The function of shoes worn by athletes varies from sport to sport, but fashion is usually the lowest on list of important features. Shoes worn by players of baseball, football, soccer and basketball are all different, and their design directly reflects the type of support and maneuverability required by the sport they are worn for.
Baseball Cleats
Sports that are played on turf or dirt come with small spikes, known as cleats, on the bottoms of the shoes, which allow the player to run around the field with extra traction. Baseball fields are made up of dirt and grass, so the shoes baseball players wear must be able to function in both mediums. The cleats found on the bottom of the shoes can be made out of hard plastic or metal, although metal cleats are illegal in most NCAA and Little League divisions.
Football Cleats
Football cleats, similar to baseball cleats, are designed to give the player enough traction to perform optimally on the field. Football cleats are designed with the player's position in mind, offering vital support and weight to the players that need it the most. Lineman should wear high-top football cleats, as the ankle-high top of the shoe gives extra support on the player's ankles, which can be strained while defending. Mid-cut cleats also offer some ankle support as well as maneuverability and are worn by quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers. Low-cut cleats are the lightest and most maneuverable, and are worn by players looking to make quick plays on the field.
Soccer Cleats
Soccer is played primarily with the player's feet, so the footwear of the soccer player is extremely important. Soccer cleats are typically very light and come in a variety of different makes and models, depending on the type of game being played. Soccer cleats come in molded and detachable varieties, with the molded kind acting as an all-around plastic cleat providing traction in most field conditions. The detachable cleats can be screwed in and out, and come in different lengths with metal tips to match the conditions of the field.
Basketball Shoes
Basketball, unlike baseball, football and soccer, is played inside on a hardwood court so traction isn't as big of a concern. The shoes come in different thicknesses with sole support as a main concern in design. Power players who focus on defense and rebounds are going to want a basketball shoe with maximum cushion and ankle support; resulting in a heavier shoe. Players who play defensively and offensively are going to want a shoe with medium support and cushion that is lightweight enough for them to maneuver quickly in. Mainly offensive players will want a lightweight shoe with a low-cut to give them maximum maneuverability and jumping ability.
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