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Best Softball Cleats Reviewed & Tested for Performance
Below we've comprised the best softball cleats around right now. Some have been designed with baseball in mind, but will work just perfectly for softball as well! Read through, find a pair you love, and get out there on the field!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Use
In considering a pair of new cleats, you should consider a set that is optimized for the position that you play. Different players have different requirements during play, and so their priorities will differ as well:
Comfort
Softball shoes are not always the most comfortable footwear, but they should never be so uncomfortable as to cause damage or injury to your feet and ankles. Players have been known to wear multiple pairs of socks to deal with the discomfort that thin soles and cleats can cause.
Comfort features in a good softball cleat include:
Features
Before you settle on any pair of cleats, you should be aware of your league’s rules. Many softball leagues (especially amateur and slow pitch), pitches and schools prohibit the use of metal cleats for safety reasons. Especially for children. Some pitches do not allow metal cleats for safety or full molded cleats because they tear up training pitches. However some high school, college and professional leagues allow for metal cleats.
The benefits of each cleat type are listed below.
Style
When shopping for this type of product, you will want to look at the style that is provided by the manufacturer. In addition to aesthetic appeal, the style of your new cleat can significantly influence your performance, so you’ll want to make the best possible choice.
Design aspects such as material use, lacing system placement, added features and foot coverage usually determine upper support, ankle stability, as well as comfort while wearing, so making the right choice plays an important part. It’s also a good idea to take into consideration your foot shape, as some people with a high instep or wider toe need additional space that is only provided by certain manufacturers.
On the whole, there are two key aspects to consider in terms of style before making a purchase:
Low-top or High-top? Low-top cleats may allow a player to run faster and are less restrictive. High-tops offer increased ankle support. If you have a prior injury, high-tops are probably a good option to help prevent re-injury.
Color choice - Many softball shoes are offered in a variety of colors that you can match to your team uniform. Some teams may even require that you purchase a softball cleat of a specific color. Also, darker colors show less dirt and scuffing than lighter colors, if they have a concern about showing wear.
Durability
Softball cleats need to be able to endure a lot of stress and strain. During the life of a cleat, it will be subjected to mud, rain, sweat, blood, and possibly even snow. As soon as the elements of a cleat start deteriorating, performance becomes heavily affected. As you can imagine, durability and performance are parameters that go hand-in-hand.
The durability of all kinds of shoes is mostly related to the material they’re built with; as well as, the manufacturing quality. Softball models are pretty much the same. Deterioration in your cleats can determine how well you play. It also determines your potential risk of injury.
Each element degrades individually, but it’s equally important to understand the shoe degrades as a whole. This means every element should be in a similar state as the rest of them. If one element degrades much faster than the rest of the shoe, it will lose its quality and the potential usage the rest of the elements may still have.
Generally, the piece that degrades the fastest is the sole. This is no surprise, as it’s the part of the shoe that handles the most tension. Softball shoes are designed to provide comfort and protection to the foot. Put them under harsh conditions, however, and they’re not so good, anymore.
10 Best Softball Cleats
1. Mizuno ADV Sweep 4
A continuation of Mizuno’s successful softball line, the 9-spike Advanced Sweep 4 is a metal cleat with an incredibly low weight engineered for maximum performance. It’s available in a range of sizes from 6 to 12 and can be purchased in a variety of color options that are great for those who want to show off, as well as those limited by team colors.
The comfort of the Sweep 4 is mainly provided by the full-length midsole. What this ensures is excellent shock-absorption for long practices, ensuring that the feet don’t get too tired or beat up. This model features a Parallel Outsole Wave, a technological solution that increases impact protection without creating bulk or adding weight. It also makes it easier to maintain stability, especially when hitting and throwing, all while protecting the ankles.
The outsole of the Sweep 4 is made with a lightweight 9-spike design, featuring 2 spikes in the heel area, and 7 in the forefoot for ultimate grip. The upper combines protective and breathable materials for the best possible in-shoe feel, as well as for a high level of moisture management, while the toe enjoys some added protection thanks to the innovative toe guard.
The cost association of the Mizuno Advanced Sweep 4 is around average, making it a great investment for most athletes. It offers a good deal of innovative features, all while maintaining a comfortable and durable design made for serious training sessions.
2. Mizuno ADV Finch 6
This is a fastpitch softball cleat with rubber studs from Mizuno, who has made athletic gear for more than 100 years. This softball cleat is endorsed by Jennie Finch as well. It is designed for comfort and durability no matter the field type. You’ll be able to perform at your best through all innings in this shoe.
The full-length midsole offers maximum comfort for long hours of play or practice. Your feet take a pounding running all of those bases and these softball shoes will let you do that comfortably.
Rubberized studs are durable and softer than metal studs on cleats. They’re also permitted by all leagues and programs, leaving you worry-free. A solid pair of softball shoes to consider for your next purchase!
3. Adidas Icon V Bounce
This softball cleat by Adidas was inspired by athletic streetwear, focusing on providing wearers with the highest level of comfort achievable. It’s a great choice for any position, and it comes in both women’s and men’s versions, as well as a wide range of sizing options allowing anyone to get the ideal fit. It boasts a simple design, typical of Adidas, and can be purchased in several classic color options combining white with colorful upper accents.
The upper of the Icon V Bounce is made with mesh. What this ensures is the ultimate fit that’s highly breathable, moisture-wicking and most importantly, lightweight. TPU overlays are added to provide stability and the lacing system allows for a good amount of fit adjustment, ensuring maximum lock-in. A special feature is an elastic band around the ankle which allows for easy entry, without compromising in-game stability. Additionally, the toe area features an Ironskin overlay which was specially developed to prevent abrasion in high-wear areas.
The midsole of the Icon V uses Bounce cushioning, a highly responsive type of foam often used in the brand’s running models. It protects the musculoskeletal system from shock and impact, without slowing players down. The Stealtrax TPU plate ensures amazing traction and stability and is even comparable to metal spikes.
The cost association of the Adidas Icon V Bounce is average, making it an excellent alternative to the highest rated models on this list. It is an overall great investment with a good amount of innovative and performance-enhancing features.
4. Mizuno Swift 6
The latest edition of the Mizuno Swift line was gender engineered to provide the best possible fit for women’s feet. This 9-spike cleat is a bestselling product, which comes as no surprise considering the high levels of comfort it provides. It is offered in an even wider range of sizes than most other items listed and can be purchased in six different color options for a personalized feel.
The upper of the Swift 6 is made with a durable leather-like material that is the perfect choice for those hard on their footwear. Although it will need a bit of breaking in, there’s plenty of padding in the collar and tongue to ensure a happy wearing experience. Notably, the toe area features perforations, which increases breathability. The lacing system allows the shoe to wrap u from the arch to the instep, ensuring a locked-in feel with plenty of midfoot support.
Like other Mizuno models, this one also features a full-length midsole, as well as a Parallel Wave Plate for maximum shock absorption and stability. The spike system is designed so to provide 3 metal spikes in the heel and six in the toe area, allowing athletes to get a sure footing in any position.
The cost association of this product is lower than other models listed, but it does not sacrifice in terms of quality or performance, making it an excellent choice for most players. It’s also rated as the number one Fastpitch shoe, which testifies to its high quality.
5. Under Armour Leadoff Mid RM
These mid-rise shoes are great for those looking for a bit more ankle protection or stability. If you’re a fan of UA’s baseball and softball styles, this model is definitely a great investment. It is available in men’s sizes up to 15 and can be purchased in three color options including black, blue and white.
The upper of the Leadoff Mid is made with a synthetic material that has one important advantage over competing products. It provides exceptional comfort from the first wear, requiring minimal break-in time, and allowing for a good amount of fit adjustment through the traditional lacing system. The tongue is made with mesh, ensuring excellent breathability, as well as some padding to ensure wearing comfort.
The sole of the Leadoff combines an EVA midsole for shock-absorption with a rubber-molded spike plate that provides great grip without putting too much pressure on the underside of the foot. The 18-spike design provides the best traction you can get, and works well on varied surfaces, including less than ideal weather conditions.
In terms of cost association, the Under Armour Leadoff Mid RM ranks below average, making for one of the cheaper models listed, which is why it’s such a popular choice, especially among parents shopping for their children.
6. New Balance Fresh Foam Velo1
The New Balance Fresh Foam Velo1 is a performance-driven cleat made for players who train and play at elite levels. Featuring a simple design that is to be expected from a brand such as New Balance, this model comes in a simple white version, along with some gold details that are sure to impress. One of its biggest benefits is the variety of sizes available, it can be purchased in sizes 5 to 13 and it’s even available in normal and wide widths for those who require a bit more toe space.
The upper of the Fresh Foam Velo 1 is made with a synthetic upper. The toe area is perforated to make temperature regulation and moisture control a prominent feature of the design, while the inner is lined with mesh which is one of the best options for any sportswear choice. The lacing system allows the laces to be tucked in, preventing accidents, as well as providing a cleaner look.
In terms of comfort and performance technology, there are two notable aspects of the Velo1. First and foremost, there’s the Fresh Foam midsole which is shock-absorbing and highly flexible. On the other hand, the updated spike plate combines flexibility in the toe and stability in the heel for the best wearing experience possible.
The cost of the New Balance Fresh Foam Velo1 is slightly higher than most products listed, but it’s one of the rare softball shoes that comes in two widths ensuring a proper fit even for those who need additional toe space.
7. Nike Hyperdiamond 2
This low top pair of softball shoes is incredibly durable and allows you a great deal of movement. You’ll sail through the diamond in this should which offers enhanced traction as well, or sail through the outfield to catch that ball before it becomes a home run. Either way, you’re a winner.
The solid rubber outsole on the Hyperdiamond 2 offers up enhanced traction so you can accelerate faster and move with greater stability. These are a game changer kind of softball cleat.
The low top nature of these softball shoes allows your ankle greater natural movement, making it much easier to turn at the bases or line up to catch the ball. Greater traction means greater performance.
8. Under Armour Glyde RM
The first thing that you’ll notice about Under Armour’s Glyde RM is that it’s one of the rare models listed that can be purchased in children’s sizes as well. This is an affordable option by Under Armour, made for individuals who don’t require professional-level performance but who still appreciate a good quality product. The Glyde RM comes in just two color options, an all-white and a black version.
The upper of the Glyde RM is made with synthetics which achieves two important things. Firstly, it will keep costs down to a minimum and secondly, it provides easy maintenance and long-term durability. Mesh is added in key areas to encourage airflow, while the synthetic reinforcements ensure foot stability from heel to toe.
The cushioning system in the Under Armour Glyde RM uses EVA foam, a popular choice in all sports due to its low weight and high shock-absorbing qualities. It provides comfort through dispersing the pressure from the cleats, so you shouldn’t feel discomfort even when standing on slightly harder surfaces. The spikes on this model are molded with rubber, providing solid traction through the four heel and six forefoot spike units.
As already mentioned the cost association of the Under Armour Glyde RM is quite low, making for one of the cheapest models on this list. It’s an excellent investment for anyone, from those looking for affordable options to those who are only starting out and don’t want to spend a fortune.
9. Mizuno ADV Erupt 3
Built with Mizuno’s relatively new, already famous nine spike design; this softball cleat is great for any field surface with its aggressive traction. This is a very comfortable softball cleat that is suitable for fastpitch or slow pitch.
The outsole on the Erupt 3 features Mizuno’s ProFlex design which allows greater forefoot flexibility for control. As the name suggests, this allows for more eruptive power and acceleration for your very best performance.
This outsole of this softball cleat features Mizuno’s nine spike design. The studs are GroundGrip designed for aggressive traction and control no matter the field. The cost association of this model is quite affordable, so users looking for a quality pair of softball shoes that don't break the bank tend to go for this style.
10. New Balance 4040v1
These New Balance softball shoes are suitable for either slow pitch or fastpitch. Made for pitchers, but suitable for other players as well, these make use of the brand's best technologies in order to bring an experience that's lightweight, durable and comfortable. They're widely available and quite affordable, making them a good choice for those looking for their first pair of cleats.
New Balance has given this softball cleat Toe-Protect rubber compound that reinforces the toe area and protects the shoe not only from the abrasion of toe drag but the elements as well.
These softball shoes are built with New Balance’s innovative REVlite midsole. The material provides premium durability and responsiveness in a shoe that is ultra-lightweight. In addition to being shock-absorbing and responsive, these are also affordable, making for an overall complete package for most users.