1800s: During the 19th century football became extremely popular in Great Britain. People who played would wear their heavy and hard work boots to play. These were the first ever boots with the steel toe cap at the front, long laces and high topped. These boots also had metal studs or tacks put on the bottom so the players would have more grip and stability. In the later part of the 19th century the first ever football-specific boot was designed, made of thick and heavy leather which ran right to the ankle for increased protection; the first boot weighed and would double in weight when it was wet.