Best Baseball Cleats 2023

Finding the best baseball cleats can be tricky at times given the wide variety of materials, collar heights, and cleat types to choose from. Metal cleats, for instance, are great for traction, but are sometimes prohibited in certain leagues due to the added risk they bring to you and your opposition.

Fortunately, we've rounded up a selection of standout, yet varied cleats that should complement your baseball bat and take your game to the next level, regardless of the rules in your league. Using price, reviews, and features to inform our selection, we've put together a list of top picks to cover all bases.

Whether you're after a pair designed to deliver a ton of support, like these Nike Force Zoom Trout 8s, or you're searching for cleats designed for pitching specifically, like these Mizuno 9-Spike Ambition 2s, we've got everything you need right here.

We've also answered some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding cleats to help you come to an informed decision on which are best for you. So, without further delay, let's dive in...

Best baseball cleats

1. Under Armour Harper 8 Low ST
2. New Balance FuelCell 4040 v7
3. Nike Air Zoom Diamond Elite Turf
4. adidas Adizero Afterburner 9
5. Nike Vapor Ultrafly 4 Keystone
6. Mizuno 9-Spike Ambition 2
7. Nike Force Zoom Trout 8 Elite

Credit: Under Armour

1. Under Armour Harper 8 Low ST

Best baseball cleats overall

Under Armour stands tall among the top sportswear brands in baseball, with the Harper 8 cleat showcasing the brand's exceptional expertise.

Crafted with a 3-3-4 lightweight hybrid plate featuring front Under Armour Microtips metal spikes, these cleats prioritise speed and traction, delivering peak performance on the field and at the plate.

Another highlight is the Ortholite sock liners, designed to retain compression sets, ensuring enduring comfort. Not to be outdone, the HOVR cushioning beneath promises a sensation akin to zero gravity, offering supreme energy return and comfort.

They're made from a breathable woven material too, so boast an ultra-light tongue and mesh bootie for effortless entry and unparalleled comfort during play. Ultimately, they're up there as some of the best baseball cleats on the market right now all things considered.

Credit: New Balance

2. New Balance FuelCell 4040 v7

Best baseball cleats for wide feet

For wide feet, we'd highly recommend checking out the FuelCell 440 v7s as they come with the option of either a standard or wide fit. This is great because any concerns you may have over whether your cleats will or won't fit can be put to bed by simply picking up these wide-fit New Balance's.

There's more to these cleats than just that though. The uppers, for instance, are made from mesh and a microfilm that has been vacuum-pressed for long-lasting performance. This combination of materials also helps keep the weight to a minimum, and ensures sufficient airflow during a game to avoid overheating.

Underneath, the cleats feature FuelCell foam to provide cushioning and improve energy returns as you run between bases. Additionally, you get seven flexible spikes across each outsole in a diamond formation to maximise grip on the field. They're made of metal too, which should mean they withstand the rigors of an entire season.

All things considered, we'd say these FuelCell 440 v7 cleats are great, and the fact they come in a wider size makes them a top pick for wide feet.

Credit: Nike

3. Nike Air Zoom Diamond Elite Turf

Best baseball cleats for artificial turf

If you play most of your baseball on artificial turf, then the Nike Air Zoom Diamond Elite Turf shoes could very well be just what you're after.

Being cleat-less, they're suitable for all kinds of pregame surfaces. To create friction though, they feature an aggressive traction pattern across the rubber outsole to keep you gripped to the surface during your swing.

They're also built to be incredibly comfortable, with forefoot Zoom Air units providing lightweight cushioning as well as giving each step you take that extra little boost of energy.

Ultimately, these are some of the best footwear to play baseball on artificial surfaces. Combining exceptional grip with speed and comfort, they can definitely take your game to new heights.

Credit: adidas

4. adidas Adizero Afterburner 9

Best baseball cleats for speed

These Adizero Afterburner 9s are particularly great for sprinting to the base or for chasing a catch wearing a baseball glove thanks to their lightweight design.

adidas boasts that its Sprintskin and LIGHTLOCK uppers are incredibly supportive, stable, and, of course, lightweight. Team this with the Lightstrike cushioning, and you should feel incredibly comfortable as the cleats relieve pressure to keep you flying around the pitch.

It's also worth noting that the uppers feature at least 50% recycled content in adidas' bid to end plastic waste, thus making them a more sustainable choice if you're looking to upgrade your baseball cleat game.

On the whole, their impressive lightweight and sustainable construction earn the Afterburner 9s a spot on our list.

Credit: Nike

5. Nike Vapor Ultrafly 4 Keystone

Best budget baseball cleats

Nike's Vapor Ultrafly 4 Keystones look to be some of the best baseball cleats around on a budget - perfect to team with one of the best baseball bats under 200.

Although a little cheaper, the cleats still come packed with technology like Nike's Fastflex sole units with 12 rubber cleats designed to provide powerful traction across the pitch.

The uppers are then made from perforated synthetic leather upper for added breathable, along with the mesh tongues, plus durable support.

Ultimately, if you're working with a limited budget, then we feel these Ultrafly 4s could be your answer.

Credit: Mizuno

6. Mizuno 9-Spike Ambition 2

Best baseball cleats for pitchers

While cleats are needed for every position on the field, these 9-Spike Ambition 2s have been designed with pitchers in mind.

They feature Mizuno's Wave Structure technology which is said to relieve the shock sent to your ankles, as well as the pressure felt when planting your foot.

This should help you maintain a stable base when you're getting ready to strike out your opposition.

You also get supportive and durable EVA midsoles as well as nine strategically places spikes positioned to maximise movement and traction, thus making them a great all-round pick for pitchers.

Credit: Nike

7. Nike Force Zoom Trout 8 Elite

Best baseball cleats for support

These Nike Force Zoom Trout 8 Elite baseball cleats are a game-changer when it comes to optimising your performance on the field, just like Mike Trout himself.

Designed with careful consideration of every aspect of the game, these cleats are equipped with three Zoom Air units that are specifically tailored to enhance comfort and give a better energy return as you hit top-speed racing for that next run.

Support-wise, you get a solid midfoot strap that plays a crucial role in harnessing and controlling your movements at speed. It also serves as an essential component in the lightweight containment system, ensuring that your foot remains secure and stable as you make those lightning-fast turns around the bases.

Overall, these baseball cleats would be an impressive addition to anyone's arsenal. Their expert design coupled with their lightweight construction earns them a well-deserved spot among our top picks.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

With so many cleats available, you may have a few questions about what makes each of them stand out. Don't worry though because we're here to clear up a few of the most common queries.

Are metal or rubber cleats better for baseball?

Both types have their own distinct advantages when it comes to playing baseball. For instance, metal cleats usually provide better traction over moulded cleats as they tend to dig deeper into the ground.

However, metal cleats also wear down much faster than rubber cleats if you wear them on harder surfaces.

It's also worth noting that metal cleats can sometimes be prohibited in baseball leagues, especially at junior and youth levels, as they can be harmful to both yourself and other players on the field.

As a result, it's worth checking the regulations of the league you play in before deciding on which of the two types you should buy.

Can you wear football cleats for baseball?

Although football and baseball cleats may appear similar, they serve distinct purposes and should not be used interchangeably.

Football cleats are designed with longer and thicker studs to enhance traction on grass or artificial turf. In contrast, baseball cleats typically feature shorter and thinner studs, optimizsd for superior grip on a baseball field.

Therefore, wearing football cleats for baseball can result in slips, falls, and injuries, especially when playing on a dirt or grass field. It can also damage the playing surface, and some leagues may have rules against wearing football cleats during a baseball game.

So it's recommended that you wear the appropriate type of cleats for the sport you are playing.

Should you go a size up in baseball cleats?

The size of baseball cleats varies depending on the manufacturer; some brands are larger than others. For instance, adidas shoes are half an EU size smaller than Nike shoes, while New Balance footwear is a touch larger than Nike.

Generally, however, they should fit similarly to a normal pair of sneakers. You may find they're a little tighter in terms of width than some shoes, like a pair of Air Force 1s for example, as they're designed for athletic performance. Length-wise though, they should fit true to size.

If you're unsure, you can usually find a handy size guide on a manufacturer's website to help you make a decision. Check out our guide to measuring your shoe size as well to help get you started.

Should you clean baseball cleats?

To ensure your cleats are ready for your next game, it's crucial to keep them clean and free from dirt. We highly recommend regularly cleaning your cleats, especially the sole plates, to eliminate any accumulated mud and grime that could affect your grip.

The simplest method to remove dirt from the uppers is by using a soft-bristled brush and warm water. For harder-to-reach areas, a toothbrush usually does the trick.

To get rid of mud from the soles, give your cleats a gentle tap together to dislodge any debris, and then brush away any remaining dirt.

For more detailed instructions, please refer to our comprehensive guide on how to clean baseball cleats.

How often should you replace my baseball cleats?

How often you replace baseball cleats can vary depending on several factors, including the frequency of use, playing conditions, and personal preference. Therefore, it's important to inspect your baseball cleats regularly for signs of significant wear and tear. If the outsole is worn down, the cleats are damaged, or the upper is torn or frayed, it's likely time for a replacement.

What's more, as baseball cleats age, their performance may deteriorate. You might notice a decrease in traction, stability, or support. If you feel your cleats are not providing the necessary grip or causing discomfort, it could be an indication to get new ones.

The playing surface and conditions can also impact the lifespan of your cleats. Playing on rough or abrasive surfaces, like hard dirt or artificial turf, can accelerate wear. Additionally, wet or muddy conditions can deteriorate the materials faster.

So, the answer to the question really depends. Baseball cleats can last a good few seasons if maintained and looked after. However, if you notice any significant signs of wear, discomfort, or decreased performance, it's advisable to invest in a new pair of baseball cleats to ensure optimal performance and reduce the risk of injury.