Most parents would agree that their children grow up too quickly. This is especially true when season comes around and they have to buy their budding players one of the best youth baseball cleats because they have already outgrown the previous pair.
Whether your children have been avidly participating in this sport for a long time or are just starting out, fitting them with the right gear is paramount to unlocking their true potential. It is a commanding sport that requires proper footwear to aid stability and comfort when playing, and therefore it is a good idea to do some homework on the topic before buying.
To take the weight off your shoulders, we have prepared the ultimate baseball cleats buyers guide.
After reading this article you will know the answers to the following important questions:
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More often than not, kids are more attracted to the aesthetic appeal rather than the practical aspects of something. In the case of the Under Armour Leadoff Low RM Jr shoes, children all over the world will definitely not be disappointed. They are one of the best youth baseball cleats due to their wide range of eye-catching colors and powerful performance on the field.
These cleats are low cut which means players get ample mobility and freedom to move around on the field. However, as you know though, being low-cut also signifies that they will have limited support and ankle protection. With this in mind, these cleats are better suited to players who are light on their feet.
On the outside, the shoes have a 100% synthetic leather and sole with rubber cleats. This means that they are extremely durable while providing support at the same time.
A specially engineered EVA midsole distributes weight evenly across the foot and ensures players do not feel any pressure points over the cleats when wearing the shoe. Durable traction pods built with 4D foam provide lightweight cushioning, and a mesh tongue allows for enhanced breathability, keeping the foot cool and dry during the game.
On the field, the rubber molded cleats work well on most surfaces, including grass, clay, and artificial turf. Because they are low profile, they are easy to take on and off. Although, note that they have a fairly slim profile so kids with wider feet may struggle a bit more or even find them uncomfortable.
Main Features
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We have included one pair of mid-top cleats in this guide, just so that you can get an idea of whether or not they are a suitable choice for your child.
Mizuno is a well-known brand when it comes to baseball. They have been in the game of making sporting equipment since 1906. This particular pair of shoes carries their reputation well and has an affordable price tag to go with it.
We added the shoes to our list of the best youth baseball cleats, mainly because of their innovative 9 spike design. The shoes feature 9 molded rubber studs on the sole, which have optimally positioned to give your child a comfortable fit. They have been aligned with specific parts of the foot so as to provide a comfortable step and movement action while giving the player the traction they need when playing baseball.
Because the cleats are rubber, they are suitable for use on all field types and won’t get damaged or cause damage. They are particularly suited to turf fields as the rubber provides fantastic grip on a synthetic surface.
In addition to rubber studs, the cleats have a rubber sole too. A full-length midsole provides heel to toe cushioning for the foot, reducing the impact felt when moving around quickly on the field.
The mid-top cut design provides the foot with further stability. Because the higher cut covers more of the ankle, extra support is given in moments when jarring movements are made.
Lastly, these shoes are 100% synthetic which is to expected considering the level of support they offer. The material construction also means they have an affordable price tag.
Main Features
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Although the Junior COMPv1 may be on the expensive side, it is jam-packed with the latest technological advancements in the cleats industry. New Balance is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to innovative development, and this footwear proves it.
According to New Balance, the main idea behind COMPv1 is that these cleats are supposed to mimic the performance of metal cleats, but with the lightweight benefits of a plastic stud. If your child has been playing baseball for a while now and has mastered the sport to such a degree that warrants metal cleats, then the COMPv1 will be one of the best youth baseball cleats you can buy to transition them over.
This pair showcases a low cut design that boosts overall mobility, flexibility and comfort. The spikes on the shoe are very unique in that they are made of glass fiber reinforced TPU. This is what adds to the weightlessness of the pair and gives the superior traction and comfort on the foot.
Adding to their weightlessness is the fact that the shoes are synthetic. Comfort-wise, the midsole is packed with REVlite cushioning technology which reduces the feeling of impact. Furthermore, a FantomFit upper molds to the shape of the player’s feet. Lastly, a mesh upper and Aeroprene bootie construction ensures that the player’s feet are ventilated and kept cool.
If your child is looking for cleats that excel in both performance and comfort, then this pair will be perfect. Since the shoes are packed with technology that supports durability and comfort, you won’t have to worry about your child coming home with sore feet.
Main Features
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These cleats are made from a Nubuck leather and synthetic upper and have a rubber sole and cleats. An abrasion-resistant toe cap and molded rubber outsole means the shoes are durable and can be used on a variety of field surfaces. In terms of who they are suited to, they perform well for the most active positions in the field, making them ideal for batters and fielders.
Overall, the Adidas Adizero Afterburners made it to our list of the best youth baseball cleats because they have been carefully designed to help the player be as quick and mobile on their feet as possible. The shoes are extremely lightweight and made with what has been termed a SprintSkin upper, to provide better support across the shoe. Furthermore, a Sprint-Frame plate on the heel has a rotational traction zone that delivers enhanced grip and movement on the field.
A mesh tongue ensures that the shoes are breathable. This helps to regulate airflow and keep the feet cool. The mesh features around the heel too, allowing for movement along the ankle bone. This also allows players to easily put the shoes on and take them off. This is helped by the fact that they are lace up and low-top profile.
However, the lightness of these shoes along with the very low profile does mean that they provide minimum stability for the player. Adidas offers them in four different colors, and despite the advanced lightweight technology involved, this pair comes in at an affordable price. Any aspiring baseball players ready to run around on the pitch will love these cleats.
Main Features
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If the name of these cleats sounds familiar that is because it was inspired by the famous outfielder who played for the Angels, Mike Trout. His name features along the ankle, reminding your budding superstar of how good they could become one day provided they have the best youth baseball cleats to start out with! They are available in three base colors and have various interesting design detail in the shoes.
Not only is this shoe stylish, but it also fits great too. A synthetic leather upper creates a sock-like fit, and synthetic toe overlays provide a supportive and protective layer.
Then there is the phylon midsole which provides cushioning, as well as a foam collar around the ankle for stability. Consequently, your child will have a smaller chance of suffering a sprain due to instability.
The fast flex technology and rubber cleat pattern on the shoes deliver multi-directional traction and capabilities, meaning your child gets the most from mobility when wearing them.
Taking a look at the finer details, comfort and breathability are provided through the synthetic material on the upper side of the cleats. Then there is also a small tab fixed onto the heel to ensure that your young player can easily pull the shoe on and off.
- What to look for when buying baseball cleats?
- How much ankle support do your children need?
- How much do the best youth baseball cleats cost?
- What types of cleats are available?
- Which are the top shoes available on the market
- Pros and cons of 5 top pairs
What To Look For In Baseball Cleats
As you probably know, cleats are special sports shoes designed to give players more grip and stability on the field or turf. All players must wear them as they help to protect, comfort, and support the players through practice and games. While some parents have played baseball themselves and know exactly what to look for when buying baseball cleats, other buyers are considering this purchase for the very first time. As with all footgear, there are a number of important factors to take into consideration when selecting one of the best youth baseball cleats. Not only will the right purchase help to guard your child or player against sprains and other injuries, but it will equip them with the confidence they need to join their very first league.Material
As with any shoe, the material of your child’s cleats will have a big impact on the flexibility and support that the shoes offer. Baseball requires durable footwear that offers excellent traction and aids quick movement on the field. With this in mind, it may be better to invest in a pair made out of quality material, like genuine leather. Remember, quality material may be a bit pricy, but it will also be more durable, breathable, and offer greater protection against injuries. On the other hand, some synthetic materials used in cleats improve water resistance, which is perfect for rainy afternoons. They also offer extra support around the ankle and the front of the foot, which is perfect for small children that are still developing their coordination. Another important factor to keep in mind for buying a pair of the best youth baseball cleats is your child’s growth rate. Outgrowing an expensive pair may be a worthy investment if your child has a younger sibling that can make use of hand-me-downs. If this is not the case, then synthetic leather material could be a more practical alternative. At the end of the day, it comes down to your budget and child’s comfort. The best solution would be to allow them to try out both materials to assess which cleats feel the best and make an informed decision from there.Ankle Support
Although children are generally more flexible than adults, they still need proper ankle support when participating in a demanding sport like baseball. The best youth baseball cleats vary in the amount of support or mobility that they offer. That is because different field positions require the shoes to provide different levels of support and traction. Baseball cleats are available in three standard-sized shoe lengths: high-tops, mid-tops, and low-tops. Each length varies in terms of the mobility, foot protection, and support that it provides. While low-tops offer a lot of mobility for active players who need to move around on the field, they don’t protect or support the foot as well as high-tops do. High-tops offer great ankle support but restrict movement. They are also more difficult to put on and take off. If you are looking for that perfect midway between mobility and sufficient ankle support, mid-tops are a perfect choice. In the end, it comes down to your child’s player position on the field. Pitchers and more active children may want to opt for the low tops, while catchers may be more comfortable wearing high-tops. Keep in mind your child’s mobility while playing.Budget
When it comes to buying youth baseball cleats, a lot of parents are wary of buying expensive footwear that will only last one season. In fact, extreme growth spurts can render the perfect pair of expensive leather cleats obsolete in just a matter of months. To combat this problem, we recommend a bit more toe room when making a purchase. The best youth baseball cleats can cost anything from $50 to $200 or more, so you should consider your child’s investment in the sport. Buying expensive cleats for your little ones should only be done after they have shown a keen interest in taking baseball seriously. That way, you know you are investing in an activity that they are truly committed to.Foot Size
Irrespective of the price you are willing to pay, if your child’s feet do not fit comfortably into the shoe, then your little one won’t be able to enjoy the game. Consider how wide the shoes are in addition to their length. Remember, the cleats will expand as your child breaks them in. However, they also need to be comfortable when wearing thick sport socks so as to prevent chafing. The perfect balance is somewhere between the two. Correctly sized, there shouldn’t be more than a quarter-inch left between your child’s toes and the end of the cleat. However, if you are intent on buying a pair that won’t be outgrown in record time, then you may want to go for a size or two up from that.Types of Cleats
The best youth baseball cleats are made specifically with optimal traction in mind. However, there are different types of cleats available, all offering various degrees of traction. All cleats offer good grip because their studs, also known as spikes, penetrate the ground easily, which supports fast movements and rapid acceleration.Metal Cleats
Out of all the cleats, metal cleats provide the best traction. This is because they are very thin which allows them to effortlessly sink into the ground. When it comes to supporting your movement, they work great on just about any compact surface like grass or dirt, but not on turf. Although metal cleats offer the best grip, they are also more expensive when compared to the other types which we talk about below. They are also known for wearing down quickly if used on the wrong surface. Most of the time, metal cleats are only utilized by professional baseball players in high competition leagues. This is mainly because they are dangerous when used in sliding plays. While they are allowed in most high schools and college baseball leagues, you will have to confirm whether your child is allowed to wear them at his or her school before buying them as they are often restricted for younger players. We haven’t reviewed a pair of them in our guide for this reason.Molded Cleats
Molded cleats can be constructed out of a large variety of materials, all with their own unique features and price tag. If you are looking to buy the best youth baseball cleats that are not too expensive, then a pair of these may be your best bet. The shoes are specifically designed with younger players who quickly outgrow their gear in mind. Higher priced pairs have rubberized plastic cleats. Because these models offer great traction, they are said to be the last stepping stone before reaching metal cleats status. If you are wanting to buy entry-level cleats that are lightweight, then the plastic molded ones would be a good fit. Apart from offering terrific traction, molded cleats are also extremely comfortable. This is due to a high number of spikes on each show, spread out evenly over the shoe surface. If your child enjoys playing in muddy fields, then the molded cleats may be the most suitable option as they are abrasion-resistant. Lastly, as we discussed, they are also a much cheaper alternative when compared to metal pairs.Turf
A lot of youngsters want to practice and train off-field. However, playing on surfaces that don’t agree with molded or metal cleats can end up damaging the shoes. To remedy this problem, it is always a wise idea to invest in turf shoes. Apart from being comfortable, they offer more grip than your regular training shoes and are perfect on artificial turf. Unlike molded or metal cleats, turf shoes have tiny rubber studs on their soles. Their design plays a huge role in the amount of comfort they offer to their wearers. However, their lack of prominent spikes also means that they won’t offer the same amount of traction compared to molded or metal cleats. Although turf shoes can’t replace the best youth baseball cleats, they are essential to have for between game practices off the field. They are also more affordable, making them the perfect shoe for young children still in their training phase. Overall, investing in more than one type of baseball shoe may be best, as your children won’t solely practice on the field.Interchangeable Cleats
Stud length is an important factor to consider before every game, as the field surface and weather conditions may impact their efficiency. However, ensuring you have the right type of cleats with you in every circumstance, can be difficult to do. Luckily, some cleats give you the freedom to swap out studs of different lengths, when you need to. These type of shoes are known as interchangeable cleats. They allow you to swap out the studs as you need them. Essentially, this means you would only have to buy one pair of cleats with its attachable studs. One negative factor pertaining to interchangeable cleats are their weightiness. Since they carry around tools to change the studs, they are also a lot heavier compared to the other cleats.Best Youth Baseball Cleats Reviews
If your little one is excited about playing a game or joining a league, and you are looking to buy a pair of the best youth baseball cleats, then these suggestions might come in handy. The diversity of what is available means that there is a best fit option for every player in the team no matter their position.1. Under Armour Boys Leadoff Low Jr. RM Baseball Shoe
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More often than not, kids are more attracted to the aesthetic appeal rather than the practical aspects of something. In the case of the Under Armour Leadoff Low RM Jr shoes, children all over the world will definitely not be disappointed. They are one of the best youth baseball cleats due to their wide range of eye-catching colors and powerful performance on the field.
These cleats are low cut which means players get ample mobility and freedom to move around on the field. However, as you know though, being low-cut also signifies that they will have limited support and ankle protection. With this in mind, these cleats are better suited to players who are light on their feet.
On the outside, the shoes have a 100% synthetic leather and sole with rubber cleats. This means that they are extremely durable while providing support at the same time.
A specially engineered EVA midsole distributes weight evenly across the foot and ensures players do not feel any pressure points over the cleats when wearing the shoe. Durable traction pods built with 4D foam provide lightweight cushioning, and a mesh tongue allows for enhanced breathability, keeping the foot cool and dry during the game.
On the field, the rubber molded cleats work well on most surfaces, including grass, clay, and artificial turf. Because they are low profile, they are easy to take on and off. Although, note that they have a fairly slim profile so kids with wider feet may struggle a bit more or even find them uncomfortable.
Main Features
- 100% synthetic outer and sole
- Rubber cleats
- Tongue with mesh for breathability
- Re-engineered EVA outsole for even weight distribution
- Footbed built with two layers of 4D Foam
- Available in a wide variety of colors
- Comfortable to wear
- Low profile promotes mobility on the field
- Available in half sizes
- Not the most stable shoes
- Thin profile, therefore not suitable for wider feet
2. Mizuno 9 Spike Advanced Franchise 9 Moulded Youth Mid Baseball Cleat
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We have included one pair of mid-top cleats in this guide, just so that you can get an idea of whether or not they are a suitable choice for your child.
Mizuno is a well-known brand when it comes to baseball. They have been in the game of making sporting equipment since 1906. This particular pair of shoes carries their reputation well and has an affordable price tag to go with it.
We added the shoes to our list of the best youth baseball cleats, mainly because of their innovative 9 spike design. The shoes feature 9 molded rubber studs on the sole, which have optimally positioned to give your child a comfortable fit. They have been aligned with specific parts of the foot so as to provide a comfortable step and movement action while giving the player the traction they need when playing baseball.
Because the cleats are rubber, they are suitable for use on all field types and won’t get damaged or cause damage. They are particularly suited to turf fields as the rubber provides fantastic grip on a synthetic surface.
In addition to rubber studs, the cleats have a rubber sole too. A full-length midsole provides heel to toe cushioning for the foot, reducing the impact felt when moving around quickly on the field.
The mid-top cut design provides the foot with further stability. Because the higher cut covers more of the ankle, extra support is given in moments when jarring movements are made.
Lastly, these shoes are 100% synthetic which is to expected considering the level of support they offer. The material construction also means they have an affordable price tag.
Main Features
- 100% synthetic outer and top
- Full-length midsole for optimal cushioning
- Trademark 9 Spike Advanced design
- Rubber cleats and sole
- Mid-top style
- Provide exceptional ankle support
- Extremely comfortable
- Affordable
- Good for all field types
- Available in half sizes
- Mid-tops limit mobility more than low-tops
- Only available in one color
3. New Balance COMPv1 Cleat – Junior’s Baseball
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Although the Junior COMPv1 may be on the expensive side, it is jam-packed with the latest technological advancements in the cleats industry. New Balance is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to innovative development, and this footwear proves it.
According to New Balance, the main idea behind COMPv1 is that these cleats are supposed to mimic the performance of metal cleats, but with the lightweight benefits of a plastic stud. If your child has been playing baseball for a while now and has mastered the sport to such a degree that warrants metal cleats, then the COMPv1 will be one of the best youth baseball cleats you can buy to transition them over.
This pair showcases a low cut design that boosts overall mobility, flexibility and comfort. The spikes on the shoe are very unique in that they are made of glass fiber reinforced TPU. This is what adds to the weightlessness of the pair and gives the superior traction and comfort on the foot.
Adding to their weightlessness is the fact that the shoes are synthetic. Comfort-wise, the midsole is packed with REVlite cushioning technology which reduces the feeling of impact. Furthermore, a FantomFit upper molds to the shape of the player’s feet. Lastly, a mesh upper and Aeroprene bootie construction ensures that the player’s feet are ventilated and kept cool.
If your child is looking for cleats that excel in both performance and comfort, then this pair will be perfect. Since the shoes are packed with technology that supports durability and comfort, you won’t have to worry about your child coming home with sore feet.
Main Features
- Jam-packed with the latest technological advancements
- Spikes on the cleats are made of glass fiber reinforced TPU
- Midsole is packed with REVlite cushioning technology
- FantomFit upper molds to shape of the foot to cushion it
- Low-cut design that boosts mobility
- Latest technology provides comfort, mobility, and durability
- Glass fiber TPU spikes ensure a light product
- Added cushioning for feet
- Available in half sizes
- Relatively expensive
4. Adidas Kids’ Adizero Afterburner V Baseball Shoe
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These cleats are made from a Nubuck leather and synthetic upper and have a rubber sole and cleats. An abrasion-resistant toe cap and molded rubber outsole means the shoes are durable and can be used on a variety of field surfaces. In terms of who they are suited to, they perform well for the most active positions in the field, making them ideal for batters and fielders.
Overall, the Adidas Adizero Afterburners made it to our list of the best youth baseball cleats because they have been carefully designed to help the player be as quick and mobile on their feet as possible. The shoes are extremely lightweight and made with what has been termed a SprintSkin upper, to provide better support across the shoe. Furthermore, a Sprint-Frame plate on the heel has a rotational traction zone that delivers enhanced grip and movement on the field.
A mesh tongue ensures that the shoes are breathable. This helps to regulate airflow and keep the feet cool. The mesh features around the heel too, allowing for movement along the ankle bone. This also allows players to easily put the shoes on and take them off. This is helped by the fact that they are lace up and low-top profile.
However, the lightness of these shoes along with the very low profile does mean that they provide minimum stability for the player. Adidas offers them in four different colors, and despite the advanced lightweight technology involved, this pair comes in at an affordable price. Any aspiring baseball players ready to run around on the pitch will love these cleats.
Main Features
- Made from Nubuck leather
- Synthetic material around the heel that allows for breathability
- Molded rubber outside soles
- A low-cut design
- Mesh tongue that aids breathability
- Lightweight Life-Strike EVA midsole
- Provides multi-surface traction for playing any position
- Allows full mobility
- Lightweight cleats
- Available in half sizes
- Lacking in support
5. Nike Trout 4 Pro MCS BG
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If the name of these cleats sounds familiar that is because it was inspired by the famous outfielder who played for the Angels, Mike Trout. His name features along the ankle, reminding your budding superstar of how good they could become one day provided they have the best youth baseball cleats to start out with! They are available in three base colors and have various interesting design detail in the shoes.
Not only is this shoe stylish, but it also fits great too. A synthetic leather upper creates a sock-like fit, and synthetic toe overlays provide a supportive and protective layer.
Then there is the phylon midsole which provides cushioning, as well as a foam collar around the ankle for stability. Consequently, your child will have a smaller chance of suffering a sprain due to instability.
The fast flex technology and rubber cleat pattern on the shoes deliver multi-directional traction and capabilities, meaning your child gets the most from mobility when wearing them.
Taking a look at the finer details, comfort and breathability are provided through the synthetic material on the upper side of the cleats. Then there is also a small tab fixed onto the heel to ensure that your young player can easily pull the shoe on and off.
- Phylon midsole provides
- Nike Fast Flex technology
- Rubber cleats
- Synthetic leather overlay
- Synthetic leather upper
- Extra cushioning around the ankles
- Comfort and breathability through synthetic leather upper
- Multidirectional traction
- Very durable on most surfaces
- Low-cut design provides little ankle support
