Baseball and softball are two sports that have similar rules but require different skill sets and motions to compete. Players are aided by using the proper type of cleats to run, cut and change direction on the base paths and in the field. Baseball and softball cleats have similarities and differences that aid in the playing of each sport.
Purpose of Cleats
To understand the differences between baseball and softball cleats, you must first understand the rules of the game and how the nuances of each require drastically different equipment. Baseball players take powerful strides and exert tremendous force when running the bases and fielding the ball. They need a longer, sharper cleat for optimal traction and control. Softball players use rounded cleats since they exert less force and require less dig. They need these cleats for fast speed and quickness.
Baseball Cleats
Baseball cleats are metal and are long spikes that dig into a variety of surfaces -- the clay batter's box and infield, the grass of the infield and outfield and the gravel warning track. The game is played on all these surfaces and in the elements. Rain does not stop a baseball game, only lightning -- therefore, baseball players need longer metal cleats to dig in when running or cutting to prevent injury.
Softball Cleats
Softball cleats are almost always molded plastic cleats, unless players opt for a rubber nub shoe that is effective on Astroturf or FieldTurf. Softball players will never wear metal cleats, and the cleats that softball players do wear are significantly shorter -- anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 inch -- than their baseball playing counterparts. This is because softball players exert less force onto the ground, and generally speaking, look to glide on top of the surface for the best speed.
Progressive Cleats
At all levels of youth ball, baseball and softball cleats will look very similar. That is because metal cleats are not allowed in recreation or competitive little league play. By the time baseball players reach middle school or travel baseball, metal cleats are allowed. They will wear these spikes as they progress to high school ball and into college and the professional ranks. Softball players grow accustomed to the molded plastic and rubber cleats from a young age.
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