When you play outdoor sports such as football, baseball, softball or soccer, you want a good pair of cleats to give you traction and support.
Nike is a well-known brand that makes some of the best cleats. Finding the right pair for you depends on your sport, position, skill level and budget, but the best are Nike Vapor Edge Pro 360 Men’s Football Cleats.
The purpose of cleats is to provide support and grip, primarily when playing on grass or other outdoor surfaces. However, since the movements for each sport are different, so are the cleats. You first want to find cleats that match the sport you play. Soccer, football, baseball and softball are the primary sports that require cleats.
Ankle support is also crucial. You typically have these options:
Regardless of your sport, you want the cleats best suited for the type of field you play on so you can maximize traction and control. Nike makes cleats designed for grass, turf, artificial grass, firm ground and soft ground. The company also makes cleats for both dry and wet weather, worth considering if the field you regularly play on is prone to one kind.
Cleats' laces are essential for providing a tight, secure fit, but laces can come undone — both a distraction and a hazard during competition. Nike’s ghost lacing keeps the laces covered by mesh, which makes for a stylish, sleek look that's also secure.
In Nike Flyknit cleats, light but strong strands of yarn are woven to form a sock-like cuff that secures the foot to the shoe platform. The material stretches, so it's breathable and flexible while providing support.
Nike's React foam in the sole of its shoes and cleats provides a soft, lightweight and durable layer of cushion. Nike says that when placed and tested in running shoes, it was found to reduce injury.
The price of Nike cleats can vary significantly depending on their size and features. Smaller kid-sized and low-end cleats start at $30, and pricing goes up to $300 for larger top-of-the-line designs.
A. It’s possible, but not always ideal. Not only were Nike cleats designed for each sport, but many were designed for specific positions. You first want to consider the surface type and the support the cleats provide. While you might be able to wear soccer cleats when playing a skill position in football, they wouldn't work as well for football linemen or when playing baseball.
A. Although they follow the same standard size chart, it's a common belief that Nike cleats tend to run on the small side. So, if you're in between sizes, it's best to size up — but keep in mind that you want cleats to be secure, so they provide adequate support.
Nike Vapor Edge Pro 360 Men’s Football Cleats
What you need to know: These are ideal for receivers or those who want to maximize their speed and agility.
What you’ll love: The internal footplate provides flexible support to the foot and ankle. Combined with the wide stud placement, that makes this the ideal shoe for making sharp cuts. The lightweight upper is durable, while the elastic sock-like cuff provides an additional layer of support and comfort.
What you should consider: This is not the cleat for linemen who want a shoe with extra stability and support.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond 4 Keystone Softball Cleats
What you need to know: The full-length foam cushioning makes these both soft and comfortable, while the synthetic upper and molded details make them durable.
What you’ll love: The 12-cleat configuration provides ideal traction. They are supportive but not restrictive as the Fastflex technology helps the cleats bend with your foot.
What you should consider: They tend to run both narrow and small, so if you’re between sizes, it’s best to size up.
Where to buy: Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
Nike Tempo Legend 9 Club FG Soccer Cleats
What you need to know: These are available in both men’s and women’s sizes.
What you’ll love: Made with soft, synthetic leather, the toe is durable but allows for excellent ball control and a gentle touch. The conical studs make these cleats great for grass surfaces and help support your foot and ankle when turning and cutting on the field.
What you should consider: These are good for a beginner or intermediate player, but an experienced player might benefit from a higher-quality shoe.
Where to buy: Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Ryan Dempsey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
