BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details
With a tough outsole and padded interior, this pair of cleats provides comfort without sacrificing functionality.
Thermoplastic materials integrate into the shoe to provide a flexible fit. Nine spikes have been purposefully placed for maximum grip. Innovative cushioning stabilizes the foot for faster movement. Available in multiple sizes and colors.
Some concerns about the longevity of the product, as they wear down over time.
These cleats offer well-rounded protection through their cushioned heels and sectional panels.
Lightweight construction offers long-lasting flexibility while still remaining durable. Suede-like quality makes the cleats comfortable on the interior and exterior. Panels expand and retract with each movement.
Some reports of the shoes being inconsistent in sizing.
This pair of cleats integrates metal studs, making it an excellent choice for handling tougher terrains.
Cleats are available in several colors, including black/white, royal blue, maroon, and more. Metal spikes support more heavy-duty operation, including baseball and softball fields. Padded interior cushions the ankle to prevent sprains.
May not be as comfortable as other products on this list.
From toddlers to older children, all kids can enjoy the features available in this pair of cleats.
Cushioned construction goes around the interior for a comfortable feel that kids can appreciate. Spikes prevent wearers from slipping on grass or other looser terrains. Available in a variety of fun colors and sizes.
Kids may have to break the shoes in, as they may feel stiff at first.
This is a long-lasting pick that is ideal for those wanting to wear softball shoes to regular practice.
Combination of rubber sole and innovative Fresh Foam allows for flexible comfort. Long tongue is designed to prevent the laces from unknotting. Remains breathable and lightweight.
Not as high-quality as other models on this list.
We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
If you’ve ever tried to get a quick start on loose dirt only to find yourself slipping and falling onto your face, then you understand how important softball cleats are to the game. The grip and control they provide not only helps you stay on your feet, the 1- or 2-second difference they make can win you the game.
Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 3 Softball Cleat are quality softball cleats that are high-functioning and comfortable with thoughtfully placed cleats — plus they’re very affordable.
Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 3 Softball Cleat
What you need to know: These Mizuno softball cleats combine fashion, function and comfort in one affordable package.
What you’ll love: Nine spikes are thoughtfully interspersed around the bottom of the cleat to provide maximum grip and performance. Specialized cushioning softens the impact of running without affecting your speed. Sizes five through 12 are available in five colors, though not all colors are available in all sizes.
What you should consider: The one area that these Mizuno softball cleats receive low marks is their durability, though they won’t start breaking down in your first season.
Under Armour Women’s Glyde Softball Cleat
What you need to know: This is an excellent budget softball cleat that doesn’t negatively affect your performance.
What you’ll love: Metal cleats provide superior traction on grass and dirt over other styles. These softball cleats are durable enough to last for many seasons without sacrificing flexibility. Cushioning along the heel and tongue helps absorb the impact of running. Suede-like panels around this cleat provide increased breathability.
What you should consider: Consumers reported that the sizing of these softball cleats can be inconsistent, mainly running larger than expected. Some softball organizations don’t allow metal cleats.
New Balance Men’s 4040 V5 Metal Baseball Cleat
What you need to know: These metal stud softball cleats are a little more expensive, but they’re available in a huge range of sizes and colors.
What you’ll love: The sizing of this softball cleat runs between five and 17 with wide variants for every size, plus it's available in 17 color options. Extra cushioning around the ankle provides support and increased comfort. Metal studs dig deeper into turf for more control.
What you should consider: Some consumers reported that these softball cleats are less comfortable than other options and that the wide size variants aren’t as wide as hoped.
Softball cleats, like baseball cleats (and unlike football and soccer cleats) are designed to be effective on both grass and dirt and can be made from several materials and come in various forms.
Putting aside that every player has their own preferences, some softball cleats are better suited to certain defensive positions. Infield positions can benefit from metal or plastic/rubber cleats — the harder the infield dirt, the better for metal cleats. Outfield positions benefit from plastic/rubber cleats since they provide more grip on the grass. Pitchers benefit from metal cleats as they can provide extra grip to enhance their throws.
Some softball cleats are higher up on the ankle than others. The higher up the ankle a softball cleat goes, the more support and stability the foot receives. You sacrifice flexibility for the extra support, and some players find the extra height to be uncomfortable.
Softball cleats are available in a relatively narrow range of prices depending on size and quality. Most entry-level cleats run less than $50, with most options costing around the $50 mark. The best softball cleats can cost up to $100 or a little more.
A. Technically, yes, but in practice, no. Baseball cleats tend to be sized for men, while softball cleats are dominantly sized for women. The placement of the studs, the materials used in construction and the overall design are nearly identical. If you can’t find a softball cleat sized for men, then purchase a size up. Women can purchase a size down if they can’t find a baseball cleat sized for women.
A. That depends on the league you’re playing in. Stricter leagues not only require cleats but have restrictions on what kind of cleats you can wear. Others may not care if you wear cleats or not, but not wearing them will have a negative impact on your performance.
Get emails you’ll love.
Learn about the products you’re wondering if you should buy and get advice on using your latest purchases.
BestReviews wants to be better. Please take our 3-minute survey,
and give us feedback about your visit today.