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5 Best Lacrosse Cleats Reviews of 2023 – A Complete Buying Guide
There’s a good reason why lacrosse is referred to as the “Fastest Game on Two Feet.” Players are constantly running back and forth across the field. In fact, it’s not uncommon for players to run upwards of five miles in a single game. Regardless of the position you play, you’re going to need a ton of stamina to make it through a 90-minute game. Not only that, but you’ll need some great footwear, too.
Cleats are a must-have for lacrosse players. The unique footwear grips into the earth to provide more traction. While they may look similar at first glance, lacrosse cleats are vastly different from those worn by football players. The best lacrosse cleats have strategically placed studs that improve stability. Plus, they provide more ankle support as you make those complex maneuvers.
The quality of your cleats can make or break your game. So, you must understand what features you need to look for when you’re shopping for that perfect pair. In this guide, we’ll go over some crucial information and take a look at some of the best lacrosse cleats that are currently available on the market.
Looking for a pair of cleats that will provide you with more power and stamina as you run? Check out the Burn Mid Speed cleats from New Balance. It’s specifically designed for downhill runners that need control without sacrificing performance.
Technology:
The cool thing about these cleats is the design. They’re predominantly made out of synthetic TPU and textiles. Rather than utilizing smooth fabric on the uppers, it’s coated in sleek TPU. This results in a smooth finish that repels water and minimized drag.
Performance:
Flip the cleats over and you’ll notice a distinct stud pattern. There are quite a few different types of studs included. You’ll find long studs capped with firm TPU, shallow studs, and triangular spikes. These all work to give you as much traction and control as possible.
Specs:
Synthetic and textile materials
Mid-level cleats
TPU outsole
Variable stud shapes
Pros
Smooth TPU uppers
Resistant to water damage
Significantly improves traction
Cons
Tongue placement is a bit awkward
Final Verdict:
Midfielders have the most to benefit from these cleats. The distinct outsole pattern is great for pushing your body to the limits. Thanks to the mid-level tops, you’re given moderate support without much restriction.
Another great option from New Balance is the Rush v1 lacrosse cleats. This particular model is excellent for those who want as much flexibility as possible. The low-cut top doesn’t constrict your ankles at all, allowing you to make agile maneuvers without missing a beat.
Technology:
When it comes to technology, New Balance opted to keep things simple. This is a relatively affordable pair of men’s cleats, so you won’t find any of the more advanced features. However, that doesn’t mean that these cleats are inferior. In fact, they have a ton of great comfort features. These include a breathable tongue, removable insert, and plenty of ventilation holes to keep you cool.
Performance:
The outsoles are made out of firm TPU. The material is molded with the studs to create a smooth and stable surface for you to run with. The lugs are considerably longer than other options. As a result, you can achieve some impressive traction as you run.
Specs:
Synethic and textile materials
Low-top cleats
TPU outsole
Pros
Removable insole
Breathable tongue
Full lace system
Available in multiple colors
Cons
May be too tight for those with wide feet
Damages easily on hard surfaces
Final Verdict:
Whether you’re a goalie or an offensive player, you can benefit from these lacrosse cleats. The flexibility they provide can make a huge difference in how you move.
There aren’t a ton of lacrosse cleats out there that provide you with comfort features. However, ASICS has managed to fill that void with this mid-level cleat. It has gel-provost technology, which can help absorb shock and prevent discomfort as you play.
Technology:
In addition to the gel padding on the tongue, you’ll find some great features inside the shoes. First, the sock liner is removable. This makes it much easier to wash between games. Secondly, the liner is breathable enough to help you stay cool and keep the odors at bay.
Performance:
The outsoles feature an array of studs. There are traditional lugs that you can find on any other pair of cleats. However, there are also angled spikes that add a bit of extra traction. The heel also has a subtle taper. This helps you push off and achieve more power.
Specs:
Synethic uppers
Rubber outsoles
Mid-level cleats
Pros
Breathable fabric lining
Removable sockliner
Slight heel taper
Gel padding
Cons
Narrow toe section can be too tight for some
Final Verdict:
While these cleats may look rather ordinary, they’re anything but. These shoes are one of the best lacrosse cleats for midfielders. They provide plenty of traction and are very comfortable to wear.
These Under Armour cleats are ideal for offensive players. The high-top design gives you great support as you weave through the opponent’s defensive line.
Technology:
The men’s cleats have a comfortable fit despite being high tops. The upper portion is very tall, measuring approximately 7 inches from the arch. However, the material that’s used to wrap your ankle is very flexible. Called ClutchFit, it’s made to act as a second skin. It flexes with your movements. Yet, it continues to support your ankles no matter what you’re doing.
Performance:
On the bottom of the cleats, you’ll find a bone-like pattern with the studs. This molded outsole is fully capable of following the unique movements of your feet. As a result, you’re given better traction than ever before.
Specs:
Made of synthetic rubber
High-top design
Shaft measures 7 inches from arch
Pros
Conforming tongue improves fit
Molded footbed
Provides ample ankle support
Versatile performance
Cons
Size runs a bit small
Prone to damage from asphalt or concrete
Final Verdict:
With its clean-cut looks, this option from Under Armour looks great on the field. As you’re turning heads, you can rest easy knowing that you’re fully supported as you play.
New Balance is an iconic sports brand that’s known for producing some of the best gear in the world. The Freeze v1 lacrosse cleats are no different. They have some great features that can take your game to a new level.
Technology:
These cleats have unique studs. They are made out of molded TPU. Thus, they’re great for playing intense games on natural fields of grass. The TPU is quite thick. Not only does this help to provide more stability as you run, but it can also improve traction even further. Despite the added thickness, the cleats are quite flexible.
Performance:
In terms of performance, these lacrosse cleats are top-notch. The studs on the outsoles are purposefully designed to assist players in the movements they need to make. They’re angled, which makes cutting through the field a breeze. There’s even a Quixrail system on the bottom. The crossing components improve your performance as you pivot and make sharp turns.
Specs:
Made of synthetic rubber and textile
Molded TPU outsole
Mid-level cleats
Pros
Strategically designed studs
Lightweight
Comfortable to wear
Versatile performance
Cons
Not great for those with wide feet
Final Verdict:
Overall, the New Balance cleats are some of the best that money can buy. They’re an all-purpose option that can serve midfielders, offensive players, and goalies very well.
A Complete Buying Guide for Best Lacrosse Cleats
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all cleats are made the same! Lacrosse is a very unique sport that involves making some complex maneuvers. As a result, cleats for lacrosse have more studs to accommodate those movements. Keep the following things in mind while you’re shopping for the best lacrosse cleats.
What are the Important Features to Consider When Buying Lacrosse Cleats
Types of Cuts Available
The first thing you should decide is the type of cut that you want. Lax cleats can be made with a high top, low top, and mid-level top. Each option has its own advantages.
High Top: Generally, high tops are considered to be the safest option of the bunch. Ankle sprains are the most common type of injury that lacrosse players experience. It’s often caused by sudden direction changes that put an extreme amount of stress on the tendons. Your cleats won’t be able to prevent ankle sprains completely. However, high tops can reduce those risks dramatically. These cleats rise above the ankle, providing ample support as you move across the field.
Low Top: Next up, we have low-cut cleats. As you can probably guess, these types of lacrosse cleats stop below the ankle. Thus, they provide greater flexibility. Oftentimes, players will choose low-top cleats when they know that their ankles are strong enough to support their movements. There are a lot of risks involved with low-cut designs, so make sure that you’re fit enough to avoid ankle injuries if you choose to go with these models.
Mid-Level Top: Finally, there are mid-level cleats. These are considered to be the best cleats for midfielders because they provide the best of both worlds. Midfielders have free reign of the entire playing field. They can take on numerous roles and often have to do the most running. Mid-level cuts offer a great balance between support and freedom. You can feel confident in your movement without being too constrained.
Outsole
The outsole is where you’ll find the most differences between cleats for lacrosse and cleats for other sports. The outsole refers to the outermost layer of the shoe that makes contact with the ground. In the case of cleats, it’s also where the studs are located.
There are a few types of cleats available. Before you jump the gun and buy a pair, you need to make sure that you’re choosing the right option for your playing environment and league regulations. Lacrosse cleats have more studs than those made for soccer or football. Furthermore, there are some differences in the design.
If you play on natural grass, TPU studs are recommended. The spikes are a bit more subtle than what you might expect. They’re also molded directly onto the bottom layer of rubber. The whole point of grass cleats is that they can dig into the ground to provide some more traction as you run.
Artificial turf studs are a bit different. They tend to be on the shallower side, as they aren’t meant to break the surface of the turf. You might come across a lot of variety on your search. Manufacturers utilize unique shapes and place the studs strategically to achieve different results.
Those are the two most common types of outsoles you’ll find on lax cleats. Metal-tipped cleats are also available, but they are not permitted by any league. If you need a bit more variety, you may also find lacrosse cleats with interchangeable studs. These are great if you play on multiple surfaces. Though, they will cost you a pretty penny.
Material & Fit
Lacrosse cleats have evolved quite a bit throughout the decades. In the past, leather was the most predominant material you’d see on the field. However, leather is notorious for being affected by moisture and humidity. While you can still find leather cleats on the market, synthetic options are much more prevalent. That’s because they’re incredibly durable and hold up well to moisture. Plus, the manufacturing process makes synthetic options the lightest lacrosse cleats on the market. This can ultimately improve your comfort in the long run.
When it comes to fit, you need to make sure that your cleats are fully customizable. Look out for a full lace system and adjustable padding. If you go with a mid-level or high-cut option, you have the added obstacle of ankle girth to take into account as well. Having a good fit is imperative in lacrosse. Cleats aren’t just for improving your speed and agility. They’ll also absorb shock as you run. Wearing a pair of ill-fitting shoes will only result in injury.
Budget
Last, but definitely not least, you need to keep your budget in mind. Lacrosse cleats can be relatively expensive when compared to other pieces of sports gear. While a higher price tag doesn’t necessarily mean that the shoes are better for you, it’s worth looking into. With proper care, cleats can last for several years. The key to finding the best lacrosse cleats is to pay attention to the comfort and performance features they have. You can easily find budget options that will serve you well on the field.
Wrap Up
Regardless of your position or skill level, choosing the right pair of lacrosse cleats is paramount. While your technique certainly has a role in how you play the game, you’d be surprised at what a good pair of cleats can do. You’ll have more power, control, and traction than ever before.
Paul is a compulsive tinkerer and inventor who loves writing about latest machines technology. He is especially inclined towards home improvement, exercise and outdoor equipment that every sports enthusiast and house dweller would love to get their hands on.
Looking for a pair of cleats that will provide you with more power and stamina as you run? Check out the Burn Mid Speed cleats from New Balance. It’s specifically designed for downhill runners that need control without sacrificing performance.
Another great option from New Balance is the Rush v1 lacrosse cleats. This particular model is excellent for those who want as much flexibility as possible. The low-cut top doesn’t constrict your ankles at all, allowing you to make agile maneuvers without missing a beat.
There aren’t a ton of lacrosse cleats out there that provide you with comfort features. However, ASICS has managed to fill that void with this mid-level cleat. It has gel-provost technology, which can help absorb shock and prevent discomfort as you play.
