tax note |
|---|---|---|---|
| New / Like New | $30 | These soccer cleats appear unworn, with pristine studs, no scuffs on the uppers, and original tags potentially still attached, indicating a fair market value often around $30. | Condition may qualify |
| Good | $15 | Good condition soccer cleats show only light wear on the sole and minimal scuffing on the toe box, with all laces intact and insoles clean, typically supporting a fair market value of approximately $15. | Condition may qualify |
| Fair | $7 | The soccer cleats have noticeable scuff marks, some wear on the cleats/studs, and perhaps slightly faded colors, but they remain fully functional, safe to wear, and may be suitable for resale with a fair market value around $7. | Check the IRS condition rule |
| Poor | $0 | Significant wear on the sole, missing or heavily worn studs, torn uppers, or damaged laces and insoles render these soccer cleats marginal for donation resale due to functional or safety concerns. | Generally below the condition rule |
These are estimated values, not deductible amounts. For clothing and household items, the IRS generally requires good used condition or better; a narrow exception may apply to a single item with a qualified appraisal and claimed value over $500.
Soccer Cleats Value Factors
What Affects the Value of Donated Soccer Cleats?
Not all donated soccer cleats are worth the same. These factors have the biggest impact on FMV:
Significant wear or missing studs on the sole of soccer cleats decreases their fair market value from Good condition (approx. $15) to Fair (approx. $7) due to reduced traction and safety.
Pronounced scuff marks or tears on the upper material of soccer cleats will lower their fair market value by reducing aesthetic appeal and perceived durability, pushing items closer to the Fair condition's $7 valuation.
Clean and odor-free insoles contribute to a higher fair market value closer to the Good condition's $15 for soccer cleats, while dirty or heavily worn insoles will significantly decrease their appeal and value.
A complete pair of matching soccer cleats with intact laces, rather than a single cleat or a mismatched pair, is essential for achieving any resale value.
Soccer Cleats Condition Issues
Common Condition Issues and How They Affect Value
Before donating soccer cleats, check for these issues. Each may change the condition tier and estimated fair market value.
| Issue | Effect on Value | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Worn Studs | Lowers value | Heavily worn studs reduce traction and comfort, decreasing the resale value of the cleats. |
| Sole Separation | Lowers value | If the sole is separating from the upper, it impacts durability and comfort, lowering the cleats' value. |
| Torn Uppers | May eliminate value | Tears in the upper material can compromise the structural integrity and fit of the cleats, potentially making them unsuitable for donation. |
| Missing Insole | Lowers value | A missing insole reduces comfort and support, which lowers the resale value of the cleats. |
| Damaged Laces | Acceptable | While damaged laces are easily replaceable, they may slightly detract from the immediate usability and presentation of the cleats. |
| Heavy Scuff Marks | Acceptable | Noticeable scuff marks are common on used soccer cleats but do not significantly affect their functionality or resale value if the cleats are otherwise in good condition. |
Soccer Cleats Brand Value
Does Brand Name Affect the Value of Donated Soccer Cleats?
Brand rarely has a meaningful impact on the fair market value of most soccer cleats; condition of safety-critical components (laces, studs, and soles), size, and seasonal demand matter far more than the maker, as most brands produce cleats across a wide range of pricing and quality, and the item's function and usability are prioritized by buyers.
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Fair Market Value Methodology
How We Calculate These Values
ItsDeducted's fair market values are built from a regularly updated dataset of resale prices across thrift stores, resale platforms, and charity shops nationwide. We apply IRS fair market value principles (IRS Publication 561) to map those prices to four condition tiers.
For donated soccer cleats, our 2026 dataset yields a fair market value range of $7–$30 per pair across condition grades.
- We aggregate resale pricing signals for Soccer Cleats across major thrift channels.
- We apply condition-tier adjustments consistent with IRS FMV guidance.
- We review and update our dataset regularly — the last date that fair market value data was updated is included on every page.
- Our values reflect the U.S. national average. Local thrift store prices may vary. The IRS expects you to use prices representative of your area.
Pricing year: 2026 — Soccer Cleats Fair Market Values Last Updated: August 1, 2026.
These estimates use the fair market value principles in IRS Publication 561. They are not IRS-issued values. Local resale prices, item details, and the donation date can change the appropriate estimate. For a claimed deduction over $5,000 for an item or group of similar items, a qualified appraisal is generally required.
For broader context on the goods people documented, read the 2026 ItsDeducted Donation Value Report. Its anonymized platform snapshot is separate from this item-specific estimate.
Donation Tax Rules
IRS Rules for Donating Soccer Cleats
For clothing and household items, the IRS generally requires good used condition or better. An exception may apply to a single lower-condition item when the claimed deduction exceeds $500 and is supported by a qualified appraisal and Form 8283. IRS Publication 561
Condition requirement
Estimate value from the item's actual condition on the donation date. Clothing and household items generally must be in good used condition or better to support a deduction, subject to the qualified-appraisal exception noted above.
Written acknowledgment
If you claim a deduction of $250 or more for a contribution, keep a contemporaneous written acknowledgment from the charity. Keep reliable written records for smaller contributions too.
Form 8283 (over $500)
If your claimed deduction for noncash contributions exceeds $500, generally attach Form 8283 to your return. The details and appraisal rules depend on the property and claimed amount.
Qualified charity
Charitable deductions generally require donations to qualified organizations. Many national thrift charities may qualify, but verify the receiving organization and keep your receipt.
What to save in your records
- Donation date and receiving organization.
- Item description: soccer cleats, quantity, and condition.
- Estimated fair market value used for each condition tier.
- Receipt, written acknowledgment, photos, or notes that support the estimate.
IRS reference: IRS Publication 561 explains how to determine fair market value. IRS Publication 526 explains charitable contribution recordkeeping and substantiation. Donors should document the item, its condition, and how they arrived at the estimate. Read IRS Publication 526 for substantiation rules.
Soccer Cleats Donation Acceptance
What Charities Typically Accept for Soccer Cleats
Most charities prefer soccer cleats in safe, functional reusable condition with all studs intact and a matched pair. Heavily worn soles, missing studs, torn uppers, or damaged insoles usually cause rejection or conservative valuation due to safety concerns and reduced usability. Acceptance often depends on the charity's need for sports equipment, so it's always best to check their current donation guidelines.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions for Soccer Cleats Donations
What common wear on soccer cleats can significantly lower their fair market value for donation?
Significant wear on the sole, missing or heavily worn studs, torn uppers, or damaged laces and insoles renders soccer cleats marginal for donation resale. For example, a pair in fair condition with noticeable scuff marks and some wear on the studs might have a fair market value around $7 rather than an unworn pair valued at approximately $30.
Why would a pair of soccer cleats in 'like new' condition have a higher fair market value for donation?
Soccer cleats in 'like new' condition appear unworn, with pristine studs, no scuffs on the uppers, and original tags potentially still attached. This condition indicates a fair market value often around $30, making them highly desirable for resale by charitable organizations.
How does season affect the donation value and demand for used soccer cleats?
Donations of soccer cleats often see higher demand during spring and fall seasons when youth and adult leagues are active. This increased demand during peak seasons can sometimes contribute to a more favorable assessment of their fair market value compared to off-season donations.
What safety issues in used soccer cleats might make them unsuitable for donation?
Soccer cleats with significant wear on the sole, missing or heavily worn studs, or torn uppers can pose a safety risk to a new wearer and are generally unsuitable for donation. Charitable organizations typically prioritize items that are fully functional and safe, even if they are in fair condition with a value around $7.
Does the brand of soccer cleats significantly impact their fair market value for donation?
For basic soccer cleats, brand typically has a low impact on their fair market value for donation. Condition is generally the primary factor, where a 'like new' pair might be valued around $30 regardless of brand, while a 'good' condition pair is closer to $15.
How do light wear and tear affect the fair market value of donated soccer cleats?
Good condition soccer cleats show only light wear on the sole and minimal scuffing on the toe box, with all laces intact and insoles clean. Such a pair typically supports a fair market value of approximately $15, reflecting their continued usability despite some minor signs of use.
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