Playing baseball in regular sneakers may have you slipping and sliding through the bases and the outfield if your shoes do not have a good tread. The sharp or knobby studs of baseball cleats provide a better traction for ball players, but the numerous options can be confusing. Start your baseball cleat shopping by educating yourself about your playing surfaces and league rules. From there, use comfort and budget as your guide.
Step 1
Read up on the regulations for your local baseball league before you pick out your cleats. Leagues usually have rules about the type of cleat that is acceptable for different age groups. For example, Little League International allows baseball players in the Junior, Senior and Big League divisions (ages 13 to 18) to wear baseball cleats with metal studs. Younger players must choose molded cleats with polyurethane studs.
Step 2
Ask your baseball coach about the surface on which you will be playing. As a rule, use a shorter stud when playing on hard, packed surfaces; a softer soil playing field may require a longer stud in order to get a better grip while running. Your local retailer can help you determine stud size according to your league's regulations.
Step 3
Wear the socks will you be wearing during your baseball practices and games when you go buy your baseball cleats. Wearing socks of appropriate thickness will ensure you are buying the right size shoe. You might need to measure your foot at the store if you do not know what size cleat you wear.
Step 4
Pick out a baseball cleat made from natural materials like leather to let your feet breathe during wear. Synthetic materials may be less expensive, and could be the right choice for a child whose foot grows quickly from season to season, but they will most likely cause more foot sweating.
Step 5
Choose a cleat that fastens with hook-and-eye loop tape or buckles across the foot for a more secure fit. Baseball cleats should fit comfortably without a lot of extra room for your foot to slide around. As with real leather cleats, this style may be more costly than those that tie only, and may be appropriate for serious ball players whose growth has slowed.
Things You'll Need
- Socks
Member Comments