In the past few years, the variety of softball cleats available has risen significantly. There are different numbers of spikes available, materials to choose from, and distinct physical differences between each shoe. Choosing the best pair of softball cleats for you affects everything from how much you’ll pay to how much traction you’ll get on the field – making it a critical decision no matter your position on the field.
We reviewed dozens of softball cleats to identify the best of the best. We considered the price, material, spike number, customer reviews, comfort, durability, fit, and versatility when rating each shoe.
After careful review, the Under Armour Women’s Glyde Rm Softball Shoe came out on top as the best for most players. It is made with a padded ankle collar and tongue construction for increased comfort and has a durable overlay on the toe cap for added protection. The lightweight textile toe provides sneaker-like comfort, which is an excellent choice for any player. They also come in multiple colors so that you can choose one fitting to your style.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Softball Cleats
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Under Armour Women's Glyde Rm Softball Shoe | 4.7 |
| Best Youth Softball Cleats | Adidas Kids' Icon 4 | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Buy | Adidas Women's Icon V | 5.0 |
| Best Metal Softball Cleats | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe | 4.7 |
| Best Women's Softball Turf Shoes | New Balance Women's Fuse V2 Turf Softball Shoe | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Softball Cleats Overall: Under Armour Women’s Glyde Rm Softball Shoe
The Under Armour Women’s Glyde Rm Softball Shoe are some of the best on the market, especially for the price. They are surprisingly inexpensive but can compete with shoes at a much higher price. They come in three colors: black, white, and black with pink details. Many users reported that the pink style translated very well onto the field, so that may be a style option for you to consider.
On top of being inexpensive and stylish, these shoes are built to be extremely comfortable. They are made of a synthetic upper and lightweight textile toe. These two features work together to make the shoes feel more like sneakers than your average cleats. The ankle collar and tongue construction are both padded for extra comfort as well. The toe cap features a durable overlay to protect your toes while you play. The bottom of the shoe comes equipped with a lot of spikes, giving you plenty of traction.
These shoes work well for nearly any position. The only position that may want to look elsewhere is pitchers. A few reviews were reporting that the design was not suitable for the pitcher position, but others stated the opposite. It is a matter of personal preference.
Under Armour Women’s Glyde Rm Softball Shoe Key Features:
- Three designed available
- Very comfortable
- Suitable for nearly every position
- Durable overlay on toe cap
Best Youth Softball Cleats: Adidas Kids’ Icon 4
Youth softball cleats often have a few other specifications you have to meet. Many leagues do not allow metal cleats for safety reasons. Plus, you want to spend as little money as possible since your growing child will probably not be able to wear the same pair of shoes two years in a row. Because of this, durability is less of a factor. Out of all the youth softball cleats we looked at, the Adidas Kids’ Icon 4 stood out as the best. These shoes are suitable for any sport where you need a molded rubber bottom, which includes softball. They come in many different sizes for many different age groups, so children should be able to wear them from ages four to twelve. These shoes are technically made for boys, but they work equally well for girls.
These shoes are designed for comfort first and foremost. They have a sock-like fit for easy entry and to prevent slippage. There is an elastic band around the collar to ensure that the shoe stays in place the whole game. There are some metal spikes around the front of the shoe for added traction.
There are some reports that these shoes run small. Be sure to look at the sizing chart and consider getting a size bigger than usual.
Adidas Kids’ Icon 4 Key Features:
- Sock-like fit
- Elastic band
- Metal spikes
- Molded rubber bottom
Best Budget Softball Cleats: Adidas Women’s Icon V
When it comes to choosing a pair of softball cleats, the price can be a significant factor. Most cleats will not make it through the year, which means you’ll need to purchase a new pair every season. If you’re on a strict budget, you can either choose our top pick, which is quite inexpensive, or these Adidas Women’s Icon V. These shoes are very inexpensive when compared to much of the competition, but they have outstanding reviews.
They are designed with responsive cushioning to improve your mobility and provide plenty of comforts. They also have a sock-like fit for a locked-down feel and increased stability. The specially-designed outsole provides a versatile grip no matter where you’re located. These shoes are suitable for all positions and most players. The sizes do not run big or small, so you can safely get the size you usually do. There are also many different colors available, so you have plenty of stylish options to choose from.
Free returns are provided with some colors and sizes, so be sure to double-check before you make your purchase.
Adidas Women’s Icon V Key Features:
- Many colors available
- Regular fit
- Sock-like fit
- Responsive cushioning
Best Metal Softball Cleats: New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe
Most leagues require or recommend that plays do not use metal cleats, mostly for safety purposes. However, there are many cases where metal cleats might be useful for your game. In these situations, we recommend the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe. There are many different colors and sizes available, so you have plenty to pick from. Sizes run true to size, and there are many different ones available as well. Most women should be able to find a size that fits them, even if you have unusually large or small feet.
These shoes are made with rubber soles, but with metal spikes strategically placed along the bottom. This provides tons of traction, so they’re the right choice for anyone who is running bases. The midsole is made of fresh foam, making it very comfortable. The upper is made of one-piece for added durability and perforated for breathability. A lace cage on the tongue lets you tuck in your laces, so they don’t get in the way while you’re playing. It also gives the shoes a fairly completed look. Many customers reported that these shoes were extremely durable and held up for multiple seasons.
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V1 Metal Softball Shoe Key Features:
- Many styles available
- Fresh foam, full-length midsole
- Lace cage for a completed look
- Rubber sole with metal spikes
Best Women’s Softball Turf Shoes: New Balance Women’s Fuse V2 Turf Softball Shoe
Turf shoes have a unique design that prevents them from tearing up turf while still providing traction and stability. Turf is expensive to lay down, and switching it out after every game can cost a fortune. If your league requires turf shoes, the best ones to get are New Balance Women’s Fuse V2 Turf Softball Shoe. They come in six different colors and have a sneaker design for added comfort. They are perfect for indoor training or the rare indoor game.
Many customers reported that they are incredibly light, which is a fantastic feature for any player. The synthetic material and perforations help with airflow and can keep you comfortable for an extended period. The full-length midsole is very responsive, and the outsole is durable to keep your feet protected and prevent the shoe from falling apart.
The only negatives regarding these shoes are that they are not necessarily as comfortable as the other shoes on the list. They are a bit more durable than most of the other shoes as well, though, so it is a give-take situation. These shoes do seem to run a bit small, so that is something to keep in mind while purchasing. Most suggest purchasing them a half size bigger than you usually do.
New Balance Women’s Fuse V2 Turf Softball Shoe Key Features:
- Will not damage turf
- Extremely light
- Durable outsole
- Runs slightly small
Who Should Buy Softball Cleats
Anyone who plans on playing softball should purchase softball cleats. They’re required by most leagues to play, even at very young ages. These cleats are specifically designed for the game, which is why it is so essential to purchase them if you’re playing at all. Even casual games can result in injury, which softball cleats can help prevent. There is also a significant difference between softball cleats and cleats made for other games. You cannot correctly use soccer or football cleats for softball. While soccer cleats are very similar, they do not have a cleat under the toe because it might injure other players. On the other hand, softball cleats have this extra spike to help with traction.
Cleats are also extremely light, even when compared to tennis shoes and similar sporty shoes. This helps you stay fast and provides extended comfort so you can play all day without getting tired.
If you’re looking to improve your softball skill, then it will help to have the best equipment. For that, you’ll want to check out The Best Softball Bats. Should you be interested in cleats for another sport, though, you may want to try The Best Soccer Cleats.
Important Features to Consider
Softball cleats should have a few essential features. Here’s what to consider when selecting softball cleats at any level:
- Weight. No matter whether you’re a professional softball player or purchasing cleats for a four-year-old, weight matters. Heavy shoes are going to slow you down and make you tired. They can cause unnecessary fatigue, which can get in the way of your gameplay. Plus, heavy shoes just aren’t comfortable to run in. You’re going to be doing a lot more work than you need to, which is only going to cause you to get tired faster. It is essential to purchase lightweight cleats, no matter what level you’re playing at.
- Durability. In all honesty, most shoes are not going to last through one season. If you’re playing regularly, most cleats will wear down and break. However, if you purchase a pair of very durable shoes, you may be able to stretch them to last for a year or two. Of course, this depends on how much you’re playing and how rough you are on your shoes. Still, no one wants to spend more money buying new cleats than they have to, which is why durability is so outstanding.
- Type. There are several types of cleats, which are useful for various purposes. Turf cleats are suitable for turf, for example. Some shoes have metal cleats on them, while others use molded plastic. The type you get isn’t always just a matter of personal preference. Sometimes, leagues will provide guidelines or restrict certain kinds of shoes. Some youth leagues do not allow the use of metal cleats due to concerns about injury.
- Physical differences. Some cleats have a reinforced toe, which is useful for certain positions. Others have a low-top style to allow for full ankle movement – an essential feature for pitchers. Metal cleats pick up less dirt and grass, making them most suitable for infielders and outfielders. These small physical differences may not seem very important at first glance, but they are there for a reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are metal or plastic cleats better for softball?
In general, metal cleats are going to be better. They provide lots of traction and have the thinnest spikes when compared to other types, allowing them to penetrate the ground very quickly. However, that doesn’t mean you should rush out and purchase a pair of metal cleats. Many leagues have banned their use for fear of injury since the metal can scratch or penetrate the skin.
Can you play softball in soccer cleats?
Yes, you can. However, there are a few key differences between the shoes. Soccer cleats do not have spikes on the front part of the shoe, because that area may come into contact with the ball or other players. These can cause quite a bit of damage. However, softball cleats do, because you are not kicking a ball around and don’t have to worry about breaking it. While you can use soccer cleats for softball, it is often a better option just to purchase softball cleats for the added spikes and traction.
Do softball cleats run small?
Not particularly. It depends on the brand. Check the customer reviews before you make your purchase for information on sizing variation. Also, if you purchase through Amazon, which all of our links go to, you can often get free returns in case they do not fit.
Should softball pitchers wear metal cleats?
Yes. They provided added stability over other cleat types, which is essential when you’re pitching a ball.
Other Softball Cleats We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other cleats for softball players. Even though they didn’t make our five best softball player cleats list, they’re the best of the rest, and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Best Youth Softball Cleats
- Best Metal Softball Cleats
- Best Women’s Softball Turf Shoes
- Best Molded Softball Cleats
Best Youth Softball Cleats
New Balance Kids’ 4040v5 Molded Baseball Shoe
These low-arch shoes are suitable for baseball and softball. They’re right to size and very wide, so children who have difficulty finding fitting shoes may find these suitable.
Key Features:
- Wide
- Comfortable
- Unisex
Cost: $26 – $97
Nike Kids’ Hyperdiamond 2.5 Keystone Baseball Cleats
With a synthetic leather upper for extra support, these shoes are suitable for a wide range of players and positions. It features a 12-stud design for plenty of traction.
Key Features:
- Rubber sole
- Soft phylon
- Fastflex outsole
Cost: $23 – $62
Under Armour Men’s Jet Low Sneaker
These shoes are for all ages and come in many different designs, so there is sure to be something your child likes. They’re made with synthetic leather for exceptions strength and a full-length EVA midsole.
Key Features:
- Many colors available
- Low-top
- Mesh tongue for added breathability
Cost: $25 – $60
Under Armour Kids’ Glyde Rm Jr. Softball Shoe
These shoes are made with a synthetic upper for breathability and a mech ankle color for increased comfort. The full-length EVA midsole provides shock absorption.
Key Features:
- Two colors available
- Rubber molded
- Mid-top
Cost: $22 – $32
Under Armour Kids’ Leadoff Low Rm Jr. Baseball Shoe
These shoes come in all sorts of sizes, all the way down to toddlers. They feature a synthetic upper for a lightweight design and a durable overlay on the toe cap.
Key Features:
- Multiple colors available
- Padded collar and heel construction
- Low-top
Cost: $18 – $37
Best Metal Softball Cleats
9-Spike Advanced Sweep Women’s
With multiple colors to choose from, these shoes come in any style you could want. They have a plethora of metal spikes on them for extra traction and stability.
Key Features:
- Synthetic material
- Made in the USA
- Many colors available
Cost: $22 – $110
Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 3 Softball Shoe
Designed for fastpitch, these shoes have a full-length sole for maximum comfort and built-in toe protector for enhanced durability.
Key Features:
- Multiple colors available
- Parallel outsole
- Full-length mid-sole
Cost: $29 – $140
Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Swift 6 Low Metal Cleat
These shoes have nine spikes at strategic points to increase mobility. The wave plate disperses energy from an impact to a broader area to reduce fatigue and provide support.
Key Features:
- Full-length midsole
- 9-spike
- Mizuno wave plate
Cost: $27 – $85
Mizuno Women’s Swift 5 Fastpitch Softball Cleat
The manufacturers of these shoes carefully designed them for optimal fit and feel for fastpitch softball. They have plenty of cushion and stability, as well as a 9-spike outsole.
Key Features:
- Many colors available
- Low-top arch
- 9-Spike outsole
Cost: $25 – $100
Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond 2 Pro Metal Softball Cleat
For a versatile shoe, these are very good. They are supportive and low-cut, making them perfect for pitchers.
Key Features:
- White and black available
- Cleans easy
- True to size
Cost: $70
Best Women’s Softball Turf Shoes
Made out of synthetic materials, these shoes are lightweight and perfect for any position. They are mid-range, price-wise, and made in the USA.
Key Features:
- 100% synthetic materials
- Free returns on some sizes
- Black and white coloration
Cost: $54
Mizuno (MIZD9 Women’s Players Trainer
With many colors to choose one, you’re sure to find something you’ll like with these shoes. They’re low-top and provide an extremely secure fit.
Key Feature:
- Inexpensive
- Naturally fitting shoe
- Outsole
Cost: $29 – 85
Mizuno Women’s Synchro MX Softball Shoe
These shoes have a different design than most, making them only really suitable for specific situations. They have a removable insole and a rubber sole.
Key Features:
- 100% synthetic
- Imported
- Removable insole
Cost: $26 – $85
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V1 Turf Softball Shoe
These shoes come in five different colors and an array of sizes. They have a lace cage, fresh foam midsole, and are low-top from arch.
Key Features:
- Rubber sole
- Low-top
- Many sizes available
Cost: $22 – $79
Made of leather, these shoes are a little more durable than most. They are designed for both men and women, so be sure to check the sizing chart before ordering.
Key Features:
- Two-color options
- Standard width
- Leather
Cost: $79
Best Molded Softball Cleats
These shoes come in tons of different colors and designs. They come with a sprint skin upper for extra support without extra weight. They deliver incredible traction, according to most customers.
Key Features:
- Many colors available
- Low-top
- Toe cap
Cost: $31 – $170
Mizuno Finch Select Nine Women’s Molded Softball Cleat
Engineered for performance, these shoes are crafted to be both durable and comfortable. They feature an EVA midsole for extra comfort and durability as well.
Key Features:
- EVA midsole
- High-performance
- Crafted with players in mind
Cost: $50
Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond Keystone Low Molded Softball Cleat
Nike created these shoes with a synthetic leather upper and overlays for extra protection and durability. They’re low-profile and come with full-length cushioning for plenty of comforts without getting in your way.
Key Features:
- Synthetic leather
- Low profile
- Rubber outsole
Cost: $33
Mizuno Women’s 9 Spike ADV Finch Elite
These shoes are true to their original size and come with many different sizes and colors available. There is less padding in these shoes than others, which makes them slightly less comfortable.
Key Features:
- Popular, well-known brand
- Less padding
- True to size
Cost: $48 – $89
Under Armour Women’s UA Glyde TPU
These shoes come in black and white options. They’re imported and made out of synthetic materials. They a bit on the more expensive side.
Key Features:
- Breathable, coated mesh
- EVA sock liner
- Full-length midsole
Cost: $51 – $73
