Best Women's Lacrosse Cleats Reviewed
8 women's and girls' lacrosse cleats in low, mid and high cuts, rated on traction, fit, support and break-in, plus a buying guide and the cleats you can order today at BattleLax.
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Like every field sport, lacrosse starts from the ground up, and your cleats are a huge part of it.
Good cleats give you traction to change direction, leverage to explode out of a cut and stability to plant hard, even when the field is a mess.
With a new season right around the corner, we scoured the market for the best performance and value in women's lacrosse cleats for every age and skill level. After hours of research and testing, here are the best women's and girls' cleats out there. Scroll through them all or jump straight to a review below.
Coach's note: I've watched it at every level, from girls' clinics in Virginia Beach to high school turf in upstate New York to wet spring fields in Ontario. The player who can plant and go without slipping wins the draw, the ground ball and the race to the cage. Get a cleat that fits and grips, then go get after it.
Heads up: BattleLax carries New Balance FreezeLX cleats in low, mid and youth versions, plus a turf shoe. For the other cleats here, I point you to the closest pair they stock, and you'll find the full list below.
Our top picks
- Best overall: Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite
- Best low cut: New Balance FreezeLX V4 Low
- Best mid cut: New Balance FreezeLX V4 Mid
- Best high top: Under Armour Highlight MC
- Best for kids: New Balance Kids' FreezeLX V4
Overview of the best women's lacrosse cleats
| # | Cleat | Cut | Drip | BattleLax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite | Low (Pro) or mid/high (Elite) | 5/5 | Alt |
| 02 | New Balance FreezeLX V4 Low | Low | 5/5 | Buy |
| 03 | New Balance FreezeLX V4 Mid | Mid | 5/5 | Alt |
| 04 | Under Armour Women's Glory MC | Low | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 05 | Adidas Adizero Natural 1.0 Mid | Mid/high | 4.6/5 | Alt |
| 06 | Under Armour Women's Highlight MC | High | 4.6/5 | Alt |
| 07 | New Balance Kids' FreezeLX V4 Mid | Mid | 5/5 | Alt |
| 08 | Nike Kids' Alpha Huarache 8 Youth | Low | 4.8/5 | Alt |
"Buy" goes to the cleat on BattleLax. "Alt" goes to the closest cleat BattleLax has in stock.
Best women's lacrosse cleat reviews
1. Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite Best overall
- Drip level5/5
- CutLow (Pro) or mid/high (Elite)
- Age levelWomen
- ColorsWhite, Black, White/Blue/Pink, Turquoise, Grey
- TPU plateFlexible, for smoother cuts
- MidsoleReact foam to cut down stud pressure
- FitX-fit system locks in your heel
First up is Nike's flagship lacrosse cleat, the Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite.
Technically these are two different cleats, but the only real difference is the cut. The Pro is low, and the Elite is mid/high.
The plate uses a triangular stud setup that grips in every direction, so you can cut hard and quick without worrying about your footing. The molded plate also cuts down on the slipping you get with cheaper cleats.
The X-fit system locks your heel in place, so your foot doesn't slide around in the shoe. When you plant and go, the cleat goes with you.
Another upgrade over the Huarache 7 is a more flexible TPU plate, which makes cutting and accelerating smoother.
Overall, the Huarache does Nike proud. It has a proven track record and a sleek look, and it's worth a look at any level and any position.
- Breathable and light but durable
- Extra traction and stability from the molded TPU plate
- X-fit system keeps your foot from sliding
- Clean designs
- On the expensive side
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite. For a lax-specific cleat with a locked-in heel and great traction, go with the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid ($129.99), or the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Low ($119.99) if you like a low cut.
2. New Balance FreezeLX V4 Low Best low cut
- Drip level5/5
- CutLow
- ColorsWhite/Blue, Black/Blue, Tan, Blue, Red
- Built forLacrosse-specific movement
- WeightOne of New Balance's lightest lax cleats
- OutsoleQUIX outsole for extra traction
The New Balance FreezeLX V4 was built specifically for lacrosse, just like the Freeze models before it.
The V4 is the same cleat for the women's and men's games, so I got to try a pair soon after it came out. It's one of my favorite lacrosse cleats I've ever worn.
It's light, but my foot feels really stable. The studs feel perfectly placed, so I can cut in any direction with ease.
On top of that, breathable materials throughout keep your feet dry, and a hybrid tongue keeps your ankle in place no matter which way you move.
New Balance stepped up the looks on the V4, too, with five colors ranging from clean white to bold red.
The only reason to skip it is if you have ankle issues. In that case, look at the FreezeLX V4 Mid, which is next on the list. If you like a low-cut cleat, the V4 Low is one of the best you can get.
- Built for lacrosse movement
- Hybrid tongue adds ankle support
- Extremely light
- Lots of colors
- Less ankle support since it's low cut
At BattleLax: In stock now, and on sale. Grab the New Balance Freeze 4.0 Cleat Low ($49.99) straight from BattleLax. Want the newest version? The New Balance FreezeLX v5 Low ($119.99) is in stock too.
3. New Balance FreezeLX V4 Mid Best mid cut
- Drip level5/5
- CutMid
- ColorsWhite/Blue, Black/Blue, Tan, Blue, Red
- Built forLacrosse-specific movement
- WeightOne of New Balance's lightest lax cleats
- OutsoleQUIX outsole for extra traction
As promised, here's the mid-cut version of the FreezeLX V4. If you like a mid cut for a little more ankle support, the V4 Mid is for you.
It has most of the same features as the low (see above), but the upper comes up higher on the ankle for extra support. If you roll your ankles a lot, that support can help keep you on the field.
If you don't have ankle issues, try on both the low and the mid and see which feels better. Some players love the extra mobility of a low, and others just feel better in a mid.
Like the lows, the mids are really light and grip great for lacrosse movement. They come in the same five colors, too: white, black, tan, red and blue.
If you like a mid-cut lacrosse cleat, the FreezeLX V4 Mid is the best one out there in our opinion.
- Built for lacrosse movement
- Hybrid tongue adds ankle support
- Extremely light
- Lots of colors
- Less ankle mobility than a low cut
BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries the newer version of this cleat. Grab the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid ($129.99), or the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid Hot Mango ($99.99) colorway while it's on sale.
4. Under Armour Women's Glory MC Lacrosse Cleat Cleanest look
- Drip level4.8/5
- CutLow
- Age levelGirls & women
- ColorsWhite
- TongueMicro-perf for breathability
- UpperDurable synthetic overlay for control and stability
- LacesCording lace system for a secure fit
- InsoleOrthoLite sockliner for comfort
Something about the Under Armour Glory MC makes you do a double take, and it's that clean, all-white look.
It skips the flashy extras some cleats lean on and gets straight to what makes a good boot a good boot. The synthetic overlay and micro-perf tongue make a tough but breathable upper.
The cording lace system on the outside and the OrthoLite sockliner inside add comfort and give you a secure, responsive fit. Overall, it looks a lot like a soccer cleat that's ready for season after season in any weather.
The one real knock is the plate. The stud layout leaves something to be desired, especially through the middle of the foot, and the second layer of studs is a bit underwhelming. This isn't the cleat for players who live on hard, quick cuts.
Still, the Glory MC is a solid no-frills, durable cleat. Position-wise, it's worth a look for defenders and attackers who work around the crease.
- Secure, responsive fit
- Trim design that's light and durable
- Built for all seasons
- Minimal stud layout and a weak second layer
- Only one color
- Not much customer feedback
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Under Armour Women's Glory MC. For a low-cut cleat with a lot more bite on hard cuts, go with the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Low ($119.99).
5. Adidas Adizero Natural 1.0 Mid Lacrosse Cleat Best for wide feet
- Drip level4.6/5
- CutMid/high
- Age levelGirls & women
- ColorsWhite, Purple, Pink, Orange, Red/Black, Sky Blue, Navy/Red, Black
- UpperLight synthetic for agility
- OutsoleMolded TPU for traction
- HeelPronounced heel for stability
- TongueFront and rear slip tongues for security
Adidas jumps in with the Adizero Natural 1.0, a more old-school, familiar take on the lacrosse cleat.
The Adizero is all about stability from your ankle down to the plate, with a solid outer shell and a molded base. First and foremost, it's built to keep you on your feet no matter what shape the field is in.
Even with all that stability, it has a light shell that stays breathable as the game heats up.
The Adizero does take some patience, though. It's known for a long break-in, so be ready for some stiffness and blisters early.
It's still a solid option for anyone who's always flirting with ankle injuries, especially defenders.
- Mid/high cut for stability
- Lots of colors
- Holds up in any weather
- Good for wider feet
- Some players report heel discomfort and stiffness
- Runs a little small
- Long break-in
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Adidas Adizero Natural 1.0 Mid. For a mid cut that supports your ankle without the long break-in, go with the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid ($129.99).
6. Under Armour Women's Highlight MC Lacrosse Cleat Best high top
- Drip level4.6/5
- CutHigh
- Age levelWomen
- ColorsWhite/Rose Gold, White/Navy, White/Red, White/White
- UpperLight and breathable
- FootbedMolded 4D Foam for comfort
- PlateMolded TPU for traction
Here's another sleek, trimmed-down UA cleat, the Highlight MC.
It's the first true high top on our list for the women's game, with a wrap-around ankle and full lacing for players who need extra support. The inside molds to your foot for extra comfort.
Look-wise, the unique undertone colors and bone pattern give it a really cool look. It's even better looking than its low-top cousin.
The main knocks are durability and water. Some players say it takes on water in wet conditions. The custom feel also comes with a real break-in period, so be ready. The plate and stud pattern are the same as the low-top Glory.
Still, the Highlight is a looker and a solid choice if you want the ankle security of a high-top women's lax cleat.
- Custom-feeling comfort
- High cut for ankle stability and security
- Sleek, clean look
- Upper can take on water
- Some durability complaints
- Tough break-in
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Under Armour Women's Highlight MC. For ankle support in a cleat that's built for lacrosse, go with the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid ($129.99).
7. New Balance Kids' FreezeLX V4 Mid Lacrosse Cleat Best for kids
- Drip level5/5
- CutMid
- Age levelYouth
- ColorsLimited
- OutsoleMolded TPU grips on grass and turf
- TractionQUIX outsole keeps your foot planted
- FeelLight and breathable
New Balance shrinks its adult FreezeLX V4 down into the Kids' FreezeLX V4.
It has the perfect mix of support and traction. It's a little bulkier than the adult version, which gives young players more ankle protection.
The studs are still placed in all the right spots, so young players can make every move on the field without losing their footing.
The only real downside is the limited color options.
All in all, the Kids' FreezeLX V4 is one of the best options for young laxers who need a new pair.
- Great traction in every direction
- Supportive and comfortable
- Limited colors
BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries the newer youth version. Grab the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Youth ($84.99).
8. Nike Kids' Alpha Huarache 8 Youth Lacrosse Cleat Most colors
- Drip level4.8/5
- CutLow
- Age levelYouth
- ColorsWhite, Black, Red, Purple, Turquoise, Pink
- UpperSynthetic for easier break-in and support
- LacesTraditional lacing for comfort and support
- PlateMolded TPU for traction
We finish the way we started, with Nike's well-known Huarache 8, this time in a youth version.
The first big difference from the adult Huarache 8 is the look. It's a true low top with a sleek outer design, compact and solid, like the footwear version of a tank.
The molded plate has a stud setup similar to the adult version, which makes it a great pick for athletic young players who already love to dodge and cut.
The main knock is stiffness and break-in. The synthetic upper is supposed to make breaking them in easier, but players say it takes longer than advertised.
Still, the youth Huarache 8 is a great cleat, especially for players stuck between youth and adult sizes. It's a solid pick for a fast-growing player.
- Trim, clean, durable design
- Outer studs up front for quick cuts and pivots
- Lots of colors
- Past versions have run small
- Can be stiff and hard to break in
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Nike Kids' Alpha Huarache 8 Youth. For a youth cleat built for lacrosse, go with the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Youth ($84.99).
Women's lacrosse cleats buying guide
Before we send you off into the wild world of women's lacrosse cleats, here's what to think about so you can size up options beyond our list, too.
1. Turf shoes vs. regular cleats
Turf shoes vs. cleats is always the first question. As more teams play on turf, cleats are less about basic stability and more about quick cuts and change of direction.
Turf shoes don't have the studs regular cleats do. Their trimmed-down sole keeps them lighter and makes them feel closer to a sneaker. They're a solid choice for carpet-like turf without a dirt or rubber base you can dig into.
The catch is that turf shoes aren't as versatile. A regular cleat works on grass and turf with no real drawbacks. It may be heavier and feel different, but that Swiss Army knife quality gives you more bang for your buck. If you want a turf shoe, BattleLax has the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Turf ($119.99).
Whichever way you go, check your league's rules before you buy. Some organizations regulate what footwear you can wear and how long the studs can be.
2. Fit
Like any shoe, fit is the number one thing to consider. How stiff and tight a cleat is can make or break you on the field. Don't handicap yourself from day one with an uncomfortable shoe or one that takes weeks to break in.
Fit is also about security. You want a cleat that fits well through the toes and around the ankle to avoid the sprains and breaks that come with a quick-cutting sport like lacrosse.
Think about width, too. Most cleats run narrow through the insole and toe box to focus pressure like a sprinter's spike. That can be really uncomfortable for wide feet and lead to non-contact injuries that keep you on the sideline. Find the cleat that fits your foot, and don't settle for small discomforts, since those turn into bigger problems.
One more tip: a lot of lacrosse cleats, including the FreezeLX, are unisex and sized in men's. Check the size chart before you order. With New Balance, women typically go down about 1.5 sizes.
3. Cut
Cut is the shape and height of the cleat around your ankle. The higher the cut, the more ankle support. The lower the cut, the more mobility.
- High cut: If you're at risk for ankle injuries, go high. It gives you the support to survive the bad steps that cause sprains and breaks, and the peace of mind to stop worrying about your footing and focus on the game.
- Mid cut: A little of both worlds, but not the best at either. It's a good fit if you've had some ankle trouble but still need a full range of motion to cut and accelerate.
- Low cut: For players with healthy ankles who want max mobility without a clunky cleat. A great choice for dodgers with a clean bill of health.
4. Weight
As cleat tech gets better, the weight keeps dropping, and that's worth thinking about. Breathable materials and interlocking patterns make up for the heavy cleats of the past, but know what you're giving up with those lost ounces.
Weight can say a lot about durability. Light, breathable materials sound great, but after a rain shower or a fresh run of the sprinklers, your socks might soak up all the weight that space-age tech cut.
At the same time, you don't want bricks on your feet just because they'll last forever. Look for a balance: a cleat that sheds weight by swapping in lighter, just-as-durable materials, not by cutting corners. In the end, it comes down to how the cleat feels to you. Just don't fall too hard for "breathable" without digging a little deeper.
5. Materials
Materials go hand in hand with weight. They've cut a lot of weight and brought new comfort and stability features.
The one you'll see most is thermoplastic polyurethane, or TPU. It's a light material used for the molded plate, and it's the heart of what makes a cleat a cleat. The TPU runs into the studs, which are usually molded as one continuous piece.
A one-piece plate is a big step up from the screw-in spikes of the past since it avoids the slipping and "flat tire" feel of a lost spike. The tradeoff is you can't adjust it when conditions get truly nasty (think mud).
Inside the shoe, mesh liners and foam footbeds are the mark of comfort. Some cleats add compression liners, like nylon compression shorts, for a more secure fit. Others use interlocking tech over the top of the foot, like Nike's Flywire, with a synthetic shell that hugs your foot for a more responsive feel.
Watch out for stretchy or interlocking parts that seem to be made of cheaper material. Nylon can be durable, but cheaper fabrics and anything made to stretch are known to break down over time.
More gear guides: best lacrosse cleats, best rebounders, best portable goals and best lacrosse balls.
Cleats in stock at BattleLax
Want a pair you can order today? These are the lacrosse cleats and turf shoes BattleLax carries right now.
| Cleat | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance FreezeLX v5 Low | Low-cut cleat | $119.99 |
| New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid | Mid-cut cleat | $129.99 |
| New Balance FreezeLX v5 Mid Hot Mango | Mid-cut cleat (sale) | $99.99 |
| New Balance Freeze 4.0 Cleat Low | Low-cut cleat (sale) | $49.99 |
| New Balance FreezeLX v5 Youth | Youth cleat | $84.99 |
| New Balance FreezeLX v5 Turf | Turf shoe | $119.99 |
Prices, sizes and stock change, so check the product page before you order.
People also ask
What are the best women's lacrosse cleats?
Our top picks are the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite and the New Balance FreezeLX line. BattleLax carries the FreezeLX v5 Low and Mid, plus the Freeze 4.0 Low on sale.
Are women's and men's lacrosse cleats different?
Often not. The New Balance FreezeLX is the same cleat for both games. Unisex cleats are usually sized in men's, so check the size chart. With New Balance, women typically go down about 1.5 sizes from their women's size.
Should I get low, mid or high-cut lacrosse cleats?
Low cuts give you the most mobility and suit healthy, shifty dodgers. Mids balance mobility and support. High tops give the most ankle support for players who roll their ankles.
Can I wear turf shoes for lacrosse?
Yes, on carpet-like turf without much rubber infill. Regular cleats are more versatile since they work on grass and turf. Check your league's rules on footwear and stud length either way.
What are the best youth lacrosse cleats?
The New Balance Kids' FreezeLX and the Nike Kids' Alpha Huarache are both great. BattleLax carries the FreezeLX v5 Youth.
