Nike Force Savage Elite 2 Football Cleats

Built for Lineman / power players (trenches).

Nike Force Savage Elite 2 Football Cleats
Cleats Hub Score
8.0
/10
Excellent
Confidence: medium · 6 reviews
6 critic · 0 owner · Critic 8.0 · Owner · we don't sell or test products.
See the full breakdown ↓

A high-cut lineman cleat with strong ankle support, engineered traction and solid cushioning, but limited breathability and a firm fit.

High-cut ankle supportEngineered traction plateLunarlon reactive cushioningSturdy synthetic upper

Key specs

QUICK DATA
Released2019BrandNike
ModelForce Savage Elite 2 Football CleatsTypeAmerican Football · Cleat
UpperSynthetic upper / engineered synthetic overlaysSoleplateNike Fastflex outsole (agility/traction plate) with multi-point/triangular studs (Savage plate)
SurfaceFootball field (natural grass / turf); TD variant for turfWho it's forLineman / power players (trenches)
MSRP$140

The verdict

01 / REVIEW

Synthesised from 6 independent reviews, every claim traces to a quote in the breakdown. We don't test products ourselves.

A high-cut cleat for linemen and other power players. It pairs a reinforced synthetic upper with multiple straps and thin internal cables that pull the midfoot tight. The outsole uses a flexible Nike Fastflex plate with triangular studs aimed at traction. Reviewers praise the ankle support, protection and grip. They also report the cleat breathes poorly and can feel firmly fitting or unfamiliar at first.

Design and build

Released in 2019, the Nike Force Savage Elite 2 is a high-cut American-football cleat for linemen and trench players. It is the second-generation Force Savage Elite. The original model came out in 2017. MSRP at launch was 140.

The upper is synthetic with engineered overlays and hard plastic (TPU) pieces around the toe for impact protection. The collar is high. The closure uses multiple hook-and-loop straps with internal Flywire cables, which are thin cables that tighten the midfoot when the straps are fastened.

The sole uses a Nike Fastflex outsole, which is a flexible plate Nike names Fastflex, and a Savage agility plate with multi-point triangular studs. Nike lists the cleat for use on natural grass and field turf. Nike also offers a TD variant made for turf. The midsole contains Lunarlon foam, a soft, responsive foam material.

On the field
On the field

Who it's for

The Force Savage Elite 2 targets offensive and defensive linemen and other power players who need protection, strong lockdown and traction for short, forceful movements. Its high-cut collar and strap/Flywire system favor players who put a higher priority on ankle stability than on low weight.

This makes it less appropriate for wide receivers, cornerbacks, running backs or safeties who need minimal collar interference and lower mass. It is suitable for grass and field turf; choose the TD turf variant for regular turf play. Buyers with very narrow or very wide feet should note the generally snug, locked-in fit and try them on before buying.

Support

Reviewers consistently identify protection and ankle support as the cleat's main features. The high-top collar, added padding and TPU pieces on the toe provide the impact resistance linemen expect (Nice Kicks, DonsBogAmBlack, Maximaa Group).

The three-strap hook-and-loop system and internal heel padding also help keep the foot stable during short, forceful engagements at the line (Cleats Hub editorial).

These Nike football cleats are made specifically for linesmen and boast a high-cut style that provides enhanced ankle support and protection. A three-strap hook-and-loop system keeps the foot stable as you make quick starts and stops.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)

Fit

Reviewers describe a snug, locked-in fit thanks to Flywire cables, a midfoot strap and a vamp/top strap that secure the foot and ankle (Nice Kicks, Maximaa Group, DonsBogAmBlack).

Impressions split. Most reviewers call the fit close "like a glove." One reviewer said the cleat "feels weird" in their usual size. The high-cut, heavily braced shape may take adjustment for some feet (Footballrs).

The top strap locks the ankle in place, the midfoot locks the heel into the heel pocket and the vamp strap locks the foot in for lateral, side-to-side movement.. Nice Kicks

Traction

Traction is consistently praised. Reviewers point to a purpose-built plate and stud layout made for bigger players. Stud placement, width and height are tailored to give grip during short drives and lateral pressure (Nice Kicks, Maximaa Group, Footballrs).

Editorial coverage highlights the Nike Fastflex outsole and triangular multi-point studs on the Savage plate as the main grip features. Reviewers disagree on stud count and whether studs are detachable or fixed, but they agree the traction system is built for power and stability on grass and field turf.

The Force Savage Elite 2 boasts 15 triangular-shaped studs for optimal grip and traction. A Nike Fastflex outsole provides flexibility and encourages natural movement on the field.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)
Planting to cut
Planting to cut

Durability

Multiple reviewers report a durable synthetic upper and construction that handle the physical demands of line play. Observers say the materials keep their look and shape after heavy use (DonsBogAmBlack, Maximaa Group).

One outlet said the design addresses common field failures such as lace breakage by adding protective and securing elements to avoid in-game equipment problems (Nice Kicks).

they still look as good as new. The synthetic leather upper can withstand rough use without showing any signs of wear or tear. DonsBogAmBlack

Lockdown

Reviewers credit lockdown to the Flywire cables plus the three hook-and-loop straps. Most outlets describe the system as keeping the foot stable during starts, stops and lateral shoves at the line (Nice Kicks, Maximaa Group, DonsBogAmBlack).

The consensus is the strap layout secures the ankle and midfoot. That is a practical trade-off for stability in high-cut designs.

The top strap locks the ankle in place, the midfoot locks the heel into the heel pocket and the vamp strap locks the foot in for lateral, side-to-side movement.. Nice Kicks

Comfort

Reports on comfort are mostly positive for padding and cushioning. Reviewers single out Lunarlon foam in the midsole for reactive cushioning that helps with repeated impacts in the trenches (Maximaa Group, Cleats Hub editorial).

Reviewers note ample ankle padding and a cushioned underfoot feel. The firm, protective structure that creates that comfort can feel unfamiliar to some players at first.

The Lunarlon foam midsole that provides reactive cushioning power – talk about comfort and support all in one!. Maximaa Group
Accelerating downfield
Accelerating downfield

Materials

Editorials describe a flexible synthetic upper with impact-resistant coverings. Cleats Hub mentions Kurim armor coverage, which is a reinforced material called Kurim armor, and TPU protective elements. The midsole is Lunarlon foam and the outsole is Nike Fastflex.

The synthetic build matches the design goal of abrasion and impact resistance for line play.

The mobile upper is covered with Kurim armor for added protection during quick starts. A Lunarlon midsole and Nike Fastflex outsole provide reactive cushioning and traction.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)

Cushion

Multiple outlets cite Lunarlon foam as the midsole material that gives reactive cushioning underfoot. Reviewers link this cushioning to comfort during repeated contact and driving motions at the line (Cleats Hub editorial, Maximaa Group).

The Nike Force Savage Elite 2 is equipped with a Lunarlon midsole that offers reactive cushioning when making powerful moves on the gridiron.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)
In hand
In hand

Value

A few reviewers call the cleat good value at its price. They praise the overall construction and features relative to the MSRP (DonsBogAmBlack, Maximaa Group).

Holy touchdown Batman! These Nike Men’s Force Savage Elite 2 Football Cleats are worth every penny.. DonsBogAmBlack

Weight

Weight is not a major point in the reviews. One outlet said the weight "isn't the problem," meaning reviewers did not see mass as a drawback for the cleat's lineman role (Footballrs).

the weight isn't the problem. Footballrs

Frequently asked questions

What position are the Nike Force Savage Elite 2 Football Cleats best for?

The Force Savage Elite 2 targets offensive and defensive linemen and other power roles. It is a high-cut lineman cleat meant for the trenches. Offensive and defensive linemen are the main match. Players who need maximum support in close-contact blocking and hand-fighting will find the design appropriate.

Do they run true to size?

Reviewer evidence describes a snug, locked-in fit helped by Flywire cables and three hook-and-loop straps. Several outlets say they "fit like a glove." One reviewer said they "feel weird" despite being the right size. Expect a firm, high-cut fit and allow a short break-in for some feet.

Are they suitable for turf or natural grass?

Nike markets the cleat for natural grass and turf and offers a TD variant specifically for turf. Reviewers tested traction on field conditions and report engineered stud placement and good grip. Choose the TD variant for consistent turf use.

Are the studs molded or detachable?

Reviewer descriptions vary. One outlet says the outsole has seven detachable studs. Editorial coverage describes a 15 triangular-stud Savage plate. The product spec lists a Nike Fastflex outsole with multi-point triangular studs. Buyers should check the exact SKU for molded versus detachable stud options.

How durable are they?

Multiple reviewers report robust construction and a synthetic upper that stands up to line play. One reviewer specifically said the upper still "looks as good as new." Durability is a recurring positive across outlets.

Are the Nike Force Savage Elite 2 breathable?

At least one outlet reports the cleat is "reportedly not breathable." Several reviewers praise the padding and lockdown. Ventilation is not mentioned as a strength, so buyers who prioritize breathability should be cautious.

Bottom line, A high-cut lineman cleat that prioritizes ankle support, protection and engineered traction for power players; not ideal for speed specialists or buyers who need high breathability.

The breakdown

02 / RATINGS
9.0
CushionStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
Cleats Hub editorial (2022)9.0
The Nike Force Savage Elite 2 is equipped with a Lunarlon midsole that offers reactive cushioning when making powerful moves on the gridiron.
9.0
MaterialsStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
Cleats Hub editorial (2022)9.0
The mobile upper is covered with Kurim armor for added protection during quick starts. A Lunarlon midsole and Nike Fastflex outsole provide reactive cushioning and traction.
9.0
TractionStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
Nice Kicks8.0
We have a brand new plate on the bottom of this cleat. The stud placement, width and heights are fully engineered for bigger guys from a comfort and traction standpoint.
Maximaa Group8.0
The seven-stud detachable outsole provides excellent grip on various surfaces
8.4
SupportStrong consensus · 6 sources
See the evidence
Nice Kicks8.0
The first thing you have is the protection on the toe. There’s a thermal plastic TPU that gets bonded to the upper for real protection.
DonsBogAmBlack8.0
the high-top style and ankle support give me the confidence to dominate on the field
8.2
FitStrong consensus · 6 sources
See the evidence
Nice Kicks8.0
The top strap locks the ankle in place, the midfoot locks the heel into the heel pocket and the vamp strap locks the foot in for lateral, side-to-side movement.
DonsBogAmBlack8.0
fit like a glove
7.8
LockdownStrong consensus · 4 sources
See the evidence
Nice Kicks8.0
The top strap locks the ankle in place, the midfoot locks the heel into the heel pocket and the vamp strap locks the foot in for lateral, side-to-side movement.
DonsBogAmBlack8.0
Flywire technology that locks down my foot for maximum support
7.8
DurabilityStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
Nice Kicks7.0
We talk to a lot of guys on the line and they have laces break. They get stepped on, the lace breaks, and they’re either going to go through the play and their shoe could fall off or they have to sit out and miss a play. We want to keep that from happening and this does it.
DonsBogAmBlack8.0
they still look as good as new. The synthetic leather upper can withstand rough use without showing any signs of wear or tear
7.6
ComfortStrong consensus · 4 sources
See the evidence
Nice Kicks7.0
We have a brand new plate on the bottom of this cleat. The stud placement, width and heights are fully engineered for bigger guys from a comfort and traction standpoint.
DonsBogAmBlack8.0
like walking on clouds
7.5
ValueStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
DonsBogAmBlack8.0
Holy touchdown Batman! These Nike Men’s Force Savage Elite 2 Football Cleats are worth every penny.
Maximaa Group7.0
they are worth every penny.
6.0
WeightStrong consensus · 1 sources
See the evidence
Footballrs6.0
the weight isn't the problem

The sources

03 / EVIDENCE

The Cleats Hub Score is a weighted aggregate of these independent reviews, normalised to 0–10 and weighted by source authority, recency and sample size. We don't sell or physically test products. Read the full methodology.

The verdict, split

04 / PROS & CONS

◤ What reviewers love

  • +High-cut ankle support
  • +Engineered traction plate
  • +Lunarlon reactive cushioning
  • +Sturdy synthetic upper

◢ Where it falls short

  • Limited breathability reported
  • Some users find the fit odd
  • Not aimed at speed positions

How it stacks up

05 / COMPARE

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