Red Five

If it isn't a financial issue/problem.  Get the shoes, in the end it won't matter much to you but it will matter a lot to him.  If it is an issue, either money or teaching a lesson, then make him wear some white New Balance...if you do that you will save tons of money because he won't need a phone because no one will ever call him until he is in his mid 40's.

^this is true. Being a teenager is tough. Small things to boost the self esteem are worthwhile 

He's 9.  I don't remember getting the "expensive stuff" until I was in junior high.  Money isn't the issue, but it sets a dangerous precedent to shell out the big bucks now.

Also they are soccer cleats.  He sees the pros wearing them, so thinks he "needs" them.  And the adult pro versions run $250.  And I do not want to be shelling out $250 in a couple years when his feet grow a couple more sizes.