Find The Perfect Lacrosse Cleats For Your Needs With This Helpful GuideFind The Perfect Lacrosse Cleats For Your Needs With This Helpful Guide
Determine Your Position
Are you an attacker or a defender? The type of lacrosse cleats you’ll need depends on your position on the field. Attackers tend to prefer lightweight, low-cut cleats that allow for speed and quick cuts. Defenders need more ankle support and protection, so high-top cleats are usually the best choice. Mid-cut cleats can provide a nice middle ground. Consider if you want cleats just for lacrosse or a versatile pair that could also work for other sports. Your position can help guide you.
Find The Right Size
It’s crucial to get properly fitted lacrosse cleats for comfort and performance. Youth sizes typically range from toddler to boys/girls size 7. Many brands offer wide sizing options too. If you have wide feet, avoid getting cleats too snug – go up half a size if needed. Trying cleats on in-store is ideal, but you can also trace your foot and measure the length to determine your size when ordering online. Don’t forget to account for growth if buying for a young player.
Select A Trusted Brand
Top athletic brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour are popular choices for lacrosse cleats. They offer a range of styles and prices. More specialized brands like New Balance, Warrior and STX also make quality cleats with lacrosse-specific features. Compare traction patterns, padding, weight and materials across different brands to find the right match for your preferences. Ask teammates what brands they recommend too.
Customize With Color
Personalize your cleats by choosing your preferred colors and color combinations. Bold neon hues have a fun, eye-catching effect. Two-tone cleats with a different base and accent color can help them stand out. Match your team colors or complement them with a style that fits your personality. Just be sure any custom colors or designs meet league requirements.
Examine The Traction
Having the right traction keeps you stable during cuts, accelerations and dodges. Molded cleats have permanent studs for excellent grip. Detachable cleats allow you to swap studs for different field conditions. Edge designs provide traction at toe-off. Consider trying both types to see which works best for your playing style. Focus extra traction at the forefoot and lateral edges.
Assess Ankle Support Levels
Lacrosse involves lots of lateral motion and change of direction, so ankle support is key. High-top cleats offer maximum stability for defenders and big hitters. Low-tops maximize mobility for speedy attackers. Mid-cut cleats hit a middle ground. Some cleats add protective padding or composite materials for extra support without the bulk of a high-top. Get the right amount of support for your position.
Determine Cleat Versatility
While lacrosse-specific cleats optimize performance, some athletes prefer the versatility of football or soccer cleats that can transition across sports. Features like deeper studs and ankle support still benefit lacrosse. Just ensure any non-lacrosse cleats meet league rules and provide needed traction. Multi-sport options can save money but sacrifice some lacrosse-tailored performance.
Check For Protective Padding
Added padding in lacrosse cleats helps shield your feet against impact from checks, errant sticks and balls. Padding zones on the tongue, sides and toes offer extra protection. Make sure padding doesn’t restrict movement or cause rubbing. Lightweight foam or gel pads work well. Some cleats also use reinforced materials for protection without bulk.
Consider Weight
Defenders, on the other hand, typically benefit from high-top cleats that offer enhanced ankle support and protection. The additional stability helps them maintain a strong defensive stance and withstand physical challenges from opposing players.
For those who play multiple positions or are still developing their skills, mid-cut cleats can provide a versatile option that balances mobility and support.
Position-Specific Cleat Features
- Attackers: Lightweight, low-cut, flexible
- Midfielders: Balanced support, good traction
- Defenders: High-top, sturdy, protective
- Goalies: Ankle support, durable toe box
Finding the Perfect Fit: Sizing and Comfort Considerations
Proper sizing is essential for both comfort and performance in lacrosse cleats. Ill-fitting cleats can lead to blisters, reduced agility, and even injuries. When selecting your size, consider the following factors:
- Foot length and width
- Toe box space
- Heel cup fit
- Arch support
Does your foot swell during intense activity? If so, try on cleats later in the day when your feet are slightly larger. This ensures a comfortable fit throughout your games and practices.
For growing athletes, it’s tempting to buy cleats with room to grow. However, excessive space can lead to slippage and reduced performance. Instead, opt for a snug fit with just enough room for natural foot expansion during play.
How to Measure for Lacrosse Cleats
- Trace your foot on paper while standing
- Measure the length from heel to toe
- Measure the width at the widest part
- Compare measurements to brand-specific size charts
Are you purchasing cleats online? Many retailers offer detailed sizing guides and accept returns for size exchanges. Take advantage of these policies to ensure you get the right fit.
Top Brands and Models in Lacrosse Footwear
Several renowned athletic brands produce high-quality lacrosse cleats. Each brand offers unique features and technologies designed to enhance performance on the field. Here are some of the top contenders:
Nike Lacrosse Cleats
Nike’s lacrosse cleats are known for their innovative designs and advanced technologies. Popular models include the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro and the Nike Vapor Edge Pro 360.
Under Armour Lacrosse Cleats
Under Armour offers a range of lacrosse-specific cleats, such as the UA Highlight MC and the UA Command MC, which provide excellent support and traction.
New Balance Lacrosse Cleats
New Balance has gained popularity in the lacrosse community with models like the Freeze and the Burn, known for their comfort and durability.
Warrior Lacrosse Cleats
As a lacrosse-specific brand, Warrior produces cleats tailored to the sport’s unique demands. The Warrior Burn 9.0 and Warrior Adonis are well-regarded options.
When choosing a brand, consider factors such as your foot shape, playing style, and budget. Do you have particularly wide or narrow feet? Some brands cater better to specific foot types, so research which ones align with your needs.
Traction and Stud Configurations for Optimal Performance
The traction pattern on your lacrosse cleats can significantly impact your performance on the field. Different stud configurations offer varying levels of grip and stability for different playing surfaces and conditions.
Types of Lacrosse Cleat Studs
- Molded cleats: Permanent studs ideal for firm, natural surfaces
- Detachable cleats: Interchangeable studs for varying field conditions
- Turf cleats: Shorter, more numerous studs for artificial turf
How do you choose between molded and detachable cleats? Consider the fields you typically play on and the weather conditions you encounter. Molded cleats offer consistency and durability, while detachable cleats provide versatility for changing conditions.
For players who frequently compete on both natural grass and artificial turf, investing in two pairs of cleats—one for each surface—may be worthwhile. This ensures optimal traction and performance regardless of the playing surface.
Stud Patterns for Different Positions
The arrangement of studs on your cleats can be tailored to your position and playing style:
- Attackers: Emphasize forefoot traction for quick starts and cuts
- Midfielders: Balanced traction across the entire foot
- Defenders: Extra heel studs for stability when backpedaling
Do you find yourself slipping during specific movements? Pay attention to where you need the most grip and look for cleats with stud patterns that address those areas.
Ankle Support and Protection: Balancing Mobility and Safety
The level of ankle support in your lacrosse cleats can significantly impact your performance and injury risk. Different positions and playing styles require varying degrees of support and protection.
Low-Cut Lacrosse Cleats
Low-cut cleats offer maximum flexibility and range of motion, making them ideal for attackers and midfielders who prioritize speed and agility. However, they provide minimal ankle protection.
Mid-Cut Lacrosse Cleats
Mid-cut cleats strike a balance between mobility and support. They’re suitable for versatile players or those who want additional stability without sacrificing too much flexibility.
High-Top Lacrosse Cleats
High-top cleats provide the most ankle support and protection, making them popular among defenders and players with a history of ankle injuries. They may slightly restrict mobility but offer enhanced stability during physical play.
Have you experienced ankle injuries in the past? If so, consider opting for cleats with additional ankle support or using ankle braces in conjunction with your preferred cleat style.
Material Innovations in Lacrosse Cleat Design
Modern lacrosse cleats incorporate a variety of advanced materials to enhance performance, durability, and comfort. Understanding these materials can help you make an informed decision when selecting your cleats.
Upper Materials
- Synthetic leather: Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant
- Knit fabrics: Breathable and flexible, offering a sock-like fit
- Mesh: Promotes airflow and reduces weight
Midsole Materials
- EVA foam: Lightweight cushioning for comfort
- Polyurethane: Durable support and energy return
- TPU: Stability and protection in high-stress areas
Outsole Materials
- TPU: Durable and flexible, suitable for various conditions
- Pebax: Lightweight with excellent energy return
- Carbon fiber: Premium option for maximum responsiveness
Are you concerned about cleat durability? Look for models that incorporate reinforced materials in high-wear areas, such as the toe box and lateral edges.
Customization Options: Expressing Your Style on the Field
Many lacrosse cleat manufacturers offer customization options, allowing players to express their personal style while maintaining performance. Consider the following customization possibilities:
Color Selection
Choose from a wide range of color combinations to match your team colors or showcase your individual flair. Some brands offer online customization tools to preview different color schemes.
Personalization
Add your name, number, or a personal message to your cleats for a unique touch. This can also help identify your gear in team settings.
Limited Edition Designs
Keep an eye out for special edition cleats featuring unique patterns, collaborations with professional players, or themed designs for major tournaments.
When considering customization options, be sure to check your league’s regulations regarding cleat colors and designs to ensure compliance.
Budget Considerations: Balancing Cost and Quality
Lacrosse cleats can vary significantly in price, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models. Consider the following factors when determining your budget:
Price Ranges for Lacrosse Cleats
- Entry-level: $40-$70
- Mid-range: $70-$120
- High-end: $120-$200+
Is it worth investing in expensive cleats? While higher-priced cleats often offer advanced technologies and premium materials, mid-range options can provide excellent performance for most players. Consider your skill level, frequency of play, and long-term goals when deciding how much to invest.
Ways to Save on Lacrosse Cleats
- Look for previous season’s models on clearance
- Take advantage of off-season sales
- Consider gently used cleats from reputable resellers
- Join brand mailing lists for exclusive discounts
Remember that proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your cleats, making them a better long-term investment.
Making the Final Decision: Trying On and Testing Your Cleats
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s crucial to try on and test your potential lacrosse cleats before making a final decision. Follow these steps to ensure you’re selecting the best pair for your needs:
In-Store Fitting Tips
- Wear the socks you’ll use during play
- Try on cleats later in the day when feet are slightly swollen
- Walk, jog, and make quick cuts to assess comfort and stability
- Check for any pressure points or areas of discomfort
Break-In Period
Even the best-fitting cleats may require a break-in period. Wear them for short periods during practice before using them in a game situation. This allows the materials to mold to your foot shape and reduces the risk of blisters or discomfort during crucial moments.
Can’t try on cleats in person? Many online retailers offer generous return policies, allowing you to test cleats at home and return them if they don’t meet your expectations.
By considering all these factors—position-specific needs, fit, brand reputation, traction, support, materials, customization options, and budget—you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect lacrosse cleats for your game. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role, so trust your instincts and select the cleats that feel right for you. With the right footwear, you’ll be ready to dominate on the lacrosse field and take your performance to the next level.
Determine Your Position
Are you an attacker or a defender? The type of lacrosse cleats you’ll need depends on your position on the field. Attackers tend to prefer lightweight, low-cut cleats that allow for speed and quick cuts. Defenders need more ankle support and protection, so high-top cleats are usually the best choice. Mid-cut cleats can provide a nice middle ground. Consider if you want cleats just for lacrosse or a versatile pair that could also work for other sports. Your position can help guide you.
Find The Right Size
It’s crucial to get properly fitted lacrosse cleats for comfort and performance. Youth sizes typically range from toddler to boys/girls size 7. Many brands offer wide sizing options too. If you have wide feet, avoid getting cleats too snug – go up half a size if needed. Trying cleats on in-store is ideal, but you can also trace your foot and measure the length to determine your size when ordering online. Don’t forget to account for growth if buying for a young player.
Select A Trusted Brand
Top athletic brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour are popular choices for lacrosse cleats. They offer a range of styles and prices. More specialized brands like New Balance, Warrior and STX also make quality cleats with lacrosse-specific features. Compare traction patterns, padding, weight and materials across different brands to find the right match for your preferences. Ask teammates what brands they recommend too.
Customize With Color
Personalize your cleats by choosing your preferred colors and color combinations. Bold neon hues have a fun, eye-catching effect. Two-tone cleats with a different base and accent color can help them stand out. Match your team colors or complement them with a style that fits your personality. Just be sure any custom colors or designs meet league requirements.
Examine The Traction
Having the right traction keeps you stable during cuts, accelerations and dodges. Molded cleats have permanent studs for excellent grip. Detachable cleats allow you to swap studs for different field conditions. Edge designs provide traction at toe-off. Consider trying both types to see which works best for your playing style. Focus extra traction at the forefoot and lateral edges.
Assess Ankle Support Levels
Lacrosse involves lots of lateral motion and change of direction, so ankle support is key. High-top cleats offer maximum stability for defenders and big hitters. Low-tops maximize mobility for speedy attackers. Mid-cut cleats hit a middle ground. Some cleats add protective padding or composite materials for extra support without the bulk of a high-top. Get the right amount of support for your position.
Determine Cleat Versatility
While lacrosse-specific cleats optimize performance, some athletes prefer the versatility of football or soccer cleats that can transition across sports. Features like deeper studs and ankle support still benefit lacrosse. Just ensure any non-lacrosse cleats meet league rules and provide needed traction. Multi-sport options can save money but sacrifice some lacrosse-tailored performance.
Check For Protective Padding
Added padding in lacrosse cleats helps shield your feet against impact from checks, errant sticks and balls. Padding zones on the tongue, sides and toes offer extra protection. Make sure padding doesn’t restrict movement or cause rubbing. Lightweight foam or gel pads work well. Some cleats also use reinforced materials for protection without bulk.
Consider Weight
In general, lighter lacrosse cleats translate to increased speed and agility on the field. Many high-performance cleats now use ultra-light synthetic materials and low-profile designs to shave off ounces without losing structure and durability. Try on different weights to find the balance you prefer. The range is around 8-14 oz per shoe, with most falling under 12 oz.
Factor In Affordability
Lacrosse cleats can range from $40 up to $200 or more per pair. Higher prices tend to signal premium materials, specialized designs and maximum durability. But more affordable cleats can still offer great quality and value. Set a budget and look for sales to offset costs. Many last year models go on clearance before new versions launch.
Read Online Reviews
Research cleats online before buying and read feedback from other lacrosse players. Sort reviews by verified purchases, position played and foot type for the most relevant input. Pay attention to commentary on sizing, durability, comfort and traction from real-world use. This helps assess if a cleat matches your needs.
Shop Locally If Possible
Visiting a sports store gives you the advantage of trying on lacrosse cleats before purchasing. Athlete’s Foot, Big 5 and DICK’s Sporting Goods are popular options. Staff can bring out multiple sizes and styles to find your best fit. You’ll walk out with cleats ready to test on the field.
Compare Online Retailers
When shopping for lacrosse cleats online, popular websites include brand sites (Nike.com, Adidas.com), sports mega-stores (DICK’s Sporting Goods, Sports Authority), and specialty shops (Lacrosse Monkey, Lax.com). Compare selection, prices, coupons/promos, return policies, and shipping costs.
Break Them In Gradually
New cleats need a break-in period for comfort. Wear them around the house to start. Transition into drills and short practices before games. Blisters and hot spots are common if rushing the process. Take time to allow cleats to properly mold to your feet before heavy use.
Consider Your Size
Getting properly fitted lacrosse cleats is crucial for comfort and performance. Youth sizes typically range from toddler to boys/girls size 7, and many brands offer wide sizing options too. If you have wide feet, go up half a size to avoid getting cleats too snug. Trying on cleats in-store allows you to find the best fit, but you can also trace your foot and measure length to determine size for online ordering. Don’t forget to account for growth if buying for a young player.
Select A Trusted Brand
Top athletic brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour are popular choices for lacrosse cleats, offering a range of styles and prices. More specialized brands like New Balance, Warrior and STX also make quality cleats with lacrosse-specific features. Comparing traction patterns, padding, weight and materials across brands helps find the right match for your preferences. Asking teammates for brand recommendations can provide additional insight.
Customize With Color
Personalizing your lacrosse cleats with your preferred colors and color combinations can give them a fun, eye-catching effect. Bold neon hues stand out, while two-tone cleats with different base and accent colors also help them pop. Matching team colors or complementing them with your own style works, as long as any custom colors meet league requirements.
Examine The Traction
Having the right traction keeps you stable during cuts, accelerations and dodges in lacrosse. Molded cleats offer permanent studs for excellent grip, while detachable cleats allow swapping studs based on field conditions. Edge designs provide traction at toe-off. Trying both types can help determine which works best for your playing style. Focus extra traction at the forefoot and lateral edges.
Assess Ankle Support Levels
The lateral motion and change of direction in lacrosse make ankle support key. High-top cleats provide maximum stability for defenders and big hitters. Low-tops maximize mobility for speedy attackers. Mid-cut cleats offer a middle ground. Some cleats add protective padding or composite materials for extra support without the bulk of a high-top. Getting the right amount of support for your position is important.
Determine Cleat Versatility
While lacrosse-specific cleats optimize performance, some athletes prefer the versatility of football or soccer cleats that can work across sports. Features like deeper studs and ankle support still benefit lacrosse. Just ensure any non-lacrosse cleats meet league rules and provide needed traction. Multi-sport options can save money but may sacrifice some lacrosse-tailored performance.
Check For Protective Padding
Added padding in lacrosse cleats helps shield your feet from impact of checks, errant sticks, and balls. Padding zones on the tongue, sides, and toes provide extra protection. Ensure padding doesn’t restrict movement or cause rubbing. Lightweight foam or gel pads work well without bulk. Some cleats also use reinforced materials for protection without added padding.
Consider Weight
In general, lighter lacrosse cleats translate to increased speed and agility on the field. Many high-performance cleats now use ultra-light synthetic materials and low-profile designs to shave off ounces without losing structure and durability. Trying on different weights helps find the balance you prefer, with most in the 8-14 oz per shoe range and falling under 12 oz.
Factor In Affordability
Lacrosse cleats can range from $40 up to $200 or more per pair. Higher prices often reflect premium materials, specialized designs, and maximum durability. However, more affordable cleats can still provide great quality and value. Setting a budget and watching for sales, like clearance of last year’s models, can help offset costs.
Read Online Reviews
Researching lacrosse cleats online before buying and reading feedback from other players is helpful. Sorting reviews by verified purchases, position played, and foot type provides the most relevant input. Pay attention to commentary on sizing, durability, comfort and traction based on real-world use to assess if a cleat matches your needs.
Shop Locally If Possible
Visiting a sports store gives the advantage of trying on lacrosse cleats before purchasing. Popular options like Athlete’s Foot, Big 5, and DICK’s Sporting Goods allow staff to bring out multiple sizes and styles to find your best fit. You can walk out with cleats ready to test on the field after an in-store fitting.
Compare Online Retailers
When shopping for lacrosse cleats online, popular websites include brand sites like Nike.com and Adidas.com, sports mega-stores like DICK’s Sporting Goods and Sports Authority, and specialty shops such as Lacrosse Monkey and Lax.com. Compare selection, prices, coupons/promos, return policies, and shipping costs across retailers.
Break Them In Gradually
New lacrosse cleats need a break-in period for comfort. Wear them initially around the house, then transition into drills and short practices before games. Blisters and hot spots are common if rushing the break-in process. Take time to properly mold cleats to your feet before heavy use.
