The Best Baseball Cleats for 2024
High-performing options for traction, support, and comfort.
Whether you’re taking off to steal second, chasing down a ball at the warning track, or turning on that inside pitch, you’re going to need the right footwear to pull off these athletic maneuvers.
Cleats are a perfect match for the game of baseball and the field on which it’s played.
They provide the grip and stability that players need for explosive movements on both infield dirt and outfield grass.
That’s impressive work for a pair of cleats, so it likely comes as no surprise that certain baseball cleats perform it better than others.
Here, we’ve put together a list of the best baseball cleats for 2024.
These metal and TPU cleat options will boost your traction, provide a secure and stable fit, and keep your feet comfortable all the way through extra innings.
Choosing a High-Quality Pair of Baseball Cleats
Baseball is an all-around demanding sport that requires speed, strength, skill, and teamwork—among several other factors.
Whether you’re training, practicing, or competing in-game, you need gear that will not only keep up but actually boost your performance.
This is certainly the case when it comes to choosing baseball cleats.
Opting for a high-quality pair of baseball cleats that supports your explosive movements on the field can mean getting a glove on that ball in the gap or that last step to beat out a throw at first.
Like many other athletic shoe and cleat offerings, baseball cleats feature breathable materials, responsive cushioning, and come in both low and mid heights.
Low-tops cleats will prioritize speed and agility, while mid-tops provide a bit more stability and ankle support.
If we move to the bottom of the cleat, you’ll find four main types: metal, molded, TPU, and turf.
Of all your options, metal cleats offer the best traction and grip thanks to their thin metal spike design that easily penetrates both the grass and dirt of a baseball diamond.
Metal cleats are the go-to for professional players in the MLB, as well as other ballplayers in competitive leagues.
But keep in mind that metal cleats are typically reserved for higher levels of play, usually from about the high school level and up.
So, always be sure to check your league’s rulebook (or with your coach) before choosing your cleats, as certain styles might be prohibited.
Molded cleats are a very common style that are worn by players at all levels of play.
They offer players a comfortable and durable fit with a built-in rubber stud construction.
TPU cleats are a popular option that falls somewhere in between molded cleats and metal cleats.
Instead of using rubber or metal, TPU cleats feature a hard plastic-like material for the spike pattern, which is lightweight, impact-resistant, and comfortable.
Finally, you also have turf cleats, which have a comfortable build that’s similar to a training shoe but with additional grip for playing on an artificial surface.
When you go to purchase your baseball cleats this season, take a second to think of all the action you’re going to put your feet through and everything you’ll be counting on them to do.
You’re definitely going to want to opt for a high-quality pair with great traction that are supportive and comfortable.
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. Nike Alpha Huarache Elite 4 Baseball Cleats
The Nike Alpha Huarache Elite 4 feature React foam cushioning in the midsole for a lightweight and durable foam that delivers a smooth and responsive ride. These baseball cleats sport a 2-piece plate with metal studs for superior traction and flexibility.
Shop at Nike: Nike Alpha Huarache Elite 4 (Mid)
Shop at Nike: Nike Alpha Huarache Elite 4 (Low)
Nike’s Alpha Huarache Elite 4 utilize an anatomical strap that wraps around the midfoot for a secure fit and comfortable internal webbing for lightweight support and containment. These baseball cleats are available in both mid and low-top designs.
2. Nike Force Zoom Trout 9 Baseball Cleats
The Nike Force Zoom Trout 9 feature a new low-top design that’s lighter, stronger, and more comfortable than previous iterations. These baseball cleats sport double-stacked Zoom Air in the forefoot to add springiness to your quick movements.
Shop at Nike: Nike Force Zoom Trout 9 (Elite)
Shop at Nike: Nike Force Zoom Trout 9 (Pro)
Nike’s Force Zoom Trout 9 utilize a strong plastic wing in the eyelet for lightweight support and internal flywire cables for a secure fit. These baseball cleats have a stretchy inner sleeve for comfort and an overlay at the toe for durability.
3. Under Armour Harper 8 Baseball Cleats
The Under Armour Harper 8 feature HOVR cushioning for maximum energy return, incredible comfort, and a stable base. These baseball cleats sport a 3-3-4 lightweight hybrid cleat plate with molded TPU back cleats and front Microtips metal cleats for speed and traction.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Harper 8
Under Armour’s Harper 8 utilize an ultra-comfortable tongue and mesh bootie construction for easy on/offs and an EVA cushioned heel for improved internal fit. These baseball cleats have a durable woven upper and a molded Ortholite sockliner.
4. Under Armour Yard Low Baseball Cleats
The Under Armour Yard Low combine a Charged Cushioning midsole for a comfortable sneaker-like fit with MicroTips technology underfoot for incredibly lightweight traction.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Yard Low
Shop at Under Armour: UA Yard Low (TPU)
Under Armour’s Yard Low sport an updated plush heel and a TPU cage for added stability during lateral movements. These baseball cleats have toe-drag protection and a molded Ortholite sockliner for long-lasting comfort and improved traction.
5. Adidas Adizero Afterburner 9 Baseball Cleats
The Adidas Adizero Afterburner 9 feature an extra lightweight design with a soft and breathable LIGHTLOCK upper and Sprintskin synthetic overlays for superior foot stability. These baseball cleats sport a Lightstrike cushioned midsole that’s incredibly responsive.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Adizero Afterburner 9
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Adizero Afterburner 9 (Team)
Adidas’ Adizero Afterburner 9 utilize a widened lacing system, a comfortable sock-like fit, and a cleated synthetic outsole combined with metal studs for unparalleled traction. These baseball cleats are available in several designs and classic team colors.
6. Adidas Ultraboost 23 Baseball Cleats
The Adidas Ultraboost 23 feature a responsive full-length BOOST midsole for comfortable and energized strides.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Ultraboost 23
Adidas’ Ultraboost 23 sport a durable construction and a cleated rubber outsole for superior traction when pivoting and sprinting. These baseball cleats are available in both a silver and black design.
7. New Balance FuelCell 4040 v7 Baseball Cleats
The New Balance FuelCell 4040 v7 feature a nitrogen-infused FuelCell foam midsole for high rebound and a propulsive feel. These baseball cleats pair an engineered air mesh upper with an ultra-thin microfilm for a supportive and streamlined aesthetic.
Shop at New Balance: NB FuelCell 4040 v7
Shop at New Balance: NB FuelCell 4040 v7 (TPU)
New Balance FuelCell 4040 v7 utilize a high traction 7-spike plate design with secondary TPU spikes and softer plastic in the forefoot for improved flexibility. These baseball cleats have a molded PU insert for incredible comfort and a consistent fit.
8. New Balance Fresh Foam X 3000 v6 Baseball Cleats
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 3000 v6 pair an innovative PU-coated mesh upper that’s soft and durable with a plush Fresh Foam X midsole for a cushioned feel that’s incredibly comfortable.
Shop at New Balance: NB Fresh Foam X 3000 v6
Shop at New Balance: NB Fresh Foam X 3000 v6 (Molded)
New Balance Fresh Foam X 3000 v6 utilize an 8-spike design with an added flex zone for superior traction on both dirt and grass. These baseball cleats have a TPU heel clip and are available in several classic colors.
9. Mizuno Ambition 3 Baseball Cleats
The Mizuno Ambition 3 feature signature 9-Spike technology for optimal traction and a 3-zone outsole for power and propulsion. These baseball cleats utilize a full-length EVA midsole for comfortable heel-to-toe cushioning.
Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods: Mizuno Ambition 3
Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods: Mizuno Ambition 3 (TPU)
Mizuno’s Ambition 3 sport Wave technology that provides hitting and throwing stability while also relieving ankle shock and foot pressure. These baseball cleats have a 2-layered insole for maximum comfort and are available in several classic colors.
A great pair of cleats isn’t the only baseball essential that you’ll need.
Be sure to check out our top picks for the best compression shorts for baseball.
And with all the wear and tear that baseball players put on their muscles over the course of a season, recovery is a huge part of performing your best.
Check out our top picks for the best muscle recovery tools.
