Football and baseball are sports that can be played on natural surfaces. Both sports require secure footing for quick movements and change of directions while running. Specialty footwear with cleats--spikes that stick into the ground for traction--is used for football and baseball, but there are distinct features for each sport.
Size and Weight
Today's footwear uses lightweight materials and is designed for speed. Athletes in football and baseball look for lightweight cleats that allow maximum speed. Both cleats are in the same weight range and are sized the same so an athlete can wear the same size in both sets of cleats.
Styles and Types
Most major shoe manufacturers, including Nike and Reebok, produce cleats for football and baseball. Both sets of cleats are available in high-tops, mid-cut and low-cut. High-tops will extend up the leg over the ankle, mid-cuts will extend partially up the ankle and provide lateral support, and low-cuts are the choice for ultra lightweight cleats.
Materials and Construction
The majority of football and baseball cleats are made from leather or synthetic material. Leather provides a durable material that breathes well and forms to the foot. Synthetics are less expensive than leather and are not as breathable as leather.
Purpose
The positioning of the cleats on football and baseball shoes allows the player to change directions quickly. Playing on natural surfaces including dirt and grass requires a great deal of traction. During wet or muddy conditions, the cleats provide the player with the ability to change directions without losing footing or balance.
Cleat Types
Cleat types include molded or detachable cleats. Molded cleats are permanently attached to the sole of the shoe by the manufacturer. Baseball cleats can be attached metal spikes, which are popular in high school, college and professional baseball. Interchangeable or detachable cleats are available for football and baseball shoes and allow versatility to changing rules and regulations or surface conditions.
Length of Cleats
Most baseball cleats have lengths of about 1/2 inch. Football cleats have more variety in the length of cleats. They come in 1/2, 5/8, 3/4 or 1 inch increments for different field conditions.
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