Best Youth Lacrosse Cleats for Ankle Support Comfort Speed and Durability 2023

Best Youth Lacrosse Cleats for Ankle Support Comfort Speed and Durability 2023

Choose Cleats with Proper Ankle Support and Stability for Lacrosse

As any experienced lacrosse player knows, having the proper ankle support and stability in your cleats is absolutely crucial for preventing injuries and optimizing performance on the field. After all, lacrosse is a fast-paced, cutting sport that requires players to frequently pivot, change direction, accelerate and decelerate. Without adequate ankle support, it’s incredibly easy for even the most skilled lacrosse athletes to roll or sprain their ankles.

So when selecting your next pair of lacrosse cleats, ankle support and stability should be at the very top of your list of priorities. Generally, high-top cleats that extend above the ankles tend to provide the most support and protection against rolled ankles. Brands like Nike Alpha Huarache and Under Armour High Tops are excellent choices known for their exceptional ankle lockdown and stability. The high tops literally wrap around your ankle like a brace, keeping you locked in tight with every cut and pivot.

Mid-top and low-top cleats can also work well, as long as they have a solid heel counter and good lacing system to secure your foot firmly in place. Some players prefer the enhanced mobility and freedom of low-tops, but you sacrifice a bit of that ankle protection. When trying on any lacrosse cleats, be sure to really tighten up the laces and make those hard cuts and jumps to see how your ankle feels supported. Move in all different directions – not just forwards and backwards. You want to ensure no sliding around in the shoes whatsoever.

By selecting lacrosse cleats with proper ankle support and stability, you greatly reduce those nagging rolled ankles and other injuries. That means less time on the sidelines and more time dominating the competition. So don’t ignore the importance of solid ankle support when buying your next pair of lacrosse cleats this season!

Choose Lightweight, Flexible Cleats for Speed and Agility in Lacrosse

Speed and agility are vital attributes for success in the fast-paced sport of lacrosse. Whether you’re an attackman dodging and spinning past defenders, a midfielder sprinting up and down the field on transitions, or a defender keeping pace with quick offensive players – quickness and explosiveness is a must.

That’s why choosing the right lacrosse cleats can give you a major edge out on the field. The lightweight construction and flexibility of today’s top lacrosse cleats allow for lightning-fast cuts, split dodges, and rapid acceleration in any direction. Brands like Nike and Under Armour now manufacture their lacrosse shoes with cutting-edge synthetic materials to shed weight without compromising durability and support.

For midfielders who constantly transition from offense to defense, lightweight cleats are especially critical. The top midfield cleats weigh between 8-10 ounces, with some as low as 7 ounces. That lightness translates into less fatigue over the course of a game, allowing you to maintain your highest level of speed and quickness. Many midfielders also prefer low-cut or mid-cut cleats for maximum ankle mobility when criss-crossing the field.

Attackmen also benefit greatly from flexible, lightweight lacrosse cleats when dodging and spinning off defenders. Nike’s Vapor line of lacrosse cleats is a popular choice, constructed with ultra light mesh material for breathability and quick moves in tight spaces. Under Armour highlights their “Anatomical Speed” cleats for attackmen and offensive midfielders, specifically engineered for lightning cuts and acceleration.

For youth players still developing their speed and agility, lightweight lacrosse cleats can provide that extra burst to blow past opponents. Brands like Nike, Under Armour and New Balance all make versions of their fast, flexible cleats in youth sizes for a proper fit.

So don’t hold back your quickness on the lacrosse field this season. Get yourself a pair of lightweight, flexible lacrosse cleats and watch your speed and agility reach new heights!

Select Durable, Quality Lacrosse Cleats for Longevity and Performance

As any experienced lacrosse player knows, the intense stops, starts, cuts and impacts of game action can quickly wear down flimsy, low-quality cleats. You need footwear built tough enough to withstand the rigors of competition, season after season. That’s why when selecting your next pair of lacrosse cleats, durability and construction quality should be top priorities.

Brands like Nike, New Balance, Under Armour and others now engineer their lacrosse shoes with premium synthetics and materials to not only reduce weight, but also enhance durability. Cleats like the Nike Alpha Huarache utilize a reinforced Drag-On 2.0 synthetic upper material to remain intact through endless stretches and abrasions during play. New Balance Freeze cleats feature a FantomFit upper construction for lightweight support that doesn’t pack out or lose shape over time.

Outsoles are also designed for maximum traction and longevity on natural grass and artificial turf. Durable TPU plastic or high-quality rubber outsoles will maintain their stud shape and grip far longer than cheaper plastics. Look for solid rubbers with multiple traction stud configurations to prevent premature wear and slippage.

Lacrosse cleats at the higher end of the price spectrum generally offer the most advanced materials and construction for extended life. But decent options can still be found even at lower budget levels if you look carefully at the durability details. Avoid lacrosse shoes with a high proportion of mesh material in the upper, as that will break down faster. Prioritize synthetics and quality stitching instead.

Taking the time to select well-constructed, durable lacrosse cleats will reward you with seasons of consistent performance and support, no matter the weather or field conditions. Don’t settle for cleats that fall apart after just a few months. Choose durable quality right from the start, and you’ll be dominating the lacrosse field for years to come.

Select the Proper Cleat Cut Style Based on Your Lacrosse Position

When selecting lacrosse cleats, one of the most important choices is the cut style – low, mid or high-top. Each cut offers particular benefits based on playing position and personal preference. High-tops provide maximum ankle support and stability which many defenders favor. Mid-cuts offer a balance of mobility and support, ideal for midfielders. Low-cuts maximize speed and ankle flexion for attackmen who prize agility.

High-top lacrosse cleats literally wrap right around the ankle almost like a brace, locking in tight support on cuts and pivots. Brands like Nike Alpha Huarache and Under Armour Highlight come up 4-5 inches above the ankle bone, ideal for players who have rolled ankles in the past. Defensive players benefit greatly from the stability during physical battles down low and when jockeying for ground balls.

Mid-cut lacrosse cleats rise just above the ankle bone for moderate support and flexibility. Midfielders often prefer this medium cut style since they transition from offense to defense constantly. A mid-cut allows solid lateral support while still permitting enough ankle mobility to sprint around the field. Brands like New Balance Freeze, Nike Vapor, and Warrior Burn mid-tops are great choices.

Low-cut or ankle cut lacrosse cleats only come up to the ankle bone for maximum maneuverability. Attackmen and some offensive midfielders who rely on speed, quick cuts and dodges favor these. However, some players do sacrifice a bit of support and roll their ankles easier in low-cuts versus mid or high. Nike Vapor and New Balance Freeze offer low-cut variations.

So consider your position and individual needs when deciding on lacrosse cleat height. Try on all three cuts with sports-specific motions to see what feels best before deciding. Selecting the proper cleat height for your style of play will give you the performance edge all season long.

Look for Lacrosse Cleats that Meet Safety and Performance Standards

With lacrosse being such an explosive, high-impact sport, it’s crucial for players to wear cleats that meet rigorous safety standards. Fortunately, all the major lacrosse cleat manufacturers like Nike, New Balance, Under Armour and others comply with NOCSAE performance requirements to ensure quality and protection.

NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) is an independent body that thoroughly tests athletic gear like helmets and cleats for safety. They analyze impact attenuation, field visibility, slip resistance, cleat length and other metrics. Only cleats that pass earn the NOCSAE seal of approval on the product.

Rest assured that top brands like Nike, New Balance, Under Armour, Warrior and others will meet NOCSAE standards during production. They have entire teams dedicated to constantly improving safety and performance. Lesser known brands may cut corners, so verify their NOCSAE certification before buying.

Beyond NOCSAE, some brands like Under Armour take safety testing even further in their UA Labs. They observe athletes in action to refine cleat construction and materials to prevent rolled ankles, blowouts, toe drag and more. So don’t just assume any cleat is safe – look for that NOCSAE logo.

You work too hard training and competing to risk getting injured by subpar equipment. Always opt for lacrosse cleats certified by NOCSAE and backed by a trustworthy athletic brand. Your ankles and feet will thank you after those unavoidable collisions and awkward landings during games.

Find The Right Lacrosse Cleat Fit For Wide Feet

Having wide feet can make finding well-fitting lacrosse cleats quite frustrating. Jamming your feet into narrow, cramped shoes leads to painful blisters, loss of stability, and decreased performance. Thankfully, brands like New Balance and Under Armour now offer wider fit cleats in sizes 4E to 6E for optimal comfort.

New Balance is renowned for accommodating wider feet across many sports, and their lacrosse cleats are no exception. The New Balance Freeze and New Balance Burn lines come in 4E, 6E and other wide widths to provide ample toe room and metatarsal support. The cleats maintain lateral stability too despite the wider fit.

Under Armour highlights their Wide Fit line of Freedom and Highlight lacrosse cleats fitting up to 4E in youth and men’s sizes. A wider cleat base and toe box prevent that sneaker squeeze, while a padded ankle collar stops any rubbing. UA Wide Fit cleats align perfectly with their slogan – “We Must Protect This House…All Shapes and Sizes.”

Don’t just size up to wider sizes in regular lacrosse cleats, as they’ll likely still be too narrow in the forefoot and midfoot. Be sure to search for cleats specifically designed for wide feet to experience that custom, glove-like fit. Your feet will feel much faster and more agile without those restriction points.

Every athlete deserves properly fitting gear that doesn’t impede performance. So if you have wide feet, seek out lacrosse cleats this season that finally provide the roominess and support you need. Domination on the field requires the right foundation.

Select Lacrosse Cleats with Optimal Traction for Field Surfaces

Having the proper lacrosse cleat traction for your playing surface is crucial for acceleration, cuts, and stability during play. Natural grass fields require longer studs for grip, while turf fields need lots of small nubs for traction on artificial fibers.

For grass fields, traditional spiked cleats with 7-9mm detachable studs work best. Nike Alpha Huarache and New Balance Freeze cleats have configurations with two longer front spikes for powerful toe-off traction from a standstill or sprint. Some rear studs are shorter for balance and pivoting.

On newer artificial turf fields, soccer-style molded cleats with many dispersed short nubs offer superior grip without getting caught in the carpet-like surface. Models like the Nike Vapor Lax lacrosse cleats have a mix of conical and bladed nubs to maintain traction in all directions.

The ideal lacrosse cleat for turf has 40 or more small traction nodes well-distributed across the outsole. Look for multi-directional pivot points at the toe, ball, and heel of the foot so you can move naturally in this fast-paced sport. A proper stud pattern prevents those nasty ankle rolls and blowouts.

Before buying new lacrosse cleats, always check your upcoming game and practice field surfaces. Ask coaches if uncertain. Then select the appropriate cleat stud style and length to provide peak rotational traction and acceleration all season long.

Choose Removable Cleats for Versatility and Extended Use

One easy way to extend the life and versatility of your lacrosse cleats is to select a model with removable studs. This allows you to tailor your traction and replace worn studs when needed.

Removable cleats offer the flexibility to switch studs based on field conditions. Longer studs for natural grass can be changed to smaller turf studs in seconds. No need to buy totally separate cleats. Just pack extra studs in your gear bag for all scenarios.

Replacing worn studs over time also prevents you from needing new cleats each season. Studs take the brunt of abuse, rounding out and shedding traction after months of play. Simply swap fresh studs into the sole plate periodically to restore grip. It saves you major money compared to frequently buying new fixed-stud cleats.

Nike, New Balance, Under Armour and other top brands offer lacrosse cleats with removable studs across most models now. Look for a round screw in the back of each stud to easily twist them out. A simple Allen key tool swaps fresh studs in.

Get more from your lacrosse cleat investment by going for a removable stud option. You’ll gain way more value from a single pair with the flexibility to adapt them as studs wear and field conditions change.

Select Proper Youth Lacrosse Cleat Sizes For Optimal Fit and Safety

Finding just the right size lacrosse cleats for growing feet is key to keeping young athletes comfortable and performing safely on the field. Brands like Nike, New Balance and Under Armour offer youth lacrosse cleats in proper-fitting smaller sizes.

Properly fitted cleats eliminate slipping around and loss of stability during those quick cuts and dodges in lacrosse games. With high-impact collisions, rolled ankles and other injuries can easily occur with oversized, loose-fitting cleats. But undersized cleats restrict movement and cause pain.

When trying on youth lacrosse cleats, focus on a snug heel and midfoot fit with enough toe room to wiggle slightly. Feet swell during play, so avoid cleats that feel too tight. Compare sizes across brands, as they vary. Under Armour runs smaller, for example. Consider going up a half-size.

Let growing players try on cleats annually for proper sizing as their feet change. Youth sizes range from toddler all the way up through adolescent. Most brands also make half-sizes to dial in the ideal fit. Don’t forget to account for wide feet with properly sized wide-width options.

With the right youth lacrosse cleats, young athletes gain confidence and speed knowing their footwear performs safely. They’ll be dodging defenders in no time thanks to that perfect fit.

Prioritize Comfort in Lacrosse Cleats to Enhance Performance

Selecting lacrosse cleats that offer exceptional comfort enhances performance by reducing fatigue and foot soreness during games. Brands like New Balance, Nike, and Under Armour now engineer cleats using advanced materials and designs for all-day wearability.

New Balance Freeze cleats provide renowned comfort with a plush Ultra Heel that cushions hard landings and cuts. Their no-sew FantomFit upper construction uses synthetic overlays for a supple, sock-like fit. An NB Comfort Insert insoles extra underfoot padding.

Nike Vapor lacrosse cleats utilize a flexible mesh material throughout the upper for a comfortably breathable feel. Their cushioned Phylon midsole compresses to soften heel strikes while running. A padded ankle collar prevents any rubbing or hot spots.

Under Armour highlights their UA ClutchFit technology that “feels like a second skin.” The lightweight but supportive exoskeleton around the midfoot locks in securely but without bulky seams or pressure points. A 4D foam footbed adds resilient cushioning.

Don’t settle for lacrosse cleats that need a break-in period or leave your feet throbbing after games. Test footwear for true comfort performing lacrosse moves in the store. All-day playability gives you a competitive edge.

Research Online Reviews to Identify the Best Lacrosse Cleats

With so many lacrosse cleat options on the market, reading online customer reviews can help identify truly exceptional models for your needs and budget. Real first-hand feedback spots issues and praises benefits.

Look across lacrosse gear sites, Amazon, Zappos, and anywhere else gathering useful cleat reviews. Sort by most recent reviews to see the latest versions. Watch out for fake sounding over-the-top reviews too. Focus on patterns in sizing, durability, and comfort notes.

Nike Vapor Lacrosse cleats earn consistent praise for their lightweight feel, explosive acceleration, and grip. Just know they run narrow. New Balance Freeze cleats draw rave comfort reviews but some question their ankle support versus high tops. Under Armour Highlight cleats impress with their lockdown fit but are expensive.

Reading lacrosse cleat reviews identifies shortcomings before you spend your hard-earned money. You can then better match expectations to your foot type, position needs, and budget. Reach out online to fellow lacrosse players too for personalized recommendations.

Leverage the internet’s wisdom when selecting your next cleats. Honest reviews cut through marketing hype to highlight genuinely great and terrible lacrosse shoes. Make your purchase with total confidence.

Try On Lacrosse Cleats In-Store for Ideal Fit Before Buying

Finding the perfect fitting lacrosse cleats for your feet requires trying them on and simulating real play. Don’t just order shoes blindly online. Visit stores to test sizes, support, and comfort performing lacrosse moves.

Bring the type of socks you’ll wear for games and practices. Try on lacrosse cleats at the end of the day when feet are most swollen too. Walk around and even jog a bit to let your foot settle in. Lace up tightly like ready to play.

Cut and pivot hard in the cleats when trying them on. Jump and land on your heels to check cushioning. Feel your midfoot lockdown stability too on those jumps. Are ankles straight or angled inward/outward on landing? No cleat should slip at all.

Trying lacrosse shoes on turf fields or outdoor grass is ideal before buying when possible. This verifies traction and studying on real surfaces. At least test footwear on shop carpet and hard floors to simulate different fields.

With lacrosse requiring so much quick cutting, finding just the right size and fit is critical before purchasing cleats. Test in-store performing dynamic motions to experience true performance and safety.

Choose Proper Cleat Height for Your Lacrosse Position

Lacrosse cleat height – low, mid or high-top – provides different benefits for each playing position. High-tops support defenders, mid-tops assist midfielders, while low-tops optimize speed for attackmen.

High-top lacrosse cleats literally wrap right around the ankle, offering defenders critical stability when jockeying for ground balls and absorbing contact. Brands like Nike Alpha Huarache and Under Armour Highlight high-tops secure ankles laterally when pivoting and cutting.

Midfielders playing both offense and defense favor mid-cut lacrosse cleats. These cleats rise just above the ankle bone for moderate flexibility to sprint up-field paired with enough support changing directions. Nike Vapor and Warrior Burn mid-tops nicely balance mobility and stability for midfielders.

Low-cut or ankle-cut lacrosse cleats maximize maneuverability for attackmen relying on speed and quick cuts near the goal. The flexible ankle mobility sacrifices some lateral support but allows sharper angles when dodging past defenders. Brands like Nike and New Balance offer low-cut options.

Trying on all three lacrosse cleat cuts determines what feels right for your position and style of play. Look for no heel slippage or looseness that could cause ankle rolls when cutting hard. Select the proper cleat height for optimized performance and safety.

Find Quality Lacrosse Cleats in Your Budget Range

Lacrosse cleats exist across the full price spectrum, from basic budget models under $50 up to premium shoes over $250. With some research, players can find high quality cleats at an affordable price point.

In the under $100 range, the New Balance Freeze and Nike Vapor lines offer excellent performance for recreational to more competitive play. At around $50-75, they’re very reasonably priced but lack premium materials of pricier cleats. Still great options for youth players especially.

Stepping up to the $100-150 range provides cleats with higher quality construction and materials while remaining fairly affordable. Options like the Under Armour Highlight, Nike Alpha Huarache, and Warrior Burn emerge as great choices per reviews.

Over $150 buys top-level lacrosse cleats from the top brands, worn at higher competitive levels. These feature advanced lightweight synthetics, optimal stud configurations and precise engineering. But casual players gain limited benefits from such premium shoes.

With the sport’s rise in popularity, more lacrosse cleat options exist across all budget levels than ever. Just be selective and read reviews to avoid low quality shoes regardless of cost. Protect those feet and ankles!

Try On Lacrosse Cleats Before Buying for Proper Fit

Finding the ideal fitting lacrosse cleats for your feet requires trying on potential shoes in-store and simulating athletic motions. Don’t just order cleats online blindly without testing sizes and support first.

When trying on lacrosse cleats, wear the type of socks you’ll use during games for an accurate fit. Visit later in the day when feet are more swollen too. Walk and light jog in the cleats to let your foot settle into the true shape and volume.

Lace up the cleats tightly as they’ll be worn on the field and perform some lacrosse-specific movements. Cut and pivot hard to experience the stability and ankle lockdown. Jump and land on your heels to test cushioning and support. Midfoot and heel should feel completely secure, without any shifting or slippage in the shoe.

Trying cleats on actual turf fields or grass beforehand is ideal, but at least test them on retail carpeting and hard floors. This will give you a feel for traction on different surfaces. Do not settle for any pinching, pressure points or instability when moving in lacrosse cleats before purchasing.

Take the time to properly try on lacrosse shoes performing dynamic motions before buying. Your feet and ankles will thank you for dialing in the ideal size, comfort and performance for safe domination on the field.