How to Buy The Right Baseball Cleats

Get a leg up on the competition with the best baseball cleats for your game.

Baseball players are constantly on the move. From tracking down fly balls to legging out base hits, your feet are rarely at a standstill. To play at this intensity, you need to have the proper footwear. Baseball cleats can help keep you moving in the right direction while adding stability and security with each step.

When choosing the best baseball cleats for your upcoming season, there are some important factors to consider. A cleat’s material, height and type can affect its performance. Understanding these components can help lead you to a quality purchase and get you ready for the highlight reel this season.

MATERIAL

Many baseball cleats will be made of mesh and/or synthetic leather materials. This combination can provide ample breathability and durability on the diamond. Some synthetic materials can also improve water resistance, making them great for muddy or rainy game days. Ultimately, you should look for a cleat that feels the most comfortable on your foot.

CLEAT TYPE

One of the biggest decisions you will make when choosing your cleats is the type of spike. There are four basic styles to choose from, each with their own benefits.

IMPORTANT: Check with your coach or a league official prior to choosing a cleat style. Your league may prohibit the use of metal cleats for safety reasons.

• Molded Cleats

This design features a strong, versatile construction with molded cleats. This can be a great option for players of all ages. Built with non-removable rubber studs, you can wear these baseball spikes on virtually any playing surface. Molded cleats often feature more studs in their layout, which can lessen pressure and make for a more comfortable fit.

• TPU/MCS Cleats

This style resembles molded cleats, but instead of rubber, uses a harder plastic material for its spike pattern. These studs can be abrasion and impact resistant while still providing plenty of comfort. TPU and MCS cleats are often lighter than other molded options, too.

• Metal Cleats

The cleat of choice for professional ballplayers. Metal cleats can offer the best traction on the diamond. Their thin, metal spikes penetrate the ground with ease, providing plenty of grip as you run. Don’t forget to check with your league prior to purchase. Metal cleats are often reserved for high school and college baseball due to possible safety concerns.

• Turf Cleats and Trainers

Baseball turf cleats are a sleek, comfortable option for training and playing on artificial turf. These can provide more grip than normal sneakers on the artificial surface and can also help preserve the playing field. Turf trainers can feature a less aggressive nub or tread pattern, making them a more comfortable option for off-field practices and training. For more information on how to choose baseball turf shoes, use these Pro Tips.

CLEAT HEIGHT

There are two essential cleat heights for you to choose from: low and mid/high.

• Low-Tops

Because of their shorter profile, low-top baseball cleats are more lightweight than other options. This makes them ideal for speed and agility. While low-top cleats can be great for the faster athlete, they don’t feature much ankle support. If you’re willing to sacrifice some security for a lighter fit, these are terrific cleat options.

• Mid/High-Tops

Mid/high-top baseball cleats are made for stability and security. This cleat height can provide the most ankle support compared to other styles. However, the added material in the ankle does increase the cleat’s weight, which can be a concern for some athletes.

Remember, your cleat’s fit should be snug with a little room in the toe. A well-fitted shoe can help provide maximum support for the quick movements you’ll make on the field.

Use these baseball Pro Tips to take a step in the right direction with your game.

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