Nike Force Savage Shark 2

Built for Linemen / trench players (power positions).

Nike Force Savage Shark 2
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 molded traction and support, best for trench players rather than speed-first roles.

Aggressive molded tractionSupportive synthetic upperAnkle strap for added lockdownCushioned Phylon midsole

Key specs

QUICK DATA
Released2021BrandNike
ModelForce Savage Shark 2TypeAmerican Football · Cleat
UpperSynthetic leatherSoleplateNike Fastflex rubber outsole with molded rubber studs (articulated Fastflex plate)
SurfaceFirm ground (FG) / natural grass (retailer listings specify FG)Who it's forLinemen / trench players (power positions)

The verdict

01 / REVIEW

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

The Nike Force Savage Shark 2 is a high-cut cleat made for linemen and other trench players. It has a molded rubber Fastflex outsole and a synthetic leather upper. Reviewers consistently report strong, aggressive traction and a locked-in, supportive fit. Reviewers disagree about durability. Some say the shoes feel heavy for skill positions.

Design and build

Released in 2021, the Nike Force Savage Shark 2 is the second-generation Shark variant in the Force Savage line. It is marketed for linemen and trench players.

Upper and construction: a synthetic leather upper with molded reinforcements and a mid-to-high collar. The upper uses webbed lacing and a large hook-and-loop ankle strap to hold the foot in place. The platform includes a Fastflex rubber outsole and a Phylon foam midsole, with Phylon being a lightweight injected foam used for cushioning.

Soleplate and studs: an articulated rubber outsole with molded rubber studs in an aggressive shark tooth pattern. Retail listings show this model is for firm natural grass. The studs are molded and not removable.

Weight: the supplied specifications list the weight as -1 g per shoe. The model is presented in the high-cut lineman category with reinforced construction and maximum support.

On the field
On the field

Who it's for

This cleat targets offensive and defensive linemen and other trench players who need ankle support, a tough upper and aggressive molded traction on firm grass. The high collar, molded synthetic upper, strap and Fastflex outsole match power plays, short bursts, hand-fighting and anchor movements instead of long, continuous sprinting.

Linebackers or tight ends who want a heavier, more protective cleat may also like it. Wide receivers, cornerbacks and most running backs and safeties who want minimal weight and a low collar should choose low-cut, speed-focused cleats instead.

Reviewers said the fit runs snug and gave mixed views on weight and durability. Players with very wide feet or those who want the lightest cleat should compare other options.

Traction

Traction is the cleat's most consistent strength. The molded Fastflex rubber outsole uses an aggressive shark tooth stud layout that reviewers say grips firm grass and holds during trench drives.

In practice, linemen and other power players can expect stable purchase on natural grass from that molded pattern. Outlets described the outsole as durable and suited to short, forceful movements.

the molded rubber outsole has aggressive shark tooth pattern that grips onto any surface, whether it’s natural grass or turf.. SpanglishThreadz

Support

Support is a repeated positive in reviews. Reviewers credited the synthetic leather upper, the higher collar and the molded reinforcements with giving stability for trench work.

Put simply, the mid/high collar, molded upper reinforcements and strap provide the ankle and side support linemen usually need.

The Force Savage Shark 2 Mid features a synthetic leather upper that provides durable support. The synthetic upper is backed by molded details to help resist abrasion.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)

Fit

Fit is described as snug and secure. The webbed lacing and midfoot/ankle strap were often mentioned as creating a locked-in feel.

Reviewers said sizing is generally true to size, so the cleat fits close rather than roomy.

A webbed lacing system and ankle strap deliver a locked-in fit.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)
Outsole & studs
Outsole & studs

Comfort

Comfort scores were generally positive. Reviewers noted a cushioned midsole and a soft lining. They referenced injected Phylon foam or Phylon-like foam and a cushioned footbed.

For linemen doing short, forceful plays the midsole cushioning and fabric lining were said to keep feet comfortable through snaps.

a Lunarlon foam midsole for excellent cushioning. CleatsReport

Lockdown

Lockdown comes from the fit and the strap. Flywire-style webbing and the large hook-and-loop ankle strap were repeatedly mentioned as keeping the foot in place during intense plays.

Reviewers said this system holds the foot during the short, explosive movements common in trench play.

the perfect Flywire cable system works to lock them on tight. CleatsReport

Durability

Comments on durability were mixed. Several reviewers praised the tough synthetic leather upper and molded reinforcements. One outlet warned problems can appear if the cleats are "treated poorly."

That split means the construction usually holds up for normal use, but care and how you use them will affect how long they last.

they seem to be sometimes able to fall out after a short while when treated poorly.. CleatsReport
Planting to cut
Planting to cut

Weight

Opinions on weight differ. Some reviewers call the Force Savage Shark 2 light for a lineman cleat. At least one reviewer compared it unfavorably to much lighter receiver cleats and called it noticeably heavier.

For buyers, this means the shoe prioritizes structure and support over minimal weight, matching its lineman role rather than speed positions.

these cleats are not light by any means in fact they weigh pretty much twice as much as most other like receiver cleats. Footballrs

Materials

Reviewers rated the materials positively. They noted breathability, abrasion-resistant molded upper details and a protective platform.

The stated material is synthetic leather, and reviewers present it as durable and protective for contact on the football field.

Players who are wearing this shoe said that it offers a good amount of breathability.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)
Accelerating downfield
Accelerating downfield

Cushion

Cushioning comes from the injected Phylon midsole mentioned in reviews. Outlets said it gives step-in comfort and impact protection underfoot.

That cushioning supports short bursts and the repeated impacts common in line play while also adding to overall comfort.

The mid-top football shoes are equipped with an injected Phylon midsole that cushions your every step.. Cleats Hub editorial (2022)

Value

Reviewers saw the cleat as good value. They called it reasonably priced compared with other football cleats and said the Nike brand adds trust.

Given its lineman focus and feature set, reviewers judged it a sensible buy for players who want support and traction without premium pricing.

these low-cost cleats are backed by Nike and are a set of boots that you can trust on a game in and game out.. CleatsReport

Frequently asked questions

Are these cleats for grass or turf?

The Force Savage Shark 2 is designed for firm natural grass and uses a molded Fastflex rubber outsole with molded studs; the studs do not detach.

What position are the Nike Force Savage Shark 2 best for?

The cleat is positioned for linemen and other trench roles. Its high collar, synthetic leather upper and aggressive molded outsole suit linemen and power players rather than low-cut speed positions.

Do they run true to size?

Reviewers said sizing is generally true to size and that the webbed lacing and ankle strap create a snug, secure fit. If you want extra room, consider that the cleat is made for containment before sizing up.

Are these cleats light?

Reports on weight are mixed. Some reviewers call them lightweight for their class, while at least one reviewer said they are heavier than receiver cleats. Expect a build that favors support over minimal mass.

How durable are they?

Evidence on durability is mixed. Multiple outlets praised the tough synthetic leather upper, while one review warned of problems if the cleats are "treated poorly."

Bottom line, A high-cut lineman cleat with a molded Fastflex rubber outsole and a supportive synthetic upper; suited to offensive and defensive linemen who need grip and ankle support, and not ideal for receivers and other speed-first players.

The breakdown

02 / RATINGS
9.0
MaterialsStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
Cleats Hub editorial (2022)9.0
Players who are wearing this shoe said that it offers a good amount of breathability. The platform delivers good cushioning and keeps the feet from hurting during a game, as well as protects the feet when other players step on their feet.
8.8
TractionStrong consensus · 6 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz9.0
the molded rubber outsole has aggressive shark tooth pattern that grips onto any surface, whether it’s natural grass or turf.
CleatsReport8.0
delivers impressive traction
8.7
SupportStrong consensus · 6 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz9.0
the synthetic leather material provided great support and durability.
CleatsReport8.0
offers unmatched stability and support—Flywire cables in the upper lock down your foot during a quick-paced change in the way.
8.5
FitStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz8.0
The cleats also have a snug fit, thanks to the lace-up closure and midfoot strap which keeps your foot securely in place.
CleatsReport8.0
the shoe size seems pretty on point
8.0
CushionStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
Cleats Hub editorial (2022)8.0
The mid-top football shoes are equipped with an injected Phylon midsole that cushions your every step.
7.8
LockdownStrong consensus · 4 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz8.0
the webbing on both sides of the shoe also helped lock our feet in place, providing a secure fit that didn’t budge during intense plays.
CleatsReport8.0
the perfect Flywire cable system works to lock them on tight
7.8
ComfortStrong consensus · 4 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz8.0
offers exceptional comfort.
CleatsReport8.0
a Lunarlon foam midsole for excellent cushioning
7.5
ValueStrong consensus · 2 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz7.0
The Nike Force Savage Shark 2 is priced reasonably compared to other football cleats on the market, making it an excellent choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank.
CleatsReport8.0
these low-cost cleats are backed by Nike and are a set of boots that you can trust on a game in and game out.
7.2
DurabilityStrong consensus · 4 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz8.0
built to last with its durable synthetic leather upper construction.
CleatsReport5.0
they seem to be sometimes able to fall out after a short while when treated poorly.
6.5
WeightReviewers split · 3 sources
See the evidence
SpanglishThreadz8.0
the lightweight design makes it feel like you’re wearing nothing at all (in a good way).
CleatsReport7.0
TPU plate that is pretty possibly without peer when it comes to durability and being lightweight

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

  • +Aggressive molded traction
  • +Supportive synthetic upper
  • +Ankle strap for added lockdown
  • +Cushioned Phylon midsole

◢ Where it falls short

  • Heavier-feeling for skill players
  • Durability reports are mixed
  • Not aimed at low-cut speed roles

How it stacks up

05 / COMPARE

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