Softball is a fast-paced and energetic game that requires quick actions and movements. It is a team sport that is played with a round ball and a bat, and the objective is to score runs by hitting the ball and running around the bases.
As a softball pitcher, you need the right equipment to perform at your best on the field. Cleats are one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll use, but they often get overlooked. A good pair of cleats can provide stability, comfort, and traction on grass and dirt surfaces.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 10 best softball cleats for pitchers. We’ll look at key features such as support, fit, and durability to help you find the perfect pair for your game.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
What are the Right Cleats for Softball Pitchers?
To boost performance, the right pair of cleats is necessary. The right pair of cleats can help you move around the field more efficiently.
Don’t know which type of cleats you should buy? Well. Before buying a pair of cleats, it’s important to know the types.
It helps to make the buying decision more efficiently. Let’s have a look:
| Product Name | Material | Number of Spikes | Weight (oz.) |
| Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike | 100% Synthetic | 9 | 10.1 |
| Under Armour Women’s Glyde | 100% Synthetic | 11 | 37.6 |
| New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam | 100% Synthetic | 11 | 10 |
| Ringor – Women’s Dynasty | 100% Synthetic | 7 | 50.4 |
| Nike Hyperdiamond Cleats | 100% Synthetic | 11 | 55.4 |
| Under Armour St Softball Shoe | Synthetic and Textile | 9 | 13 |
| New Balance Women’s Fuse Cleats | 100% Synthetic | 9 | 10.2 |
| Ringor – American Spirit | 100% Synthetic | 7 | 10 |
| Mizuno Women’s Swift | 100% Synthetic | 9 | 9.8 |
| New Balance SPVELOK2 Cleat | 100% Synthetic | 11 | 8.4 |
#1 Metal Cleats
Metal cleats are typically recommended when playing on natural grass fields. I mean wet or muddy fields. In this type of field, metal softball cleats will provide great traction than any other type of molded cleats or turf cleats. Wearing metal cleats helps pitchers to maintain their footing and deliver powerful pitches.
#2 Molded Cleats
It is perfect on artificial turf or hard-packed surfaces. Molded Cleats contain a plastic or rubber sole. It provides a non-slip surface that grips the ground effectively. They are also lighter in weight than metal cleats. Thus, it can help the pitcher to move more efficiently on the field.
#3 Training or Turf Cleats
Usually, turf cleats are useful for an athlete during practice on artificial turf playing surfaces. These cleats have smaller & shorter studs or blades that provide better traction. It allows pitchers to plant their feet more firmly and generate more power when throwing.
Do Pitchers Wear Different Cleats?
Different pitchers wear different cleats. Baseball pitchers and softball pitchers do not use the same type of cleats.
Baseball pitchers need different cleats than softball pitchers. Every sport has its own rules and regulations when it comes to footwear.
So, what type of cleats do baseball pitchers wear? Generally, they wear cleats with metal spikes. But why?
The reason is
- They need better traction on the dirt and grass of the pitcher’s mound.
- Metal spikes are better for gripping than rubber cleats are.
On the other hand, softball pitchers wear different types of cleats based on climatic conditions. You almost know about the condition, right?
Cool. So, every pitcher should know the suitable cleats for their sport.
Can’t decide which pitcher cleats are right for you? Then read on. I’ve added a complete list for you.
10 Best Fastpitch Softball Cleats
I have found 10 cleats after nearly 5 hours of research that are perfect for softball. Each cleat has good traction ability, flexibility, and stability.
These reviews will be helpful for you to select the product according to your budget and preference.
#1 Best Synthetic Cleat: Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike
You have almost known about the turf cleat from the previous section. Right?
Usually, synthetic cleats are known as turf shoes. It’s beneficial for the athlete. If you are looking for a synthetic cleat, Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike is your best choice. This shoe is designed specifically for women.
It’s lightweight and durable. For women, a lightweight cleat is helpful to increase performance in the field.
You can use it on soft ground without worrying about wear and tear.
Technical Details:
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber sole
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Weight: 10.1 oz
Now, let’s see several key features which make it different than others:
- 100% Synthetic Materials: It is made of 100% synthetic materials. In softball, synthetic cleats can be useful for players. Especially those who play in indoor facilities or on fields with artificial turf. It can help to prevent slips and falls.
- Lace-Up closure type: Lace-up closure type authorizes getting a secure and customizable fit for a pitcher. When the player laces up the cleat, they can adjust the tension on the laces to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
- Full-length midsole: The 1st priority should be “comfort” after wearing the cleat. Due to its full-length midsole, the cleat can offer you a comfortable feel. The midsole is located between the upper and outsole.
- Toe protector: This shoe includes a toe protector. A toe protector can be a barrier between the player’s toes and the ground. It helps you to prevent scrapes and bruises.
Final Verdict
Overall, Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike is the best women’s softball cleat for a 100% synthetic & well-toe protector cleat. Why are you waiting?
#2 Best aggressive traction cleat: Under Armour Women’s Glyde
Are you searching for a cleat that can adapt to different soil conditions? Well. The Under Armour cleat is perfect for any soil condition. No matter what the soil condition is, Under Armour cleats will adapt to it.
What’s the specialty behind this? The specialty behind this is that the cleats have an aggressive traction pattern. Its aggressive traction provides you with a stronger grip on the ground. This will ensure that you have an easy time playing soccer.
Technical Details:
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Shaft Height: Mid-top
- EVA midsole type: Full-length.
Now, let’s see its other advantage:
- Full-length EVA midsole: EVA midsole helps to absorb shock and reduce stress on the foot during intense gameplay. Thus, you can be assured that you will easily play softball.
- Padded ankle collar: It decreases the pain and discomfort caused by pressure on the nerves in your feet. During gameplay, the padded ankle collar permits you to have better ankle support by providing the best fit.
- Rubber molded cleats: This feature provides superior traction and more grip on various field surfaces. It is helpful to the player to make quick cuts and changes in direction with ease and stability.
Final Verdict
This “Elite class” shoe provides the traction needed to perform like a pro on the court. Don’t miss out on its grip advantage.
#3 Best elegant design cleat: New Balance Women’s Cleats
Do you want to give a pair of shoes to your girlfriend or wife? Every girl loves a unique and elegant designed cleat. I highly recommend this New Balance masterpiece cleat.
For the softball pitcher, it will provide comfort and stability during the game. Your girlfriend, sister, or wife will feel comfortable and secure while wearing the awesome softball cleats.
Technical Details:
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Weight: 10 Ounces
Now, Let’s discuss its additional key features:
- Unique color: You will get three different colors. Orange & white combination, red & white combination, and last an entirely black and white combination. This one is ideal for you to get great attention in the field.
- 100% Synthetic: Due to its synthetic upper, you can expect it to be lightweight and breathable. In the field, you can run faster with this lighter synthetic cleat.
- Full-length midsole: This feature helps you to prevent injuries. Such as stress fractures or shin splints. The full-length midsole can also help improve the player’s overall stability and balance.
- Durable spike: Its spike provides you balance traction, and grip on the field. This can help to prevent slipping and improve the player’s overall stability. Overall, it improves your speed and agility on the field, leading to better performance.
Final Verdict
A pair of well-balanced cleats are required to show great performance in the field. This is ideal for you if you are looking for a uniquely designed and balanced cleat.
#4 Best ultimate support Cleat: Ringor Women’s Dynasty
A supportive cleat can change your root performance. To be the next champion, you must have the right weapon. Yes, I’m talking about our other favorite cleat, Ringor Women’s Dynasty cleat.
Is it perfect for softball? Obviously. This pair of cleats is well known for its durability and supporting features.
Technical details:
- Sole Material: Leather & Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Weight: 3.15 Pounds
- Dimension: 9 x 13 x 4.5 inches
Now, let’s see why it will be perfect for your next match:
- Natural leather: To feel the comforts of your feet, you need a pair of cleats that can provide natural flexibility. This leather can help you to keep your feet dry during wet games.
- Supportive: This can provide additional arch and ankle support. Thus, it helps distribute the body’s weight evenly across the foot. Besides, it also provides additional heel and great ankle support. This can help keep the foot stable during movement.
- Machine washable: Cleaning is one of the worst things for every pitcher. To reduce the time, you can wash this pair of cleats in the machine.
Final Verdict
This is one of the best pairs of cleats for your next match. Natural leather ensures flexibility during games. Also, it supports your feet to give you ultimate comfort.
#5 Best durable cleat: Nike Hyperdiamond Cleats
A durable cleat makes your game more smooth & perfect. If you have a durable cleat, it will be very helpful in your game.
So, how durable can a cleat help in your softball game? You can play for a long time without worrying about the cleats getting worn out or torn apart. You’ll be able to have better performance on the field.
Technical Details:
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Color: Black & White
Now, let’s see its other benefits that will help you to make purchasing decisions fast:
- Durable Spike: Strong spike increases your performance on the field. With these kinds of cleats, you can play for hours without getting tired or feeling pain in your legs. You’ll be able to have better performance than ever before.
- Comfortness: Your feet will know the difference when you wear this kind of cleat. Athletes can get a good advantage with this pair of cleats. It has soft padding inside. Thus, it makes it comfortable to wear.
- Lightweight: It doesn’t matter what position you play in softball. Its lightweight design will be helpful for all players.
Final Verdict
This is the one for you if you are looking for the most durable softball cleats. The lightweight design lets you play for a long time without discomfort.
#6 Abrasion-resistant cleat: Under Armour St Softball Shoe
Abrasion-resistant cleats are designed to protect your ankles from catching on the turf and getting injured. To avoid unexpectedly slipping, an Under Armour cleat is useful.
It is perfect for pitchers who need a shoe that can withstand harsh conditions. Its solid traction is beneficial for you to step onto the pitcher’s mound.
Technical Details:
- Fabric Type: Synthetic and Textile
- Sole Material: Synthetic
- Shaft Height: Mid-top
- Weight: 13 Ounces
Well. Now, it’s time to know about other benefits. Let’s have a look:
- Mid-top Shaft Height: The mid-top shaft height is an essential feature of a pitcher’s cleat. It helps to keep your feet protected from injuries that arise due to repeated sliding and stepping onto the turf.
- Well ankle protection: The ankle protection ensures that your ankles are not affected by the impact of pitching. In addition, you will feel like you are walking on a cloud due to the comfortable foam air cushioning.
- Well traction: Solid traction is beneficial for you to step onto the pitcher’s mound. For a softball game, traction is important.
- Better cushioning: Extra Cushioning is a key feature of any softball shoe. It provides comfort and protection during pitching, running, and sliding.
Final Verdict
You should try this cleat at least once. After a couple of months, you can understand how much improvement you have achieved.
#7 Best Revlite midsole includes cleat: New Balance Women’s Fuse Cleats
This shoe features a Revlite midsole with REVlite technology. It provides lightweight cushioning while still providing ankle support and rebound.
The cleats are designed specifically for softball players. It means they are comfortable to wear while also giving you traction on the field.
Technical Details:
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Weight: 10.2 Ounces
Check out its key feature to make the buying decision more effectively:
- Durable construction: These cleats are built to withstand the rigors of intense play. This piece will last for many years to come.
- Lightweight design: With a lightweight design, these cleats make it easy for you to move around the field quickly and easily. So, you can do better than before.
- Responsive cushioning: The shoe provides responsive cushioning. It supports your feet and helps you feel comfortable even when playing for hours on end.
- Lace closure: The lace closure ensures the shoe is secure and provides a snug. It will be a personalized fit that keeps you comfortable and stable.
Final Verdict
Step up your game with this top-performing cleat. Made from 100% Synthetic, it provides the flexibility and comfort you need to outshine the competition
#8 Best Unique cleat: Ringor American Spirit cleat
A softball pitcher should choose a unique pair of cleats. For getting a huge attraction on the field, it is an ideal choice. Ringor American Spirit cleat is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their performance on the field.
Technical Details:
- Sole Material: Rubber sole
- Outer Material: AeroLite
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Weight: 2.43 Pounds
Let’s know its benefits now:
- Secure: It provides a secure and tighter fit for the player. Ringor ensures that the shoe stays in place during gameplay. This helps to prevent injuries and allows for better performance on the field.
- Ultimate Support: This cleat is designed to provide extra support for the player’s foot. In addition, it improves overall performance. The shoe’s support system keeps the foot stable and in a natural position.
- Well-designed: The Ringor cleat is a well-designed softball cleat. It is focusing on functionality and durability. The shoe’s design allows for better movement and performance on the field.
- PRO-TEC TOES: The cleat features PRO-TEC TOES. It is a protective technology that helps to protect the toes from impact and unexpected injury.
Final verdict
For serious softball players, this cleat is a must-have. Don’t wait, elevate your performance on the field today.
#9 Best Low-top Cleat: Mizuno Women’s Swift Cleats
Mizuno Women’s Swift Cleat is a popular choice among athletes due to its lightweight design and flexibility. They provide a snug fit around the ankle.
It allows for quick and agile movements on the field. They are ideal for sports that require speed and maneuverability. Such as soccer, softball, and baseball as well. So, you can use it for multi-purposes.
Technical details:
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Man Made
- Shaft Height: Low-top
Now, let’s discuss its other key features:
- Reinforced toe: It offers additional protection to the shoe. You will get to withstand the rigors of intense sports activities. Enhances the overall durability of the shoe and most importantly ensures longevity.
- Stability: It provides exceptional traction and balance. Thus, you are able to make quick and agile movements on the field.
- Low-top design: Allows for a snug and comfortable fit around the ankle. Due to its low-top design, you will get the optimal speed and maneuverability on the field.
Final verdict
It’s high time to focus on your gameplay today. Buy this unique pair of cleats and boost your performance today.
#10 Best TPU-molded Cleat: New Balance SPVELOK2 Cleat
The last and final item on our list is New Balance SPVELOK2 Cleat. If you are looking for a rugged and reliable cleat, then this is it. The shoe features a TPU-molded soleplate that gives you the best comfort and flexibility while playing on the field.
Technical details:
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Care Instructions: Machine Wash
- Sole Material: Synthetic
- Weight: 8.4 Ounces
Look at its other advantages that will help you to make purchasing decisions quickly:
- Molded TPU heel: The shoe features a molded TPU heel construction. It provides the best comfort and flexibility while playing on the field. Its lightweight design lets you easily play without feeling too much stress or tiring out.
- Comfort Collar: The shoe features a comfortable padded collar to ensure comfort while playing. It helps you to reduce the pressure on the player’s feet. In addition, it ensures that you have an enjoyable time while playing softball.
- Fresh FOAM midsole: To boost your confidence level while playing, you should consider buying a shoe that has a fresh FOAM midsole. It also helps to reduce the stress on your feet and ankles.
Final Verdict
Invest in your performance by choosing a high-quality cleat. Say goodbye to flimsy and ineffective options, and experience the difference with this top-performing choice.
Buying Guide – What to Consider when choosing the Best Cleats for Softball Pitching?
Don’t have any previous experience? Well. As a beginner, you must consider several points. Otherwise, there is a possibility of getting the wrong item.
Let’s have a look:
Is there any spike?
Spike is an essential element for a softball cleat. You must have to check the cleat to see if it has a spike or not. You can’t play the game with this item if there is no spike.
Is there any stud?
There are two types of studs: rubber and metal. Metal studs are better than rubber ones because they provide more flexibility and traction during pitching. For softball, you can use both metal and rubber. I recommend rubber.
What about the weight?
To run faster, you need to choose a low-weight cleat. If it is heavy, then you can’t show a great performance. Try to choose such a cleat whose weight is very light.
Is it comfortable or not?
It’s really important to choose a comfortable cleat. If you have a bad pair of shoes, then you will feel uncomfortable and can’t play well.
FAQs
How to clean softball cleats?
To clean the cleats, I recommend using an old toothbrush to scrub them clean. But, first of all, you need to clap the cleats in a towel to remove any loose dirt. Then, you can start scrubbing the dirt off. Next, you can use soapy water. It is a good cleaning agent for this purpose.
Are metal cleats good for softball pitchers?
The answer is “Yes”. For softball pitchers, buying metal cleats are great. They offer a lot of ankle support and stability to the foot. The only problem is that metal cleats can be slippery on hard surfaces, like concrete or asphalt.
During the game, they can also cause damage to the field. So if you’re going to use metal cleats, make sure that your field is well-maintained.
Can I use football cleats for softball?
It’s highly not recommended. Due to the difference in weight and design, football cleats are not ideal for softball. They have a bigger heel and toe area.
This makes them heavier than other softball cleats. This can cause you to be less mobile on the field. You must be mindful of the rules on wearing cleats in softball.
Final Words
A wrong item can ruin your game and life as well. It can happen with any type of foot injury. Don’t purchase cheap quality shoes because of their low price.
Finally, I want to recommend you choose such cleats which have all the quality that is required for softball gameplay.
At the last stage of the content, I want to recommend our favorite Mizuno Women’s 9-Spike cleat.
Why best?
- Customizable fit for a pitcher.
- Due to its full-length midsole.
- Includes a toe protector.
Not met with your requirement? Well, then try other items.
