Everything you need to know about buying baseball cleats

Baseball players are constantly on the go. Whether you are running the bases, catching a pop fly or squaring up in the batter’s box, having the right cleats can provide you with the speed and power you need to perform your best. There are several brands and styles to choose from, but finding the right cleats is a lot easier with the following considerations in mind.

In this article: New Balance 4040v6 Mid Metal Baseball Cleats, Under Armour Harper 6 Low Baseball Shoe and Mizuno Ambition 2 Low Baseball Cleats.

Shoe height

There are three heights of baseball cleats.

• Low-top cleats are light and flexible, but they lack ankle support. They are best suited for players that want to maximize speed while running the bases or chasing a grounder. They also are recommended for pitchers who need flexibility when their lead foot lands after a pitch. 
• Mid- and high-top cleats provide ankle support but are a bit heavier and limit your lateral movement. They work best for players that don’t move as much, such as catchers and first basemen. They are also supportive for anyone recovering from an ankle injury.

Cleat type

Baseball shoes have three types of cleats.

• Molded cleats have permanent rubber studs, and you can use them on any ground surface.
• Thermoplastic polyurethane cleats are made from hard plastic and provide deep traction.
• Metal cleats are the heaviest and sturdiest available. Very few youth leagues permit metal cleats for safety reasons. Check with your local league for their requirements.

Shoe material

Baseball shoes are typically made from synthetic leather, mesh or a combination of both. Leather is more durable, but it's not as breathable or flexible as mesh. A combination of both can often provide the best benefit.

When you're on the diamond

Cleats offer protection

Since baseball diamonds have a combination of dirt, grass and artificial turf, you'll have to run on different surfaces at high speed. Flat-bottomed shoes can slide easily and cause you to fall. Cleats are the best way to keep your footing and protect against injuries.

Comfort comes from the right fit

Finding the right-sized baseball cleat is truly a matter of comfort. Your baseball shoes should be snug in the heel, and your toes should have no more than ¾-inch air space in the toe cap. When stuck between sizes, choose the smaller size since cleats tend to expand over time as you use them. 

Training shoes

Many manufacturers make baseball training shoes. These are designed like sneakers with shallower cleats and are primarily made for practice. Using training shoes for practice leaves your game cleats in better condition and prolongs their life.

Softball players can wear baseball cleats too

Baseball cleats are popular with softball players. Baseball shoes tend to be wider, but since softball fields are dirt, grass and turf, they work just as effectively as on a baseball diamond. 

Best baseball cleats

Nike Force Zoom Trout 7

Speed and comfort come together in the latest version of these popular cleats. The Zoom Air pod system provides extra cushioning with a springy underfoot plate. A molded heel holds your foot in place. A ghost lacing system keeps the shoe laces hidden for a sleek look.

Where to buy: Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods

New Balance 4040v6 Mid Metal Baseball Cleats

Made for high performance and comfort, these cleats offer a FuelCell midsole designed for feet to move laterally quickly. The Fit Weave upper stretches and provides durability. The TPU spikes deliver unsurpassed traction on the diamond.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Under Armour Harper 6 Low Baseball Shoe

This is a stylish and lightweight baseball shoe that has excellent traction. The mesh upper is breathable with a molded sock liner for extra support. The internal lacing system creates a bold look. It comes in many color patterns that are sure to make a statement.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods

Mizuno Ambition 2 Low Baseball Cleats

Featuring 9-spike technology that provides premium traction, this baseball shoe is great for players that are constantly on the move. The Wave Structure technology minimizes shock to the ankles. A full-length midsole maximizes comfort.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Adidas Men’s Adizero Afterburner 8 Baseball Shoe

Touted as the lightest shoe in baseball, these shoes are built for speed. They feature the Sprintskin upper that feels light but still supports your foot well. The textile lining provides extra comfort.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Adidas

Guardian Youth Baseball Turf Shoes

Perfect for boys and girls, these turf shoes work on any surface. They have a patented V-cleat configuration for better movement. The synthetic rubber upper provides extra support with air exchange vents. They were designed by former professional and college baseball players.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews. 

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals. 

Steve Ganger writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.