Baseball cleats are an important part of the game. One of baseball greatest players, Shoeless Joe Jackson wouldn’t have been called Shoeless Joe if he would have found his perfect pair of cleats.
How he got his nickname:
According to Jackson, he got his nickname during a mill game played in Anderson, SC. Jackson suffered from blisters on his foot from a new pair of cleats, and they hurt so much that he had to take his shoes off before an at bat. As play continued, a heckling fan noticed Jackson running to third base in his socks, and shouted “You shoeless son of a gun, you!”, and the resulting nickname “Shoeless Joe” stuck with him throughout the remainder of his life.
Why are cleats important?
They are important because they give you traction on grass or dirt. Without good traction your performance suffers. Better cleats can support a better performance.
What cleats are right for you?
Before buying a pair of cleats you need to make sure what type of cleats your league will allow. You also need to know how much you can afford. With this information and the information below you will be able to find your perfect cleat.
What are the types of cleats?
There are type three different types of cleats available. Plastic spikes, metal spikes and interchangeable spiked cleats.
Plastic Spikes
- The most common cleat design.
- Feature non-removable rubber or hard plastic cleats on the bottom of the shoe.
- Simple construction makes them stable and strong.
- Can be worn on and off the field.
- Perfect for beginning and intermediate players and youth leagues.
- Approved for play by most major baseball and softball organizations.
- Required by most youth programs for safety.
Metal Spikes
- Metal cleats have a permanent metal spike configuration.
- Usually not allowed in most youth and amateur softball organizations.
- Typically more expensive, and offer better overall construction than many molded cleats.
- Used at high school, college, and pro levels.
Interchangeable Spikes
- Interchangeable cleats have studs on the bottom that can be screwed on and off and replaced easily.
- Allows you to replace worn cleats instead of buying new shoes.
- Two for the price of one. Wear the plastic cleats for Little League and the metal cleats for other terrains or types of games.
- Cleats can be made of metal, PVC or rubber.
What are the different style of cleats?
Style is based on the top of the shoe. You have high tops for more ankle support. You have mid tops for less ankle support and last you have low tops for no ankle support.
What should I look for in the technology of the Cleat?
The new technology of cleats today is all about support and cushion. Every shoe company is trying to give you ultimate stability with the ultimate in cushion. I recommend that you find a shoe that has these components and is very durable. Baseball cleats should last a few years or more. There are shoe companies designing shoes now with durability components. Look for these type of shoes if the price is right.
How do I find that perfect shoe?
There isn’t a simple answer. There is no ten step system to this question either. The problem is there is a wide variety of pricing on baseball cleats and just because you bought the most expensive kind doesn’t mean you got the best shoe. I still believe that even with the technology of the day, you will never find your perfect shoe until you try them all on. No marketing pitch can beat the feeling of the shoe on your feet. So do your homework and chose about 5 or 6 different shoes and try each one on. I promise you this will help you find your perfect shoe.