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These Are the Best Softball Cleats for 2025

  • Writer: Compression Athlete
    Compression Athlete
  • Mar 23
  • 5 min read

High-performing options for traction, support, and comfort.

Softball player wearing high-quality cleats at bat.

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 softball 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 softball cleats perform it better than others.

 

Here, we’ve put together a list of the best softball cleats for 2025.

 

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.

 

 

Our top picks feature both metal cleats and TPU cleats to match your needs.

 

Opting for a high-quality pair of softball cleats that supports your explosive movements can be that extra inch to get your glove on a ball in the gap or beat out the throw to first.

 

Of all the available cleat 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 softball diamond.

 

Metal cleats are the go-to for professional players, 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.


Visual difference between metal and TPU softball cleats.

So, be sure to always double check your league’s rulebook as certain styles might be prohibited

 

TPU cleats are a popular option that fall somewhere in between metal cleats and molded cleats.

 

Instead of using metal spikes, TPU cleats swap in a hard plastic-like material for the spike pattern.

 

This TPU material is lightweight, impact-resistant, and tends to be a bit comfortable than metal when it comes to extended wear.

 

 

A few additional factors to keep in mind:

 

Like many other athletic shoe and cleat offerings, softball 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.

 

When you go to purchase your softball 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.

 

Aim for that perfect blend of comfort and high performance to bring out your best on the field.


 

 

Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.

 

 

1. Adidas adizero Instinct Softball Cleats

 

The Adidas adizero Instinct feature an ultralight design with Lightstrike midsole cushioning and a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool.


Adidas adizero Instinct softball cleats.

 

Adidas adizero Instinct sport a Geofit padded collar for a plush feel, a Microfit heel and midfoot lockdown system for a precise fit, and a high-traction synthetic outsole cleat design.


 

2. Adidas PUREHUSTLE 3 Softball Cleats


The Adidas PUREHUSTLE 3 feature a soft and responsive Lightstrike midsole for a lightweight speed-optimizing design.


These softball cleats sport the sparkle stripe signature Sis Bates design.


Adidas PUREHUSTLE 3 softball cleats.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas PUREHUSTLE 3

 

Adidas’ PUREHUSTLE 3 sport a breathable mesh tongue and a cleated synthetic outsole with carefully placed metal studs for superior traction on grass and dirt.

 

 

3. Under Armour Glyde 2 Softball Cleats


The Under Armour Glyde 2 combine a Charged Cushioning midsole for explosive speed with a MicroTips cleat plate that provides comfortable and lightweight traction.


These softball cleats sport a plush pocket around the ankle for a soft and supportive fit.


Under Armour Glyde 2 softball cleats.

Shop at Under Armour: UA Glyde 2 (Metal)

Shop at Under Armour: UA Glyde 2 (TPU)


Under Armour’s Glyde 2 utilize 10 strategically placed cleats for improved traction and reduced pressure.


These softball cleats have a PerfX Pro sockliner that molds to your foot for step-in comfort and are available in several color options.

 


4. Nike Hyperdiamond 4 Pro Softball Cleats


The Nike Hyperdiamond 4 Pro feature soft Renew foam cushioning for lasting comfort on the field and 8 abrasion-resistant angular studs set in a flexible plate for optimal traction and stability.


Nike Hyperdiamond 4 Pro softball cleats.

 

Nike’s Hyperdiamond 4 Pro utilize a signature Drag-On material on the forefoot that’s lightweight and tough for added durability.


These softball cleats are available in multiple color options. 



5. New Balance Fresh Foam X Velo v4 Softball Cleats


The New Balance Fresh Foam X Velo v4 feature a signature Fresh Foam X midsole for maximum cushion, comfort, and performance.


New Balance Fresh Foam X Velo v4 softball cleats.

Shop at New Balance: NB Fresh Foam X Velo v4 (Metal)

Shop at New Balance: NB Fresh Foam X Velo v4 (TPU)

 

New Balance’s Fresh Foam X Velo v4 utilize a high traction spike outsole design and a breathable upper mesh layered with a vacuum pressed film for added durability.


These softball cleats are available in several color options.



6. New Balance FuelCell Romero Duo Softball Cleats


The New Balance FuelCell Romero Duo is the signature Romero sisters’ cleat featuring design details in honor of the Romero family.


These softball cleats utilize FuelCell foam for a propulsive feel that drive you forward.  


New Balance FuelCell Romero Duo softball cleats.

Shop at New Balance: NB FuelCell Romero Duo (Metal)

Shop at New Balance: NB FuelCell Romero Duo (TPU)

 

New Balance’s FuelCell Romero Duo sport a 7-spike plate design for superior traction on the field, as well as a synthetic and mesh upper that’s both breathable and durable.

 

 

7. Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 6 Softball Cleats


The Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 6 feature signature 9-Spike technology and a C-Flex Outsole for enhanced traction and flexibility.


These softball cleats utilize a U4icX Strobel Lasting Board for a comfortable underfoot feel.


Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 6 softball cleats.

Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods: Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 6 (Metal)

Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods: Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 6 (TPU)

 

Mizuno’s 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 6 sport Wave technology that provides a stable platform and superior cushioning.


These softball cleats have a 2-layered insole for maximum comfort and are available in several color options.



A great pair of cleats isn’t the only softball essential that you’ll need.

 

Be sure to check out our top picks for the best compression shorts for softball.

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