Softball is a variation of baseball with a few differences, including a larger ball and a smaller playing field, among others. Due to these changes, softball becomes a faster sport than baseball and as such, requires players to be quick on their feet. When playing softball, amateur players may wear running shoes, soccer cleats, or rugby cleats. This can lead to a severe injury since these shoes aren’t meant to be worn on a softball field.
There are special cleats designed for softball, considering the requirements of the game. These come with good cushioning and shock absorption quality, and cleats which offer excellent traction on playing surface. If you want to reduce the likelihood of injury and perform at your best on the field, we recommend investing in a pair of high-quality softball cleats.
Finding a good pair of softball cleats is difficult since there are many choices available in the market. But, you don’t have to worry about this, as we have featured some of the best softball cleats here. This should make it easier for you to get your hands on softball cleats that are right for you. We have also listed the things you should consider when buying softball cleats to ensure that you make the right choice.
Contents
What You Should Consider When Looking for Softball Cleats
· Durability
Softball playing fields can take a toll on your footwear. As such, you should buy durable softball cleats. The cleats you get should be able to ensure strain and stress without losing their traction. Your softball cleats would be subjected to mud, sweat, and even rain during their lifetime. If the elements of your cleats start deteriorating after a while, they won’t feel comfortable and may not provide you with a good grip. As such, your performance will take a hit.
The durability of cleats is related to the materials used in their construction. When you are shopping for softball cleats, pay attention to the materials used to make them. Genuine leather and synthetic leather are the most durable materials, and it would be best to go with cleats whose uppers are made with either of these two materials. When it comes to cleats/studs, metal cleats last longer than their rubber alternatives.
· Comfort
Comfort should be one of your top priorities when looking for softball cleats because an uncomfortable pair would cause pain and fatigue, thereby affecting your performance. Comfort primarily depends on the design, upper, midsole, and insole of the shoe.
If you have a prior injury in your ankle or foot, you would feel more comfortable in a high-top softball cleat that provides protection and support to your ankle. Otherwise, a mid-top or low-top design would be more suitable as it allows greater flexibility.
The uppers should have some sort of breathable material that allows air circulation so that your feet don’t feel sweaty and uncomfortable. If the upper of the softball cleat doesn’t feature a breathable material, make sure that its tongue is mesh so that air can flow in and out of the cleats; this will your feet stay dry.
Many softball cleats come with an insole, typically made from EVA, to provide protection from the shock of the solid cleats and keep your feet comfortable. If you want to insert your custom orthotics into the cleats, look for a pair that comes with removable insoles.
The midsole of the softball cleats should feature some sort of cushioning to reduce the impact of shock, preventing it from affecting your ankles and joints. If this isn’t the case, you will be more likely to feel worn out and even pain in your feet after a few hours of play.
· Type
There are three types of softball cleats that you can buy right now. Many schools and softball league don’t allow the use of metal cleats. Make sure to check whether you are allowed to wear a particular type of cleat before you buy a pair. If you are allowed to use any type of cleat, consider which one would be the best option for you. Below we have listed the benefits of each type:
Metal cleats are generally the preferred choice of many players. These come with metal spikes on the outsole and provide excellent traction on the playing field. They penetrate the ground easily, ensuring that you don’t lose your grip when sprinting, turning, and throwing or hitting the ball. Some metal cleats come with interchangeable spikes, allowing you to change the spikes according to the field.
Molded softball cleats feature permanent rubber or plastic studs that are generally shorter than their metal alternatives. These studs are lighter than those in metal cleats. Molded softball cleats usually have more studs on the outsole to provide good traction.
Another variety of softball cleats is turf shoes. These are designed for practice and don’t feature cleats. They usually come with a rubber outsole that provides good traction on artificial training fields. Turf shoes don’t damage the training field; however, they aren’t the best option for actual playing fields.
· Playing Position
It is important that you consider the position you play on the team when looking for a new pair of softball cleats. This is because a cleat that is right for catchers may not be the best option for pitchers or catchers.
If you are a pitcher, you should choose a pair with a reinforced toe. This is because most pitchers have toe-drag, which would wear out the cleat faster if there is no protection on the toe. Moreover, pitchers usually go with low-top softball cleats, as they need more flexibility while throwing the ball.
If you are an outfielder, go with metal cleats. These cleats pick up less dirt and debris than molded cleats and also make it easier for you to run and reach the ball. Metal cleats are also a good option for infielders because they provide good traction.
· Fit
Another important thing to consider when looking for softball cleats is fit or size. A poorly-fitted shoe increases the risk of injury and also makes it harder for you to run and turn on the field. Therefore, make sure to pick a pair that fits your feet perfectly. Check the size options and see if the cleat fits true-to-size. If it is a bit smaller, consider going a size up. Similarly, go for one size down than your original if the cleat is large.
Difference Between Fast-Pitch and Slow-Pitch Softball
There are two types of softball – fast-pitch and soft-pitch. Many people assume that these variations of the sport are the same, but there are some subtle differences worth noting.
· Pitching
The main difference between fast-pitch and soft-pitch lies in the pitching. In fast-pitch softball, the pitcher winds their arm by spinning it around before releasing the large ball underarm. This motion of the arm allowing the pitcher to build momentum; thus, the ball is thrown at a relatively high speed. In slow-pitch softball, the pitcher isn’t allowed to spin their arm before throwing the ball. They step forward and toss the ball underarm. Since there is no momentum, the ball is thrown at a slower speed.
· Stealing Bases
Although rules vary depending on the league or organization, fast-pitch softball generally allows more freedom when it comes to stealing bases. For example, according to the Amateur Softball Association, slow-pitch players are only allowed to leave the base after the ball crosses over the home plate. On the other hand, fast-pitch softball players can stand several feet from the base or try to steal a base even before the pitch is thrown.
· Bunting
Bunting is another difference between fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball. In fast-pitch softball, the batter is allowed to hold their bat across the strike zone for the ball to hit – they aren’t required to swing. This is referred to as bunting. The slow-pitch variation of the game doesn’t allow bunting.
Read Also: Best Track Shoes
Our Top 3 Choices
Best Overall: Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce
Premium Product: Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 4
Best Value: Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike Swift 4 Fast Pitch Metal Softball Cleat
Best Softball Cleats
1. Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike ADV Finch 6 Fast-Pitch Molded Softball Cleat
Jennie Lynn Finch, the professional softball player and two-time Olympic Medal Winner, endorsed this popular cleat from Mizuno; this seal of approval should leave no doubts about its quality. This model can be a good option for players looking to take their game to the next level. It features synthetic leather uppers, which are surprisingly breathable. On the inside, you will find a full-length midsole that cushions your entire feet, attenuating shock on each impact. It also helps reduce the pressure of the cleats to prevent fatigue and pain.
The Mizuno Women’s ADV Finch features a nine-spike configuration designed for fast-pitch. These are rubber studs, which give you good stability and traction on all types of playing fields. The lacing system of this model is easy to adjust; once tightened, you would get a snug fit. These shoes are available in two designs, and both look great. If you want a softball cleat that comes with good features and a reasonable price tag, Mizuno ADV Finch is worth considering.
Pros of the Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike ADV Finch 6 Fast-Pitch Molded Softball Cleat
- Comfortable uppers
- Full-length midsole attenuates shock, reducing fatigue, and foot-pain
- Rubber studs provide excellent traction
- Reasonable price
Cons of the Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike ADV Finch 6 Fast-Pitch Molded Softball Cleat
- A little heavy
2. Under Armour Women’s UA Spine Glyde ST CC
The Under Armour UA Spine Glyde ST CC is an inexpensive model, which can be a good option for new players. The upper of this cleat is made with synthetic leather, which delivers durability and flexibility. However, one caveat worth noting is that this upper isn’t too breathable, leaving your feet sweaty after long hours of play.
The low-cut design of these cleats shows that they are meant for speed and flexibility. If you prefer more support and ankle protection, you might want to go with a model that features a mid-cut or high-cut design.
The Under Armour UA Spine Glyde ST CC can be used by pitchers, as it features a reinforced toe that would prevent your cleat from wearing out too soon due to toe-drag. The tongue and collar of these shoes are padded for comfort. Moreover, this model incorporates lightweight Micro G foam, which returns energy to your feet on impact for increased responsiveness. A 4D foam insole is also there, which contours to the shape of your feet for a comfortable fit.
The Under Armour UA Spine Glyde ST CC incorporates a Spine midsole, which attenuates shock for cushioned landings. Their outsole is made with rubber and feature metal spikes for excellent traction on all playing fields. This model is available in three different styles, all of which look great. The fit of the shoe is true-to-size, allowing you to go with your original size.
Pros of the Under Armour Women’s UA Spine Glyde ST CC
- 4D foam footbeds for a comfortable fit
- Padded tongue and collar
- Lightweight Micro G foam increases responsiveness
- Spine midsole reduces shock on impact
- Reasonable pricing
Cons of the Under Armour Women’s UA Spine Glyde ST CC
- Requires some breaking in
3. Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Swift 4 Fast-Pitch Metal Softball Cleat
The Mizuno 9-Spike Swift provides great value for money. The uppers of the model are made with textile and synthetic materials for durability and flexibility. They are perforated to promote airflow, ensuring that your feet stay cool, dry, and sweat-free. A special mesh lining has also been integrated to prevent your feet from getting wet from long hours of wear.
The lace-up closure system and a padded booty tongue are incorporated to provide you with a snug fit, preventing movement of the foot inside the shoe. This reduces the likelihood of blisters and hot spots. The Mizuno Swift 4 features a foam insole and a full-length midsole that work in tandem, reducing shock on impact and pressure of the cleats to keep your feet comfortable. These shoes also incorporate the Mizuno Wave technology, which delivers a responsive feel and disperses energy from an impact to a broader area.
Furthermore, this model comes with a nine-spike configuration to ensure that you don’t lose your grip while running, throwing, and swinging the bat. The nine metal spikes on the outsole offer excellent traction on properly maintained fields. These shoes are available in a variety of designs, providing you with plenty of options to choose from. This particular model is also true-to-size, so you will be less likely to face an issue with sizing.
Pros of the Mizuno Women’s 9–Spike Swift 4 Fast–Pitch Metal Softball Cleat
- Nine metal spikes deliver excellent traction
- Low-top design for maximum speed and performance
- Full-length midsole absorbs shock on impact
- Mizuno Wave technology increases responsiveness
- Breathable and durable uppers
Cons of the Mizuno Women’s 9–Spike Swift 4 Fast–Pitch Metal Softball Cleat
- Spikes cannot be removed
4. Mizuno Women’s Swift 5 Fast Pitch Softball Cleat
The fifth iteration of the Mizuno Swift line boasts some great features which have secured it a spot in our list. The upper of the Mizuno Swift 5 is made with synthetic leather for durability and comfort. It features holes on both sides to promote airflow, ensuring that your feet stay dry, cool, and sweat-free. The toe is reinforced for added durability, which means that this model can be used by pitchers. Moreover, the collar and tongue are padded to keep your feet in good humor.
The Mizuno Swift 5 features a full-length midsole, which helps reduce shock on impact, preventing fatigue, and foot-pain. It also incorporates the Mizuno Wave technology to disperse the shock and pressure of the cleats, ensuring that your feet are comfortable at all times. These shoes come with a nine-spike configuration with three metal spikes in the heel and six in the front area to maximize traction and movement.
Like its previous version, the Mizuno Swift 5 also fits true-to-size so you can go with your original size. The metal spikes on these cleats are fixed, so you can’t replace them.
Pros of the Mizuno Women’s Swift 5 Fast Pitch Softball Cleat
- Full-length midsole reduces shock on impact
- Mizuno Wave technology disperses shock and pressure of the cleats
- Durable and breathable uppers
- Padded tongue and collar
- Nine metal spikes offer excellent traction allowing you to run, turn, and throw or hit the ball without losing your grip
Cons of the Mizuno Women’s Swift 5 Fast Pitch Softball Cleat
- Fixed metal spikes
5. Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond Strike Metal Softball Cleat
The Nike Hyperdiamond Strike is another good option for softball players. But this pair is available in limited sizes, and you might not be able to find a pair for your feet. Like the cleats featured above, this one too has a low-cut designed, which allows players to run faster and make quick turns. The uppers of the Nike Hyperdiamond Strike are made of synthetic leather for flexibility and durability while the tongue is in mesh to promote airflow.
When it comes to the interior, these shoes feature a Phylon midsole that provides excellent shock absorption while being lightweight. This high-quality midsole is known to reduce fatigue, which makes it a good option for softball where the match can go on for several hours.
For assisting lateral movements on the field, the Nike Hyperdiamond Strike features a nine-spike configuration on a TPU plate. These are metal spikes, designed to offer excellent traction on all playing fields.
If you want a high-performance pair of low-top softball cleats, the Nike Hyperdiamond Strike should be on your shortlist.
Pros of the Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond Strike Metal Softball Cleat
- Durable and comfortable uppers
- Nine metal spikes provide excellent traction on the playing field
- Phylon midsole attenuates shock, reducing fatigue and foot-pain
- Low-top design for maximum speed and performance
Cons of the Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond Strike Metal Softball Cleat
- Limited sizes
6. Adidas Performance Women’s PowerAlley 2 W Softball Cleat
The Adidas Performance PowerAlley 2 W features a stylish upper, made with a combination of Nubuck and synthetic leather for durability and comfort. It also incorporates the ADITUFF in the toe area to prevent your cleats from wearing out sooner due to toe-drag. For shock absorption, this model boasts a full-length EVA midsole with internal shock plate. This midsole attenuates shock, reducing its effect on your heel, ankle, and joints.
The Adidas Performance PowerAlley 2 W also features an OrthoLite sock liner, which wicks away moisture from your feet, ensuring that they remain dry, cool, and sweat-free during long matches. The lace-up system and tongue of these shoes are designed to fit you just right.
This model features metal cleats on the outsole, placed in Protax 5×3 configuration, for maximum traction and grip on all softball playing fields. Since these are low-top softball cleats, you won’t get much support and protection on the ankle. If you have a prior ankle injury, these may not be the right option. If this isn’t the case and you want a pair that’ll allow you to perform at your best on the field, the Adidas Performance PowerAlley 2 is worth considering.
Pros of the Adidas Performance Women’s PowerAlley 2 W Softball Cleat
- Full-length EVA midsole for cushioning and shock absorption
- OrthoLite sock liner wicks away moisture
- Low-cut design for maximum performance
- Protax 5×3 configuration of metal cleats ensures excellent grip on all softball playing fields
- ADITUFF in the toe area to reduce wear
Cons of the Adidas Performance Women’s PowerAlley 2 W Softball Cleat
- A little expensive
7. Under Armour Women’s Glyde RM Softball Shoe
The Under Armour Glyde RM is another low-top softball cleat designed for novice and experienced players. It features uppers made with a combination of synthetic materials and textiles for lightweight comfort and durability. Inside these shoes is a full-length Armourbound midsole with excellent shock absorption qualities. This midsole absorbs shock and disperses the pressure of the cleats on impact to reduce fatigue.
The Under Armour Glyde RM also incorporates a die-cut EVA insole that provides excellent comfort and ensures that you can keep the cleats on for long hours of play without feeling pain in your feet. The outsole of these shoes features rubber molded cleats for solid traction on a variety of playing surfaces.
One caveat worth noting is that these shoes are currently available in limited sizes, so finding a model that is right for your feet can be difficult.
Pros of the Under Armour Women’s Glyde RM Softball Shoe
- Durable and flexible uppers
- EVA insole for comfort
- Armourbound midsole for cushioning and shock absorption
- Molded rubber cleats provide excellent traction on a variety of fields
Cons of the Under Armour Women’s Glyde RM Softball Shoe
- Available in limited sizes
- Uppers aren’t too breathable
8. Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Erupt 3 Mid
Owing to its mid-cut design, the Mizuno Advanced Erupt can prove to be a good option for players who need some support and protection on their ankles. The upper of these shoes are made with synthetic leather and features lateral stiffening overlays for added comfort and durability. One caveat here is that the uppers aren’t too breathable. However, Mizuno has introduced breathable fabric lining in the interior to ensure that your feet don’t feel sweaty.
An interesting feature of this model is that it has a plush collar and tongue to keep your feet comfortable. The Mizuno Advanced Erupt 3 Mid also features a full-length EVA insole for added cushioning and comfort. Moreover, you get a full-length midsole, which attenuates shock on impact, reducing its effect on your ankles and joints.
These shoes boast a nine-spike configuration, and since the spikes are made of rubber, you would get good traction on a variety of surfaces. It is worth noting that this particular model runs small in size, so we recommend you go a size up when ordering.
Pros of the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Erupt 3 Mid
- Good ankle support and protection
- Full-length EVA insole enhances comfort
- Full-length midsole reduces shock on impact
- Nine rubber studs provide good traction on a number of playing fields
- Plush collar and tongue
Cons of the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Erupt 3 Mid
- Runs small in size
9. Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 4
The Mizuno Advanced Sweep 4 is another low-top softball cleat, designed for maximum performance. The uppers are made from a combination of protective and breathable materials for durability and breathability. The tongue and collar are padded to ensure that your feet are comfortable. The toe is reinforced for protection and to avoid wear. For shock absorption, these shoes feature a full-length midsole, which reduces shock on each impact and disperses the pressure of the metal cleats.
The Mizuno Advanced Sweep 4 also sports a cushioned textile insole for added comfort. Another interesting feature is the Mizuno Wave plate, which relieves the shock and pressure of the cleats, allowing you to maintain a stable base. The outsole of these shoes incorporates nine metal spikes, which provide a superb grip on the field, allowing you to perform lateral and rotational movements without losing your grip.
The only downside to this pair is its cost. Due to its hefty price tag, many people can’t afford the Mizuno Advanced Sweep 4. If you are willing to spend some serious cash and need a high-performance cleat, you should consider going for this pair.
Pros of the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 4 10 Black/White
- Durable and comfortable uppers
- Padded tongue and collar
- Reinforced toe
- Full-length midsole for shock absorption
- Cushioned textile insole for added comfort
- Mizuno Wave plate relieves shock and pressure on impact
- Nine metal spikes offer excellent traction
Cons of the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 4 10 Black/White
- Expensive
10. Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike ADV Finch Elite 2 Softball Cleat
The Mizuno ADV Finch Elite 2 is another sports shoe endorsed by the American Olympian Jennie Lynn Finch. This pair is a low-top softball cleat, engineered for performance. The uppers of this model are made with synthetic materials for durability and are perforated to promote airflow. The toe area is reinforced for abrasion resistance, meaning that this pair is suitable for pitchers. These shoes also feature a padded booty tongue for a secure and comfortable fit.
The Mizuno ADV Finch Elite 2 comes with a full-length midsole, designed to attenuate shock for maximum comfort. Moreover, it incorporates the proprietary Mizuno Wave technology, which provides ample cushioning and stability to keep your feet in good humor. The TPU outsole of this model features nine molded rubber spikes that offer excellent traction on softball playing surfaces. Although the outsole delivers good traction, it isn’t too durable and may wear out after a few months.
Pros of the Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike ADV Finch Elite 2 Softball Cleat
- Good traction on a variety of playing fields
- Mizuno Wave technology for cushioning and stability
- A full-length EVA midsole reduces shock on impact
- Perforated uppers ensure breathability
- Reinforced toe area
Cons of the Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike ADV Finch Elite 2 Softball Cleat
- Outsole wears out fast
- Sizing issues
11. Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 3 Softball Cleat
This is an upgraded version of the Mizuno Advanced Finch Elite 2 featured above. It comes with synthetic uppers that are perforated for breathability. There are also holes in the forefoot area to promote airflow so that your feet don’t get sweaty from playing for several hours. The Mizuno Advanced Finch Elite 3 comes with a booty-fit tongue and a padded collar for added comfort. It also incorporates a cushioned textile footbed for further enhancing the comfort level of the shoes.
Mizuno hasn’t revealed the insights about the midsole used in Advanced Finch Elite 3, but we expect it to be shock absorbent. This model has a nine-spike TPU outsole that delivers excellent traction on an artificial-grass playing field. The Advanced Finch Elite 3 is a good pair for those who want to practice softball on turf. However, it won’t provide good traction on actual playing fields.
Pros of the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 3 Softball Cleat
- TPU outsole with nine rubber spikes provide good traction turf
- Padded collar
- Booty-fit tongue
- Cushioned textile footbed for comfort
- Perforated uppers
Cons of the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 3 Softball Cleat
- Designed for turf
12. Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone Softball Cleat
If you are after a high-end pair of softball cleats, consider the Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone. This model boasts several impressive features, which justify the hefty price tag associated with it. The uppers of these shoes are constructed with a combination of synthetic leather and TPU mesh for breathability and durability. Softball matches can extend for several hours, which could lead to sweaty-feet if you are wearing shoes that restrict airflow. The breathable upper of the Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone would ensure that this doesn’t happen, and your feet stay fresh and dry even during long hours of play.
For comfort and shock absorption, Nike has used Phylon foam for the midsole of these shoes. This lightweight Phylon midsole cushions your every step, reduces shock, and disperses the pressure of the cleats, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable. The outsole of the Nike Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone boasts 12 rubber cleats, designed to offer superior traction on a variety of surfaces. Thus, you would be able to perform lateral and rotational movements without losing your grip on the field.
This model is available in a variety of sizes and runs true-to-size. It also fits wide feet, so sizing won’t be an issue. The only downside is its price, which could pose a problem for those shopping on a budget.
Pros of the Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone Softball Cleat
- Phylon midsole for lightweight cushioning and shock absorption
- Breathable and durable uppers
- 12 rubber cleats for excellent traction
- Fits true-to-size
Cons of the Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond 2 Keystone Softball Cleat
- Very expensive
13. New Balance Women’s Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe
This is one of the most expensive pairs on this list. As such, it has several impressive features that may appeal to professional softball players. For starters, the upper of the New Balance Velo V1 is made with a combination of synthetic leather and textile materials to ensure durability and flexibility. Perforations on the upper promote airflow, preventing your feet from sweating even during long hours of play. There is some protection on the toe area to reduce wear that results from toe-drag.
The New Balance Velo V1 incorporates a REVLite midsole whose excellent shock-absorption quality would cushion your steps, preventing fatigue. One of the things we like about this model is that it comes with removable insoles, meaning that you can replace them for your own specialized orthotics for extra support and comfort.
The outsole of the New Balance Velo V1 features eight metal spikes, which provide excellent traction on a number of playing fields. This model boasts a low-cut design, maximizing performance. However, it’s a trade-off, as you won’t get much ankle support and protection. Go with your original size when ordering the pair since it runs true-to-size variants.
Pros of the New Balance Women’s Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe
- Removable insoles
- REVLite midsole attenuates shock on impact
- Breathable and durable uppers
- Eight metal spike that offers a great grip
- Runs true-to-size
Cons of the New Balance Women’s Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe
- Very expensive
14. New Balance Women’s Sp4040b1
The New Balance SP4040b1 is suitable for both fast-pitch and soft-pitch softball. It is designed for pitchers and as such, features reinforced toe area, which protects it from the abrasion of toe-drag. The uppers of this model are made with synthetic and mesh materials to ensure durability and breathability. These shoes feature the New Balance’s popular REVLite midsole, which provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption while being lightweight.
The New Balance Sp4040b1 features a 14-spike configuration. These are molded plastic spikes designed to provide good traction on a number of playing surfaces, so you should be able to move around the field without worrying about slipping. This model is only available in one color; you won’t get many options when it comes to design. It runs a little narrow, making it unsuitable for people with wide feet.
Pros of the New Balance Women’s Sp4040b1
- Excellent traction on a variety of surfaces
- REVLite midsole attenuates shock, cushioning your steps
- Breathable and durable uppers
- Reinforced toe area
Cons of the New Balance Women’s Sp4040b1
- Runs narrow
- Molded spikes aren’t too durable
15. Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce
The Adidas Icon Bounce is a great pair for both novice and professional players, looking to take their game to the next level. The upper of the shoe is made with Nubuck leather and textile materials to ensure durability and flexibility. Its vamp is perforated to promote airflow so your feet wouldn’t feel moist and sweaty even during long matches. To provide superior abrasion in the toe-drag area, Adidas has used the Ironskin toe-cap. This makes the Icon Bounce a good option for pitchers.
The tongue of the shoes is padded to keep your feet comfy. Inside this model is a soft foam core called ‘Bounce.’ Bounce provides enhanced shock absorption and flexibility to reduce fatigue and foot-pain resulting from long hours of play. The Adidas Icon Bounce comes with a Stealtrax outsole plate with eight metal spikes that provide excellent traction on virtually all playing fields. Despite boasting some very impressive features, this model doesn’t come with a hefty price tag, which makes it one of our favorite softball cleats.
Pros of the Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce
- Breathable and durable uppers
- Ironskin toe cap to prevent wear from toe-drag
- Bounce enhances shock absorption and flexibility
- Stealtrax outsole plate with eight metal spikes for excellent traction
- Reasonable price
Cons of the Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce
- Toe area may wear down after some time
16. Adidas Men’s Icon Bounce TPU
If you want all the features of the Adidas Icon Bounce except the metal spikes, consider this pair. Like the model discussed above, the Adidas Men’s Icon Bounce TPU comes with Nubuck leather and synthetic upper with a perforated vamp for breathability. The Bounce midsoles attenuate shock on impact to keep your feet comfy and pain-free. The Ironskin toe-cap provides abrasion resistance in the toe-drag area. The tongue of this model is padded for added comfort.
The Adidas Icon Bounce TPU features a molded Stealtrax TPU outsole with nine molded cleats for excellent grip on a variety of playing surfaces. The grip is, however, not as great as that provided by the metal cleats used in the Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce. It is worth noting that these shoes run small in size; you’ll have to be careful when ordering and go a size up for a snug fit.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s Icon Bounce TPU
- Perforated Nubuck and leather uppers ensure breathability and durability
- Bounce midsole attenuates shock on impact
- Iron to-cap for abrasion resistance in the toe-drag area
- Padded tongue for comfort
- Molded cleats provide good traction on a variety of surfaces
Cons of the Adidas Men’s Icon Bounce TPU
- Runs small in size
Final Thoughts
Buying a pair of softball cleats can certainly be hard, especially for first-timers. But, now that you have the best options in front of you, you should be able to find a pair that suits your needs and your wallet. If you are still struggling to find a suitable pair, we will make things a little more clear for you. We featured our top three choices before, so we will now explain to you why the Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce, Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 4, and Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Swift 4 Face-Pitch Metal Softball Cleat are our favorite models.
Best Overall
If you want a pair of softball shoes that boast impressive features without being too expensive, we recommend the Adidas Women’s Icon Bounce. The Icon Bounce is an extraordinary pair, and it has surprised us with its features and reasonable pricing. The uppers of the model are durable and breathable, so you won’t have to worry about replacing the pair anytime soon. Its midsoles provide ample cushioning and shock absorption, preventing fatigue and foot injuries. The Stealtrax outsole of the shoes boasts eight metal spikes that offer excellent traction on almost all playing fields. At this price range, there is no other model that can give you such extraordinary features, which makes it the best overall product.
Premium Product
If you have the dough to afford high-end softball cleats, we recommend you go with the Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 4. This premium model has everything a softball player could want in their cleats. Its low-cut design ensures top performance on the field. The uppers are made with a combination of protective and breathable materials for durability and breathability. The tongue and collar are padded to keep your feet comfortable. The toe is reinforced for protection and to avoid wear. For shock absorption, these shoes feature a full-length midsole, which reduces shock on each impact and disperses the pressure of the metal cleats.
Best Value
When it comes to value for money, our top pick is the Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Swift 4 Face-Pitch Metal Softball Cleat. It boasts some great features at a reasonable price tag, which is why we believe that it gives you the best bang for your buck. The uppers of this shoe are made with a combination of textile and synthetic materials to ensure durability and flexibility. These uppers are perforated to promote airflow within the shoe. A special mesh lining is integrated to prevent the build-up of sweat. Other impressive features include a foam insole, a full-length midsole, and a nine-spike configuration outsole, which provide excellent traction on properly maintained fields.
When looking at softball cleats to buy, make sure to consider the things we discussed earlier. These include durability, comfort, type, playing position, and fit of the shoes. This will increase your chances of buying a pair of softball cleats that meets your needs. A last word of advice – don’t try to play softball in running shoes or soccer cleats, even if you are just getting started. These shoes don’t provide good traction on softball fields and thus, increase the risk of injury. You obviously don’t want to get injured while playing a game. Avoid injuries and invest in softball cleats.
We hope you are able to find your ideal pair of softball cleats. In case you still can’t make a decision, shoot a query our way or give us a buzz and we will suggest a good pair for you.