The pair of best youth baseball cleats provides youth player the needed flexibility, support and agility to stay quick on your feet without incurring any injuries.
This is why it is important to invest some time into determining the best baseball cleats for youth that can help them improve your performance on the field.
There are top 5 cleats that we choose from a lot of brands on the market and we think they are best for youth player in 2021 season.
Now let go to our review for each of cleats. Also check our baseball cleats buying guide.
Best Baseball Cleats for Youth in 2021 Season
5 Best Youth Baseball Cleats Quick Review
#1. Nike Kids Baby Boy’s Force Trout 5 Pro MCS Baseball
Nike is known for producing world-class sports equipment. This reputation is well reflected in these cleats from the company.
The Kids Baby Boy’s Force Trout 5 cleats are meant for youth players. These cleats come with a synthetic upper which is easy to clean while offering good breathability. With a well-designed tongue that makes it easier to wear and take off the cleats, they also offer maximum comfort with padding in the tongue section.
Inside the cleats, Nike has used a midsole with featherweight cushioning. On the underside, a durable TPU soleplate offers excellent traction. The soleplate features a 12-cleat configuration which makes it easy for youth players to remain stable while achieving great traction on most surfaces.
#2. Nike Boy’s Alpha Huarache Varsity Mid Keystone
Nike has its own class and this baseball cleat is surely one of their best to date.
This cleat is made using synthetic leather that makes it lasts very long. Paired with the foam sole, the comfort you get from this cleat is unmatchable. The cushioning and padding make you feel confident while practicing or playing the real game.
Nike has added Fastflex technology on the outsole that means your shoes will not impact your flexibility and you can be free to go for quick cuts and side moves. You can enjoy every form of natural movement with this cleat.
Additionally, it has a mid-cut design that provides extra support to your ankle and makes you very stable when you move. Available in two colors with the Nike logo on the side, this cleat has its class when it comes to style.
#3. Under Armour Men’s Leadoff Mid Rm
Lightweight, breathable, and durable, these baseball shoes are what you have been looking for.
These shoes have a 100% synthetic upper which makes them very reliable and adds very low weight to the shoes. They have perforations in the toe box that increases breathability and makes you feel good. Further, there’s a durable overlay on the toe cap for extra security.
In these shoes you enjoy padded collar and heel; that means you can feel the comfort immediately when you wear them. Also, there is a full-length EVA midsole that enhances your comfort even more. Thanks to the rubber molded cleats, you get perfect traction on all kinds of surfaces.
From design to function, these Under Armour baseball shoes are perfect in all.
#4. Mizuno 9 Spike ADV YTH FRHSE8 MD BK-WH Youth Molded Cleat
Mizuno is among the leading manufacturers of baseball equipment. The company is noted for producing equipment that is world-class and delivers optimal performance on the field. This is precisely why we have decided to include the Mizuno 9 Spike ADV YTH cleats in our list.
These cleats are constructed from synthetic materials. This ensures that the cleats are highly functional on the field while also offering great durability over long-term usage. The rubber sole offers good traction for youth players with durable spikes and a soleplate that can withstand wear-and-tear quite well. These cleats are a perfect choice for youth players seeking to improve their traction and speed on the field.
#5. New Balance Men’s 4040 V5 Metal
These baseball shoes are New Balance’s best seller and there are many reasons why.
Made from 100% synthetic upper, these shoes are highly durable and can withstand the field’s harshness. These shoes fit perfectly because of their modern construction.
They have a rubber sole that not only adds comfort but gives you the trustworthy traction you have been looking for long. They feature a flexible but highly supportive 8-spike metal plate outsole for traction like no other.
All the natural running positions are supported. You can perform without any tension of ruining your shoes. Available in diverse colors, you can select the one that suits your style.
The other Youth Baseball Cleats Reviews
Under Armour Kids’ Harper 2 RM Jr. Baseball Shoe
Another excellent pair of baseball cleats is the Under Armour Kids’ Harper 2. These cleats come constructed from 100% synthetic material, which means that they are incredibly durable while requiring minimum maintenance.
The low-top design of the shoes enables players to achieve quick sprints. To make sure that the shoes stay put and let you run across the field comfortably, these cleats come with an adjustable ankle strap.
Inside these cleats, a full-length midsole offers great cushioning and comfort. It helps distribute the foot pressure evenly, letting you achieve a comfortable wear and use. On the underside, this pair comes with rubber-molded cleats which are incredibly durable and well-performing. The cleats offer great traction on the field.
Nike Boys Huarache 2KFilth Pro MD
Another excellent youth cleats from Nike are the Boys Huarache 2KFilth Pro model. Nike specializes in innovative design for most of its sports products, and this is well reflected in these cleats.
A stand-out feature of these cleats is the geometric divots on the soleplate. These divots create a slick surface which, in turn, prevents dirt or other debris from easily clinging to the soleplate. As a result, it is easier for the players to keep their shoes clean and fully functional during a game.
Nike has constructed these cleats by using a combination of synthetic leather and mesh material. The synthetic leather adds durability to the design of the cleats. The interwork of mesh through the cleats helps keep them breathable as well as lightweight. For cushioning, Nike has used a Phylon midsole.
Easton 360 Youth Baseball Cleats
Like Mizuno, Easton is one of those baseball companies that require no introduction. Easton equipment is often touted by some of the leading names in the baseball game, which is only one reason why we trust Easton’s top-quality products.
Among the company’s quality offerings is the Easton 360 Youth baseball cleats. These cleats feature a combination of synthetic and fabric in their design. The use of fabric in the upper ensures that these cleats are very breathable, keeping your feet cool and dry during wear. Additional perforations in the toe box further improve ventilation and make these cleats a very comfortable piece of gear.
On the outsole, the 360 Youth cleats have patented V-cleat configuration. This ensures that the cleats deliver maximum grip on the field while also allowing players to rapidly accelerate and change direction when needed.
To bring extra cushioning on the heel, Easton has used charcoal carbon fiber design synthetic patch.
Buying guide – Considering factors below:
#1. Types of Baseball Cleats
Metal cleats
Metal cleats are a fairly popular type of baseball cleats. They come with their set of advantages and disadvantages. One of the overwhelming benefits of using metal cleats is that they provide excellent support and traction.
Metal cleats essentially dig into the ground and keep you foot position firm. This is advantageous for batters who want to hit the baseball without slipping.
The downside to this is that when you have to suddenly move or change direction, metal cleats do not support and can instead cause injury. Metal cleats can also wear down quickly if they are used on any surface other than dirt or grass.
Molded Plastic cleats
Molded plastic cleats are another popular choice among youth players. These type of cleats cost significantly less than their metal counterparts.
Unlike metal cleats, they don’t dig into the ground. This means that their grip is comparatively weaker. That being said, they let players bounce off the ground quickly.
This means that when wearing plastic cleats, you can quickly change direction or run through a soft surface such as mud without being slowed down. Plastic cleats are also suitable for most surfaces and do not wear down quickly like metal cleats do.
Turf cleats
Turf cleats are typically meant for practice sessions and at training facilities. They keep your foot close to the ground, providing you better stability and minimizing the risk of injury.
Youth players typically prefer turf cleats when they need to have comfortable and functional footwear without needing maximum performance. This makes turf cleats ideal for training sessions.
#2. Suitable on positions of players
The position of the player is one of the most important considerations when choosing the right type of cleats. This is because each position has different requirements.
If you are running between bases, for instance, you need explosive power and agility without the risk of injury. Similarly, if you are an outfielder, you need good ground clearance. Following are the best recommendations for baseball youth players on different positions.
Infielders: Infielders typically run on a portion of the field where the ground is more compact. This means that they should wear a type of cleats that gathers up as little sand as possible, allowing them to move around quickly and easily. For this reason, metal cleats are typically the best option for infielders.
Outfielders: For outfielders as well, metal cleats are a good option. Metal cleats let outfielders dig into and out of the ground quickly. This is an advantage especially when outfielders have to chase after fly balls.
Pitchers: Cleats are one of the most important pieces of a pitcher’s kit. The right pair of cleats help a pitcher stay stable and maintain grip on the ground when pitching at exceptionally high speeds. Metal cleats are a good choice in this scenario as they dig into the ground and offer maximum stability.
#3. High, Low or Mid tops
When it comes to ankle support of baseball cleats, there are three main types, namely high tops, mid tops and low tops. Following are the pros and cons of each.
High tops: High tops, as the name suggests, feature ankle supports that extend beyond the ankle. They provide extra support for players, helping players keep their ankles free from injuries. That being said, they also slow down a player and are not preferable if speed is your priority.
Low tops: Low tops feature low ankle supports, allowing players to make rapid lateral movements with ease. Low tops are preferable where speed is required, although they minimum ankle support and increase chances of risk injury.
Mid tops: Mid tops are a balance between ankle support and speed. They allow for easy movement on the field while significantly reducing the risk of ankle injury.
#4. Fit
When it comes to baseball cleats, it is important to get the size right. If the cleats are too tight, they will make your feet uncomfortable and feel stifled.
If the cleats are too loose, they would get in the way of running and slow you down. As a general rule-of-thumb, if you have to choose between slightly loose or slightly tight cleats, go with the slightly tight ones.
Most cleats that feel a little tight will get broken in with time and expand, fitting your feet more accurately. This is why it is okay if you get a pair of cleats that are a little tight.
#5. Materials
Most baseball cleats come constructed from a combination of different materials. Materials popularly used in the construction of cleats include synthetic leather and mesh.
Synthetic leather adds durability and resilience to the shoes while mesh allows for more breathability for your feet. Both combine to offer cleats that deliver good performance and last a long time.
Genuine leather is also used in the construction of baseball cleats. However, it costs significantly more compared to synthetic leather.
#6. Lightweight
Cleats come in a variety of materials and designs. This is why there is a significant weight range when it comes to baseball cleats.
Generally, cleats that are lightweight enable you to run faster on the field. In contrast, cleats that are heavier may hamper you from reaching your peak speed.
Low top cleats are typically lightweight but they offer no ankle protection. In contrast, high top cleats are heavier but offer good ankle support. You need to weigh these factors before determining the right weight for your baseball cleats.
#7. Comfortable
In terms of comfort, turf cleats are the clear winner. These sleek shoes are specifically designed to deliver maximum comfort for your feet and ankles while letting you train on the field.
However, these cleats are not suitable for an actual baseball game. For actual games, molded plastic cleats are considered the most comfortable.
This is because these cleats have evenly distributed cleats on their underside which keeps the pressure even on your foot while keeping you stable and sprint-ready at the same time. Plastic cleats are also light-weight which makes them more comfortable to wear and run with.
#8. Sole
The sole of a baseball cleat comprises of several parts. These include the insole, the midsole, the soleplate and the actual studs or cleats on the underside. The insole and midsole are discussed in the cushioning section below.
When it comes to soleplate of a baseball cleat, it is typically constructed from highly durable TPU plastic. This is because the plate is actually the surface where the studs are attached to the shoe. It withstands most of the wear and tear during baseball games.
When you are choosing the right baseball cleat, make sure the soleplate is highly durable. Also check whether it allows for removable cleats or studs, or if the studs are permanently fixed to it. Soleplates that allow removable studs can be used with both plastic and metal studs.
#9. Studs
The other important part of the sole is the actual studs. Metal and plastic studs are most commonly used. As discussed above, metal studs will help you dig into the ground and out of it quickly, giving you maximum traction.
Plastic studs, in contrast, let you change direction quickly and are more forgiving on your ankles. Determine the type that you prefer and then make sure the sole you have shortlisted supports it.
#10. Breathable and odor resistance
Breathability and odor resistance are important factors to consider when purchasing a pair of baseball cleats. Breathability essentially allows your feet to be ventilated while wearing the cleats.
Quality ventilation keeps your feet dry and free from odors. The material and design of a pair of cleats often determine how breathable and odor-resistant it is.
In general, genuine leather is more breathable than synthetic leather. This is why mesh is often used in synthetic leather. Breathability is typically ensured through ventilation holes in the upper of the shoe.
These holes let air into the shoes and out of it. In summers, the holes help keep your feet cool and dry. Needless to say, good ventilation and breathability are decisive in determining how comfortable a pair of cleats is, especially during the summer season.
#11. Cushioning
A number of features in baseball cleats determine the degree of cushioning they provide. Typically, cushioning is managed through the insole, midsole and heel sections. Insole is the very surface on which your feet rest inside the cleats.
In some cleats, you can actually remove the insole and replace it with an insole of your choice. Some insoles offer better orthotic support than others, so go with one that is more forgiving for your feet.
Midsoles provide an extra layer of cushioning for your feet. It varies in its thickness and design from one model to another. Ideally, you should seek a balance between cushioning and thickness in the midsoles as midsoles that are too thick may make a model heavier.
Some baseball cleats also come with heel cushioning. This is an extra layer of cushioning that is meant to absorb shock and make it more comfortable for you to run across the field while wearing the cleats.
#12. Colors
Baseball studs are available in a wide range of colors. Most models are typically offered in 5 to 10 colors. This makes it easier for you to find a color of your liking in a model that you have shortlisted.
Choosing the right color is entirely up to your own preferences. However, it is advised that you consider the dress you wear during the game when finalizing the color. You may also consult the team coach for any regulations or requirements that may apply.
Questions and Answers
#1. How many spikes should Baseball Cleats have?
The number of spikes in baseball cleats is not exactly an important factor. Instead, what you should focus on is the type of spikes you should choose – metal or plastic.
In general, the more number of spikes your cleats have, the more firmly your shoes will be able to grip the ground. But the downside to this is that a grip that is too strong will prevent you from making quick sprints or rapidly changing directions while running.
So your cleats should ideally have a number of spikes that will keep you firm and offer good traction while also helping you stay nimble.
#2. Why to break in Baseball Cleats?
It is vitally important to break in your baseball cleats before you use them on the field. Cleats that are not broken in are either too tight and obstruct your running, or too loose in which case rubbing can often cause painful foot blisters.
If you have a new pair of cleats, make sure you break them in before using them in a game or during training. Breaking in cleats is rather easy.
Simply wear extra-thick shoes to stretch them after applying leather protector to them and then soak them in warm water while wearing them. Then take off the shoes and let them dry. When they are about to dry, you should stuff them with newspaper to keep them in shape.
#3. Best ways to keep white Baseball Cleats clean?
To keep your white baseball cleats clean game after game, ensure timely maintenance. Knock cleats together to remove mud and dirt, then use a toothbrush to apply a light soap and a cloth soaked in warm water to clean the soap afterwards. Once serviced, let the cleats air dry and if possible, remove insoles to separately wash them.
#4. Are Soccer and Baseball Cleats the same?
Soccer and baseball cleats are quite similar, although both have some notable differences as well. In general, you can use soccer cleats for baseball, but you can’ use baseball cleats in a soccer game.
Conclusion
Purchasing the right pair of cleats is incredibly important for youth players. The right cleats cling tightly to the feet without being uncomfortable, and help players achieve better traction and acceleration on the field.
However, you need to consider a lot of factors when trying to find the right cleats. As stated in the guide above, these factors include the construction material, the size, cushioning, weight, sole, ankle protection and many others. It may seem overwhelming to consider so many factors when purchasing cleats. But the fact is, the more factors you consider, the more you are likely to purchase a pair of cleats that is a perfect fit for you.
Ultimately, go with a pair of cleats that feels right on your feet. If a pair of cleats feels comfortable without being too loose and lets you run, change direction, rapidly start and stop sprinting, then it is the right choice.
Other Awesome Articles on Our Site: