Key Features of Nike Alpha Huarache Turf Shoes
When it comes to lacrosse turf shoes, one of the top models on the market is the Nike Alpha Huarache. This innovative cleat combines several key features that make it an excellent choice for lacrosse players looking for traction, support, and durability on artificial turf fields.
One of the standout features of the Alpha Huarache is the adaptive traction system. Nike designed the sole with triangular studs in areas of high impact and smaller blades around the edges for multidirectional grip. This allows for aggressive cuts, quick changes in direction, and powerful launches when sprinting down the field. The stud configuration digs into turf infill for solid traction even in wet or slippery conditions.
In addition to adaptive traction, the Alpha Huarache utilizes Nike’s Flywire technology in the upper. This consists of cables integrated with the lacing system that lock down the midfoot for a dynamic fit. When you cinch the laces, the Flywire cables engage and customize the wrap of the upper around your foot. This creates a one-to-one fit and enables your foot to remain stable inside the shoe when making cuts or dodging defenders.
The Alpha Huarache also employs a low-profile cushioning system in the Phylon midsole. This proprietary foam is lightweight and responsive to absorb shock and impact. Under the ball of the foot, Nike added a Zoom Air unit for even better energy return when sprinting and jumping. Reviewers praise the responsive cushioning system for comfort even during long games or repeated sprints.
When it comes to materials, the Alpha Huarache utilizes a combination of lightweight synthetics and mesh. The upper includes textured synthetic leather in high wear areas for increased durability, while laser-cut mesh enhances ventilation to keep feet cool and dry.
In summary, the Nike Alpha Huarache lacrosse turf shoe provides an ideal blend of grip, support, cushioning, and ventilation to match the fast-paced, quick-cutting nature of the sport. For midfielders routinely sprinting up and down the field or attackmen dodging defenders, the Alpha Huarache is a top performing and comfortable choice for your next pair of lacrosse turf cleats.
Benefits of the Huarache Design for Traction
One of the key elements that makes Nike turf shoes stand out for lacrosse players is the adaptable Huarache design. The distinctive exoskeleton shape of Huarache lacrosse turfs provides several performance benefits, especially when it comes to traction and grip on artificial turf surfaces.
The Huarache concept originated in 1991 when Nike designer Tinker Hatfield was inspired by Native American sandals. This design ethos focuses on a “one-to-one fit” by wrapping the upper around the contours of the foot and integrating with the lacing system. When you tie the laces on a Huarache shoe, it tightens the exoskeleton upper directly against your foot.
For lacrosse turf shoes, this creates a dynamic fit in the midfoot and heel areas. Your foot remains locked in and stable inside the shoe, preventing sideways slippage or loss of traction when planting your foot to pivot, cut, or launch into a sprint. The elastic fit also enables freedom of movement to run comfortably in any direction.
The Huarache concept has evolved over the years, and Nike has fine-tuned it specifically for lacrosse by tweaking the placement of the exoskeleton components. For example, they angles the midfoot straps to better match the directional forces applied by lacrosse athletes. This helps keep the foot centered over the cleat plate for optimal traction.
Nike lacrosse shoes like the Alpha Huarache Elite also feature rubberized overlays on the toes and sides for extra grip and durability. The synthetic leather and textured material help maintain control of the stick through cuts and dodges. The upper materials also stand up well to abrasions from hard artificial turf fields.
Underfoot, the Huarache plate includes aggressive triangular cleats with razor edges that bite into modern turf infill. Nike positions the studs under the ball of the foot, toes, and heel for straightforward traction and lateral support in key zones.
In summary, the snug fit, durable exoskeleton design, and cleat configuration allow Huarache lacrosse turfs like the Nike Alpha line to offer elite levels of traction and anchoring in the turf surface. For quick, shifty midfielders and attackmen, the adaptive support and grip make Huaraches a go-to option.
Top Nike Turf Shoe Models for Lacrosse
When it comes to top-tier turf lacrosse shoes, Nike offers several excellent models designed specifically for the demands of the sport. Some of their most popular and high-performing options include the Alpha Huarache series, Huarache 7 Pro, and Alpha Huarache Elite.
The Alpha Huarache line utilizes the brand’s proven Huarache technology in a versatile lacrosse cleat. The Adaptive Traction outsole features triangular cleats for aggressive grip on artificial turf surfaces. Under the ball of the foot, Nike added a Zoom Air unit for responsive cushioning when sprinting and cutting. The raised exoskeleton design in the upper wraps the midfoot for a dynamic fit, while Flywire cables integrate with the laces for lockdown support.
The Alpha Huarache provides great traction and foot lockdown, while still allowing good freedom of movement. Nike offers the shoe in different models including the Alpha Huarache 8 and Alpha Huarache 9 for men, along with the Alpha Huarache KE for women. These provide a lightweight, comfortable turf lacrosse option.
Building off the success of the Alpha line, Nike introduced the Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleat. This model features the brand’s Vapor Traction rubber outsole and distinctive Huarache midfoot exoskeleton. The outsole combines conical and bladed cleats for multidirectional grip on turf surfaces. Under the forefoot are triangular cleats for straight-line acceleration.
The Huarache 7 Pro upper incorporates a bootie construction made of mesh for breathability. This is combined with textured synthetic overlays for durability and abrasion resistance. The midfoot cables and exo-frame lock down the foot over the platform without restricting natural movement.
For elite high school and college players, the Alpha Huarache Elite brings top-end performance and innovation. This cleat has a full inner sleeve upper made of Nike’s Ultrastrong Dyneema material. This “robotic skin” wraps and secures the foot for a true one-to-one fit. The plate features Nike’s NDurance rubber and Fastflex cleats tuned specifically for turf traction.
Whether you prefer the versatility of the Alpha Huarache models, the comfort of the Huarache 7 Pro, or the high-end elite design of the Alpha Huarache Elite, Nike offers lacrosse turf shoes to match different preferences. Their footwear consistently focuses on fit, traction, and innovative features to support the game’s dynamic moves.
Comparing the Nike Huarache 7 Pro and Alpha Huarache Elite
When evaluating top Nike turf shoes for lacrosse, two models that often emerge are the Huarache 7 Pro and the Alpha Huarache Elite. Both offer excellent traction and support, but there are some key differences in their designs and technology.
The Huarache 7 Pro is considered a versatile workhorse lacrosse turf cleat. It utilizes Nike’s proven Vapor Traction outsole which combines conical and blade studs for multidirectional grip. Under the forefoot are triangular cleats for acceleration and straight-line speed.
The upper on the 7 Pro features a seamless textile bootie construction for flexibility and ventilation. Synthetic leather overlays are placed in high wear areas for added protection and durability. The midfoot exoskeleton integrates with the lacing system to lock the foot securely in place.
Overall, the Huarache 7 Pro provides excellent traction and foot lockdown at a reasonable price point. It offers a more basic and understated look compared to some other models.
The Alpha Huarache Elite steps up the technology and performance. Most noticeably, the upper utilizes Dyneema fibers to create a seamless compression fit around the foot. This “exo-skin” upper molds to the foot’s shape and moves dynamically along with it. Integrated Flywire cables and the exo-skeleton further lock down the midfoot.
The Alpha plate on the Elite has a Pebax propulsion frame for rigidity and energy return. The 7-cleat rotational configuration provides multi-directional traction tailored for quick cuts and acceleration. Under the heel is a triangular support cleat for stability during changes of direction.
For elite players looking for the ultimate in fit, traction and foot lockdown, the Alpha Huarache Elite delivers. However, the 7 Pro still offers excellent performance at a more accessible price point. The main advantages of the Elite are the compression Dyneema upper, propulsion plate, and tuned rotational cleat configuration.
Both Huarache models utilize Nike’s adaptive fit technology and provide great grip on turf fields. The 7 Pro focuses more on versatility and comfort, while the Elite leans toward maximized traction and responsiveness for cutting edge performance.
Reviewing Durability of Nike Turf Lacrosse Cleats
Durability is a key consideration when selecting lacrosse turf shoes. The constant stops, starts, and direction changes put a lot of stress on cleats. Nike lacrosse shoes utilize robust materials and construction methods to provide extended durability.
For the uppers, most Nike turf lacrosse models use a combination of lightweight mesh or textile for ventilation, combined with synthetic leather or suede overlays in high abrasion areas. The toe box and sides tend to see the most scraping and wear during play, so Nike reinforces those zones.
The Alpha Huarache Elite takes durability a step further by utilizing a seamless compression upper made entirely of Dyneema fibers. This tough synthetic material comes from the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene family. It has an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for anchoring the foot during intense lacrosse play.
Midsoles are often made from Nike’s responsive and resilient Phylon foam. For elite shoes like the Alpha Huarache, they’ll add a Zoom Air unit under the forefoot for even better energy return and impact absorption. Outsoles utilize solid rubber compounds like NDurance that resist tearing and shearing from traction cleats.
Nike lacrosse shoes strike a good balance between being lightweight for speed, but also resisting wear and tear. The uppers tend to be the most vulnerable areas over time. The synthetic leather and suede reinforcements are directly applied in high abrasion zones to extend the upper’s durability.
Some players notice the toe box mesh wearing down after a season or two of play. But this is an expected high wear area. Periodically cleaning turf and dirt buildup from the shoes helps reduce abrasion damage.
Overall, Nike Huarache and Alpha Huarache turf lacrosse shoes deliver good longevity considering the demands of the sport. Rotating between two pairs of shoes can extend the usable life by giving each pair a chance to fully dry out between uses.
With proper care and rotation, most players can expect their Nike lacrosse turfs to remain usable for at least one full season. The upgraded Alpha Huarache Elite model with Dyneema upper offers even better durability for players who are extra tough on their shoes.
Sizing and Fit Options for Nike Lacrosse Turfs
Finding the right size and fit is crucial when selecting Nike lacrosse turf shoes. The shoes need to be snug enough to support quick cuts and acceleration, without restricting movement or comfort.
Most Nike lacrosse turf shoes come in standard D medium widths for men and B medium widths for women. However, some models like the Alpha Huarache 7 are also offered in wider 2E and 4E sizes to accommodate different foot shapes.
Nike recommends ordering your normal shoe size, but trying shoes on in person is ideal. Wear the same socks you expect to use for games and practices. There should be room for your toes to wiggle slightly, but your heel should not slip excessively inside the shoe.
Lacrosse involves a lot of lateral motion and quick changes of direction. You don’t want your foot sliding around uncontrolled inside the shoe when pressing off or planting to pivot.
The tightening system is also important for getting the right fit. Nike’s Flywire system integrates with the laces to lock down the midfoot when tightened. The snug wrap of the inner sleeve or bootie construction also anchors the foot in place.
Breaking in the shoes properly helps maximize the fit. Wear them around the house at first to identify any pressure points. The mesh and synthetic materials will stretch slightly with use to better match your foot shape.
Nike also offers some wider fit options like the Alpha Huarache 7 lacrosse turf in 2E and 4E sizes. This model has a more forgiving bootie construction up front to accommodate wider feet. The Alpha Huarache 9 and Huarache 7 soccer turfs also come in wide sizes and translate well to lacrosse.
With athletic shoes, getting the fit dialed in correctly has a big impact on traction and performance. Be sure to budget enough time to try on shoes in your normal size, as well as going up or down a half or whole size. The shoes should be snug when laced up without limiting mobility.
Pros and Cons of Nike Youth Lacrosse Turf Shoes
Nike makes turf lacrosse shoes for youth players looking to get started in the sport. The Nike Alpha Huarache 5 and Huarache 7 models are popular options engineered for younger athletes. Here is a look at some of the pros and cons.
On the plus side, Nike scales down the high-performance features of the adult models for more appropriate sizing and support. The youth Alpha Huarache 5 Lacrosse, for example, uses the same Adaptive Traction outsole and Huarache fit system as the adult versions.
The raised exo-skeleton chassis provides midfoot lockdown and stability for lateral cuts and movements. The underside triangular cleats supply solid traction on artificial turf surfaces. A phylon midsole offers responsive cushioning for developing feet.
The Alpha Huarache 5 also comes in wider D and EE widths to accommodate different foot volumes. This helps ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
For more advanced youth players, the Huarache 7 Lacrosse turf translates the proven technology of the adult model into a sleek, lightweight package. The Vapor Traction outsole, textile upper, and exo-fit deliver excellent grip and support.
On the downside, some parents feel the $80-100 price range is still high for quickly growing kids’ feet. The youth models also lack some of the elite performance features like Nike’s Dyneema yarns or Zoom Air units.
There are mixed reviews on durability, with some commenting the youth models wear down faster than the adult versions. The outsoles tend to hold up well, but the mesh or synthetic leather uppers can show abrasion after a season of play.
Despite some drawbacks, Nike’s Huarache lacrosse shoes offer performance and quality construction tuned for developing youth players. The wider fit options help accommodate growing feet. Prioritizing fit over top-end features can help maximize value from youth turf lacrosse shoes.
Evaluating Support and Protection in Nike Turfs
Providing proper support and protection for the foot is a primary function of any athletic shoe, including Nike lacrosse turf models. The repetitive starting, stopping, and cutting involved in lacrosse can put a lot of stress on feet and legs.
Nike lacrosse shoes utilize several technologies to stabilize and safeguard the foot during play. The contoured midsole provides the underlying platform, while the upper wrapping locks the foot in place. The lacing system also plays an integral role.
Most Nike turf lacrosse cleats use a low-profile Phylon foam midsole. Phylon is lightweight and responsive to cushion landings and absorb shock. In some elite models, Nike adds a Zoom Air unit under the forefoot for extra energy return when sprinting or dodging.
The uppers utilize breathable mesh or textile liners for comfort, combined with synthetic leather or suede overlays in high abrasion zones. The distinctive Huarache exoskeleton design acts like an external seatbelt to secure the midfoot and heel in place.
Integrated Flywire cables connect to the laces to provide adaptive support when tightened. This snug, dynamic fit keeps the foot locked over the footbed without restricting natural motion.
For collar padding, some models employ a low-cut design while high-end versions like the Alpha Huarache Elite extend up the ankle. Extra padding helps prevent abrasion and provides stability at the heel cup.
Outsoles are made from solid rubber compounds like Nike’s NDurance formulation to maintain stiffness and traction. The stud shapes, including conical, triangular, and blade cleats, provide multidirectional grip.
By tuning the combination of cushioning, lightweight support, and flexible traction, Nike lacrosse turf shoes aim to provide protection without sacrificing quickness and agility. The snug fit also helps safeguard against rolled ankles or injuries when making cuts at high speeds.
Traction and Grip on Different Field Surfaces
The ability to gain traction and grip on the playing surface is critical for lacrosse shoes. Nike turf lacrosse models utilize adaptive stud configurations and compounds to provide multi-directional traction on both natural grass and synthetic turf fields.
For grass fields, shoes like the Alpha Huarache 8 Lacrosse use a combination of conical and triangular studs. The conical shape helps penetrate and release from soil, while the triangular design provides lateral support for cutting and pivoting. The flex grooves assist with natural motion and turf release.
On artificial turf fields, models like the Huarache 7 Turf focus on bladed studs and low profile triangular cleats. The bladesalong the edges grip the turf fibers for solid acceleration and direction changes. The triangular studs under the forefoot and heel dig into the infill granules for straight-line traction.
Higher end shoes like the Alpha Huarache 9 Turf combine both tuned stud shapes and strategic placement. The rotational traction zones allow for aggressive cuts and launches in all directions. Under the big toe are tri-star cleats for extra grip during toe-off while sprinting.
In the heel is a support stud to provide stability during changes of direction. Additional bladed cleats run along the arch to maximize traction on artificial turf and hard-packed natural grass fields.
Outsole rubber compounds are also important for maintaining grip in different conditions. Many Nike models use solid, durable rubber such as BRS 1000 carbon rubber on the heel or NDurance rubber for durability. This allows the studs to penetrate without excessive wear.
By tuning the stud configurations and rubber compounds for lacrosse movements, Nike shoes aim to provide consistent traction across different natural and artificial turf surfaces. The ability to pivot, cut, and accelerate in all directions gives players an edge during competition.
Caring for Your Nike Lacrosse Turf Shoes
Investing in a quality pair of Nike lacrosse turf shoes requires also taking proper care of your cleats to maximize durability and performance. Here are some tips for cleaning, storing, and extending the life of your shoes.
After each use, knock or brush off any loose debris from the turf surface. Remove the removable insoles and allow everything to fully air dry before storing. Stuffing damp shoes in a cramped bag can lead to premature breakdown.
Periodically hand wash the upper with warm water and mild detergent, using a soft brush on the outsole to dislodge caked-on turf and dirt particles. Avoid excessive hot water or harsh cleaners that could damage the textures or materials.
Check for signs of excessive wear on the upper, sole, or studs. Rotating between two pairs of shoes helps reduce the rate of abrasion damage. Replace shoes once the traction lugs appear significantly worn down.
Use aftermarket lacrosse shoe spray conditioners to treat and protect the uppers. These can help resist moisture and strengthen the synthetic fibers against fraying or tears.
For storage, remove insoles and stuff shoes with paper or tubes to help retain the shape. Store shoes on a shelf or in a mesh bag, avoiding pileups that can warp the unsupported cleats over time.
Taking the time to properly air dry, clean, and store your Nike lacrosse turfs after each use establishes good habits. The small effort pays off by keeping your shoes performing and looking their best for longer, protecting your investment in quality lacrosse footwear.
Style and Design of Nike Lacrosse Turfs
Along with performance and function, Nike infuses style into their lacrosse turf shoes. The iconic Swoosh branding and modern color schemes give the shoes an athletic look on the field. Nike also utilizes design elements to highlight key technologies.
Many Nike lacrosse models employ bright, contrasting colors for a bold, aggressive appearance. The Alpha Huarache Elite lacrosse turfs, for example, combine dark muted uppers with vibrant shades like volt green outsoles and bright crimson accents.
Colorways tie in the traditional sporting hues of the colleges and universities where lacrosse is popular. This allows players to coordinate footwear with team uniforms for a cohesive and professional-grade look.
Textures and material finishes provide visual interest and depth. Matte synthetic leathers contrast with semi-gloss mesh fabrics. Reflective highlights and metallic color pops add glare and flash under stadium lights for visibility and presence.
Silhouettes tend to be sleek and minimalist, often with low-cut collars for increased mobility and ankle freedom. The iconic Huarache exoskeleton design along the midfoot acts as a visual reminder of the dynamic fit technology.
Outsoles form aggressive traction patterns, leaning heavily on sharp triangular and bladed studs. Visually, these cleats convey immediate cues about the shoes’ traction and performance capabilities.
For players seeking to make an impression, Nike lacrosse shoes convey athletic swagger and confidence through their modern color schemes, sleek shapes, and visual texture play. The visual identity lives up to the dynamic reputation and popularity of the fast-paced sport.
Blending game-ready performance with artful aesthetics allows players to make a statement. As Nike’s famous marketing tagline says, lacrosse athletes can just do it while looking good in stylish Nike turf cleats.
Important Factors When Selecting Turf Lacrosse Shoes
Choosing the right turf lacrosse shoes involves considering several key factors. Traction, fit, support, and durability should be top priorities for athletes in this demanding sport.
Stud shape, configuration, and rubber compounds play a huge role in stability and grip on artificial and natural grass fields. Conical and triangular studs provide straight-line traction, while blades excel at lateral cuts. Rotationally tuned patterns match lacrosse footwork.
A snug, contoured fit keeps the foot secured inside the shoe during quick changes of direction. Integrated lacing systems and exo-skeleton wraps prevent slippage while allowing free flexion and natural motion.
Proper cushioning and stability features reduce injury risk from repetitive impacts when cutting or dodging. Supportive synthetic uppers and exo-frames lock down the foot without pinch points or restrictions.
Durability must be robust enough to withstand turf abrasion, but not sacrifice weight and agility. Strategic synthetic overlays protect fragile mesh in high wear zones for extended lifespan.
Prioritizing the right blend of these performance attributes for your style of play and field surface can help identify the best lacrosse turf shoe options. Analyze your footwear needs around traction, fit, support, and durability.
Test shoes in person with your typical socks to assess comfort and lockdown. Jog and simulate cuts to experience traction and support capabilities first-hand.
Researching lacrosse shoe technologies like Nike’s Huarache system and Adaptive Traction helps understand how design and engineering can enhance performance. Finding the right balance maximizes results on the field.
Why Nike Leads in Lacrosse Turf Shoe Innovation
As one of the major players in athletic footwear, Nike has emerged as a leader when it comes to lacrosse turf shoe technology and performance. The brand’s culture of innovation allows it to push boundaries.
Nike commits significant resources to studying athletic biomechanics and needs. By bringing in physiologists, engineers, and designers, they examine lacrosse movements and translate those insights into practical features.
For example, Nike’s adaptive traction systems aim to match cleat placement and configurations to the specific footwork of midfield dodges, quick cuts, and lateral shuffles.
Advanced materials like Dyneema yarn create ultra-light “exoskin” uppers that move seamlessly with the foot for unmatched dynamic support during pivots and acceleration.
Nike also leverages its existing proprietary technologies, tailoring them for lacrosse. The Huarache design philosophy yields shoes that act like external ligaments for the foot by adapting to player movements and locking the foot in place over the sole plate.
Continued testing and iteration allows refinements over each shoe generation. Features like Flywire cabling and Pebax propulsion plates demonstrate how existing technologies can translate to new sports for incremental improvements.
From a brand perspective, Nike has the clout to attract top talent and promote innovation. Its marketing ode of “obsessively pursuing innovation” rings true in the context of lacrosse footwear.
The combination of studying athlete needs, applying new material science and processes, and refining past learnings allows Nike to keep pushing lacrosse shoe performance forward year after year. This commitment to innovation maintains the brand’s cutting edge reputation.
Recommendations for Top Nike Turf Shoes for Lacrosse
When it comes to Nike lacrosse turf shoes, athletes have excellent options depending on preferences for fit, cushioning, and support. Here are some top recommendations across several categories.
For all-around versatility at a reasonable price, the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Lacrosse brings proven technology. The Adaptive Traction outsole, Huarache exo-fit, and Phylon midsole deliver on traction, lockdown, and comfort.
Players wanting a lightweight shoe for quick cuts check out the Nike Alpha Huarache Elite 2. The compression fit Dyneema yarn upper works like an exoskeleton for agile foot support and control.
Midfielders logging heavy mileage appreciate the well-cushioned Nike Alpha Huarache 9 Turf. This workhorse model includes full-length Zoom Air and a Pebax plate for responsive feel across long games.
For wider fit needs, the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Turf comes in 2E and 4E sizes. The generous bootie construction up front accommodates wider foot volumes.
Youth players wanting a scaled-down high-performance shoe can grab the Nike Alpha Huarache 5 Turf Lacrosse. It brings an adjustable fit and solid traction for developing athletes.
Trying shoes on in person is advisable to get the right size and fit. Allow a short break-in period for any pressure points to resolve. Proper fit and traction go a long way toward maximizing comfort and minimizing injury risk.
The Best Nike Turf Shoes for Lacrosse Players
When looking for turf lacrosse shoes that deliver traction, support, and durability, it’s hard to beat the performance of Nike cleats engineered for the sport. From elite college players to youth athletes getting started, Nike offers quality lacrosse turf options.
Their shoes directly address the needs of lacrosse movements with features like targeted stud configurations for multidirectional grip and containment. The dynamic fit delivered by the Huarache chassis locks down the midfoot for cuts while allowing natural motion.
Advanced materials like Dyneema yarn create seamless uppers that move seamlessly with the foot to prevent rollover. Integrated technologies like Zoom Air, Pebax plates, and Flywire cables enhance energy return, efficiency, and adaptive support.
Nike continually refines their lacrosse products through athlete testing and research. This allows incremental improvements in traction, fit, cushioning, and durability over each shoe generation.
While investing in quality turf lacrosse footwear represents a cost, proper shoes can help maximize player performance and reduce injury risk. Prioritizing key factors like fit, stud configuration, and supportive uppers ensures you select the right Nike lacrosse model for your needs.
Don’t neglect proper break-in and care for your shoes either. Taking time to break them in, clean properly after use, and rotate pairs extends their usable lifespan. Quality lacrosse turf shoes like Nike’s deliver benefits that outweigh their cost over repeated use.