This application is directed towards an article of footwear for deeply and quickly penetrating a turf surface, such as a soccer, rugby or football shoe. The article of footwear includes a cleat having fluted sides, which creates a channel for moving turf materials in a direction different from the direction of penetration for faster and deeper cleat penetration and better traction. The application also is directed towards an individual cleat for a shoe, wherein the cleat has fluted sides.