Deep Dive Into the Iconic Nike Huarache 8 Lacrosse Cleat
The Nike Huarache 8 lacrosse cleat has achieved an almost legendary status in the lacrosse world since it first hit the scene. This high performing shoe has been a top choice for elite lacrosse players from youth to college to pro levels. So what makes the Huarache 8 such a popular pick? Let’s take a closer look at the key features and benefits of this iconic cleat.
First off, the Huarache 8 is designed to be an incredibly lightweight cleat. Nike utilized synthetics and mesh materials to construct the upper, keeping it featherlight but still durable. Attackmen who rely on their speed and quick cuts will love how the Huarache 8 allows them to move seamlessly up and down the field. Midfielders also benefit from the lightness when transitioning between offense and defensive possessions. Even bulky defenders can feel faster in these cleats.
In addition to lightweight, the Huarache 8 excels at breathability. Cleats can quickly get hot and sweaty during intense lacrosse games. But the mesh material and Dynamic Fit inner sleeve offer ventilation that helps your feet stay cool and comfortable. Moisture wicking technology prevents that soggy cleat feeling you want to avoid. Considering how much running lacrosse players do, breathable shoes are a must.
When it comes to traction and stability, the Huarache 8 also delivers. Its low-profile design places you closer to the ground for better stability during cuts, jukes and dodges. The cleated TPU outsole grips natural and artificial turf for multidirectional traction. Interior plates offer midfoot support and protection. All in all, the Huarache 8 allows you to move with confidence and react quickly on your feet.
Beyond performance features, the iconic Huarache style itself is a top selling point for many lacrosse players. The ribbed exoskeleton outer cage lends an unmistakable look. It also provides a snug fit that contours to your foot. And with the ability to customize your Huarache 8s through Nike ID, you can get crazy with colors and patterns to match your team’s uniform.
While not the cheapest model out there, the Huarache 8 offers proven performance and style to meet the demands of lacrosse. It’s easy to see why it remains a top-rated cleat year after year for lacrosse players across positions and skill levels. The Huarache legend lives on!
Comparing the Nike Huarache 8 to the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite
When it comes to Nike lacrosse cleats, two of the top models players consider are the Huarache 8 and the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite. As the names suggest, these are quite similar shoes with more differences in price point than performance. Let’s compare the key features between the Huarache 8 and Alpha Huarache 8 Elite so you can decide which one may be best for your game.
At first glance, the Huarache 8 and Alpha Huarache 8 Elite look nearly identical. They share the same low-profile, iconic exoskeleton cage design that the Huarache line is known for. Both utilize lightweight, breathable synthetics in the upper. The Dynamic Fit inner sleeve provides a snug wrap around the foot and ankle. You also get great traction from the full-length TPU plate outsoles.
Underfoot is where you’ll notice a difference. The Alpha Huarache 8 Elite has a Pebax® propulsion plate in the midsole. This thermoplastic resin plate is designed to offer rigidity without adding bulk. The Pebax® helps propel the foot forward to give an added spring or bounce to each step. So while the Huarache 8 offers responsive cushioning, the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite takes it a step further for even more energy return.
Speaking of energy, the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite is the lighter shoe of the two. It trims excess bulk to shave the weight down. So if you want the absolute lightest cleat possible, the Alpha model gets the edge here. However, both are still considered very lightweight options suitable for lacrosse.
When it comes to price, you’ll pay more for the upgraded Alpha Huarache 8 Elite. The Pebax® plate, lighter weight design and “Elite” status cause it to retail for around $30 more than the standard Huarache 8. For players on a budget, the non-Elite Huarache 8 can save you some money while still offering pro-level performance.
One final consideration is wide sizing. The Huarache 8 comes in a wide width option, while the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite does not. Players with wider feet who need that extra toe room will be better off going with the regular Huarache 8.
In the end, both the Nike Huarache 8 and Alpha Huarache 8 Elite represent top-tier lacrosse cleats. Unless you really need the elite-level propulsion plate, lighter weight and status of being an “Elite” model, the Huarache 8 gets you about 95% of the performance at a more affordable price point.
How the Nike Huarache 8 Performs for Different Lacrosse Positions
One key benefit of the Nike Huarache 8 lacrosse cleat is its versatility across field positions. This lightweight, breathable, and grippy cleat can excel for attackmen, midfielders, and defensemen alike. However, there are some subtle differences in how the Huarache 8 may perform for each position.
For attackmen, the Huarache 8 provides the quick cuts, jukes, and acceleration they rely on. The cleat’s low profile and responsive cushioning allow attackmen to swiftly change direction. Traction from the studded outsole grips for planting and pushing off. Attackmen who use their speed and agility to create scoring opportunities will love how the Huarache 8 supports their style of play.
Midfielders are constantly transitioning between offense and defense, and the Huarache 8 keeps up. Its lightweight feel prevents fatigue during extended shifts. Breathability keeps feet cooler when running end to end nonstop. The Dynamic Fit inner sleeve locks the foot in place for cuts across the middle. And the studded bottom clears turf well when covering ground play after play.
For defensemen who play a more physical game, the Huarache 8 supplies stability and protection. The wide stud pattern along with the low profile aid in maintaining balance against checks and pushes. Foam cushioning helps absorb impact from inevitable collisions. An inner plate adds protection right where defensemen need it most. And the snug midfoot wrap prevents the dreaded rolled ankles many defenders experience.
The bottom line is that the Huarache 8 provides a blend of quickness, breathability, traction, and protection that suits players across positions. Attackmen will notice the responsive acceleration most, midfielders will appreciate the transition speed, and defensemen will value the stability. With versatile performance capabilities, it’s easy to see why the Huarache 8 remains such a popular team-wide lacrosse cleat year after year.
Pros and Cons of the Nike Huarache 8 vs Alpha Huarache 6 Elite
When selecting your next pair of lacrosse cleats, two models you may be debating between are the Nike Huarache 8 and the Alpha Huarache 6 Elite. What are the key pros and cons of each to help you decide? Let’s break it down.
The Huarache 8 has a lot going for it. As far as pros, it’s lightweight and breathable thanks to the synthetic upper with mesh. It provides excellent traction on both natural and synthetic turf from the multidirectional cleat pattern. The low profile supplies stability for cuts and dodges. It has a wider fit than many cleats, great for wide-footed players. Finally, the iconic Huarache style remains one of the most popular in lacrosse year after year.
Potential downsides of the Huarache 8 come down to it being on the narrower side for some players. While it does come in wide sizes, some report the toe box remains tight. The outsole studs may also wear down more quickly than higher-end models. Finally, as a mid-priced cleat, it lacks some of the elite-level features found in pricier options.
Moving to the Alpha Huarache 6 Elite, it offers excellent energy return from the Pebax® propulsion plate. This provides a snappy, responsive feel players love. As an Elite model, it’s engineered for the highest level performance possible. The shoe is ultra-lightweight due to cutting excess bulk. Traction and durability are top-notch. Finally, the styling screams “premium cleat” from the unique print upper to the chrome Swoosh logo.
In terms of disadvantages, the Alpha Huarache 6 Elite runs very narrow, with no wide size options. Breathability is good but not on par with the Huarache 8. As an Elite model, the price tag is steep compared to the standard Huarache line. And some players report issues with the Pebax® plate breaking down over time.
At the end of the day, choosing between the Huarache 8 and Alpha Huarache 6 Elite comes down to your fit and budget preferences. If you need a wide toe box, the standard Huarache 8 is likely the better pick. But if you want max energy return for an Elite-level cleat, and the narrow fit isn’t an issue, go for the Alpha Huarache 6 Elite.
Customizing Nike Huaraches Through Nike ID
One of the coolest things about Nike Huarache lacrosse cleats is the ability to fully customize them via Nike ID. This online customization program lets you pick and choose colors, materials, and designs to create a shoe that’s uniquely you.
When customizing Huarache cleats through Nike ID, you first select your base model – either the standard Huarache 8 or the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite. Next, you can choose your upper material and colors. Options include bold prints, subtle tones, or team-inspired shades. Accent colors let you customize the Swoosh logo, stitching, and small design details.
Don’t stop at the upper – you can also customize the outsole plate, stud tips, and even laces. Add your name or favorite number with personalized embroidering. Top it off with fun sockliner prints, from stars and polka dots to animal prints. With so many possible color and style combinations, you’re sure to end up with a one-of-a-kind Huarache cleat.
Nike ID offers the chance to match your custom Huaraches exactly to your team’s uniform, right down to the shoelaces. Design something colorful and flashy that expresses your style. Or keep it simple and clean if that’s your thing. Either way, the Nike ID program lets lacrosse players make the iconic Huarache shoe their own.
Just keep in mind that custom Nike IDs come with a higher price tag, since you are ordering a personalized shoe made just for you. But being able to lace up in cleats you designed yourself makes the extra cost worthwhile for many lacrosse players. Express your creativity and stand out on the field with customized Huaraches courtesy of Nike ID!
Nike Huarache 8 Cleats for Wide Feet
Finding lacrosse cleats that fit wider feet can be a challenge. Many high performance models run narrow, which can lead to painful hot spots and blisters for wide-footed players. Luckily, the Nike Huarache 8 stands out as one of the few with a wide width option.
The standard Nike Huarache 8 runs on the more narrow side, similar to other athletic shoes from Nike. But it does come in several wider width sizes beyond the typical lettered sizing. Options like wide 2E and extra wide 4E accommodate players needing more room in the toes or forefoot.
Even if you don’t go up in actual size, the wider width ensures your toes don’t feel pinched against the front or sides. Your feet can relax and spread naturally in the shoe without the materials constricting them. Many wide-footed lacrosse players are relieved to finally find a cleat roomy enough.
However, some do caution that the Nike Huarache 8 wide widths stretch the limits of the shoe’s iconic cage-like exoskeleton upper. On especially wide feet, it can begin deforming or pressing in. The wider foot may still slightly overflow the upper material.
In those cases, it’s recommended to try going up a half or full size and then selecting the wide width. This allows more space all around without compromising the structure and shape of the shoe. While not a perfect solution for extra wide feet, the Huarache 8 still remains one of the top options out there.
For lacrosse players with wide feet who have struggled to find comfortable, performance cleats, the Nike Huarache 8 in wide sizing presents a great option. Being able to get pro-level cushioning and traction without painful pinching or squeezing can be game changing.
Top Colorways for Nike Huarache Lacrosse Cleats
Along with providing top notch performance, Nike Huarache lacrosse cleats have always been known for their style. The iconic outer cage design comes in a myriad of bold and vibrant color combinations that let players express themselves.
Classic and clean white Huarache cleats remain popular year after year. The white-on-white colorway gives off an old school vibe, hearkening back to the early days of lacrosse. White also pairs perfectly with colorful jerseys and socks to make the rest of your uniform pop.
Vibrant neon hues offer another fun Huarache colorway for lacrosse players wanting to stand out. Hot pink, lime green, bright orange – you name the neon shade, and Nike probably made a Huarache in it. Neons look great under stadium lights at night games.
Nike often releases special Huarache cleats timed with NCAA tournaments or championships. These feature colors of top participating teams. Players love rocking their team’s custom colorway during big games. these special editions sell out fast.
Tie-dye or graffiti-style prints offer an eye-catching look for Huaraches. Psychedelic swirls and splashes of color breathe new energy into the classic cleat. These bolder designs appeal to lacrosse players wanting maximum flair.
Simple two-tone combinations continue gaining popularity as well. A black caged upper with clean white outsole and logo keeps the focus on smooth lines rather than flashy colors. Or white on top balanced with a gray bottom for subtle elegance.
Whether you like classic whites, neon brights, team editions, wild prints or simple Duotones, Nike has a Huarache lacrosse cleat to match your style. Find the colorway that best represents your personality on the field.
Nike Huarache 8 Lacrosse Cleats Care and Cleaning Tips
Taking proper care of your Nike Huarache 8 lacrosse cleats will help them last longer and perform at their best. Here are some tips for keeping your Huaraches in top playing condition all season long.
Before each game or practice, be sure to check your cleats over and remove any stuck-on debris. Carefully pick out pieces of rubber, dirt, or turf pellets from the sole. Remove any grass blades or padding fibers stuck to the upper. Start each outing with fresh, clean cleats.
When taking your Huaraches off after playing, lightly wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt. Allow them to fully air dry before storing to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing. Stuff with newspaper or fitted shoe trees to help retain the shape.
Every few weeks, do a deeper clean by removing the laces and insoles. Scrub the inside walls and footbed with warm water and mild detergent. Use an old toothbrush to get into small crevices. Rinse thoroughly. Disinfect insoles with spray antibacterial cleaner or non-bleach shoe disinfectant wipes.
Check for signs of excessive wear on high impact points like the heels and toe caps. If you notice the exterior cage starting to pull away or crack, re-adhere it carefully with rubber cement or epoxy resin glue. Be careful not to get any adhesives on playing surfaces.
Re-treat your Huaraches with waterproofing spray every month or so, especially before wet weather games. This protects the materials and helps prevent strains of turf bacteria from taking hold. Let them dry fully before wearing again.
With consistent cleaning, inspection and care, your Nike Huarache 8 cleats can deliver season after season of top notch performance and style on the lacrosse field. Taking care of your shoes allows you to play your best game.
Nike Huarache Lacrosse Cleats for Women
Female lacrosse players have more shoe options than ever before, including Nike Huarache models designed specifically for women. From pro editions to college team styles, Nike has Huarache cleats to take women’s performance to the next level.
Nike crafts high-end Huarache Pro lacrosse cleats for elite women’s leagues, like the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). These feature advanced Flywire technology for containment and support in the upper. A lightweight Pebax® propulsion plate provides energy return for quick cuts and sprints.
For top college players, Nike partners with universities to offer Huarache cleats decked out in team colors and logos. Star female lacrosse athletes at schools like the University of North Carolina and University of Maryland can rep their squad in customized style.
Beyond pro and college models, Nike’s general women’s Huarache line offers the same features as the men’s versions. This includes the iconic outer cage for support, Dynamic Fit inner sleeve for containment, and rugged outsole for traction. They engineering the lasts and dimensions specifically to better match the female foot.
Nike also gives women fun style options not found in the men’s line. Examples include floral prints, metallic accents, jewel-toned colorways, and patterns like leopard and plaid. Female players enjoy expressing their personal style with bold Huarache cleats.
With Nike continually advancing women’s lacrosse footwear, female players can finally get the performance, fit, and style they deserve. The iconic Huarache franchise offers game-changing technology tailored specifically for women dominating on the field.
Are Nike Huaraches Good Lacrosse Cleats for Youth Players?
With their iconic style and proven performance, Nike Huarache cleats have long been a top choice for elite high school lacrosse players. But how suitable are they for even younger athletes just learning the game? Let’s look at the key considerations of fitting youth players with Huaraches.
The main question is sizing. Nike offers select Huarache models, like the Huarache 7, in youth sizes all the way down to toddler. However, the selection is fairly limited compared to adult sizes. Parents may need to size down significantly to get the right fit, and even then the proportions may be slightly off.
In terms of weight, the lightweight synthetic upper of the Huarache line works well for young players. The shoe won’t feel overly bulky or cumbersome as kids run the field. Traction is also suitable for youth just learning to cut and change direction.
However, the lack of ankle support in low-cut Huaraches makes them less ideal for uncoordinated beginners. Higher cut cleats or even lacrosse-specific turf shoes provide needed stability. Huaraches shine once athletes develop more coordination and footwork mastery.
The snug fit of the Huarache upper also may not accommodate orthotics or braces some young athletes require. And the minimal cushioning can be uncomfortable for youth still developing proper mechanics and impact absorption.
While elite high school lacrosse players certainly shine in Nike’s Huarache line, athletes just beginning in the sport may want to opt for more supportive, structured, and cushy options. But as their experience and coordination improves, Huaraches make for a great upgrade to take their game to the next level.
Sizing for Youth in Nike Huarache Lacrosse Cleats
Finding the right size is crucial when fitting young lacrosse players with Nike Huarache cleats. The sizing and proportions are a bit different than adult versions, so it’s important to get the size right for proper fit and performance.
Nike Huarache lacrosse cleats come in youth sizes ranging from toddler 10C up to youth 7Y. Generally, the best way to size is to have your child try them on in person for best accuracy. Make sure to bring the socks they’ll wear for games and practice when trying on.
If trying before buying isn’t an option, experts advise going at least a half size up from their normal athletic shoe size. Huarache cleats tend to fit snugly in both length and width. The added half size gives growing feet a little more room.
Pay special attention to width when sizing up. Those with wider feet may need to size up even more or go with a wide width option. Compare the width of the toes and forefoot to ensure there’s enough wiggle room and prevent painful pinching.
The low cut height of Huarache cleats provides less ankle support and stability than a higher shoe. If you notice too much lateral wobbling in the ankle when trying on, consider an additional size up or trying a differently shaped cleat instead.
With younger kids under age 10, err on the side of going too large versus too small. Their rapid growth will ensure they grow into a slightly roomy cleat within a season. A comfortable fit allows them to focus on developing skills rather than being distracted by pinching shoes.
Are Nike Huaraches the Best Lacrosse Cleats?
With so many lacrosse cleat options on the market, it can be tough deciding which is the best. Nike’s Huarache franchise has remained one of the most popular, but are they necessarily the top choice for every player?
There’s no doubt Nike Huaraches are lightweight, breathable, and provide excellent traction for quick cuts and acceleration. The low-profile design offers stability while the Dynamic Fit sleeve locks feet in place. They’ve been proven to perform at the highest levels from youth to college to pro.
However, some players may prefer alternatives with more cushioning and arch support like New Balance Freeze or Under Armour Highlight cleats. And those with wider feet often find the Huarache’s narrow fit uncomfortable despite sizing up and widths.
In terms of durability, the exposed outer exoskeleton can be more prone to tearing or damage compared to one-piece synthetic uppers. The thin foam midsole also tends to compress permanently over time.
While Huaraches offer a signature style, some find the outer cage bulky or restrictive. Those wanting a more minimal, “barefoot” feel may opt for Vapor or Alpha model cleats instead.
Price-wise, standard Huaraches retail around $80-120, mid-range for lacrosse cleats. Players on a tight budget can find quality options for less. And some elite-level cleats outperform Huaraches while costing even more.
At the end of the day, Nike Huaraches remain a top-notch option with die-hard fans. But what makes the “best” lacrosse cleat ultimately comes down to the fit, feel, and performance each individual player prefers. The right cleat is the one you forget you’re even wearing because it works so seamlessly. For many, that’s the Huarache.
Nike Huarache Lacrosse Cleats for Wide Feet
Finding lacrosse cleats that properly fit wide feet can be a challenge. Many high performance models run narrow and constricting. But Nike’s Huarache line stands out as one of the few that offers wider sizing options to accommodate players needing more room.
The standard widths of Nike’s Huarache cleats do tend to run more on the narrow side. However, Nike produces certain models like the Huarache 7 and Huarache 8 in wider sizes all the way up to 4E extra wide.
With the wider widths, players get more room through the forefoot and toe box area without having to size way up. Your toes can relax and move naturally rather than being painfully squeezed together. The extra space prevents irritating hot spots and blisters.
Some with extremely wide feet caution the stretchier upper material can still feel tight across the highest width sizes. The iconic Huarache cage-like exoskeleton isn’t designed to stretch too far beyond standard proportions.
In those cases, sizing up a half or full size in addition to getting a wide width can help. This allows for more overall room without compromising the structure and shape of the cleat upper. It’s a balancing act to get the optimal size and fit.
While not a perfect solution for every foot, Nike Huarache cleats in wide widths provide a great option for many lacrosse players needing more wiggle room. Being able to make cuts and accelerations without foot pain can be game changing.
Nike Huarache Lacrosse Cleats for Youth Players
Nike offers select Huarache lacrosse cleat models in youth sizes for young athletes. However, fitting younger, developing feet with these performance shoes takes some special consideration compared to adult versions.
The main challenge is finding the right sizing. Nike makes the Huarache 7 and a few other models down to toddler sizes. But the selection is much more limited than adult. Parents often have to size down significantly, which can throw off proportions.
Weight-wise, the lightweight synthetic upper works well for youth since it doesn’t feel bulky on smaller feet. Traction is also suitable for beginners learning to maneuver on turf.
However, the minimal ankle support from low-cut Huaraches may not provide enough stability for uncoordinated kids. Higher cleats or turf shoes offer needed structure. Huaraches excel once footwork skills progress.
The snug fit also won’t accommodate braces or orthotics some young athletes require. And the lack of cushioning can be uncomfortable for those still mastering body mechanics and impact absorption.
While elite high school lacrosse players thrive in Huaraches, athletes just beginning the sport may want more supportive and protective options. But as skills and coordination improve, Huaraches make for a great high-performance upgrade.
The Bottom Line: Are Nike Huaraches the Best Lacrosse Cleats?
With the huge variety of lacrosse cleats available today, a common question players have is whether Nike Huaraches are the absolute best option. There’s no denying their popularity and proven performance, but a few considerations come into play.
On the plus side, Huaraches are lightweight, breathable, and provide excellent traction for quick cuts and sprints. The Dynamic Fit sleeve offers a locked-in feel. They’ve been relied on by elite lacrosse athletes at all levels of the sport for years.
However, some players may prefer alternatives with more cushioning and arch support, like New Balance Freeze or Under Armour Highlight. And despite wide size options, some still find the Huarache fit too narrow.
In terms of durability, the exposed exoskeleton upper is prone to damage over time. And the thin midsole often permanently compresses after heavy use.
While the Huarache style is iconic, some find the outer cage restrictive or bulky. Those wanting a minimal, “barefoot” feel may opt for Vapor or Alpha models instead.
Standard Huaraches retail around $80-120, a mid-range price point. Budget buyers can find quality for less, while some elite-level cleats outperform Huaraches for more money.
At the end of the day, Huaraches remain top-notch performers with die-hard fans. But the “best” cleat comes down to each player’s individual fit, feel and performance preferences. When a shoe works seamlessly with your foot, that’s the right one – for many lacrosse players, that’s the beloved Huarache.