Finding The Perfect Wide Lacrosse Cleats For Your GameFinding The Perfect Wide Lacrosse Cleats For Your Game
Evaluate Your Foot Type And Width Needs
When searching for wide lacrosse cleats, the first step is to carefully evaluate your individual foot type and specific width needs. This self-assessment ensures you find the proper cleat fit that offers both comfort and peak performance.
Start by measuring both feet’s length and width. Feet often differ in size, so fit cleats based on your larger foot. Trace your foot outlines while standing to gauge their shape. Narrow, standard, wide, and extra wide are the most common width options. Compare your measurements against sizing charts to determine your proper width.
The shape of your feet also factors into ideal cleat fit. Those with high arches need sturdy support, while flat feet require shock absorption and flexibility. Consider any pronation in your feet as well. Do your feet roll inward or outward when running and cutting? This pronation pattern must align with cleat support features.
Your playing position and style impact fit too. Midfielders who do lots of running need lots of lightweight flexibility, whereas defenders need stability for physical play. Take note of problem areas prone to blisters or irritation. Seek cleats offering ample toe room if your feet swell during play.
Don’t neglect comfort just for proper width. The cleats shouldn’t pinch, rub, or limit mobility. Walk and jog in store to test. mimic game motions. Getting professionally fitted at a knowledgeable lacrosse store has added benefits.
With careful self-evaluation of your foot’s size, shape, pronation, position, problem areas and comfort needs, you can find wide lacrosse cleats offering the ideal fit for enhanced performance. Don’t settle for less than a precision fit. Your feet will thank you.
Shop Brands That Offer Wide Width Options
When looking for wide width lacrosse cleats, it’s essential to seek out brands that specifically offer multiple wide size options. The major athletic brands all make lacrosse gear, but some have far better wide selection than others. Do your research to find brands truly catering to players needing a wider fit.
New Balance is a top choice, as they offer lacrosse cleats in up to 4E width for men and D width for women. The New Balance Freeze and other models come in wide sizes. Under Armour also has cleats in wide widths, but less consistently across all models. Nike and Adidas have fewer wide size options overall.
Warrior, Maverik, STX, and other lacrosse-specific brands vary in their wide offerings each season. Check their current models and size charts carefully. Smaller brands like Epoch and Ryderwear also have wide sizes worth considering. Custom fit brands like True Lacrosse allow you to fully customize the cleat shape and width.
When researching brands, look up their fit and sizing reviews from fellow wide foot athletes. This real world user feedback will reveal how generous those labeled “wide” sizes really run. A men’s “D” width may fit very differently across brands. Seek out resources like wideshoes.com that consolidate reviews of wide athletic gear across brands in one place.
Email or chat with customer service at lacrosse brands to ask direct sizing questions. Many track wider size requests and are working to expand their selection. Providing feedback on your width needs may lead to more options long-term.
You spend too much time playing lacrosse in ill-fitting cleats that hurt your feet and hinder performance. Seeking out brands catering to wide feet is the smart first step toward solving discomfort. Do diligent research so you can shop confidently knowing the brand truly offers widths matching your needs.
Prioritize Comfort And An Accurate Fit
When selecting your next pair of wide lacrosse cleats, you must make comfort and accuracy of fit your top priorities. The cleats should feel like a natural extension of your feet, not a restrictive barrier limiting your mobility.
Trying on cleats in-store is the best way to gauge comfort, especially if you can mimic lacrosse movements. Walk, jog, cut, and pivot to test flexibility and traction. Pay attention to potential pressure points or tightness signaling sizing issues. Bring your typical lacrosse socks to ensure proper layering fit. Don’t settle for cleats that pinch, rub, or restrict your motions right off the rack.
If buying online, carefully follow size charts and read user reviews highlighting fit insights. Be very honest with yourself when measuring your feet’s length and width. Trace your foot outline while weight-bearing to capture your exact shape. Account for factors like toe box room if you experience swelling during intense play. Order both your measured size and a half-size up or down if uncertain. Utilize generous return policies to get the right fit.
Ideal lacrosse cleats should offer a glove-like 360-degree fit around your feet. There should be no slipping, lifting or excess space causing blisters. The toe box must give your toes room to naturally splay upon pushing off yet keep them stabilized laterally. Your heel should be locked in with no lift. Arches must sit flush on quality footbeds that won’t compress or flatten mid-game. Pay attention to potential irritation spots based on your foot shape and playing style.
A tailored, comfort-focused fit enhances energy transfer and traction for sharper cuts, accelerations, dodges and stops. Proper stability and support reduce injury risk to ankles and feet as well. Seek out cleats offering both the width and precision adjustments to achieve your custom ideal fit. Don’t settle for less than lacrosse cleats feeling like they were made just for your feet.
Consider High Top vs Low Top Design
Consider the shape of your feet as well. Do you have high arches that require sturdy support, or flat feet that need shock absorption and flexibility? Take note of any pronation in your feet – do they roll inward or outward when running and cutting? Your cleat’s support features should align with these characteristics.
Your playing position and style also impact fit requirements. Midfielders who do extensive running may prioritize lightweight flexibility, while defenders might need more stability for physical play. Identify any problem areas prone to blisters or irritation, and seek cleats offering ample toe room if your feet tend to swell during play.
Key Factors to Consider When Evaluating Your Foot Type:
- Foot length and width measurements
- Arch height and shape
- Pronation patterns
- Playing position requirements
- Common areas of discomfort or irritation
- Tendency for foot swelling during play
By carefully assessing these factors, you’ll be better equipped to find wide lacrosse cleats that offer the ideal fit for enhanced performance. Remember, a precision fit is crucial – don’t settle for less than what your feet truly need.
Top Brands Offering Wide Width Lacrosse Cleats
When searching for wide lacrosse cleats, it’s essential to focus on brands that specifically cater to players needing a broader fit. While many athletic brands produce lacrosse gear, some offer a more extensive selection of wide options than others.
New Balance stands out as a top choice for wide-footed players. They offer lacrosse cleats in up to 4E width for men and D width for women. Models like the New Balance Freeze are particularly popular among players requiring extra width.
Under Armour is another brand to consider, though their wide options may be less consistent across all models. Nike and Adidas generally have fewer wide size options overall, but it’s worth checking their current offerings.
Lacrosse-specific brands like Warrior, Maverik, and STX vary in their wide offerings each season. It’s crucial to check their current models and size charts carefully. Smaller brands such as Epoch and Ryderwear may also have wide sizes worth exploring.
Brands to Explore for Wide Lacrosse Cleats:
- New Balance
- Under Armour
- Warrior
- Maverik
- STX
- Epoch
- Ryderwear
For players seeking a truly customized fit, brands like True Lacrosse offer fully customizable cleat options, allowing you to tailor the shape and width to your exact specifications.
When researching brands, be sure to read fit and sizing reviews from fellow wide-footed athletes. This real-world feedback can provide valuable insights into how generously the labeled “wide” sizes actually run. Remember that a men’s “D” width may fit very differently across brands.
Prioritizing Comfort and Accurate Fit in Wide Lacrosse Cleats
When selecting wide lacrosse cleats, comfort and accuracy of fit should be your top priorities. The ideal cleats should feel like a natural extension of your feet, not a restrictive barrier limiting your mobility on the field.
Whenever possible, try on cleats in-store to gauge comfort accurately. Walk, jog, cut, and pivot to test flexibility and traction. Pay close attention to any potential pressure points or areas of tightness that may signal sizing issues. Bring your typical lacrosse socks to ensure a proper layered fit.
If you’re purchasing online, carefully follow size charts and read user reviews that highlight fit insights. Be honest when measuring your feet’s length and width, and consider tracing your foot outline while standing to capture your exact shape. Factor in considerations like toe box room if you experience swelling during intense play.
Signs of a Properly Fitting Lacrosse Cleat:
- Snug heel fit with no slipping
- Adequate toe room (about a thumb’s width)
- No pinching or rubbing at the sides
- Comfortable arch support
- Flexibility in the forefoot area
- No pressure points when laced
Remember, the perfect lacrosse cleats should offer a glove-like, 360-degree fit around your feet. There should be no slipping, lifting, or excess movement within the shoe during play. Don’t hesitate to utilize generous return policies if needed to find the right fit – your on-field performance depends on it.
Choosing Wide Lacrosse Cleats Based on Playing Position
Your position on the lacrosse field plays a significant role in determining the ideal cleat features you should prioritize. While width is crucial for comfort, other aspects of the cleat design can enhance your performance based on your specific role.
Midfielders, who cover the most ground during a game, benefit from lightweight cleats with excellent traction. Look for models with strategically placed studs to support quick direction changes and acceleration. A flexible forefoot is also essential for maintaining agility.
Attackers need cleats that provide excellent stability and support for sudden starts and stops. Seek out models with a secure heel lock and responsive cushioning to absorb impact during quick cuts and dodges.
Defenders require cleats that offer superior lateral support and stability. Look for models with a wider base and reinforced sidewalls to withstand the physical demands of defensive play. Durable construction is also crucial to withstand frequent contact.
Cleat Features by Position:
- Midfielders: Lightweight, flexible, excellent traction
- Attackers: Secure heel lock, responsive cushioning
- Defenders: Wide base, reinforced sidewalls, durable construction
- Goalies: Ankle support, grippy outsole for quick lateral movements
Goalies benefit from cleats with excellent ankle support and a grippy outsole to facilitate quick lateral movements within the crease. Some goalies prefer a mid-cut or high-top design for added stability.
Regardless of position, ensure that the wide fit remains a priority. A cleat that matches your position’s needs but doesn’t accommodate your foot width will ultimately hinder your performance.
Essential Features to Look for in Wide Lacrosse Cleats
When searching for the perfect wide lacrosse cleats, several key features can significantly impact your comfort and performance on the field. Understanding these elements will help you make an informed decision when selecting your next pair of cleats.
First and foremost, look for cleats with a wide toe box. This feature allows your toes to spread naturally, improving balance and reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort. A roomy toe box is especially crucial for players whose feet tend to swell during intense play.
The cleat’s upper material plays a vital role in both comfort and performance. Look for breathable, flexible materials that can accommodate the natural expansion of your feet during play. Synthetic leather or mesh uppers often provide a good balance of durability and flexibility.
Cushioning and support are critical for preventing fatigue and reducing the risk of injury. Seek out cleats with responsive midsole cushioning and adequate arch support. Some players with wide feet may benefit from removable insoles, allowing for customization or the use of orthotics if needed.
Key Features for Wide Lacrosse Cleats:
- Wide toe box for natural toe spread
- Breathable, flexible upper materials
- Responsive midsole cushioning
- Adequate arch support
- Durable outsole with strategic stud placement
- Secure lacing system for a customized fit
- Reinforced areas for added durability
The outsole design and stud configuration are crucial for traction and stability. Look for cleats with strategically placed studs that provide excellent grip on various field conditions. Some players prefer molded cleats for their durability, while others opt for detachable studs for customization based on field conditions.
A secure lacing system is essential for achieving a customized fit. Look for cleats with multiple lace holes or innovative lacing technologies that allow you to adjust the fit precisely to your foot shape.
Lastly, consider cleats with reinforced areas in high-wear zones. This added durability can extend the life of your cleats, especially if you’re a player who puts significant strain on specific areas of the shoe during play.
Effective Methods for Breaking In Wide Lacrosse Cleats
Breaking in new lacrosse cleats is a crucial step to ensure optimal comfort and performance on the field. This process is particularly important for wide-footed players, as it allows the cleats to mold to your specific foot shape and reduce the risk of blisters or discomfort during play.
Start by wearing your new cleats around the house for short periods. This allows the materials to begin conforming to your foot shape without the added stress of on-field movements. Gradually increase the duration as the cleats start to feel more comfortable.
Next, incorporate light drills and movements specific to lacrosse. Practice cutting, sprinting, and changing directions to help the cleats adapt to the motions you’ll be performing during games. Start with shorter sessions and progressively increase the intensity and duration.
Using a leather conditioner on leather cleats can help soften the material and speed up the breaking-in process. For synthetic materials, focus on flexing the cleat in key areas, such as the toe box and heel, to increase flexibility.
Effective Breaking-In Techniques:
- Wear cleats around the house
- Perform light lacrosse-specific drills
- Use a leather conditioner (for leather cleats)
- Flex the cleat in key areas
- Gradually increase wearing time and intensity
- Use moleskin or athletic tape on potential hot spots
- Break in during practice before wearing in a game
If you notice any potential hot spots or areas of friction, apply moleskin or athletic tape to these areas before wearing the cleats. This can help prevent blisters and allow you to continue the breaking-in process comfortably.
Remember, it’s crucial to break in your cleats during practice sessions before wearing them in a game situation. This ensures that your cleats are game-ready and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during crucial moments on the field.
When to Replace Your Wide Lacrosse Cleats
Knowing when to replace your lacrosse cleats is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing potential injuries. Even the best wide lacrosse cleats will eventually wear down, compromising their support, traction, and overall effectiveness on the field.
One of the most obvious signs that it’s time for new cleats is visible wear and tear. Check the outsole for worn-down studs or significant tread loss. If the studs are noticeably shorter or the tread pattern is smooth in high-wear areas, your cleats may not be providing the traction you need for quick cuts and changes of direction.
Pay attention to the upper material as well. Cracks, tears, or separation from the sole are clear indicators that your cleats are nearing the end of their lifespan. For wide-footed players, areas of strain around the widest part of the foot may show signs of wear sooner than other areas.
Loss of support is another crucial factor to consider. If you notice decreased stability during lateral movements or a lack of cushioning during impacts, it may be time for a replacement. This loss of support can increase your risk of injury and hinder your on-field performance.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Lacrosse Cleats:
- Worn-down studs or significant tread loss
- Cracks or tears in the upper material
- Separation of the upper from the sole
- Decreased stability during lateral movements
- Loss of cushioning and impact absorption
- Persistent discomfort or new pain during play
- Visible deformation of the shoe shape
As a general guideline, most lacrosse players should consider replacing their cleats every season or every 45-50 games, whichever comes first. However, this can vary based on factors such as playing frequency, field conditions, and individual wear patterns.
For wide-footed players, it’s especially important to monitor the fit of your cleats over time. As cleats wear and stretch, they may no longer provide the snug, supportive fit necessary for optimal performance. If you notice your feet sliding within the cleats or experience new areas of discomfort, it may be time for a fresh pair.
Remember, investing in new cleats when needed is crucial for maintaining your edge on the field. Don’t wait until your performance suffers or you risk injury – stay proactive in monitoring the condition of your lacrosse cleats.
Evaluate Your Foot Type And Width Needs
When searching for wide lacrosse cleats, the first step is to carefully evaluate your individual foot type and specific width needs. This self-assessment ensures you find the proper cleat fit that offers both comfort and peak performance.
Start by measuring both feet’s length and width. Feet often differ in size, so fit cleats based on your larger foot. Trace your foot outlines while standing to gauge their shape. Narrow, standard, wide, and extra wide are the most common width options. Compare your measurements against sizing charts to determine your proper width.
The shape of your feet also factors into ideal cleat fit. Those with high arches need sturdy support, while flat feet require shock absorption and flexibility. Consider any pronation in your feet as well. Do your feet roll inward or outward when running and cutting? This pronation pattern must align with cleat support features.
Your playing position and style impact fit too. Midfielders who do lots of running need lots of lightweight flexibility, whereas defenders need stability for physical play. Take note of problem areas prone to blisters or irritation. Seek cleats offering ample toe room if your feet swell during play.
Don’t neglect comfort just for proper width. The cleats shouldn’t pinch, rub, or limit mobility. Walk and jog in store to test. mimic game motions. Getting professionally fitted at a knowledgeable lacrosse store has added benefits.
With careful self-evaluation of your foot’s size, shape, pronation, position, problem areas and comfort needs, you can find wide lacrosse cleats offering the ideal fit for enhanced performance. Don’t settle for less than a precision fit. Your feet will thank you.
Shop Brands That Offer Wide Width Options
When looking for wide width lacrosse cleats, it’s essential to seek out brands that specifically offer multiple wide size options. The major athletic brands all make lacrosse gear, but some have far better wide selection than others. Do your research to find brands truly catering to players needing a wider fit.
New Balance is a top choice, as they offer lacrosse cleats in up to 4E width for men and D width for women. The New Balance Freeze and other models come in wide sizes. Under Armour also has cleats in wide widths, but less consistently across all models. Nike and Adidas have fewer wide size options overall.
Warrior, Maverik, STX, and other lacrosse-specific brands vary in their wide offerings each season. Check their current models and size charts carefully. Smaller brands like Epoch and Ryderwear also have wide sizes worth considering. Custom fit brands like True Lacrosse allow you to fully customize the cleat shape and width.
When researching brands, look up their fit and sizing reviews from fellow wide foot athletes. This real world user feedback will reveal how generous those labeled “wide” sizes really run. A men’s “D” width may fit very differently across brands. Seek out resources like wideshoes.com that consolidate reviews of wide athletic gear across brands in one place.
Email or chat with customer service at lacrosse brands to ask direct sizing questions. Many track wider size requests and are working to expand their selection. Providing feedback on your width needs may lead to more options long-term.
You spend too much time playing lacrosse in ill-fitting cleats that hurt your feet and hinder performance. Seeking out brands catering to wide feet is the smart first step toward solving discomfort. Do diligent research so you can shop confidently knowing the brand truly offers widths matching your needs.
Prioritize Comfort And An Accurate Fit
When selecting your next pair of wide lacrosse cleats, you must make comfort and accuracy of fit your top priorities. The cleats should feel like a natural extension of your feet, not a restrictive barrier limiting your mobility.
Trying on cleats in-store is the best way to gauge comfort, especially if you can mimic lacrosse movements. Walk, jog, cut, and pivot to test flexibility and traction. Pay attention to potential pressure points or tightness signaling sizing issues. Bring your typical lacrosse socks to ensure proper layering fit. Don’t settle for cleats that pinch, rub, or restrict your motions right off the rack.
If buying online, carefully follow size charts and read user reviews highlighting fit insights. Be very honest with yourself when measuring your feet’s length and width. Trace your foot outline while weight-bearing to capture your exact shape. Account for factors like toe box room if you experience swelling during intense play. Order both your measured size and a half-size up or down if uncertain. Utilize generous return policies to get the right fit.
Ideal lacrosse cleats should offer a glove-like 360-degree fit around your feet. There should be no slipping, lifting or excess space causing blisters. The toe box must give your toes room to naturally splay upon pushing off yet keep them stabilized laterally. Your heel should be locked in with no lift. Arches must sit flush on quality footbeds that won’t compress or flatten mid-game. Pay attention to potential irritation spots based on your foot shape and playing style.
A tailored, comfort-focused fit enhances energy transfer and traction for sharper cuts, accelerations, dodges and stops. Proper stability and support reduce injury risk to ankles and feet as well. Seek out cleats offering both the width and precision adjustments to achieve your custom ideal fit. Don’t settle for less than lacrosse cleats feeling like they were made just for your feet.
Consider High Top vs Low Top Design
When purchasing wide lacrosse cleats, one key design factor to consider is high top versus low top construction. This distinguishes how much ankle coverage and support the cleats provide.
High top cleats extend several inches above your ankle bones, fully encompassing them. This provides maximum all-around ankle stabilization, added protection from checks and slashes, and increased proprioception for sharper footwork. High tops better accommodate braces or tape. The extended collar also seals out debris. Many midfielders opt for high tops since they involve so much directional change and quick cuts.
Low top cleats end right at your ankle’s joint line. This allows for greater mobility and flexibility through the ankle during dodging, shooting and passing moves. Pivoting and toe-off power may feel enhanced as well. The open design better ventilates your ankles to reduce overheating. Low tops are lighter too. They work well for skill players like attackmen who value freedom of motion. Some players wear anklets under low tops to get some extra support.
Consider your position and playing style preferences when choosing. Defenders who battle often for ground balls may want more ankle protection. Speedy attackmen may prioritize lightweight mobility. Goalies need flexibility yet also lateral stability when moving across the crease. Think about any past ankle sprains as well – instability may warrant high tops.
Those with wider feet must ensure either cleat style fits properly around the ankle and Achilles notch. Trying on both designs is ideal. Make athletic motions to ensure no pinching or heel slippage. High tops must lace snugly for stability without constricting circulation. Low tops still need some rear collar structure to lock in heels. Don’t assume low tops fit wider feet better solely due to more openness – still evaluate fit.
With lacrosse involving so much starting, stopping, cutting and pivoting, ankle support and stability are crucial. Factor in your playing style and fit needs when deciding between high top or low top wide cleats. Your ankles will thank you for the proper support.
Look For Durable Yet Lightweight Materials
When shopping for wide lacrosse cleats, seeking out models constructed with durable yet lightweight materials is key for performance. The upper material and sole composition greatly impact comfort, protection and quickness.
Synthetic leather uppers with integrated textile components offer an ideal blend of stability, durability and ventilation for lacrosse cleats. Full-grain leathers, while stylish, are less breathable and break in slower. Synthetic leather toe caps and heel counters boost durability while mesh collars, underlays and linings allow air flow to keep feet cooler and dryer.
The outsole material affects traction, flexibility and weight. Many cleats feature solid rubber outsoles for ideal durability and grip on natural grass. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a popular alternative, providing a firmer feel and enhanced toe-off propulsion. New Balance and other brands use TPU shanks for added midfoot support. Some cleats incorporate Pebax or nylon plate midsoles for energetic responsiveness.
Studs are often made of molded TPU or aluminum. Removable studs allow customization for turf or various field conditions. Look for broad cleat patterns that perform well in mud and soft ground. A front blade or central toe stud aids toe-off traction for sprints.
Wide cleat lasts must provide lateral stability without adding stiffness or weight. Upgraded linings like Ortholite foam create comfort while shedding heat and moisture. Flex grooves through the forefoot enable natural motion. Prioritize cleats with beefed up reinforcements in high-wear areas.
The best wide lacrosse cleats strike an ideal balance between durable protection and lightweight maneuverability. Synthetic leather uppers, quality rubber outsoles and optimized traction deliver that sweet spot. Don’t sacrifice long term wear and materials quality just to shave off a few ounces.
Get Proper Ankle Support And Stability
When evaluating wide lacrosse cleats, examining the quality of ankle support and stability provided is critical for injury prevention and peak performance.
The cleat collar design heavily influences ankle stability. High-top cleats extending several inches above the ankle bones provide maximum all-around support and stiffness against inversion or eversion sprains. Integrated textile collars with ample padding boost comfort without compromising lockdown. Low-top cleats still need some collar structure and heel counter rigidity to secure the rearfoot.
Lace-up closures allow customizing collar tightness for ideal ankle immobilization. Quick lacing systems like New Balance’s FantomFit get you suited up faster. Properly tying cleats is still crucial – loose laces sacrifice support and invite rolled ankles. Padded tongues cushion your ankle bones and Achilles notch when cinched snugly.
Cleat lasts must lock in the heel and midfoot securely. Test for slippage by walking and cutting hard. Your heel should stay centered without lift. Wide sizes must wrap the midfoot without gapping or squeeze. Targeted TPU stability overlays add structured medial and lateral support right where you need it.
Quality footbeds also enhance stability. Custom moldable inserts like Superfeet provide ideal arch support and proprioceptive feedback. Ortholite footbeds absorb shock while resisting compression over time. Some cleats feature external ankle braces for supplemental reinforcement.
Don’t just assume that wide cleat sizes automatically flex and support your ankles properly. Still scrutinize their collar, lacing, and lasting for security. Ankles are the most commonly injured body part in lacrosse. Protect yours with properly equipped wide cleats so you stay on the field crushing it.
Find Options With Removable Studs
When purchasing wide lacrosse cleats, seeking out models featuring removable studs offers versatility for optimal traction in varying field conditions.
Removable studs allow you to swap out stud lengths and configurations to match the playing surface. Longer studs provide better traction for extremely soft natural grass after heavy rain. Shorter studs work well on thinner natural turf and synthetic fields. Bladed studs may outperform conical studs on slick or muddy ground. You can remove some studs for more solid rubber outsole traction indoors or on turf.
Many cleats come with multiple sets of studs to swap for customization. Under Armour highlights their UA Speedform lacrosse cleats having three stud configurations for any surface. New Balance Freeze cleats feature Ndurance rubber outsoles and include two sets of TPU studs.
Look for wide cleat models where the studs detach and attach easily with a simple twist motion. There should be clear visual indicators when studs are fully locked in place so they don’t disengage mid-play. Bring a small tool to easily apply leverage when swapping studs.
Test different stud configurations in your game warm-ups to find the best option for that day’s field. Keep an equipment bag with alternate stud sets handy for quick changes when weather or surface conditions shift unexpectedly. Coaches should mandate stud swaps based on fields to minimize injury risk.
Removable studs grant wide lacrosse cleats needed adaptability so you always have ideal traction. Don’t let subpar footing wreck your game – customize your studs and dominate on any playing surface.
Check For Breathable Fabrics
When selecting wide lacrosse cleats, checking that models utilize breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics is crucial for cool, dry comfort during intense play.
Lacrosse involves non-stop motion that generates substantial heat and sweat inside your cleats. Trapped moisture and heat lead to hot spots, blisters, and damp conditions where fungi and bacteria thrive. Prioritizing breathable construction is vital.
Look for synthetic leather or mesh fabric uppers with integrated ventilation zones. Laser-cut perforations, mesh underlays, and woven textile collars circulate air flow. Breathable linings like mesh cloth or Ortholite foam promote cooling airflow next to your feet. Opt for lightweight foam or TPU midsoles over hotter EVA foam.
Moisture-wicking linings also keep feet drier. Mesh linings and anti-microbial, quick-drying textiles draw sweat off your feet so it can evaporate rather than accumulate inside. Look for moisture-wicking sock liners as well for an extra line of wetness defense.
Well-ventilated cleats maintain that fresh “new shoe” feel longer before getting sweat-logged and smelly too. Air flow inhibits odor-causing bacterial growth. Seek out antimicrobial treatments for the upper, lining, and footbed as an added countermeasure against foot stench.
Don’t just assume that the simple existence of mesh panels means a cleat is truly breathable. Still inspect the quality and coverage of ventilation components during selection. Well-aerated wide cleats keep your feet feeling fresher and cooler so you can give 100% effort comfortably.
Compare Lacing Systems For Customization
When evaluating wide lacrosse cleats, comparing the models’ lacing systems and level of customization allowed is beneficial.
Traditional full lace-up systems allow the most fine-tuned fit personalization. Separate upper and lower lace zones better isolate collar, midfoot, and forefoot fit. Quick lacing solutions like New Balance’s Fantomfit simplify getting the right fit dialed quickly. Lace-locking technology keeps laces tensioned evenly.
Alternatives like hook-and-loop straps must still enable easily adjusting and securing fit. Straps spanning the midfoot and collar openings should use Velcro for easy cinching to match foot shape and desired snugness. Hybrid models blend straps with partial lacing for the best of both worlds.
The right lacrosse cleat lacing system for wide feet provides both quick convenience and the capacity to micro-tweak fit across the collar, midfoot, and forefoot specifically. Pressure points or tight spots can be relieved through slight lace loosening in problem zones.
Test the lacing by incrementally tightening specific zones while walking and performing athletic motions. When properly fitting wide cleats in-store, ask staff to guide you in identifying customized lacing tweaks for your foot shape. Mark eyelets needing slight loosening if issues emerge after initial testing.
Don’t settle for wide lacrosse cleats with lacing systems lacking adaptability. Seek out models allowing easy yet targeted fit customization so your unique feet feel properly supported during intense play.
Seek Out Integrated Design Features
When shopping for wide lacrosse cleats, seek out models featuring specialized design elements and technology enhancements integrated into the construction.
Added features like anti-odor components reduce unwanted foot smells during repeated wearings. Anti-microbial linings and sockliners, odor-absorbing footbeds, and ventilated uppers all combat odor. Fresh Foam midsoles by New Balance resist compression over time to maintain comfort.
Supportive components enhance fit and reduce injury risk. TPU stability overlays, heel counters, and exoskeletons provide structured medial/lateral reinforcement right where you need it most. Custom moldable footbeds like Superfeet offer precision arch and heel support.
Traction and propulsion elements boost performance. A blade traction toe stud aids toe-off grip and acceleration. Pebax and TPU shanks add energetic toe-off responsiveness. Ndurance rubber compounds optimize durability and multi-surface traction. Removable studs allow customization for any field type.
When trying on wide cleats, consciously notice integrated components supporting your needs. Test the grip and energy return of the outsole. Check stability features through twisting and cutting motions. Focus on great footbed arch support. Prioritize extra elements matching your priorities.
Specialized technologies built into wide lacrosse cleat construction demonstrate intentional design and commitment to quality. Seek out feature-packed models to gain every possible advantage when excelling on the field.
Read Reviews From Other Wide Foot Players
When evaluating wide lacrosse cleats, taking time to read through user reviews from fellow players with wide feet provides valuable real-world feedback.
Player reviews highlight how generously a model runs width-wise compared to the labeled size. A cleat marked as 4E may fit narrower than expected. Athletes note whether the toe box and forefoot enable natural splaying motion or feel too constricted. Reviews point out any high-friction zones causing irritation.
Reviews also reveal sizing quirks not apparent from charts. Some wide sizes may fit long but too narrow. Others may have excess heel space but pinch toes. First-hand accounts spotlight issues with support features not living up to branding claims. Durability feedback identifies problem zones prone to premature wear.
Sort reviews by most recent and focus on those from verified buyers with wide feet like yours. Filter by foot type – high arch players have different needs than flat feet. Weigh several reviews together rather than relying on lone opinions. Take note of trends and repeated observations.
Research reviews available through lacrosse sites, brand sites, Amazon, and specialty athletic retailers. Narrow your scope to focus just on wide width feedback. Reviews offer visibility into how a cleat truly performs for wide feet under game conditions. Don’t buy blind – leverage fellow players’ experience.
Check Warranties And Return Policies
When purchasing wide lacrosse cleats, checking each model’s warranty protections and retailer return policy is wise in case sizing issues arise.
Many athletic brands offer at least a limited, one-year defect and workmanship warranty on shoes. But some cleats have enhanced coverage specifically against premature wear, outsole separation or cleat detachment – key for lacrosse. Understand exactly what defects are covered and for how long.
Review how the claim process works and any potential costs like shipping fees. Can you initiate claims through any authorized dealer, or just where purchased? What proof and documentation will you need? Know your rights before an issue occurs. Extended “protection plans” often aren’t worthwhile.
Return policies vary more by retailer. Online shops like Amazon allow returns within 30 days in most cases, but lack personal fit guidance. Specialty lacrosse stores offer superior fit assistance but may have restocking fees after 30 days. Buy from retailers with simple, generous return windows.
Having ample opportunity to exchange wide cleats for proper sizing brings peace of mind. You want proper security in place so unsatisfactory cleats can be warranted or returned until finding your ideal match. Don’t settle for less.
Try Them On Before Buying If Possible
When investing in new wide lacrosse cleats, trying them on in-person before buying is optimal whenever possible for assessing ideal fit and comfort.
With cleats on your feet, walk around the store testing flexibility through your regular gait cycle. Try some lateral shuffles, cuts, and pivots to check mobility. Lunge forward assessing toe splay room and stability. Does the heel counter lock your foot in place?
Check for any tightness or pressure points around the toes, ball of foot, arch, or ankles. Do the lacrosse-specific features like toe traction and collar padding seem properly supportive? How is the break-in feel and required effort to lace snugly?
Trying cleats on with your typical socks and orthotics grants a true simulation. Bring any braces or tape you’ll use during games and practice to test layering. Have an expert salesperson observe your feet in motion and suggest sizing tweaks.
Before buying wide lacrosse cleats online, visit a store first to trial that model in person. Dial in your proper size and preferences. Then order that same tested product online with confidence in fit. Don’t buy blind – always try before you buy.
Don’t Sacrifice Quality Just To Save Money
When shopping for new wide lacrosse cleats, it’s tempting to sacrifice quality just to save some money, but doing so is often a poor long-term investment.
Quality wide lacrosse cleats utilize premium materials like reinforced synthetic leathers, breathable mesh fabrics, molded TPU studs, and high-rebound midsole foams. These materials enhance durability, traction, stability and energy return – all factors boosting performance.
Cheaper wide cleats utilize lower-grade materials lacking those performance benefits. All-vinyl uppers degrade quicker. Generic foam midsoles compress and lose bounce rapidly. Weak plastic studs shear off easily. These durability and quality gaps become obvious over repeated wearings.
Likewise, premium cleat technologies deliver real benefits less expensive models lack. Removable stud systems, quick lacing, anti-odor components, enhanced heel counters, and customized footbeds all improve the wearing experience and extend usable life.
View spending extra for quality wide lacrosse cleats as an investment in your foot health and playing abilities. The right cleats last seasons, help minimize injury risk, and provide ideal traction that gives you an edge. That long-term value offsets higher initial cost. Don’t handicap your performance to save a few bucks now.
