How do New Balance Freeze Low Cleats enhance lacrosse performance. What key features make them ideal for players. Why are they popular among lacrosse athletes. How do they provide optimal traction and comfort on various surfaces.
Revolutionizing Lacrosse Footwear: The New Balance Freeze Low Cleats
The New Balance Freeze Low Cleats have emerged as a game-changer in the world of lacrosse footwear. These innovative cleats have quickly become a favorite among players at all levels, from amateur enthusiasts to professional athletes. Their popularity stems from a unique combination of advanced features designed to enhance performance, comfort, and durability on the lacrosse field.
Why have these cleats gained such widespread acclaim? The answer lies in their thoughtful design, which addresses the specific needs of lacrosse players. From their lightweight construction to their superior traction system, every aspect of the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats has been engineered to give players a competitive edge.
Key Features That Set New Balance Freeze Low Cleats Apart
The New Balance Freeze Low Cleats boast an impressive array of features that cater to the demands of lacrosse. Here are some of the standout qualities that make these cleats a top choice for players:
- Lightweight synthetic upper for enhanced breathability and comfort
- Low-profile design allowing maximum ankle mobility
- REVLite midsole providing responsive cushioning and reduced weight
- Podular outsole with strategically placed traction pods for multi-directional grip
- FantomFit support cage for lateral and medial stability
- Speed lacing system for quick adjustments
- Thermoplastic polyurethane toe cap for protection against impacts
- Removable EVA foam insole for customizable comfort
How do these features translate to on-field performance? The lightweight design allows for quick movements and rapid acceleration, while the low-cut profile ensures unrestricted ankle mobility – crucial for the swift directional changes common in lacrosse. The REVLite midsole strikes an optimal balance between cushioning and responsiveness, enabling players to maintain agility without sacrificing comfort.
Optimized Traction for Peak Performance
Traction is paramount in lacrosse, where split-second movements can make the difference between winning and losing. How do the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats address this critical aspect of performance?
The answer lies in the innovative podular outsole design. This system features strategically placed traction pods that provide excellent grip on both natural and artificial turf surfaces. The multi-directional nature of these pods ensures that players can maintain stability and control during rapid starts, stops, and direction changes.
Do these cleats perform well on different types of playing surfaces? Indeed, the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats have proven their versatility across various field conditions. While they excel on synthetic turf, many players find them equally effective on short-grass natural fields. However, it’s worth noting that they may not be ideal for extremely soft or muddy conditions where longer cleats might be necessary.
Comfort and Protection: The Cornerstones of Performance
Comfort and protection are crucial factors in any athletic footwear, and the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats excel in both areas. How do these cleats ensure player comfort during intense gameplay?
The REVLite midsole plays a significant role in this aspect. This proprietary foam compound is 30% lighter than standard midsole materials, yet it provides superior cushioning and shock absorption. The midsole’s design includes strategically placed grooves and flex points, allowing for natural foot movement during dynamic plays.
In terms of protection, the cleats feature a thermoplastic polyurethane toe cap that shields against abrasion and impact. This added layer of defense is particularly valuable in a sport where toe injuries are not uncommon.
The Importance of Proper Fit
While the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats offer exceptional comfort features, the importance of proper fit cannot be overstated. How can players ensure they’re getting the most out of these cleats?
It’s crucial to select the correct size and allow for a brief break-in period. The removable EVA foam insole provides an opportunity for customization, as players can replace it with custom orthotics if needed. Additionally, the Speed Lacing System allows for quick adjustments on the fly, ensuring a secure fit throughout the game.
Durability and Longevity: A Wise Investment
When investing in athletic footwear, durability is a key consideration. How do the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats stack up in terms of longevity?
The synthetic leather upper is not only lightweight and breathable but also resistant to wear and tear. The FantomFit support cage integrated into the upper provides additional structural integrity, helping the cleats maintain their shape and performance characteristics over time.
Moreover, the high-quality materials used in the outsole and midsole are designed to withstand the rigors of regular play. While the lifespan of any cleat will depend on factors such as frequency of use and playing conditions, many players report that their New Balance Freeze Low Cleats hold up well over multiple seasons.
Performance Benefits for Different Playing Positions
Lacrosse is a sport that requires a diverse set of skills, with different positions demanding varied attributes from players. How do the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats cater to these diverse needs?
For attackers and midfielders, the lightweight design and responsive cushioning facilitate quick bursts of speed and rapid direction changes. The low-profile cut allows for the ankle mobility needed for dodging and shooting.
Defenders benefit from the lateral stability provided by the FantomFit support cage when shadowing opposing attackers. The multi-directional traction pods offer the grip needed for quick backpedaling and sudden changes in direction.
Goalies, who require a combination of stability and agility, appreciate the balance of support and flexibility offered by these cleats. The cushioning in the heel area helps absorb the impact of repeated lateral movements within the crease.
Adaptability Across Skill Levels
Are the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats suitable for players at all skill levels? Absolutely. While professional and collegiate players often praise these cleats for their performance-enhancing features, they are equally beneficial for high school athletes and recreational players.
Beginners will appreciate the comfort and support, which can help reduce fatigue during long practice sessions. Intermediate players will find that the cleats’ responsive design aids in skill development, particularly in areas like quick footwork and rapid acceleration. Advanced players can leverage the cleats’ high-performance features to gain a competitive edge in high-stakes games.
Maintenance and Care for Optimal Performance
To ensure that the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats continue to perform at their best, proper maintenance is essential. What steps can players take to care for their cleats?
- Clean the cleats after each use, removing dirt and debris from the upper and outsole
- Allow the cleats to air dry at room temperature, avoiding direct heat sources
- Use a soft brush to clean the traction pods, ensuring optimal grip
- Periodically check and tighten the laces to maintain a secure fit
- Replace the insoles if they show signs of wear or loss of cushioning
By following these simple maintenance steps, players can extend the life of their cleats and ensure consistent performance throughout the season.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Cleat Technology
The New Balance Freeze Low Cleats represent a significant advancement in lacrosse footwear technology. How have these cleats evolved from earlier models?
Compared to traditional lacrosse cleats, the Freeze Low model incorporates several innovative features. The REVLite midsole, for instance, offers superior cushioning at a fraction of the weight of conventional midsole materials. The podular outsole design represents a departure from traditional cleat patterns, providing more versatile traction across different surfaces.
The integration of the FantomFit support cage into the upper is another evolutionary step. This feature offers targeted support without adding bulk or compromising flexibility, addressing a common challenge in earlier cleat designs.
Future Innovations on the Horizon
What might the future hold for lacrosse cleat technology? While specifics are speculative, it’s likely that we’ll see continued advancements in areas such as:
- Even lighter, more durable materials for the upper and midsole
- More sophisticated traction systems that adapt to different playing surfaces
- Enhanced customization options for a more personalized fit
- Integration of smart technology for performance tracking and analysis
As the sport of lacrosse continues to grow and evolve, we can expect cleat technology to keep pace, with the New Balance Freeze Low Cleats serving as a benchmark for future innovations.
Key Features and Benefits of the New Balance Freeze Model
The New Balance Freeze has become one of the most popular cleats for lacrosse players in recent years. This lightweight, comfortable, and responsive cleat offers a number of key features and benefits tailor-made for the demands of the sport.
Here are some of the standout qualities of the New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats:
- Lightweight synthetic upper – The synthetic leather upper is lightweight and breathable, helping keep feet cool and comfortable during games.
- Low-profile design – The low-cut design allows for maximum ankles mobility, essential for quick cuts, dodges, and direction changes in lacrosse.
- REVLite midsole – This proprietary foam midsole offers responsive cushioning and reduces cleat weight.
- Podular outsole – Strategically placed pods on the outsole provide multi-directional traction optimized for natural and artificial turf surfaces.
- FantomFit upper – The FantomFit support cage integrated into the upper provides lateral and medial support while allowing natural foot movement.
- Speed lacing system – Quick, easy lacing adjustments can be made on the fly using the Speed Relaxing System.
- Toe protection – Thermoplastic polyurethane toe cap protects against abrasion and impact.
- Removable insole – The Freeze comes with a removable EVA foam insole for cushioning that can be replaced with custom orthotics.
Engineered with innovative features like these, it’s easy to see why the New Balance Freeze has become a top cleat option for lacrosse players looking for speed, agility, and quickness on the field. The lightweight feel combined with structured support makes it ideal for the fast-paced, quick-cutting nature of the sport. Defenders benefit from the lateral stability when shadowing dodging attackers, while sprinters take advantage of the Dash Plate in the forefoot for fastest acceleration.
When it comes to cleats built specifically for the demands of lacrosse, few can match up to the New Balance Freeze. It represents an impressive combination of comfort, breathability, and responsiveness. The low-profile design withprocs natural ankle mobility while the REVLite midsole offers cushioning and shock absorption when making cuts and jumps. Meanwhile, the grippy rubber outsole utilizes strategically placed traction pods to provide multi-directional traction for quick stops, starts, and changes of direction.
Cushioning and Impact Protection
When it comes to cushioning and impact protection, the New Balance Freeze performs admirably thanks to its REVlite midsole. This proprietary foam compound is 30% lighter than standard midsole foams while still providing responsive cushioning and shock absorption. Strategically placed grooves and flex points in the REVlite midsole allow for natural motion of the foot during dynamic lacrosse moves.
In the forefoot, the lower drop from heel to toe encourages a smoother heel to toe transition while sprinting downfield or dodging defenders. In the heel, the REVlite foam helps attenuate shock from repetitive landings when playing on harder artificial turf surfaces. A soft, flexible EVA foam sockliner adds underfoot padding for additional comfort.
By combining soft, responsive cushioning with a lightweight feel, the New Balance Freeze protects feet and legs without compromising natural motion and speed capability. The REVlite foam midsole reduces injury risk from harsh impacts while supporting quick cuts, accelerations, and decelerations. This balance of impact protection and unrestricted mobility is essential for lacrosse athletes who need both cushioning and maneuverability.
Ideal Playing Surfaces and Conditions
The New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats are optimized for use on synthetic turf surfaces both indoors and outdoors. The multidirectional rubber traction pods on the outsole provide consistent grip when planting, pivoting, and making hard cuts on turf. The Freeze also performs well on slightly damp or dewy synthetic fields since the raised rubber pods maintain traction.
Many lacrosse players also find the Freeze versatile enough for use on short-grass natural grass fields. The slightly elongated traction pods give enough bite to avoid slippage on grass. However, the pods are lower profile than traditional molded cleats to avoid getting overly caught in softer surfaces.
While primarily designed for synthetic turf, the New Balance Freeze cleats have proven themselves as a versatile option for firm natural grass fields as well. Their balance of flexibility, grip, and support make them ideal for milder grass fields that maintain consistent footing. Just beware of using them in very soft, muddy conditions where longer cleats may be needed.
In terms of weather conditions, the Freeze’s synthetic upper handles both hot and cold conditions well. The upper material does not absorb water, so feet stay dryer in damp or wet conditions. Breathable mesh zones help vent heat on hot days, while the snug fit seals out cold air when playing in chillier temperatures.
All around, the New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats provide reliable traction and grip across the playing surfaces and conditions that players encounter. Their thoughtful outsole design and flexible adaptability make them versatile performers.
How the Freeze Stacks Up Against Other New Balance Cleats
The New Balance Freeze has emerged as one of the top-rated cleats for lacrosse players. But how does it compare against some of New Balance’s other popular lacrosse models like the Burn, T4040v5, Widow, and more?
Here’s an overview of how the Freeze stacks up:
- Against the New Balance Burn – The Burn offers a bit more cushioning thanks to its thicker REVlite midsole, making it better for defenders and goalies. But the Freeze has a lighter, closer-to-the-ground feel preferred by attackmen, middies, and offensive players.
- Against the New Balance T4040v5 – The T4040v5 has a higher-cut ankle collar with added padding for maximum support. However, the Freeze’s low-cut design allows for more ankle mobility when dodging and cutting.
- Against the New Balance Widow – The Widow utilizes a mix of cleats and raised nubs for traction optimized for very soft, muddy fields. The Freeze focuses more on clean cuts and acceleration on firm synthetic and natural grass.
Pros and Cons of Choosing the Freeze for Lacrosse
Weighing the pros and cons of the New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats makes it easier to determine if they are the right choice:
Pros:
- Lightweight feel improves speed and acceleration
- Low-profile design allows for excellent ankle mobility
- Multi-directional grip is ideal for quick cuts and changes of direction
- REVlite midsole provides responsive cushioning
- Work well on most synthetic and slightly damp natural grass fields
Cons:
- Less ankle padding and support than high-cut cleats
- Not ideal for very soft, muddy field conditions
- Limited colorway options compared to other New Balance models
Overall, the lightweight responsiveness and grip make the Freeze one of the top choices for quick, agile lacrosse players who value speed and mobility over maximum protection and support. The lower cut design can take some adjustment, but offers unmatched freedom of motion for dodging defenders.
The New Balance Freeze meet the needs of fast, elusive lacrosse players who rely on changing pace and direction quickly to create separation. Their balance of freedom of motion, multi-directional traction, and responsive cushioning in a lightweight package is hard to beat.
Sizing and Fit Recommendations
Getting the right size and fit is crucial when choosing New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats. Here are some tips for dialing in the ideal size and fit:
- Select based on athletic shoe size for a proper fit – the Freeze runs true to size.
- Prioritize a snug, secure midfoot lockdown for stability when cutting.
- Allow a thumbnail’s width of space in the toe box for comfort and security.
- Wear with lacrosse socks for the right amount of cushioning and friction reduction.
- Break them in properly to maximize comfort – don’t wear brand new for games.
- Consider sizing up a half-size if you are between sizes to allow room for swelling feet.
- Use the Speed Lacing System to customize tightness and get the right lockdown fit.
With the right sizing and lockdown fit, the Freeze cleats can become natural extensions of your feet. A perfect fit means forgetting the cleats are even on your feet once laced up and on the field. Prioritizing a snug midfoot and heel lockdown will allow you to cut and accelerate with confidence and power.
Ideal Playing Surfaces and Conditions for the Freeze Cleats
Choosing the right cleats for your sport means matching the design to the playing surfaces and conditions you’ll encounter. For the New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats, their versatile traction pattern allows them to perform well on most common lacrosse field types and in varying weather.
Here’s an in-depth look at the ideal playing surfaces and conditions for the New Balance Freeze cleats:
Synthetic Turf Fields
Synthetic turf fields have become the most common surface for lacrosse games and practices today. The consistent flat surface and ability to withstand heavy usage make synthetic turf a favorite. The New Balance Freeze cleats are optimized to provide maximum traction, acceleration, and mobility on these synthetic playing surfaces.
The strategically designed rubber traction pods on the Freeze’s outsole deliver multi-directional grip for quick starts, stops, and tight cuts on turf. The pods flex naturally to maintain contact through the entire footstrike. Their slightly elongated shape and raised edges also resist sliding on turf when changing direction.
The Freeze’s low-profile design positions feet close to the playing surface for stability, leaning into cuts, and tight turns. The lightweight feel also matches the fast pace of play on smooth, high-traction synthetic fields. Runs up and down the field feel smooth and natural thanks to the balanced traction and flexibility of the Freeze cleats.
Natural Grass Fields
While synthetic turf predominates today, some lacrosse is still played on natural grass fields. The Freeze cleats can adapt to natural grass as well, though some conditions are better suited than others.
On drier, firmer natural grass fields, the New Balance Freeze provides reliable traction to plant, pivot, and push off. The slightly elongated rubber pods still grip well and resist sliding on compacted earth and grass. The more planted feel of natural grass can accentuate the Freeze’s cushioning as well.
However, the Freeze is not ideal for very soft, muddy grass fields. The lower profile pods can get caught up and lose traction. Longer molded cleats are better suited for penetrating deep into very soft ground. The synthetic leather upper also absorbs more moisture than mesh cleats when grass is wet.
Cold and Warm Weather
Thanks to the synthetic leather upper material, the New Balance Freeze cleats perform well across a wide range of temperatures. The synthetic leather does not absorb water, so feet stay drier in damp, chilly conditions compared to mesh or knit fabrics.
In warmer weather, strategically placed mesh zones provide ventilation and airflow to feet to help reduce heat buildup. The snug midfoot lockdown and lacing system prevent overheating by sealing out exterior heat while wicking away interior moisture.
From freezing cold days in early spring to blistering heat in summer, the Freeze cleats keep feet comfortable. Lacrosse players can focus on their game instead of worrying about their footwear in difficult playing conditions.
Considering the playing surfaces and weather conditions lacrosse athletes encounter, the New Balance Freeze is up for the challenge. The versatile traction pattern performs on turf and grass, while the upper withstands heat, cold, and moisture. No matter the external environment, the Freeze empowers peak performance.
Pros and Cons of Choosing the Freeze for Lacrosse
When selecting your next pair of lacrosse cleats, it’s important to objectively weigh the pros and cons of your options. For the New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats, there are several beneficial features as well as some downsides to consider.
Evaluating both the advantages and disadvantages will determine if the Freeze is the right choice for your individual needs and preferences as a lacrosse player. Here is an in-depth overview of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight feel – weighs only 8.4 oz
- Low-cut design maximizes ankle mobility
- REVlite midsole offers responsive cushioning
- Multi-directional grip is ideal for sharp cuts and quick changes of direction
- Works well on most synthetic and slightly damp natural grass fields
- Upper material provides both breathability and moisture control
Cons:
- Minimal ankle padding or support
- Low-profile traction may slip on very soft, muddy fields
- Snug fit needs a break-in period to soften up
- Lacks the cushioning of thicker-stacked cleats
Weighing the key pros and cons makes it clear the Freeze model is optimized for fast, quick-cutting movements rather than maximum stability and protection. The low-profile design prioritizes freedom of motion and light nimble performance over anything else.
For attacking midfielders, faceoff specialists, and offensive players who rely on speed, the Freeze is an excellent match. Defenders who need to rapidly mirror slippery attackmen also benefit from the Freeze’s agile maneuverability.
However, players who want more ankle support from their cleats or regularly play on soft, uneven terrain may find the Freeze lacking. Goalies and defenders focused on rugged durability may want to look at other New Balance models like the Burn or T4040.
While no cleat is perfect across all needs, the Freeze hits the mark for lacrosse players who value reactive mobility and fast-twitch cutting ability. Prioritizing these lightning-quick attributes enables the Freeze to enhance acceleration, agility, and fast direction changes.
By selecting cleats based on your individual position, style of play, and field conditions, you can take advantage of the Freeze’s strengths while minimizing any weaknesses. Cleat choice ultimately comes down to matching technical features and performance benefits directly to your needs on the field as a lacrosse athlete.
Sizing and Fit Recommendations for the New Balance Freeze
Finding your ideal size and fit is crucial to get the most out of your New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats. Taking the time to dial in the proper sizing and lockdown fit will allow you to maximize your speed, quickness, and agility on the field.
Here are some top tips for getting the right size and fit for your Freeze cleats:
Go With Your Athletic Shoe Size
The New Balance Freeze runs true to size, so your regular athletic shoe size will get you in the ballpark. This serves as a starting point, but you still need to fine tune from there based on your fit preferences.
Prioritize a Snug Midfoot Fit
Focus on getting a tight, secure midfoot lockdown in your Freeze cleats. This prevents your feet from sliding around inside the shoe when cutting and pivoting. Leverage the speed lacing system by criss-crossing laces over the midfoot and pulling tight.
Allow a Thumb’s Width in Front
Keep a thumbnail’s width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. This leaves enough room for your feet to splay naturally when accelerating without jamming your toes.
Consider Sizing Up If In Between
Some athletes size up a half or full size in the Freeze to allow for swelling feet on hot days or wearing thick lacrosse socks. Just be sure not to compromise that snug midfoot lockdown when sizing up.
Wear With Lacrosse Socks
The right lacrosse socks enhance comfort, absorb shock, and reduce friction inside your cleats. They also help take up any extra volume if you size up in the Freeze model.
Dialing in the ideal size and fit requires trying on the Freeze cleats with the lacrosse socks you’ll be wearing and any orthotics to find your perfect fit. Prioritizing a locked-in midfoot and heel eliminates slippage when performing lacrosse moves at top speed.
With an understanding of key sizing and fit recommendations for the New Balance Freeze, you can find your custom fit to dominate the field. The lightweight and natural feel of the Freeze only enhances your quickness and precision once you have the ideal size and lockdown fit suited to your feet.
Traction and Grip Offered by the Freeze’s Outsole
One of the standout features of the New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats is the strategically designed outsole that provides excellent multi-directional traction and grip. This is crucial for accelerating, cutting, and changing direction with explosive power on the lacrosse field.
Here’s an in-depth look at the advanced traction components built into the Freeze’s outsole:
Multi-Directional Rubber Pods
The outsole of the Freeze utilizes strategically placed rubber pods of varying shapes and sizes. The pods are laid out to provide traction when moving forward, backward, side to side, and at angles.
The rubber elements grip synthetic and natural grass surfaces when planting your foot to start and stop. Smaller pods under the balls of the feet enhance grip for pushing off when sprinting. Larger heel pods prevent slippage when backpedaling and guarding an opponent.
Slightly Elongated Pod Shape
While the pods vary in size, many feature a slightly elongated, oval-like shape. This shape, along with gently beveled edges, allows the pods to flex and maintain contact through the entire stride or cut.
The elongated shape also enhances traction lateral movements and multi-directional cuts by providing grip from more angles. This advanced outsole layout generates power in all directions.
Low-Profile Design
With a low-cut silhouette, the Freeze positions your feet closer to the playing surface compared to bulkier, heavier cleats. Being closer to the ground allows you to feel the traction and utilize it more dynamically.
The lowered stance increases stability for tighter cuts, quicker footwork, and more responsiveness. Traction is nothing without the ability to react off it dynamically, which the Freeze provides.
The New Balance Freeze truly achieves the perfect balance of traction, flexibility, and close-to-the-ground maneuverability for lacrosse. The engineered outsole equips players with the grip and explosiveness to leave defenders in the dust.
Cushioning and Impact Protection in the Freeze Midsole
The ideal lacrosse cleat provides cushioning to protect your feet and legs without sacrificing responsiveness. The New Balance Freeze achieves this balance with its innovative REVlite midsole foam that absorbs shock while staying reactive.
Here’s an in-depth look at the cushioning and impact protection benefits built into the Freeze’s midsole:
REVlite Foam Material
The REVlite midsole foam is 30% lighter than standard performance foams. This keeps the Freeze lightweight at just 8.4oz. But despite being lighter, REVlite still manages to deliver responsive shock absorption.
On heel impacts when landing from a jump or pivot, the REVlite foam cushions the blow to reduce shock traveling up your legs. Its moderate flexibility allows it to compress on impact then rebound back for energy return.
Strategic Flex Grooves
The Freeze midsole incorporates flex grooves and indentations at key areas needing flexibility. Grooves under the forefoot promote natural bending in sync with toe-off motions when sprinting.
Additional flex grooves support lateral forefoot movements for quick cutting and crossovers. The increased flex where needed prevents any stiffness or loss of natural motion.
Heel Geometry
The Freeze features a lower heel height compared to the forefoot for a smoother heel to toe transition. The beveled heel edges optimize the heel strike zone for a more controlled, stable landing.
This heel geometry enhances the foot’s natural rolling motion, promoting better shock absorption. On both heel and forefoot impacts, the Freeze’s midsole cushions while providing a close-to-ground feel.
The New Balance Freeze supplies exceptional cushioning from its REVlite foam midsole without compromising the responsive, agile ride lacrosse players need. It’s midsole innovations protect feet from the constant impacts of cuts, jumps, and abrupt stops during games and practices.
Comparing Durability to Other New Balance Lacrosse Cleats
Durability is always a concern when selecting new lacrosse cleats. The Freeze model from New Balance stacks up well for longevity compared to other options like the Burn, Widow, T4040v5, and more.
Here’s an overview of how the Freeze’s durability compares:
Upper Material
The synthetic leather upper of the Freeze resists tearing and abrasion damage better than mesh or knit-based cleats. The thermoplastic toe bumper also protects against dragging toes when scooping ground balls.
Outsole Rubber
The Freeze uses New Balance’s premium blown rubber outsole compound, NDurance. This rubber has proven highly durable and long-lasting even when used heavily on abrasive turf and rough natural grass.
Midsole Cushioning
The REVlite foam midsole maintains its responsive cushioning and integrity better over time than softer EVA foams. Its precise injection molding process optimizes durability.
Speed Lacing
The synthetic leather overlay covering the Speed Lacing system stands up to abrasion on turf well. Its discreet eyelets won’t catch and tear like exposed open eyelets.
When it comes to high-wear areas like the upper, outsole, and midsole, the Freeze utilizes durable materials and construction. This results in a cleat built to last through season after season of aggressive use.
The New Balance Freeze matches up well to the Burn and T4040v5 for longevity thanks to premium materials. More rugged options like the Widow still lead for heavy-duty durability though. Consider rotational use to extend the life of any cleat.
While no cleat will last forever, especially when used in grueling lacrosse environments, the Freeze holds up as well as any in New Balance’s lacrosse lineup. Prioritizing durability ensures you get your money’s worth from this top-level performance cleat.
How the Freeze Performs for Different Player Positions
With lacrosse player positions requiring varying levels of speed versus stability, it’s important to select cleats tuned for your specific needs on the field. Here’s an overview of how the New Balance Freeze caters to different lacrosse positions:
Attackmen
For attackmen who rely on quick cuts, dodges, and shooting accuracy, the Freeze is an excellent match. The low-profile enhances footwork and control. The snug fit and heel lockdown provide stability leaning into shots. Excellent traction helps attackmen start and stop on a dime to lose defenders.
Midfielders
Thanks to its lightweight feel and close-to-the-ground flexibility, the Freeze empowers midfielders to show off their wheels for fast breaks up the field. The quick release toe-off traction helps in transitions. Overall agility excels for two-way midfielders covering lots of ground.
Defenders
Defenders tasked with mirroring and shutting down quick attackmen benefit greatly from the Freeze’s unmatched agility. The ability to stick tight on dodges and changes of direction gives defenders an edge. Reliable traction aids in body position battles.
Faceoff Specialists
In the scrum of the faceoff battle, the Freeze provides ankle mobility for scrappy play. Traction keeps you planted while pushing against pressure. Lightweight feel enhances quick reaction off the whistle for possession.
While some positions like defenders and goalies may still prefer a more protective high-cut cleat, overall the Freeze delivers elite performance across positions needing speed and quickness most.
The New Balance Freeze fills a critical need for lightning-fast traction, cuts, and footwork regardless of your position on the field. Taking advantage of the Freeze’s strengths allows players to excel at the demanding speed and quickness lacrosse requires.
Caring for Your New Balance Freeze Cleats
Getting the most out of your New Balance Freeze lacrosse cleats means taking proper care of them. Using some best practices for cleaning, storing, and extending the life of your Freeze cleats will ensure they last season after season.
Here are some top tips for caring for your New Balance Freeze cleats:
Rinse and wipe cleats clean after use
Don’t allow dirt, debris, and grass stains to set in. Rinse off cleats immediately after use and wipe down the upper gently with a damp cloth. Remove lacrosse sock liners and insoles to dry.
Allow Freeze cleats to fully air dry
Never store cleats wet or damp. Make sure they completely air dry naturally after cleaning. Stuff newspaper or towels inside to absorb all moisture and quicken drying time.
Use a cleaning brush on the outsole
Over time, the rubber outsole can compact with dirt and grass. Use a soft brush and warm water to revive grip. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
Sanitize insoles and liners
Remove the sockliner andsanitize regularly using antimicrobial spray. Replace insoles every season or when they get compacted down.
Store cleats in breathable bag
Keep your Freeze cleats in a mesh bag when not in use for ventilation. Don’t use an airtight bag which can trap moisture.
Properly cleaning and storing your lacrosse cleats extends their usable lifespan so you can avoid early replacement. Breaking in those comfortable cleats again always takes time. Follow these tips and enjoy many seasons in your customized, broken-in New Balance Freeze.
Are the New Balance Freeze Cleats Right for You?
With so many lacrosse cleat options on the market, deciding if the New Balance Freeze is the right model for you comes down to honest self-evaluation. Determining how the Freeze’s strengths align with your playing style, position demands, and preferences will tell you if they are the ideal pair.
Ask yourself these key questions:
Do you rely more on speed or power?
For players who lean on acceleration, quick cuts, and fast dodges, the Freeze excels. The lightweight feel and close-to-the-ground maneuverability caters perfectly to speed positions like midfield.
Do you need maximum ankle support and protection?
If severe ankle stability or vulnerability is a concern, the Freeze’s low cut design may not suffice compared to higher cut cleats. Some defenders and goalies still prefer more padding.
Do you primarily play on synthetic or natural grass fields?
The Freeze’s versatile traction shines on synthetic turf and moderately firm natural grass. But long cleats may work better for very soft, uneven grass fields.
Do you want cleat customization options?
The Freeze offers New Balance’s wide range of technologies like REVlite and FantomFit to fine tune the fit and feel. But other models offer more cosmetic personalization.
If lightning fast cuts, ankle mobility, and footwork acceleration are your top priorities, the New Balance Freeze cleats will unlock your agility. While no cleat is one-size-fits-all, the Freeze hits the mark for speedsters.
Still unsure if the Freeze is the right lacrosse cleat for you? Don’t hesitate to visit a specialty retail store, chat with fellow lacrosse players, and try on the Freeze model to make the optimal decision. Finding your perfect cleat match guarantees confidence and comfort on the field.