Softball is a game similar to baseball that requires a smaller field and a bigger ball. When playing softball, a player needs gear for optimum performance and safety. Softball gear includes helmets, cleats, gloves, bats, sliders, kneepads, etc.
Cleats are the spikes beneath footwear that give players traction and support players during a game. There are three types of softball cleats: metal, molded, and turf cleats. Metal cleats are the best at providing traction. Their cleat design is thin and can penetrate both dirt and grass fields. This type of cleats optimizes speed and performance. Due to their slim design, metal cleats are not suitable for turf, and they are not legal for use in some leagues. Molded cleats, on the other hand, have different materials. The short, soft rubber cleats are suitable for young players and are more comfortable.
In contrast, hard plastic cleats are long, lightweight, and provide more traction. Hard plastic cleats are suitable for players with experience. Molded cleats are the most comfortable type of cleats because the cleats cover pressure points. The third type of cleats are turf cleats, and they are most suitable for practicing off the field. Turf cleats are comfortable, and they provide more traction than regular sports shoes. Turf cleats are also ideal for all surfaces because they don’t tear off the turf like other cleats.
Factors to consider when purchasing cleats include the fit, tongue thickness, field position, manufacturer, price, and type of league. The best cleat for a player should have a snug fit that is not too tight or loose. When fitting for softball cleats, always wear your softball socks to get a more accurate and comfortable fit. There are different cleats manufacturers, and they include Mizuno, New Balance, Ringor, Adidas, Nike, etc. cleats come in different sizes. It is best to purchase cleats half-inch more than your standard size for a more comfortable fit.
These manufacturers produce high-quality sporting goods to suit player’s needs and also to improve performance. New Balance softball cleats are true to size, and they include New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V1 Metal and New Balance 4040V4. Mizuno cleats run small, i.e., they tend to be about a half-inch smaller than their size. Mizuno softball cleats include Mizuno Men’s 9 Spike Advanced Erupt 3, Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike Advanced Sweep 2. Ringor cleats are lightweight and comfortable, and they run small. Ringor Cleats include Flat Spike – Pitching toe, Dynasty 2.0 Spike, American Spirit Spike. Another cleat manufacturer is Adidas. Adidas cleats are true to size, and they give a proper fit and stability. Types of Adidas softball cleats include PureHustle cleats, PureHustle TPU molded, etc.
Tongue thickness in cleats is also essential. Cleats with thicker tongues prevent dirt from entering the shoes, and they deter shoelaces from getting untied during use. Another factor to consider is the field position. Pitchers require more comfortable cleats, outfielders require high traction, and catchers need durable cleats with rigid spikes. The best softball cleats for pitchers include the Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 3, the Nike Women Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone, and the Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike ADV Finch 6, etc. The best softball cleats for catchers include Under Armour Glyde ST Metal, New Balance 3000V4 metal, Mizuno 9 Spike Advanced Finch Elite Molded, etc.
Some cleats are not legal for play in some leagues. Many leagues do not allow metal cleats, especially for young players, because of safety concerns. When purchasing cleats, the paramount factor is comfort before price. Comfortable shoes save costs in the long run.
Softball cleats have two styles, which are low-cut and high-cut. Low-cut cleats are lightweight and allow a player to move without restrictions at the ankle. Low-cut cleats do not provide as much ankle support as high-cut cleats. Although these cleats are heavier than low-cut cleats, they are suitable for players with ankle problems.
When purchasing cleats, players should for a snug fit. Players with smaller sizes can go for women’s cleats because they come in smaller sizes. Some players have wide feet and flat feet. The best softball cleats for wide feet and flat feet include Adidas Men’s Icon V Bounce, Under Armour Men’s Leadoff Mid Rm, etc.
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The Best Softball Cleats are Reviewed Below
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Below is a review of the best softball cleats regarding factors such as size, manufacturer, material, comfort. Do well to follow through
1
Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 2
Mizuno is a leading sporting goods manufacturer. There are different Mizuno softball cleats, and this women’s 9-spike advanced model is a high-performance cleat. The cleat comes in various sizes between 6 and 12. The cleat is from synthetic materials, and it has metal spikes. The outsole has nine spikes which increase traction and comfort. Another feature of the cleat is the parallel outsole wave and full-length midsole, which improves cushioning and stability and cleats maximum comfort. The cleats also have an in-built toe protector to reduce abrasion.
Key Features:
- Metal spikes
- Synthetic cleats
- 9-spike outsole
- Full-length midsole
- Built-in Toe protector
- Parallel outsole wave
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Size: 6 to 12 US women’s size
Pros
- Lightweight cleat suitable for all positions
- The 9-spike sole increases traction
- The parallel outsole wave give the cleat cushion and stability and cushion
- Synthetic materials increase the cleats durability
- The built-in toe protector reduces abrasion
- Full-length midsole give the cleat maximum comfort
- They come in various women’s sizes
- Different color options to suit player’s preferences
Cons
- The molds are not durable
- The sizes run small
2
Nike Women’s Lunar Hyperdiamond 2 Pro
Nike is a household name in sports equipment. They manufacture products that suit player’s needs, provide comfort, and enhances performance. The Nike Women’s Lunar Hyperdiamond cleat is from synthetic material with a lace-up closure. The cleat has nine metal spikes that give the cleats ground-gripping traction and improve speed optimization. The cleat also has lightweight cushioning, and it comes in women’s sizes between 8 and 11
Key Features:
- Synthetic material
- Lace-up closure
- Lightweight cushioning
- Nine metal spikes
Specification:
- Brand: Nike
- Size: 8 to 11 US Women’s size
Pros
- The cleat is durable due to the synthetic material and lace-up closure
- The lightweight cushioning improves comfort
- The spikes are from metal, and they give the cleat ground-gripping traction
- There is speed optimization
Cons
- There are limited color options
- The cleats do not come in small sizes
- They are not suitable for players with narrow feet
3
Under Armour Women’s Glyde RM
Under Armour produces sturdy, quality sports equipment with long-lasting materials. The Women’s Glyde RM is from synthetic material, and it has several features. This cleat includes a synthetic sole, lightweight toe, and durable overlay on the toe cap. The synthetic sole and light toe gives the cleat a sneaker-like comfort, and the overlay on the toe cap provides extra protection. Another feature is the padded ankle collar and tongue construction for comfort and a full-length EVA midsole for cushion and shock absorption. The cleats are from rubber molds which increases the traction and provides a lightweight feel. The Women’s Glyde is available in sizes from 5.5 to 12, and they are suitable for players with wide feet.
Key Features:
- 100% synthetic cleat
- Lightweight toe
- Padded ankle collar with tongue
- Durable overlay on toe cap
- Full-length EVA midsole
- Rubber-molded cleats
- Wide size range
Specification:
- Brand: Under Armour
- Size: 5.5 to 12 US Women’s size
Pros
- Durable cleats from synthetic material
- Lightweight toe gives a sneaker-like comfort
- Padded ankle collar with tongue improves comfort
- Durable overlay on toe cap gives added protection
- Full-length EVA midsole give cushion and enhances shock absorption
- The cleat has traction due to the rubber molds
- Lightweight and comfortable feel
- Wide size range and suitable for players with wide feet
Cons
- Limited color options
- Not suitable for turf
4
Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce TPU cleats
Adidas softball cleats are one of the best in the market. The women’s icon bounce is 100% synthetic, and it features thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) which gives it its durability. Features of the cleats include a synthetic sole and lace-up closure. The cleat also has bounce cushioning which enhances its comfort and flexibility. There is a Nubuck upper part with a perforated vamp which improves breathability. The toe cap is from iron skin, and it gives the cleat an abrasion resistance. Other features include a padded tongue that reduces pressure on the lace and tongue wings, giving the cleat a locked-down midfoot fit. The molded TPU outsole plate acts like a metal-like cleat improving performance. This cleat comes in different colors and sizes between 5 and 13. It is true to size and suitable for all positions.
Key Features:
- Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) cleats
- Synthetic sole with lace-up closure
- Bounce cushioning
- Nubuck upper with perforated vamp
- Ironskin toe cap
- Padded tongue
- Tongue wings
Specification:
- Brand: Adidas
- Size: 5 to 13 US Women’s size
Pros
- The TPU increases the cleat’s durability
- The bounce cushioning improves the flexibility and gives enhanced comfort
- The Nubuck upper with perforated vamp increases breathability
- The iron skin toe cap provides the cleat with superior abrasion resistance
- The padded tongue reduces pressure in the lace
- The tongue wings give the cleat a locked-down midfoot fit
- The molded cleat has a metal-like performance
- It is suitable for all positions
- Wide size range
- It comes in different colors to suit player’s preferences
Cons
- Nil
5
Mizuno Men’s 9 Spike Advanced Erupt 3
Mizuno is a leading sporting goods manufacturer, and the Men’s 9 Spike cleat is one of the best in the market. The cleats have a lace-up closure for comfort, a stud design with a ground grip aggressive stud, and improved traction. The cleat is synthetic, and it has a rubber sole that makes it lightweight. The cleat also has a Proflex feature that allows the forefoot to flex through multiflex zones. The midsole has a full length to provide maximum comfort. The cleats are suitable for all surfaces and applicable for different sports. Available sizes of these cleats are between 7 and 13 US men’s sizes.
Key Features:
- Lace-up closure
- Synthetic material
- Rubber sole
- Ground grip aggressive stud design
- Proflex feature
- Full-length midsole
- Black and white color
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Size: 7 to 13 US Men’s size
Pros
- The lace-up closure provides comfort
- There is vast traction due to the ground grip aggressive stud design
- The rubber sole makes the cleat lightweight
- The cleat is durable because if it’s a synthetic material
- The Proflex allows enough flex for the forefoot through multiflex zones
- The full-length midsole also enhances comfort
- Various sizes to suit player’s preferences
- Suitable for all surfaces
- Perfect for various sports
Cons
- The sizes run small, and the cleats are narrow
- Limited color options.
6
Under Armour Men’s Leadoff Mid RM Shoes
Under Armour Men’s leadoff Mid shoes are synthetic softball shoes with rubber soles. The shoes are durable, and they have a mid-top Shaft height for maximum comfort. There are perforations in the toe box for breathability. Other features of the cleats include an overlay on the toe cap, a padded collar with heel construction, full-length EVA midsole. The overlay is durable, and it adds extra protection to the toe cap. The padded collar and heel construction enhance step-in comfort. The full-length midsole increases comfort, and it distributes cleat pressure underfoot. The men’s leadoff has rubber molds cleats that improve the durability and traction on all surfaces.
Key Features:
- Synthetic cleats
- Rubber sole
- Toe-box perforations
- Toe-cap overlay
- Padded collar and heel
- Full-length EVA midsole
- Rubber molded cleats
- Available in three colors
Specification:
- Brand: Under Armour
- Size: 6.5 to 15 US men’s size
Pros
- Durable cleats from synthetic material
- The rubber sole makes the cleats lightweight
- There is extra breathability with the perforations in the toolbox
- The durable overlay gives the toe cap additional protection
- Padded collar and heel improves step-in comfort
- Full-length midsole for comfort and cushioning
- Even distribution of cleat pressure underfoot
- Optimal traction with rubber molds
- Varying sizes to suit player’s preferences
Cons
- The cleat is thin and narrow
- Limited color choices
7
New Balance Men’s 4040 V5 TPU Molded Mid-cut
New Balance is one of the top baseball and softball equipment manufacturers. The New Balance Men’s 4040 V5 TPU cleats are suitable for men and players with wide feet. The cleats come in various sizes between 5 and 17. The cleats are 100% synthetic, and they have a rubber sole which makes them durable and lightweight. There is also a lace-up closure and a kinetic stitch upper part, and a full-length Revlite midsole. The cleats are comfortable, and have they have thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) studs
Key Features:
- TPU studs
- Synthetic material
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up closure
- Full-length Revlite midsole.
Specification:
- Brand: New Balance
- Size: 5 to 17 US Men’s sizes
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Suitable for players with wide feet
- Extensive size range between 5 and 17 US Sizes
- TPU studs are durable and provide an enormous traction
- Lace-up closure with cushioning and comfortable feel
- The full-length midsole also aids in cushioning
Cons
- Size runs small
- Suitable for only men
- Available in only black and white colors
8
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V2 Turf
New Balance shoes are top-tier, and they suit player’s needs and preferences. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V2 turf shoes are 100% synthetic and very durable. The shoes are available in multiple colors, and they have a rubber sole. The rubber sole improves traction in the cleats and makes it easy to maneuver on the field. The midsole is from fresh foam. It also has precision engineering that enhances the ultra-cushion and gives it a lightweight ride. The upper part of the Velo V2 turf has perforations with a reaction-diffusion design. This design works on actual data and improves the shoe. The shoe is suitable for fastpitch players, and it comes in a wide range between 5 and 12 US sizes. The Velo V2 turf is ideal for women, turf fields, and players with slim and wide feet.
Key Features:
- Synthetic material
- Rubber sole
- Fresh foam midsole cushioning
- Precision engineering
- Perforated synthetic upper
- Reaction-diffusion design
- Turf shoes
- Normal and wide shoe size
Specification:
- Brand: New Balance
- Size: 5 to 12 US women’s size
Pros
- Durable shoes from 100% synthetic materials
- High traction and maneuverability due to rubber sole
- Midsole cushioning from fresh foam improves comfort
- Precision engineering improves cushioning and makes the cleat lightweight
- Perforated synthetic upper for proper aeration
- Reaction-diffusion design improves performance
- Suitable for turf fields
- Ideal for women with different shoe sizes
- Available in both slim and wide sizes
- There are multiple colors to suit players preference
Cons
- The cleats are not water-resistant
- Suitable only for fastpitch players
9
Adidas Performance PowerAlley Softball Cleat
Adidas is a renowned sports goods and apparel manufacturer. The Adidas Performance PowerAlley Cleat has a design that suits women. The cleats are from a synthetic material that improves durability. They also have a lace-up closure that ensures the cleats have a secure fit. The PowerAlley Cleat features a splatter print EVA midsole that enhances cushioning and gives a smooth ride. The upper part of the cleat is from synthetic leather and Nubuck, improving comfort and durability. Another feature is an adituff feature for toe protection and a lightweight metal outsole with a Traxion stud configuration. This metal outsole with Traxion stud configuration improves the cleat’s traction and performance. The cleat also has a full-length ethylene-vinyl acetate midsole which enhances the lightweight cushioning, and an ortholite sock liner for resistance against odor and enhanced cushioning. The cleat improves speed, comfort, and grip, it is suitable for all positions, and it comes in three colors and women’s sizes between 5 and 10.5
Key Features:
- Synthetic material
- Lace-up closure
- Splatter print EVA midsole
- Nubuck and synthetic leather upper part
- Adituff feature
- Metal outsole with Traxion stud configuration
- Ethylene-vinyl acetate midsole
- Ortholite sock liner
Specification:
- Brand: Adidas
- Size: 5 to 10.5 US Women’s size
Pros
- Synthetic material increases the durability of the cleat
- Lace-up closure gives a secure fit
- Splatter print EVA midsole for lightweight design and smooth ride
- Nubuck and synthetic leather combination for the upper part of the cleat improves durability and comfort
- The adituff feature provides toe protection
- The cleat has a high performance and traction due to the metal outsole and Traxion stud configuration
- The midsole is from ethylene-vinyl acetate, and it enhances the lightweight cushioning
- There is a resistance to odor from the ortholite sock liner
- The cleat provides speed, comfort, and grip
- Suitable for all positions
- Wide size range to suit players preferences
Cons
- Sizes run small
- Limited colors
10
Nike Hyperdiamond STRIKE MTL
The Nike Hyperdiamond strike MTL softball cleats are lightweight cleats from synthetic leather. The cleats are durable, and they have a phylon midsole for lightweight cushioning and comfort. The Strike MTL has a low cut upper and 9-cleats configuration for a smooth ride and high traction. The cleat also has thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) plated outsoles for durability. This cleat is suitable for adults, and it comes in fun colors
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather
- Phylon midsole
- Low cut upper cleats
- 9-cleat configuration
- TPU plated outsoles
- Fun colors
Specification:
- Brand: Nike
- Size: 11 US women’s size
Pros
- Synthetic leather makes the cleats durable
- The phylon midsole improves cushioning and comfort
- The low cut upper gives a low-to-the-ground feel and a smooth ride
- The cleats provide high traction due to their 9-cleat configuration
- The TPU plated outsoles are durable
Cons
- The cleats are only available in adult women’s sizes
- Available only in multi colors
11
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V2 Metal
The Velo V2 Metal softball cleats are similar to the Velo V2 turf counterpart, but it is not suitable for turf fields. The Velo V2 metal is a metal softball cleat from synthetic leather, and it has a rubber sole. The cleat is durable and features a lace-up closure that gives a secure fit. Another feature is the fresh foam midsole cushioning that improves comfort and perforated synthetic Nubuck upper for proper aeration. The cleat has a metal-studded outsole for enhanced traction and a lace cage for tucking laces away and enhancing the game-ready feel. The Velo V2 Metal has a wide range of sizes between 5 and 13, comes in various colors, and is suitable for slim and wide feet.
Key Features:
- Metal shoe
- Synthetic leather
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh foam midsole cushioning
- Perforated synthetic leather and Nubuck upper
- Metal-studded outsole
- Lace cage
Specification:
- Brand: New Balance
- Size: 5 to 13 US Women’s size
Pros
- The metal shoe has a high traction
- The synthetic leather increases the durability
- The rubber sole gives the cleats a lightweight feel
- The cleats have a secure fit from the lace-up closure
- The midsole has fresh foam cushioning for better comfort
- The upper part of the cleat is from a combination of synthetic leather and Nubuck, and it has proper aeration and durability
- The outsole has metal studs for high traction both on the diamond and outfield
- The cleat has a lace cage for tucking away laces and provides a game-ready feel
- Wide size range suitable for both slim and wide feet
- The cleats are available in various colors to suit players preferences
- The cleats are true to size
Cons
- Not water resistant
12
Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 3
The Finch Elite 3 is from synthetic material, and it has a rubber sole. The cleats are from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and they have a low-top shaft. Other cleats include a padded booty tongue that increases fit and comfort and a Mizuno wave technology that provides cushioning and stability. The cleats have nine spikes for better traction, and it is suitable for turf fields. The Finch Elite 3 has five color variants, has a size range between 5 and 12, and it is ideal for fastpitch softball.
Key Features:
- Synthetic cleats with TPU coating
- Rubber sole
- Low-top shaft
- Padded booty tongue
- Mizuno Wave technology
- 9-Spike Advanced outsole
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Size: 5 to 12 US Women’s size
Pros
- Synthetic and TPU material increases durability
- The rubber sole makes the cleats lightweight
- The low-top shaft provides a better fit and feel
- Padded booty tongue gives comfort and a superior fit
- The Mizuno wave technology enhances cushioning and stability
- The outsole has 9 spikes for better traction
- Multiple color options to suit players preferences
- Wide size range
Cons
- The sizes run small
- Some reviewers complain about the durability
Buying Guide Questions
Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding softball cleats. Do well to follow through
What are the best softball cleats?
There are various cleats from different manufacturers on the market. The top three softball cleats include Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike Swift 4 Fastpitch metal softball cleat, Adidas Performance Women’s PowerAlley Softball cleat, Mizuno Advanced Finch Franchise cleat.
What are the best women’s softball cleats?
Women’s cleats come in smaller sizes than men’s cleats. The best women’s cleats include New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V2 Turf Softball Shoe, Nike Girls Hyperdiamond. Keystone GS softball cleat, Under Armour Kids’ and women’s Glyde RM Softball shoe.
Is there a difference between baseball and softball cleats?
Both baseball and softball cleats are similar. However, adult baseball players prefer metal cleats, while adult softball players prefer molded cleats.
Are metal or plastic cleats better for softball?
The best cleats depend on a player’s position. Metal cleats do not pick as much dirt and grass as plastic cleats. The metal cleats also provide traction and help players sprint faster towards the ball. Metal cleats suit infield and outfield positions.
Can you wear metal cleats in softball?
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is a regulating body for softball. It approves metal cleats for softball as long as the cleats are not round and not more than ¾ inch beyond the sole.
Do you wear cleats for softball?
Yes, you can wear cleats for softball. Cleats are shoe designs that allow fast accelerations and stops. They also enable rapid cuts and turns.
What shoes for slow pitch softball?
Shoes for slowpitch softball depend on the surface for playing the game. For traditional surfaces, metal cleats are suitable, and for artificial turfs, turf shoes are ideal.
Is it harder to hit a softball or a baseball?
It is harder to hit a softball because of the pitch speed, reaction time for hitters and fielders, and the distance of the field.
Can I wear soccer cleats for softball?
Although you can use soccer cleats for softball, it is not the best practice.
How tight should softball cleats be?
Softball cleats should be snug but not too tight. Cleats should be comfortable, and a player should wear socks when checking how for a cleat.
Can 12u softball wear metal cleats?
Metal cleats are not legal for play for 12U players. Only 14U and older divisions can use metal cleats.
What cleats do college softball players wear?
College softball players wear both plastic and metal cleats. The best softball cleats for college players include New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V2, Nike Girl’s Hyperdiamond, Under Armour Kids’ softball cleats, etc.
Are metal or plastic cleats better?
Metal cleats are better than plastic cleats because they provide more traction and do not pick up as much dirt and grass as plastic cleats. Although the type of cleats suitable for play depends on the position, metal cleats are ideal for infielders and outfielders.
Are metal cleats dangerous?
Metal cleats provide a lot of traction when playing games. However, too much traction at the wrong time can cause knee and ankle injuries.
Are metal cleats better than rubber?
Rubber cleats are durable and strong, and they are useful both on and off the field. However, metal cleats provide better traction and faster speeds than rubber cleats
Are metal cleats allowed in high school softball?
Metal cleats are allowed in high school softball.
Conclusion
Softball cleats are the footwear players use for games and practice. Cleats can be from metal or plastic. The type of cleats a player will utilize during a game depends on the kind of field, the league, and the position. There are different factors to consider before purchasing a cleat. The player’s size, position, brand, cleat type, price, and fit are important factors. This article is a review of the best softball cleats with consideration to these factors. Kindly go through to select the cleats that most suit your preferences.
