Baseball cleats provide traction for starting, stopping, changing directions and acceleration. This would be difficult without cleats and nearly impossible if you're playing on a dirt infield. Attempt to to come to a quick stop, set yourself and throw while wearing gym shoes, and you'll probably slip and slide and air mail the throw 20 feet over the first baseman's head. Baseball cleats give players the confidence that they can make the plays and navigate around the bases and in the field. They are necessary at almost all levels of the game.
What to Look for
Cleats must fit comfortably, but somewhat snugly. Wearing baseball shoes that are too loose will cause blisters and other foot problems. Your shoes should not be too tight, but a half-size too small is better than a half-size too large. The spikes on the bottom of each shoe can be made of metal or rubber. Both grip the dirt well, but players 12 or under are usually barred form wearing metal spikes because of the injury risk. Players at the high school level and higher may prefer metal cleats because these offer more security when a player stops and pushes off to make a throw. Rubber cleats are used for play on artificial turf. Metal spikes will tear up an artificial turf field, so they are banned for use on these surfaces.
Common Pitfalls
Metal spikes can be source of numerous cuts and injuries. A player sliding into any base can injure an opponent who is trying to tag him. Sliding in "spikes high" has long been a part of the game's lore, but it is a dangerous and reckless practice. Baseball cleats have traditionally had a rectangular design on the sole of each shoe. However, many of the movements in the game require spinning. The batter pivots his back foot while following through on a swing. The second baseman spins while making the throw to first on a double play. The rectangular design may hinder these motions. Look for baseball shoes with circular spike patterns that facilitate pivots.
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