Metal cleats are just one type of softball shoe, but there are three different kinds of cleats. In this article we’re just focusing on metal cleats that are best for gripping dirt, the two other types of cleats are molded cleats and turf cleats for turf or practice fields.
Metal cleat care is also something that many people wonder about, so we’ll answer all of those questions here as well.
Wondering where to buy cleats? I always recommend Amazon first because they offer free returns on any sizes that don’t work out, and they also have the Amazon “try before you buy” program where you can try up to 8 things before you’re charged – and you have 7 days to try them out. This is the perfect option for trying out softball cleats!
5 Best Metal Softball Cleats
1: Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 3 Softball Cleats
The Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike Softball Cleats here are unquestionably one of the best metal softball cleats for women; this Mizuno cleat is lightweight and durable. In addition, the cleats are designed with a breathable upper mesh fabric and tongue that stretches to accommodate feet as they swell during play and the synthetic leather overlays are durable and stay snug, keeping feet and ankles secure making them one of the best softball cleats.
They have an outsole made from rubber so players will not slip on the field even if it rains or snows. In addition, the metal cleats are replaceable as they wear out.
Another perk, the cleat is water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about the cleats getting ruined if it rains while they’re playing. These metal softball cleats come in four different colors: black, blue/white, pink/black, and white/pink.
Product Features:
- Durable and lightweight metal softball cleats
- Outsole made from rubber
- Replaceable and replaced as they wear out
2: New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V1 Metal Softball Cleats
The New Balance metal softball cleat here is an excellent metal cleat and has all the features you would want. First, it’s pretty sweet looking, but it also offers so many other benefits. For example, it was designed with ventilation in mind, which means that your feet stay cool even during those long games on hot days – huge bonus!
The upper part of these are made from high-quality synthetic material for durability and comfortability while playing metal or fastpitch softball.
This New Balance metal cleat is built to last through hours upon hours of playtime – just take a look at what some reviewers have had to say about these here! They hold up nicely against strong plays like slides too.
Product Features:
- Reduces runner’s fatigue
- Vents are strategically placed for airflow to help keep feet cool
- Lower profile fit without sacrificing stability or cushioning
3: Mizuno Sweep 5 Low Metal Softball Cleats
This low top Mizuno Sweep 5 metal softball cleat here is great for metal and hard surfaces. It features a resistance shank that supports better metal. In addition, the outsole has grip technology to keep you from slipping on the metal surface while having good traction so you can run around efficiently without falling or losing balance.
It also has the signature ‘SPIKE’ technology that adds more traction for your sports cleats, not just metal but in general as well!
Product Features:
- Better grip on the soles
- Lightweight metal cleats for better support
- Signature SPIKE technology that adds more traction
- Protective toe guard for less toe wear on the player and shoe
4: Nike Women’s Hyperdiamond 2 Pro Metal Softball Cleats
Nike makes this pair of SWEET looking Hyperdiamond metal softball cleats here. These metal softball cleats come in white/gold color, which makes them great to wear with any uniform or team colors (a huge plus when a softball player cares about matching and looking on point!).
They also feature a cushioned collar for added comfortability around your ankle when wearing these metal cleats on your feet when playing metal baseball.
Product Features:
- Lightweight and durable
- Provides ankle support
- Comfortability on the inside of the cleat
5: Under Armour Women’s Glyde ST Softball Cleats
This pair of low top Under Armour metal softball cleats here are on the cheaper end of the spectrum but still have excellent features. The full-length footbed provides comfort and support for your athlete’s foot while playing softball.
They will be a good choice if you are looking for metal softball cleats that aren’t as expensive or can work well with other types of metal spikes (like soccer). These cleats also come in two color options: black/white and silver/chrome.
One thing to consider about these special metal softball cleats is that they do not have removable insoles like most metal sneakers or boots – this means it will take longer to break them in before game time and you can’t switch out the insoles.
Product Features:
- Great for people who don’t want to spend a lot of money
- Cushioned, supportive footbeds
- Available in two colors
How to Know Which Metal Softball Cleats are Best for You:
Consider the positions being played
Taking the position you play most often into account is going to be the best idea. Pitchers may choose one style over other fast-pitch softball players’ choices. Metal softball cleats are available in many variations (such as metal spikes, metal wedges, etc.) Therefore, every player has their specific preferences in mind for their choice of metal softball cleats based on these factors.
Determine what type of cleat is best for you
Metal softball cleats come in three different types: metal, metal spikes, and metal studs. Metal cleats are ideal for indoor or on turf fields because they often feature thicker metal plates that provide good traction in the heel and toe while ensuring you don’t slip around as much on the field.
If you play most often outdoors on dirt and grass, metal spikes may be a better option than metal studs; these have thinner metal plates which make it easier to find solid footing when running across the lush green grass.
Consider how much money you will spend on cleats
e yourself a budget to spend on your metal cleats by thinking of how often will you be wearing them – is it daily, or just for practices and games? Is there a big enough difference between metal cleats versus rubber sole ones?
If so, you might want to invest more money into metal softball cleats. Does you (or your child, rather) play out-of-town tournaments where they’ll need metal softball-specific footwear options available at all times during each day’s activities?
How to care for your metal softball cleats:
Clean your metal cleats with a mild soap and water mixture.
The best way to clean your metal cleats is with a mild soap and water mixture. A few ways that you can clean metal baseball cleats include:
- wipe over with a damp cloth – use the cloth or a vegetable brush to scrub in small circles if needed
- rinse well after cleaning and allow them to air dry
If you notice that the metal is starting to rust, apply some metal polish or oil (such as WD40) before allowing it time to dry completely. If you are able, remove the metal spikes from your metal softball cleats for better drying results.
After they have dried completely, reattach the metal studs/spikes back onto the bottom of your cleats using a screwdriver and screws available at most hardware stores.
Dry them off thoroughly to avoid rusting
Drying them off is just as important as cleaning them. Once you’re done using metal softball cleats, take the time to dry them properly before storing or keeping them in your bag.
Leaving metal wet for too long can lead to rusting and damage over time, so make sure they are completely dry before putting them away from wherever you store cleats at home.
Apply a light coat of oil or wax for protection against corrosion, dirt, and moisture
This can be done with metal cleats. A few things you can use are:
Apply a light coat of either product to the metal parts sparingly. Make sure you use a clean cloth or towel not to spread dirt and debris around your metal softball cleats.
Allow them time to dry before wearing again! This way, you protect metal softball cleats against rusting and corrosion, which can happen when exposed to water.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are softball cleats the same as soccer cleats?
Softball and soccer cleats essentially serve the same purpose, to provide traction to the athlete to generate force from the ground-up. The designs are generally different, so you’re best off to stick with the sport that the cleats are designed for.
Are metal cleats better for softball?
Metal cleats tend to pick up less dirt and grass than the molded cleats, so they’re great for infielders and outfielders alike. They also make it easier for an outfielder to plant their toes in the ground and sprint to reach a ball.
What age can girls start wearing metal cleats?
USA Softball, NSA Softball, and USSSA allow metal cleats for play in 14U and older, younger than that and the girls will be wearing molded cleats.
Now that you know the strengths and weaknesses of metal cleats, and how to find the best pair, it’s time to find your perfect match. We’ve broken down some key things to look for when picking out a pair of metal softball cleats so you can make an informed decision about which ones are best for you. If this has helped inform your search, let us know in the comments below!
What are the benefits of using metal softball cleats?
Simply put, they’re lighter and more durable than rubber cleats and won’t wear down as quickly. Metal cleats are also known to protect your feet better than softball shoes with hard plastic spikes. They grip the field better so you can run faster, too (what athlete doesn’t want that!)