Cleats are not just shoes; they're your foundation for every cut, sprint, and pivot. With the new season approaching, I've reviewed the market to bring you the best performance and value in the best women's lacrosse cleats for all skill levels.
After hours of research and testing, I've narrowed down the top contenders.
Best Women’s Lacrosse Cleats Recommendations
Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax SE Grey Lacrosse Cleats
When you first lace up the Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax SE, you'll know you're in for a treat. These cleats are the latest iteration of Nike's popular Huarache line, and they don't disappoint.
Key Features
- Sleek grey colorway for a modern look
- Enhanced traction pattern for quick cuts and acceleration
- Improved ankle support with a mid-cut design
- Lightweight and breathable upper material
What will impress you most about these cleats is the balance between comfort and performance. The mid-cut design provides just enough ankle support without feeling restrictive, allowing for natural movement during play.
The traction pattern on the sole is a game-changer – you'll feel confident making sharp cuts and quick direction changes, even on slightly damp fields.
The grey colorway is a nice touch, giving these cleats a sophisticated look that stands out without being too flashy. But it's not all about looks – the breathable upper will keep your feet cool during intense scrimmages, and the lightweight design means you won't feel weighed down, even in the fourth quarter.
One minor drawback is that they might take a game or two to fully break-in, but once they do, they'll mold to your foot perfectly. Overall, the Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax SE is a top-tier choice for players who want a blend of style, comfort, and high-performance features.
New Balance Freeze V4 Grey Lacrosse Cleats
New Balance has been making waves in the lacrosse world, and the Freeze V4 is a prime example of why. As soon as you step onto the field with these, you'll understand the hype.
Key Features
- Low-cut design for maximum agility
- QUIX outsole technology for superior traction
- Lightweight construction for speed and endurance
- Sleek grey colorway with subtle accents
The first thing that will strike you about the Freeze V4 is how light they feel. It's like wearing a second skin on your feet, which is perfect for those quick sprints and dodges.
The low-cut design might worry some players about ankle support, but you'll find it allows for a greater range of motion, especially useful for midfielders who need to change direction rapidly.
New Balance's QUIX outsole technology is the real MVP here. The cleat pattern provides exceptional grip on both natural grass and turf fields. You'll feel like you can plant your foot with confidence, knowing you won't slip during crucial moments.
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite White/Grey Lacrosse Cleats
While testing out the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite, you'll feel like you're wearing a piece of lacrosse history – with a modern twist, of course. These cleats have been a staple in the sport, and this latest iteration shows why they continue to be a top choice for players at all levels.
Key Features
- The sleek white and grey colorway for a classic look
- React foam midsole for responsive cushioning
- Integrated tongue for a secure, sock-like fit
- Molded TPU plate for optimal traction
The moment you slip these on, you'll notice the snug, secure fit. The integrated tongue wraps around your foot like a second skin, eliminating any slippage inside the shoe. This feature alone will make you feel more confident in your cuts and pivots.
What sets the Alpha Huarache 8 Elite apart is the React foam midsole. During long practices and intense games, you'll feel like your feet are being cradled with every step. The responsive cushioning helps reduce fatigue, allowing you to maintain your performance even in the final minutes of play.
The white and grey colorway gives these cleats a timeless look that will never go out of style. But don't let the classic appearance fool you – the performance is cutting-edge. The molded TPU plate provides excellent traction on various field conditions, from dry turf to slightly muddy grass.
One minor drawback is that the white color can show dirt easily, so be prepared for some post-game cleaning. However, the durability of these cleats means they can handle countless washes without losing their shape or performance.
Read More: Best Women’s Lacrosse Turf Shoes
New Balance Burn X3 White Lacrosse Cleats
When New Balance introduced the Burn X3, they aimed to create a cleat that could keep up with the fastest players on the field. After putting these through their paces, you can confidently say they've succeeded.
Key Features:
- Ultra-lightweight design for maximum speed
- Data-driven cleat placement for optimal traction
- Bootie construction for a snug, comfortable fit
- Clean white colorway with subtle branding
The first thing you'll notice about the Burn X3 is how incredibly light they are. Picking them up, you might worry about durability. On the field, the lightweight design translates to quick feet and less fatigue, especially beneficial for offensive players who are constantly on the move.
What will impress you most is the cleat configuration. New Balance used data from actual player movements to determine the optimal placement of each stud. The result? You'll feel like you have superior traction exactly where you need it.
The construction hugs your foot, providing a secure fit without any pinching or rubbing. This design eliminates any break-in period for you – they feel game-ready right out of the box.
The clean white colorway gives these cleats a professional look, though, like the Huarache 8, they'll require some maintenance to keep them looking pristine. However, the performance benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
One thing to note is that the snug fit might not be ideal for players with wider feet. If you fall into this category, consider trying a half-size up for the best comfort.
Both the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite and the New Balance Burn X3 offer top-tier performance with slightly different focuses.
The Huarache provides exceptional comfort for all-game wear, while the Burn X3 caters to players who prioritize speed and agility. Your choice between these two might come down to your specific playing style and position on the field.
Read More: Women’s UA Glory 2 MC Cleats
People Also Ask
What Are the Best Cleats for Women's Lacrosse?
Based on my testing and research, the top cleats for women's lacrosse include the Nike Huarache 9 Varsity Lax SE, New Balance Freeze V4, Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite, and New Balance Burn X3. Each offers unique features to suit different playing styles and preferences.
How Often Should I Replace My Lacrosse Cleats?
I recommend replacing your lacrosse cleats every 1-2 seasons, depending on usage. Look for signs of wear like decreased traction, worn-out studs, or damage to the upper. Regular players might need to replace cleats more frequently to maintain optimal performance.
Are Low-Cut or Mid-Cut Cleats Better for Lacrosse?
The choice between low-cut and mid-cut cleats depends on personal preference and playing style. Low-cut cleats offer more ankle mobility and are lighter, while mid-cut cleats provide more ankle support. I suggest trying both to see which feels more comfortable for you.
Can I Use Soccer Cleats for Lacrosse?
While you can use soccer cleats for lacrosse, I don't recommend it. Lacrosse-specific cleats are designed with the sport's unique movements in mind, offering better traction and support for quick cuts and direction changes typical in lacrosse.
Whichever pair you choose, make sure to break them in properly before a big game. A few practices in your new cleats can make a world of difference in comfort and performance when it counts.
Investing in a quality pair of the best women’s lacrosse cleats is investing in your game. The right footwear will give you the confidence to make those game-changing plays, knowing you have the traction and support you need.