How to choose the perfect women’s lacrosse cleats. What factors to consider when selecting cleats for female players. Which brands offer the best options for women’s lacrosse footwear. How to customize your lacrosse cleats for optimal performance and style.

The Evolution of Women’s Lacrosse Cleats

The landscape of women’s lacrosse has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. As the fastest-growing sport in the NCAA, lacrosse has captured the attention of female athletes nationwide. This surge in popularity has prompted leading sports brands to develop specialized cleats tailored specifically for women players. The result? A market brimming with options that cater to the unique needs of female lacrosse enthusiasts.

Gone are the days when women had to make do with scaled-down versions of men’s cleats. Today’s offerings are designed from the ground up with the female foot in mind. Brands like Nike, Under Armour, and STX have invested heavily in research and development to create cleats that provide the perfect blend of fit, performance, and style for women lacrosse players.

Finding the Perfect Fit: The Foundation of Performance

When it comes to lacrosse cleats, fit is paramount. A well-fitting cleat can be the difference between peak performance and subpar play. But how do you ensure you’re getting the right fit?

• Try on cleats with game-day socks for accurate sizing
• Ensure a snug fit around the heel and midfoot
• Allow for some wiggle room in the toe box
• Consider sizing up if toes touch the front when walking or running

Many brands now offer women’s lacrosse cleats in narrow, standard, and wide widths, as well as half sizes. This variety allows players to find a fit that matches their unique foot shape and dimensions. For instance, Under Armour’s women’s cleats feature an anatomical lace system and padded ankle collar, providing a secure and comfortable fit tailored to female athletes.

Is there a difference between men’s and women’s lacrosse cleats?

Indeed, there are significant differences. Women’s lacrosse cleats are designed with a narrower heel, higher arch, and wider forefoot to accommodate the typical female foot shape. They also often feature more flexible materials and lighter construction to suit the specific demands of the women’s game.

Traction: The Key to Agility on the Field

In lacrosse, quick cuts and rapid direction changes are essential. The right traction can make or break a player’s performance. Women’s lacrosse cleats typically feature shallow, multi-studded TPU plates that provide excellent grip for lateral movements and swift direction changes.

Many brands now offer customizable traction options, allowing players to choose the type of plate and stud shape based on their position and preferred playing surface. For example:

• Midfielders might opt for aggressive stud patterns for all-around performance
• Attackers may prefer more agile stud shapes for quick bursts of speed
• Defenders could choose a pattern that provides stability and power

Should you use different cleats for grass and turf?

Absolutely. Grass fields typically require longer, more aggressive studs for optimal traction, while artificial turf surfaces are best suited to shorter, more numerous studs. Many modern cleats offer interchangeable studs, allowing players to adapt to different playing surfaces without purchasing multiple pairs of cleats.

Ankle Support: Balancing Stability and Mobility

Female lacrosse players face a higher risk of ankle injuries compared to their male counterparts. This increased vulnerability is often attributed to anatomical differences, such as a wider pelvis and greater hip rotation. As a result, proper ankle support in cleats is crucial for women players.

Leading brands have responded to this need by offering high-top styles that provide increased ankle stability without compromising mobility. For instance:

• Nike’s Huarache features an inner sleeve for a snug, supportive fit
• Under Armour boasts its UA ClutchFit ankle support system
• STX emphasizes high ankle padding in its Stallion model

These design features offer extra stability and cushioning to protect against cuts and crosse checks while maintaining full range of motion.

How much ankle support do you really need in lacrosse cleats?

The level of ankle support needed varies by player and position. Midfielders and attackers who rely on quick movements might prefer a lower-cut cleat for maximum agility. Defenders and players with a history of ankle issues may benefit from a higher-cut design that offers more support. Ultimately, the best choice balances protection with the freedom of movement required for your playing style.

Customization: Tailoring Cleats to Your Game

The modern female lacrosse player demands more than just performance from her cleats – she wants to express her individual style on the field. Recognizing this, many brands now offer extensive customization options for women’s lacrosse cleats.

These customization features go beyond mere aesthetics, allowing players to fine-tune their cleats for optimal performance:

• Color schemes and patterns to match team colors or personal preferences
• Choice of materials for different parts of the cleat
• Customizable insoles for personalized comfort and support
• Options for different levels of protection based on playing position

For example, Nike offers its Flyweave material on select models, providing excellent breathability. Under Armour’s customizable cleats include options for anti-odor technology. STX allows players to choose from a range of color gradients, metallic finishes, and unique graphic prints.

Can customizing your cleats really improve your game?

While customization won’t directly improve your skills, it can enhance your comfort and confidence on the field. A cleat that fits perfectly, offers the right level of protection for your position, and reflects your personal style can help you focus on your game without distractions. Moreover, the ability to adjust features like stud configuration can provide a performance edge on different playing surfaces.

Material Matters: Durability and Performance

The materials used in women’s lacrosse cleats play a crucial role in their durability, performance, and comfort. Modern cleats utilize a range of high-tech materials to deliver optimal results:

• Synthetic leather: Offers durability and water resistance
• Woven synthetic uppers: Provide breathability and flexibility
• Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): Used in outsoles for durability and traction
• Carbon fiber: Offers lightweight strength in some high-end models
• Molded cleat studs: Provide consistent traction and durability

These materials are often combined in strategic ways to create cleats that are lightweight yet durable, flexible yet supportive, and breathable yet protective.

How do different cleat materials affect performance?

Each material brings unique properties to the table. Synthetic leather uppers offer durability and protection, while woven synthetics provide breathability and a more sock-like fit. TPU outsoles deliver excellent traction and longevity. Carbon fiber, when used, can significantly reduce weight without sacrificing strength. The ideal combination of materials depends on your playing style, position, and personal preferences.

Brand Breakdown: Top Contenders in Women’s Lacrosse Cleats

Several brands have emerged as leaders in the women’s lacrosse cleat market, each offering unique features and technologies:

1. Nike: Known for innovative materials like Flyweave and customizable options
2. Under Armour: Offers excellent ankle support and anti-odor technology
3. STX: Provides extensive customization options and position-specific designs
4. New Balance: Focuses on fit and comfort with multiple width options
5. Adidas: Offers lightweight designs with excellent traction patterns

Each brand has its strengths, and the best choice often comes down to individual preferences and needs.

Which brand offers the best value for women’s lacrosse cleats?

Value is subjective and depends on your priorities. If customization is paramount, STX and Nike lead the pack. For those prioritizing ankle support, Under Armour is a strong contender. Players seeking a wide range of fit options might lean towards New Balance. Consider your budget, playing style, and specific needs when evaluating the value proposition of different brands.

Caring for Your Cleats: Maximizing Lifespan and Performance

Investing in a quality pair of women’s lacrosse cleats is just the first step. Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance. Here are some tips for keeping your cleats in top condition:

• Clean your cleats after each use, removing dirt and debris
• Allow cleats to air dry naturally, avoiding direct heat sources
• Use a soft brush to clean the studs and outsole
• Replace worn or damaged studs promptly
• Rotate between two pairs of cleats if possible to extend their life

Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your cleats but also ensures they continue to provide the traction and support you need on the field.

How often should you replace your lacrosse cleats?

The lifespan of lacrosse cleats varies depending on usage, care, and playing conditions. As a general rule, competitive players should consider replacing their cleats every season or every 6-8 months of regular use. Signs that it’s time for a new pair include worn studs, decreased traction, loss of ankle support, or visible damage to the upper material.

Selecting the right women’s lacrosse cleats is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your performance on the field. By considering factors such as fit, traction, ankle support, and customization options, you can find a pair that not only enhances your game but also reflects your personal style. Remember, the best cleat for you is one that feels like an extension of your foot, allowing you to focus on your skills and strategies without distraction. With the wealth of options available in today’s market, every female lacrosse player can find the perfect cleats to elevate their game.

Most Durable Materials for Women’s Lax Cleats

Synthetic Leather

Woven Synthetic Uppers

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)

Carbon Fiber

Molded Cleat Studs

Key Takeaways on Durable Materials for Women’s Lax Cleats:

Customizable Options for Women’s Lacrosse Cleats

Looking for the best women’s lacrosse cleats? As the fastest growing sport in the NCAA, lacrosse is gaining popularity among female athletes across the country. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky finding the right cleats that offer the perfect fit, feel and performance. The good news is that today’s top brands now offer customizable and specialized cleats made just for the female player.

When shopping for women’s lacrosse cleats, you’ll want to consider factors like fit, traction, ankle support and customizable options. Brands like Nike, Under Armour and STX now make cleats specifically contoured for the female foot with options to customize color, materials and patterns. This allows you to get the ideal cleat with the right amount of ankle mobility, arch support and toe protection.

Finding the Right Fit

One of the most important factors in selecting womens lacrosse cleats is finding the right fit. Cleats that are too loose can cause blisters while cleats that are too tight can restrict blood flow and lead to numbness. When trying on cleats, wear the same socks you plan to wear for games and practices. They should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot without pinching the toes. Consider sizing up a half or full size if your toes hit the front of the shoe when walking or running.

Many of today’s top lacrosse cleat brands now offer shoes in narrow, standard and wide widths along with half sizes. This allows female athletes to choose the fit that matches their foot shape and dimensions. Under Armour, for example, has a women’s-specific anatomical lace system and a padded ankle collar providing a secure, comfortable fit.

Choosing the Right Traction

Traction is critical for quick cuts, fast footwork and change of direction on the field. The outsole and stud pattern you choose can make a big impact on acceleration, deceleration and maneuverability. While men’s and youth cleats often have permanent molded or detachable studs, women’s cleats typically have shallow, multi-studded TPU plates. These offer plenty of grip for quick lateral movements and swift direction changes.

Many brands now allow you to customize the type of traction plate and stud shape based on your position and field surface. Midfielders benefit from aggressive stud patterns while attack may opt for more agile stud shapes. Make sure to choose metal, plastic or rubber studs based on whether you play primarily on grass or turf fields.

Getting the Ankle Support You Need

Female lacrosse players tend to have greater risk of ankle injuries compared to male counterparts. The wider pelvis and greater hip rotation in women can affect stability during play. Therefore, proper ankle support in your cleats is key.

Many of the top lacrosse cleat brands offer high-top styles providing increased ankle stability without restricting mobility. The Nike Huarache, for example, has an inner sleeve providing a snug, supportive fit. Under Armour highlights its UA ClutchFit ankle support system while STX emphasizes the Stallion high ankle padding. This extra stability and cushioning better protects during cuts and crosse checks while still allowing full freedom of motion.

Customizing Style and Performance

Beyond fit and feel, women want the ability to customize the style and aesthetics of their cleats. Brands now offer a range of colors, graphics, patterns and materials providing a signature look. Nike offers a lightweight Flyweave material on some models allowing air flow to keep feet cool. Under Armour’s customizable cleats include bold colors and fabrics with anti-odor technology to fight odor. STX allows you to customize color gradients, metallic finishes and unique graphic prints for your own unique style.

You can also customize lacrosse cleats based on the level of protection needed. Attack players who face more contact can choose thicker materials over the toe cap and greater stud protection along the metatarsals. Speedy midfielders may opt for more lightweight protection to enhance acceleration. Customizable inserts, padding and insoles allow you to fine tune the comfort and performance of your cleats.

Key Factors to Consider

When searching for your perfect pair of women’s lacrosse cleats, keep the following key factors in mind:

• Snug heel and midfoot fit
• Toe box with adequate room for comfort
• Traction plate suited for your field surface
• Aggressive stud pattern for quick cuts
• High-top ankle support and padding
• Lightweight protective materials
• Breathable fabrics to keep feet cool
• Customizable style, graphics and colors
• Extra toe protection
• Removable sockliner/inserts for adjustable comfort

While performance and protection are most important, you also want lacrosse cleats you love to wear. With so many customizable options from leading brands, you can support your athletic goals while still showing off your unique style on the field. Do your research, understand your needs and get ready to take your game to the next level in cleats made just for you!

Finding Affordable Women’s Lacrosse Cleats Deals

Looking for the best women’s lacrosse cleats? As a female lacrosse player myself, I know how important it is to find a pair of cleats that check all the boxes – comfort, support, traction and style. But quality lacrosse cleats often come with a hefty price tag, which can put them out of reach for many players. The good news is, with some savvy shopping, you can find affordable cleats that deliver top-notch performance without breaking the bank. In this article, I’ll share my tips for scoring deals on women’s lacrosse cleats so you can get game-ready gear that won’t cost a fortune.

Let’s start with some basics. Women’s lacrosse cleats are designed specifically for the female foot with a narrower heel, reduced volume through the instep and forefoot, and a higher toe spring. This customized fit provides a more locked-in feel so you can cut, pivot and sprint with confidence. When shopping for cleats, prioritize fit above all else – improperly fitted cleats can lead to blisters, calluses, arch pain and other foot issues down the road. Be sure to try on multiple sizes and brands to find your perfect match.

Now for the fun part – finding affordable cleats. My first tip is to shop off-season when possible. Look for sales in the late fall and winter after the main lacrosse season ends. Stores will be looking to clear out inventory from the previous year to make room for new models. I’ve scored some of my best deals by shopping Labor Day sales and holiday sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Signing up for email lists from lacrosse retailers will alert you to upcoming sales and coupon codes as well.

If you need a new pair of cleats for the current season, don’t pay full price if you can avoid it. Shop clearance sections first to see if last year’s colors or styles are available – the technology often doesn’t change much year to year. Also browse online retailers like SportChek, Amazon, Altitude Sports, and others to compare prices. I search for very specific terms like “women’s lacrosse cleats size 7” and look for retailers running sales or letting go of overstock items.

Consider lesser known brands that focus on value and performance over flashy logos and marketing. Brands like STX, New Balance, and Under Armour offer quality lacrosse gear but often at lower prices than top names like Nike and Adidas. Don’t rule out men’s cleats either if you have larger feet – just be mindful of getting a good fit. My size 9 feet do well in certain boys’/mens styles. You can also find great deals on lightly used cleats through resale sites.

When it comes to style, stick to simple colorways if the budget is tight. Bright colors or limited editions will command top dollar, while basic black, white or team colors are often the cheapest options. Prioritize comfort, traction and support over looks – you can always customize your cleats later with tape, paint or other mods to show your personality.

Here are a few of my current favorite deals on quality women’s lacrosse cleats under $100:

• Under Armour Highlight MC – $59.99 (reg. $129.99)
• Nike Vapor Shark – $69.97 (reg. $124.99)
• STX Exult 600 – $79.97 (reg. $149.99)
• New Balance FreezeLX v3 – $84.99 (reg. $129.99)

With the right timing and shrewd shopping strategy, snagging top performing cleats doesn’t have to blow your budget. Prioritize fit, comfort and support over flashy features or designs. Shop off-season, scour sales and clearance sections, and compare prices at multiple retailers. And don’t overlook lesser known brands or mens/youth styles when looking for deals. With a bit of dedication, female lacrosse players can find affordable cleats to take their game to the next level.

Have you scored any great deals on lacrosse gear lately? Share your shopping tips and favorite budget cleats brands in the comments!

Stylish Color and Design Choices for Female Cleats

As a female lacrosse player, you want cleats that perform but also express your personal style. While fit and function should be top priorities, you can still infuse color, patterns and other custom details into your footwear. Cleats come in a wide range of hues and designs to match any taste or team colors. Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate stylistic flair into women’s lacrosse cleats.

For a bold pop of color, look for bright shades like hot pink, neon yellow, electric blue or metallic purple. Vibrant solid-colored cleats let you stand out on the field. Brands like Nike, Under Armour and New Balance offer colorways in just about every shade imaginable. I love rocking pink cleats that contrast nicely with my team’s navy uniforms. Bright cleats are also easier to spot by teammates trying to pass the ball your way.

Two-tone or gradient cleats offer a great way to blend your favorite colors. Ombre or fade effects are really popular right now – starting with one color at the toes and transitioning into a different shade at the heel. This allows you to combine team colors or represent your school pride on the field. Under Armour, for example, makes a purple and gold gradient cleat perfect for LSU fans.

Prints or patterns like florals, camo, animal print or swirls let you incorporate some fun graphical elements as well. New Balance and STX offer cool floral designs that exude feminine flair. Adidas has some cleats with a colorful geometric pattern that catches the eye out on the field. If you want to get really creative, NikeID lets you fully customize and design your own cleats with unique colors, patterns, textures and logos.

Don’t be afraid to add some personal flair too like doodles, sharpie designs, or decorative tape. I like to write inspirational phrases or put my jersey number on the outside of my cleats in a contrasting color. Wrapping different colored tape around the base or over the laces can transform a boring pair into something cute and spirited.

For those with eclectic taste, don’t overlook high top cleats either. Most lacrosse cleats are low cut for ankle mobility, but some brands offer mid or high top styles that resemble casual sneakers. The Nike Huarache lacrosse cleats have a basketball shoe vibe, coming in bold neons or cool graphic prints. High top cleats let you channel an urban street style on the field.

When it comes to lacrosse cleat color and style, you have endless options to show off your flair. Here are some of my current faves:

• Under Armour Highlight Nova in Galactic Purple/Gold
• Nike Vapor Shark in Crimson Tide (red/white/black)
• New Balance FreezeLX v3 in Bright Pink/White
• STX Exult 600 in Lightning Camo
• Nike Huarache 7 Lacrosse Cleat in Green Strike/Black

The most important factors in choosing lacrosse cleats are always fit, comfort and performance. But the right colors and style can give you an extra burst of confidence on the field. Don’t settle for boring when you can lacrosse in shoes that showcase your unique personality. With so many options out there, you’re sure to find cleats that are stylish and game-ready.

What are your go-to colors and styles for lacrosse cleats? Share your top picks in the comments!

Comparing High Top vs Mid Top Women’s Cleats

When shopping for women’s lacrosse cleats, you’ll notice a variety of collar heights to choose from. While low cut cleats maximize ankle mobility, some players prefer the extra coverage and support of mid or high tops. Here’s an overview of the key differences between high top and mid top cleats for female athletes.

High top cleats extend above the ankle bone to offer maximum support and stability. They emulate the look and feel of basketball or tennis shoes, with collars that end just below the calf. High tops help restrict ankle motion while providing compression around the joint. This added coverage is ideal for athletes looking to prevent ankle sprains or those recovering from previous injuries.

Nike is one brand that makes high top cleats designed specifically for lacrosse. The Nike Huarache line has a mid-cut collar that hugs the ankle snugly. These cleats have a bootie construction inside for a sock-like fit around the ankle and lower calf. The high cut allows minimal ankle flexion and rotation. Under Armour also makes a women’s lacrosse high top with molded ankle padding for increased protection.

On the field, high top cleats provide a very stable, locked-in feel. The rigid collar eliminates any ankle wobbling or looseness within the shoe. Many players note they feel faster and more agile in high tops with the added ankle support. The extra material around the joint also offers more protection when players jostle for ground balls.

The potential downside is that high tops can restrict ankle mobility which is key for quick cuts and directional changes. They may not be ideal for players who rely on flexibility and lateral footwork. High tops can also run warmer than low cut cleats since they cover more of the leg. Ventilation panels and lightweight, breathable fabrics help combat overheating and sweat build-up.

Mid top cleats offer a middle ground, sitting just below the ankle bone. This style still supplies moderate stability without being as restrictive as high tops. Brands like Warrior, Adidas, and Under Armour make mid cut lacrosse cleats for women constructed with a molded exterior shell on the ankle. This cups the joint for light support while still enabling a natural range of motion.

In comparison to high tops, mid cut cleats allow for more multidirectional traction and mobility for attacking the goal crease. I prefer the mid height as it supplies ample support without limiting my ability to cut and pivot on the field. Most players can still tape or brace ankles in mid cut cleats if extra reinforcement is needed.

When choosing between high and mid tops, consider your typical playing style and ankle health. Strikers who plant and pivot frequently may favor mid cut for optimal mobility. Defenders focused on physicality and ankle protection may prefer the stability of high tops. Those with a history of rolling ankles can benefit from the compression and reinforcement of high collar cleats as well.

Here are some top-rated high and mid cut cleats for female lacrosse players:

High Tops:

• Nike Huarache 7 Lacrosse Cleat
• Under Armour Highlight MC
• Warrior Regulator High Top

Mid Tops:

• STX Exult 600
• New Balance FreezeLX v3
• Under Armour Finisher MC

Today’s high and mid cut lacrosse cleats balance stability with mobility to support a well-rounded game. While high tops maximize protection, mid cut provides a versatile option for dynamic players. Focus on fit and comfort, and consider your position and ankle needs when selecting a collar height.

Have you tried high top or mid top cleats? Share your experiences with ankle support and mobility in the comments!

Women’s Turf Shoes vs Cleats for Lacrosse

When gearing up for lacrosse season, female players have an important footwear decision – should you go with cleats or turf shoes? Traditional cleats and newer turf models both offer advantages for the field. Here’s a breakdown of how women’s turf lacrosse shoes compare to standard cleats.

The main distinction comes down to the outsole and traction pattern. Classic lacrosse cleats feature rigid, irregularly-shaped cleats or spikes that dig into natural grass for optimal traction. Models like the Nike Speedlax and Under Armour Finisher have aggressive cleat plates with 8-12 spikes underneath.

Turf shoes forgo the spiked cleat pattern in favor of small rubber studs or blades. These nubs provide grip on artificial turf surfaces without getting lodged or caught like long spikes can. Nike, Adidas, New Balance and Under Armour all make turf lacrosse shoes tailored for synthetic fields.

Since the outsoles differ, cleats and turf shoes vary in their performance on grass versus synthetic turf. Not surprisingly, cleats deliver unparalleled traction and acceleration on natural grass with their spiked design. The cleats engage the grass surface to resist sliding.

On newer artificial turf fields, however, some athletes actually prefer the stability of turf shoes. The many small rubber nubs grip the synthetic fibers tightly. And with no long spikes, the shoes won’t get stuck or weighed down by the artificial grass. Turf shoes allow quick cuts and multidirectional movements on turf.

Ankle support and fit also slightly differ between the two styles. Cleats typically feature a low-cut, flexible collar since mobility is paramount. Turf shoes have a slightly higher collar with more padding around the ankle. This supplies a bit more stability and cushioning on harder artificial surfaces.

When choosing between the two, first consider the primary playing surface. Cleats are ideal for grass fields to deliver strength and speed with their anchored studs. Turf shoes make more sense for all-synthetic fields due to their multidirectional traction.

Some athletes also opt for turf shoes for practices on shorter, worn grass when cleats aren’t needed. And certain positions like goalie may prefer turf shoes on any surface since they move laterally more than linearly sprinting.

Here are some top women’s cleat and turf shoe options:

Cleats:

• Nike Speedlax
• Under Armour Finisher MC
• STX Exult 600
• New Balance FreezeLX v3

Turf Shoes:

• Nike Alpha Huarache Turf
• Under Armour Highlight MC Turf
• Warrior Regulator Turf
• Adidas Adizero 8.0 Turf

Today’s turf shoes offer lightweight traction optimized for synthetic fields, while cleats remain the gold standard for natural grass surfaces. Consider your primary playing conditions along with position-specific demands when deciding between the two for women’s lacrosse.

Have you worn women’s turf shoes or cleats for lacrosse? Share your experiences with comfort and performance in the comments!

Ideal Traction and Grip for Women’s Cleats

One of the top priorities for women’s lacrosse cleats is excellent traction. The outsole needs to grip the turf tightly so you can cut, pivot and sprint explosively on the field. High-quality cleats feature advanced traction systems designed specifically for the quick, dynamic motions of lacrosse.

When scanning a pair of cleats, pay close attention to the layout and construction of the outsole. Women’s lacrosse cleats should utilize a full-length plate that extends from heel to toe for stability. The underside will be covered in either metal or molded plastic cleats or studs to engage the ground.

Metal cleats with retractable spikes typically deliver the strongest traction for aggressive acceleration and pushes. Brands like Under Armour use compressed nylon spikes screwed into the plate. These dig into natural grass fields aggressively for extra grip on quick cuts.

Molded or detachable plastic cleats are better suited for synthetic turf fields. Short rubber or TPU studs grip the artificial fibers without getting snagged like long metal spikes can. These have become more popular as turf fields are used more regularly.

The positioning of the cleats or studs also affects overall traction. Lacrosse cleats arrange the gripping elements to support fast directional changes. Cleats will be clustered most densely at the forefoot where toe-off power is needed. Extra cleats along the outside edges enhance lateral support as well.

In the heel, wider spaced cleats or blades permit straight line acceleration from the rearfoot. A reinforced heel counter internally further prevents slippage inside the shoe when sprinting. Traction and stability work together to generate explosive speed.

Here are some other key elements of women’s lacrosse cleat traction systems:

• Multi-directional cleats – Allows pushing off in all directions
• Pivot points – Circular traction pads under ball of foot for rotational traction
• Blade traction – Long lateral blades for straight speed
• Edge grip – Extra cleats along medial/lateral sides

When trying on cleats, pay attention to traction feel and performance. Jog and do cuts on a sport court or turf surface. Quality cleats will feel gripped to the ground, without looseness or sliding inside the shoe.

Here are some top-rated women’s lacrosse cleats for traction:

• Nike Speedlax – Aggressive metal spikes
• Under Armour Finisher – Compressed nylon cleats
• New Balance Freeze – Rotational traction lugs
• STX Exult – Molded rubber multi-directional cleats

Your cleats are your only connection to the field – don’t compromise on traction. Prioritize cleats with grip, acceleration and agility to take your game to the next level. A shoe’s traction design can make all the difference in developing explosive speed and quick cuts on the lacrosse field.

Have you worn women’s cleats with great traction performance? Share your recommendations in the comments!

Additional Lacrosse Gear to Use with Cleats

Quality women’s lacrosse cleats are crucial for top performance on the field. But your footwear is just one part of your protective gear arsenal. Female players also need specialized pads, gloves, eyewear and other essentials engineered for the fast-paced sport of lacrosse.

After selecting your go-to cleats, build out the rest of your gear bag with these vital accessories:

Pads – Pads protect against checks, collisions and ground ball dives. Look for lightweight, breathable options that won’t restrict mobility. Chest and rib pads are a must, along with padded girdles or shorts. Optional elbow and shin guards provide extra coverage as well.

Gloves – Lacrosse gloves improve handling, absorbing checks and winning possession. Midfielder gloves have open backs for ventilation, while defender’s gloves fully protect the hands and wrists. Goalies also utilize oversized padding.

Goggles – Goggles safeguard eyes from errant sticks, elbows and ball shots. Make sure to find a comfortable, streamlined pair that won’t fog up or shift during play. Mirrored and tinted lenses can help reduce glare too.

Mouthguards – Vital for protecting teeth and jaws from high-speed impacts. Custom fitted guards offer the best security and comfort, but boil-and-bite versions still get the job done.

Pockets/Strings – Switch up shooting strings and sidewall patterns to customize your pocket feel. Softer mesh and thinner leathers enhance ball control and accuracy.

Sticks – Complete your setup with a lightweight yet durable lacrosse stick matched to your position. Offset or canted heads provide optimal ball control and quick release.

Bags – Haul your gear in a ventilated, compartmentalized lacrosse backpack or bag. Durable fabrics withstand dirt and moisture while keeping equipment organized.

Uniforms – Lightweight, breathable lacrosse uniforms keep you cool and mobile on the field. Jersey materials should be abrasion-resistant as well.

Safety is always the priority when suiting up for practice and game action. Protect vulnerable areas with pads designed specifically for the hard-hitting sport of women’s lacrosse. Extras like ball stop nets, hydration packs and helmet fans can further enhance comfort and performance.

Here are some of my go-to brands for quality lacrosse gear:

• STX
• Brine
• Maverik
• Under Armour
• Nike
• Warrior

The right supporting gear will maximize your agility, endurance and confidence on the field when paired with elite lacrosse cleats. Safety and comfort are always worth the investment for aspiring lacrosse athletes.

What lacrosse gear can you not live without? Share your must-have accessories in the comments!

Protecting Your Feet and Ankles with Cleats

In the fast-paced, physical sport of lacrosse, female players’ feet and ankles take a beating. Finding cleats that provide ample protection is key to staying healthy and performing at your best throughout games and practices. The right footwear stabilizes feet while shielding against blows and blunt impacts.

When scanning new cleats, look for key features that deliver protection and durability:

Supportive uppers – The upper should integrate lightweight textiles and synthetic leathers that resist abrasion. Brands like Nike and Under Armour utilize high-wear materials to withstand checks and turf burns.

Reinforced toes – Extra layers or protective overlays at the toe box safeguard against jamming and bruising when you stop short or get stepped on.

Heel counters – Internal heel cups hug the rearfoot to prevent in-shoe slippage that can cause blisters. External TPU or composite shells add more structure.

Ankle padding – Increased foam or padding around the collar secures feet while defending against cuts and blows to the ankle.

Sockliners – Removable EVA or Ortholite insoles supply underfoot cushioning and impact absorption from running and jumps.

When trying on cleats, focus on finding a snug, immobilized fit in the heel and midfoot. Your foot shouldn’t be sliding or lifting inside the shoe when cutting or sprinting. A locked-down fit better protects against rolls and impacts.

Also walk and jog in the shoes on a firm surface. Quality cleats will keep your foot stable and supported through the gait cycle. Pay attention to any rubbing, pinching or discomfort which could lead to injury down the road.

Here are some of my top cleat picks for durable protection:

• Under Armour Highlight RDP – Maximum abrasion resistance
• STX Exult 600 – External TPU heel counter and toe cap
• Nike Alpha Huarache Elite 2 – Compression-molded collar padding
• New Balance FreezeLX – Full-length injected EVA midsole

Don’t sacrifice safety in favor of minimalist shoes. Opt for sturdy, protective cleats that provide coverage against the constant stops, starts and collisions of women’s lacrosse. Your feet and ankles will thank you after those hard-fought games!

Have you found lacrosse cleats that really protect your feet well? Share your top picks in the comments!

Keeping Women’s Lacrosse Cleats in Top Shape

Investing in a quality pair of women’s lacrosse cleats is a smart move for any player. But you’ll want those shoes to last more than just one season. With proper care and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your cleats to get the most out of your purchase.

Here are my top tips for keeping women’s lacrosse cleats performing at their best:

1. Clean thoroughly after each use – Don’t allow dirt, mud or grass to cake onto your cleats after games and practices. Use a stiff brush and mild detergent to gently clean the uppers, traction plates and any crevices. Remove lacrosse socks and insoles to wash separately.

2. Dry slowly and completely – Never put cleats into a hot dryer which can damage materials. Allow them to fully air dry to prevent moisture buildup inside. Stuff newspaper or towels inside to absorb excess dampness and speed the process.

3. Disinfect regularly – Spray the inside of your shoes with an antimicrobial spray to kill bacteria that causes odors. Alternate between two pairs of shoes between wears to further combat stink.

4. Store properly – Don’t jam cleats tightly into an overloaded gear bag. Place them loosely into breathable bags and allow ample space between wears.

5. Re-lace periodically – Old laces stretch out and cause looseness. Swap in fresh laces as needed to maintain an ideal snug fit.

6. Replace insoles – Insoles compact over time, losing their cushioning. Swap in new insoles every one or two seasons.

7. Check for wear – Inspect soles and uppers closely for tearing or excessive wear. Catch issues early before they worsen. Consider re-gluing any loose seam or patch.

8. Re-shape carefully – If cleats lose their contour, stuff them with damp towels and gently re-mold into proper form as they dry.

With consistent TLC, those coveted cleats you splurged on can deliver season after season of elite performance. Taking time for proper maintenance pays off in safety, savings and extended use.

For deep cleans, don’t hesitate to remove laces and insoles and scrub every surface. Avoid excessive heat and let them fully air dry to maintain structural integrity. And be sure to give your feet a break with a backup pair rotated into the mix.

Do you have any special tricks for making women’s lacrosse cleats last? Share your care tips in the comments!