The Ultimate Guide to Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro Lacrosse Cleats

The Ultimate Guide to Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro Lacrosse Cleats

Key Features and Technologies of the Huarache 7 Pro

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleats feature several innovative technologies and design elements that make them stand out on the field. One of the most notable aspects is the adaptive fit system used in the upper. Nike incorporated its Flywire technology into the cleats, which uses strong yet lightweight cables that integrate with the lacing system. This allows players to get a custom, locked-down fit by adjusting the tension of the Flywire cables. The cables wrap the midfoot and integrate with the laces, securing the foot in place during sharp cuts and accelerations.

Another important innovation is the Pebax propulsion plate used in the midsole. Pebax is a lightweight yet responsive material that provides energy return with each step, helping lacrosse players explode forward with speed and agility. Nike strategically placed Pebax at the forefoot of the Huarache 7 Pro, right where players generate the most force when sprinting downfield or dodging defenders. This well-placed Pebax plate works in tandem with the aggressive stud pattern on the outsole to enable aggressive traction and quick release from the turf.

Additionally, the Alpha Huarache 7 Pro incorporates a Phylon midsole cushioning system that runs the length of the cleat. Phylon is a lightweight foam material that compresses on impact to attenuate shock. By cushioning foot strikes and hard cuts, Phylon protects players’ feet and joints from the repeated impacts common in lacrosse. The midsole also features a 7 mm drop from heel to toe to promote a smooth heel-to-toe transition through each step.

Finally, the outsole of the Huarache 7 Pro stands out with its rotational traction pattern. The studs and cleats are strategically arranged to provide traction and release across all angles. Players can plant and pivot with confidence thanks to the rotational zones mapped out by the cleat studs. This multidirectional traction system pairs with the Pebax propulsion plate to enable precise cuts, starts, and stops on the field.

Comparing the Huarache 7 Pro to Other Nike Cleats

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleats have a distinctive design and performance features that set them apart from other models in Nike’s cleat lineup. When comparing the Huarache 7 Pro to cleats like the Nike Vapor Pro, Nike Alpha Menace Elite, and Nike Alpha Huarache 8, there are some key differences that lacrosse players should consider.

One of the biggest differences is in the upper material. The Huarache 7 Pro uses a lightweight, breathable mesh through the midfoot and toebox. This provides ventilation during intense gameplay. In contrast, the Vapor Pro uses a solid synthetic leather upper, while the Menace Elite uses a seamless textile upper. The Huarache 8 does feature a similar mesh as the 7 Pro. However, the 7 Pro’s Flywire cables integrate with the lacing system to create a truly adaptive fit.

Underfoot cushioning is another point of differentiation. The Huarache 7 Pro contains a full-length Phylon midsole, while the Vapor Pro has a Phylon wedge in the heel. The Menace Elite uses drop-in midsole cushioning. In terms of lightweight responsiveness, the Pebax propulsion plate in the 7 Pro also gives it an edge in energy return. The stud configurations vary across models as well, with the 7 Pro optimized for multidirectional traction and rotational cuts.

When it comes to fit and feel, the 7 Pro stands out with its anatomical shape and asymmetrical collar padding. This gives it a contour around the ankle that many players find comfortable. It runs true to size, while the Vapor Pro and Menace Elite can run half a size small. Ultimately, the 7 Pro is ideal for speedy midfielders and attackmen who need agility and quick cuts.

The Alpha Huarache 7 Pro hits a nice sweet spot between lightweight speed, cushioning, and ankle support. While it is a low-cut cleat, the adaptive fit system locks the foot in place. And the Pebax propulsion plate provides snappy acceleration and responsiveness. For these reasons, the Huarache 7 Pro occupies a distinctive niche within Nike’s lacrosse cleat lineup.

Sizing and Fit of the Alpha Huarache 7 Pro

Finding the right size and fit is crucial for lacrosse players when choosing cleats. The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro runs true to size, but it has an anatomically contoured shape and adaptive fit technology that gives it a snug, secure lockdown.

Nike offers the Huarache 7 Pro in standard D medium/regular width for men. It is available in sizes 7 to 14, half sizes included. According to Nike’s size chart, you should go with your regular shoe size for a proper fit. Trying them on to get a feel of the contours around the midfoot and toebox is recommended though.

One of the key innovations of the 7 Pro is the Flywire cabling system integrated into the upper. These strong, lightweight cables wrap the midfoot and connect to the lacing system. This Flywire technology allows you to adjust the tension and get a custom, adaptive fit in the arch and forefoot area. Pulling the laces tight will lock the Flywire cables in place, securing the foot for lateral cuts and accelerations.

In the ankle collar and heel, the 7 Pro offers asymmetrical padding that contours around the ankle bones for a comfortable fit. There is more padding on the lateral/outside to help lock the heel in place. The lightweight Phylon foam midsole also provides a responsive, sock-like fit and flex under the foot.

Since the 7 Pro is an athletic cleat built for speed and quickness, it fits snugly in the midfoot and heel. There is room for the toes to splay naturally in the toebox though. Some athletes recommend going up half a size if you prefer more wiggle room through the metatarsals. But for most lacrosse players, the standard D width and regular size provides an ideal anatomical fit.

With the Flywire technology adjusting the midfoot fit and the asymmetrical heel padding securing the foot, the Huarache 7 Pro delivers a locked-in feel. The adaptive lacing system and contoured shape allow you to fine-tune the fit for your foot to maximize comfort, security, and high-speed agility on the field.

Traction and Grip Performance on Different Surfaces

Traction is crucial for lacrosse players executing quick cuts, dodges, and both offensive and defensive movements on the field. The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleat delivers excellent multidirectional traction through its rotational stud configuration.

The outsole of the Huarache 7 Pro features aggressive thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) studs strategically placed to provide traction and release on all angles. The forefoot has bladed studs angled for forward propulsion during sprints and change of direction. The arch area has conical studs for gripping and pushing off laterally. And the heel has tapered TPU studs for traction when backpedaling.

This rotational zone stud configuration allows lacrosse athletes to plant their foot and pivot aggressively, whether attacking upfield or mirroring a dodging offensive player. The Pebax propulsion plate provides a rigid platform under the foot so players can utilize the full stud traction during cuts.

The Huarache 7 Pro’s studs perform well on both natural grass and synthetic turf fields. The conical and bladed stud shapes penetrate natural grass for excellent grip, preventing slippage. On newer synthetic turfs, the array of shorter studs provides consistent stability. The studs are not overly long, so they do not get caught in older, matted synthetic fields.

The pivot points and multidirectional traction zones give lacrosse players the agility to perform at top speed with confidence in the Huarache 7 Pro. Backward sprints, lateral cuts, and swift changes in direction are executed with the full-foot stability needed for this fast-paced sport. Whether accelerating forward or shadowing an opponent, these Nike cleats provide the grip to play aggressively across artificial and natural turf surfaces.

Flexibility and Ankle Support for Maneuverability

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleats strike an ideal balance between flexibility for speed and support for sharp cuts and dodges. The minimalist design allows natural maneuverability while still stabilizing the ankle.

The low-cut silhouette of the Huarache 7 Pro enables full ankle range of motion. The collar wraps just below the ankle bones, allowing the ankle to flex and rotate freely. This allows lacrosse players to swiftly change directions without restrictions.

Yet the adaptive Flywire cables integrated into the upper provide midfoot lockdown to prevent the foot from sliding around inside the shoe. This helpful for lateral cuts where the foot pivots hard against the turf. The asymmetrical ankle padding also securely cups the heel to prevent slippage.

In the midsole, the full-length Phylon foam runs from heel to toe for lightweight cushioning. But it is tight in the midfoot to minimally interfere with flexibility. Additionally, the Pebax propulsion plate provides rigidity for traction without impeding natural foot movements.

The low-profile design, Flywire cables, and Phylon foam allow the Huarache 7 Pro to move seamlessly with the foot. Ankle mobility, critical for dodging defenders, is enabled by the flexible upper and low collar height. Yet the strategic support zones keep the foot stable during plants, cuts, and jumps.

For speedy midfielders and attackmen, this balance of natural maneuverability and targeted support makes the Huarache 7 Pro ideal for change of direction. The foot can flex and rotate naturally within the structured upper as players swiftly react and explode in different directions on the field.

Lightweight Yet Durable Upper Materials

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleats utilize lightweight, breathable materials in the upper for speed, while reinforcements in high-wear areas enhance durability.

The upper combines an open mesh material through the forefoot and midfoot with synthetic leather overlays in key areas. The mesh fabric provides ventilation to keep feet cool and dry during intense gameplay. It is also lightweight and flexible to not hinder maneuverability.

Synthetic leather overlays are strategically placed at the toe tip and around the big toe for abrasion resistance. These high wear zones get dragged along the turf during play, so the leather protects against premature damage. An external TPU heel counter wrapped in leather stabilizes the rearfoot.

The Flywire cables that integrate with the laces are made of durable nylon for containment and lockdown. Underneath, the Phylon midsole is softer and more pliable than traditional EVA foam for cushioning that does not pack out over time.

By pairing open mesh with synthetic leather reinforcements, the 7 Pro upper remains lightweight for speed while providing durability where needed. The mix of materials balances breathability and ventilation with stability and containment. After repeated wear, the outsole studs will show sign of abrasion before the upper materials degrade.

For quickness paired with longevity, Nike optimized the 7 Pro upper with strategically placed synthetic leather overlays. Mesh comprises the majority of the upper for a flexible, foot-conforming fit through intense gameplay and practices.

Breathability and Ventilation During Games

Breathability is important for lacrosse cleats to keep feet cool and dry during intense games. The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro incorporates ventilation throughout the lightweight mesh upper to prevent overheating.

The majority of the Huarache 7 Pro upper utilizes an open mesh fabric through the forefoot and midfoot. This highly breathable material allows air flow to reach the foot. As players sprint up and down the field, cool air circulates through the mesh keeping the foot climate controlled.

Ventilation zones are also integrated into the outsole. Small windows in the Phylon midsole under the arch and forefoot allow heat to escape from the footbed. This prevents the inside of the shoe from getting excessively hot, especially on artificial turfs under the sun.

The tongue of the 7 Pro is also made from a perforated mesh for added airflow. Padding around the ankle collar is minimized to further aid breathability. Reducing internal materials helps heat dissipate instead of being trapped inside the shoe.

For competitions and practice sessions in the heat and humidity, the 7 Pro keeps lacrosse players’ feet dryer and more comfortable. The moisture-wicking interior lining also absorbs sweat so it can evaporate through the breathable upper. Well-ventilated cleats ultimately help athletes perform at their best throughout games.

With the combination of lightweight mesh, ventilation zones, and minimal internal padding, the Huarache 7 Pro provides exceptional breathability for the fast-paced sport of lacrosse. Air flows freely through the upper during intense activity so feet stay cool, fresh, and comfortable for peak on-field performance.

Protection and Padding Around the Ankle Collar

For a cleated lacrosse shoe, protecting the ankles during cuts and collisions is important. The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro has strategic padding placements around the collar for comfort and protection.

The collar lining incorporates smooth, lightly padded foam for comfort that does not restrict mobility. The padding prevents the foot from rubbing inside the stiff leather heel counter. Additionally, the foam-backed tongue cushioning adds step-in comfort.

On the exterior, the collar has asymmetrical padding that contours around the ankle bones. More padding is placed on the lateral/outer side to securely lock down the foot during sharp lateral cuts. Less padding on the medial/inner side allows flexibility for joint mobility.

The external TPU heel clip wrapped in synthetic leather provides rearfoot stability and structure. It cups the heel to keep the foot contained, while also protecting the Achilles tendon area from collision impacts.

For a lightweight, low-cut cleat designed for speed, the Huarache 7 Pro incorporates purposeful padding in the collar. The interior lining, tongue, and exterior heel padding target comfort and protection. The strategic asymmetry allows flexibility while supporting the ankle bones and Achilles during intense play.

The minimalist collar of the 7 Pro does not restrict movement. But the selective padding placements provide sufficient cushioning around the foot and ankle. For midfield play involving cutting and physical contact, the clever padding design helps keep feet and ankles protected through fierce competition.

Stud and Cleat Configuration for Acceleration

The studs and cleats on the outsole of the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleats are strategically configured to provide excellent traction for sprinting and quick accelerations.

In the forefoot, the cleat pattern utilizes pointed bladed studs that face forward in the toe-off direction. This is the direction a player’s foot moves during the push-off phase of a sprint stride. The angled studs provide grip to prevent slippage on turf when accelerating to top speed.

Conical studs under the arch give multidirectional traction for side-to-side cuts and lateral push-off. The heel has flattened triangular studs for stability during backpedaling and change of direction movements.

By studying how lacrosse player’s feet interact with the turf, Nike strategically mapped out the Huarache 7 Pro’s stud configuration. The forefoot, arch, and heel zones each utilize unique studs tailored for that specific area of the foot.

The Pebax propulsion plate extends from the midfoot through the forefoot for stiffness during toe-off. This rigidity channels the stud traction into forward propulsion as players explode out of dodges and beat defenders.

Whether accelerating from a stop or reaching top speed down the alley, lacrosse athletes get excellent grip with the Huarache 7 Pro studs. The bladed forefoot studs combined with the propulsion plate enable aggressive first steps and fast straight-line running critical for offense and defense.

Cushioning and Impact Absorption on Heels

The heel of the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleat is designed to attenuate shock and impact for comfort during play.

The midsole uses full-length Phylon foam that runs from the heel through the forefoot area. Phylon has excellent shock absorbing properties for a lightweight foam material. It compresses on heel strike to cushion the foot as cleats make contact with the turf.

In the heel area, the Phylon midsole is contoured into a 7mm drop from back to front. This places the heel slightly lower than the forefoot to make heel impacts more gradual. An Air-Sole unit is embedded in the Phylon heel wedge for additional impact absorption.

On the exterior heel, the TPU clip wrapped in synthetic leather reinforces the structure to prevent the heel from collapsing. This external heel counter stabilizes the rearfoot during cutting movements that put pressure on the heel.

The internal heel padding is minimally thick to avoid restricting motion. However, it secures the foot over the cushioned Phylon foam to attenuate shocks and impacts. The combination cushions hard heel contacts while providing stability.

For midfield lacrosse players covering large distances up and down the field, the heel cushioning technologies help prevent fatigue. The Phylon foam, Air-Sole unit, and external heel clip work together to make the repetitive heel impacts from running less jarring on feet, ankles, and knees.

Customizable Lace-Up System for Ideal Fit

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleat uses a traditional lace-up closure that integrates with Flywire cables for a customizable, adaptive fit.

Flat laces thread through durable eye stays from toe to ankle. This allows players to loosen or tighten different areas of the upper for a personalized fit. The Flywire cables that wrap under the arch integrate through the lacing system.

Tightening the laces draws the Flywire cables inward, locking the midfoot securely in place. This adaptive fit technology eliminates hot spots and slippage as players cut and accelerate. A wider lacing throat leaves the tongue unobstructed so athletes can finesse the tension.

A heel lock eyelet near the collar helps lock down the rearfoot for stability. Once laced to the desired tension, the strings are tied off securely in a horizontal bungee loop. This helps the laces maintain consistent pressure during intense play.

For convenience, an extra set of laces comes included with the Huarache 7 Pro. Athletes can re-lace before games to achieve the ideal fit in the midfoot and collar. The traditional lacing system is simple and user-friendly for customizing the lockdown.

By integrating Flywire into the lacing system, Nike transformed a basic cleat closure into an adaptive fit solution. Athletes can easily cinch the laces and Flywire cables to eliminate looseness while avoiding discomfort. This custom lace-up design ultimately enhances foot lockdown.

Aesthetic Style and Bold Colorway Options

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro has an athletic aesthetic and bold color options that give the cleats stylish flair on the lacrosse field.

The silhouette combines a low-cut, minimalist build with technical details like the Flywire cables and Pebax plate. The contrasting mix of open mesh with synthetic leather overlays provides visual interest and depth.

Small Nike Swoosh logos on the side and crosstraps add some subtle branding. The Huarache name printed on the tongue nods to Nike’s iconic early-1990s Huarache sneaker line.

In terms of colorways, the 7 Pro is offered in team-oriented combinations like navy/gold, black/orange, and royal blue/grey. Flashy brighter options include volt green, hyper crimson, and pink foil.

For players who want to express their personal style, the 7 Pro provides clean athletic aesthetics with an iconic Nike heritage. The technical components like the Flywire and propulsion plate reflect the performance-driven engineering built into the cleats.

The variety of colors and team tones give lacrosse players options for matching their footwear to uniforms. Whether wanting a sleek, stealthy look or vibrant pop of color, the Huarache 7 Pro delivers style coupled with its elite on-field performance attributes.

Ideal for Midfielders and Attackmen

With its lightweight agility and multidirectional traction, the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleat is designed to meet the needs of midfield runners and attackmen.

For midfielders constantly running up and down the field, the 7 Pro provides a flexible fit that moves naturally with the foot. The breathable upper keeps feet cool and dry during intense activity while the Phylon midsole attenuates impacts.

The Pebax propulsion plate gives middies a responsive toe-off to sprint down the ally at top speed. The bladed studs up front supply the traction needed for swift accelerations and change of direction.

For attackmen dodging defenders, the 7 Pro enables quick cuts and starts in all directions. The stud configuration grips the turf for low-to-the-ground lateral movements. The Flywire cables lock down the center of the foot for agile plants and pivots.

Weighing in around 8.4 ounces, the 7 Pro meets the need for speedy maneuverability. The pliable upper material moves seamlessly with the foot’s natural cutting motions. The low collar height leaves the ankle free to rotate and flex.

Midfielders and attackmen get the agile performance they need from the Alpha Huarache 7 Pro. The minimalist construction focuses on quickness while providing stud traction and breathability for intense lacrosse gameplay in the attacking half of the field.

Worth the Investment for Serious Lacrosse Players

With a premium price tag, the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro is a worthwhile investment for serious lacrosse players seeking a high-performance cleat.

The 7 Pro launched with a $130 MSRP, making it one of Nike’s most expensive cleats. The price reflects the research and innovation that went into the Adaptive Fit technology, Pebax propulsion plate, and engineered stud configuration.

For experienced athletes playing competitive lacrosse at a high school, college, or pro level, the 7 Pro provides the traction, speed, and foot lockdown needed to excel. The technical features back up the premium pricing.

More casual or budget-conscious players may be better off choosing a lower-priced model though. The Nike Speedlax models have a similar low-cut, flexible design at around $85. Beginners can find supportive cleats for under $50 as well.

Given the $130 price point, the 7 Pro sits squarely in the “elite performance” category. For lacrosse players who compete frequently and want every edge, the 7 Pro delivers pro-grade attributes that match the premium pricing.

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro rightfully earns its place among the top lacrosse cleats on the market. For athletes playing at a high level, the performance gains justify the lofty price as a worthwhile investment.

Serious Lacrosse Players Will Appreciate the Huarache 7 Pro

The Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro lacrosse cleat delivers high-end performance attributes that serious players will appreciate on the field.

The adaptive Flywire cables integrated into the lacing system provide a truly customized fit. Athletes can cinch the cables and eye stays to achieve ideal lockdown in the midfoot and collar areas. This eliminates slippage inside the shoe.

The Pebax propulsion plate offers exceptional responsiveness given its strategic placement in the forefoot. The rigid Pebax channels toe-off power directly into the turf for lightning quick accelerations and cuts.

The ventilated mesh upper struck the right balance between lightweight breathability and support. Synthetic leather overlays reinforce the toe tip and high abrasion areas for durability, while open mesh comprises the majority of the upper.

Throughout the stud configuration, heel cushioning, and collar padding, Nike’s research and testing refined the 7 Pro for elite-level lacrosse performance. The $130 price tag reflects the advanced engineering.

For committed lacrosse players who understand the nuances and movements of the game, the 7 Pro provides the traction, agility, and foot lockdown needed to play at the highest level. The innovative Adaptive Fit system demonstrates why Nike dominates the lacrosse footwear game.