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You might have the best stick on the market, the perfect string job, and pads that absorb every blow as if it were a tap on your shoulder.
All that’s great…but if you can’t move around the field quickly on your own two feet, all that other gear means nothing.
Never overlook cleats as they are the base for everything you do on the lacrosse field. You need a cleat that gives you the traction to cut on a dime, enough support to keep your ankle and foot stable, and the comfort to go hard for four quarters.
To make your search easier, we’ve done the legwork by breaking down the best lacrosse cleats currently available on the market today. If you're looking for women's cleats, check out our best women's lacrosse cleats guide.
Best Lacrosse Cleats
High-tops, low-tops, field cleats, turf shoes, molded studs, replaceable spikes…the list goes on and on. There are a variety of lacrosse cleat styles available based on the field type, your personal preferences, and more.
To help you find the perfect lacrosse cleat for yourself, we found the best options for a variety of scenarios. Click the table of contents below to jump down to a specific section or just keep scrolling to see our favorites.
Jump to a section:
Best Adult Lacrosse Cleats
New Balance FreezeLX V4 Low
Key Details
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White/Blue, Black/Blue, Tan, Blue, Red
- Features:
- Newest release of the most popular lacrosse cleat
- Lightest New Balance lax cleat
- QUIX outsole provides extra traction
The New Balance FreezeLX V4 is the newest lacrosse cleat on this list after just being released on November 2022. Like the past FreezeLX models, it is designed specifically for lacrosse players.
I've been lucky enough to try these cleats soon after they were released and I think they're my favorite lacrosse cleats I've ever used.
They are lightweight yet my foot feels very stable in them. In addition, the cleats on the footplate feel like they are perfectly placed, allowing me to cut in any direction with ease.
Aside from all of that, the FreezeLX V4s are built with breathable materials throughout to keep your feet dry. They also have a hybrid tongue designed to keep your ankle in place no matter which way you move.
New Balance also upped the design in the V4s. There are 5 colors to choose from ranging from a clean white to a bold red.
The only reason to avoid this cleat would be if you have ankle issues. In that case, you may want to consider the FreezeLX V4 Mid, which is next on the list.
If you prefer a low-cut lacrosse cleat, the New Balance FreezeLX V4 Lows are the best option currently available.
Pros
- Cleats designed for lacrosse movement
- Hybrid tongue provides extra ankle support
- Extremely lightweight
- Variety of color options
Cons
- Less ankle support due to low cut
Buying Options
– Amazon
– SportStop
– Dick's Sporting Goods
New Balance FreezeLX V4 Mid
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White/Blue, Black/Blue, Tan, Blue, Red
- Features:
- Newest release of the most popular lacrosse cleat
- Lightest New Balance lax cleat
- QUIX outsole provides extra traction
As promised, we now have the mid-cut version of the just-released New Balance FreezeLX V4. If you prefer a mid-cut cleat, which provides a bit more ankle support, then the FreezeLX V4 Mid is right for you.
They come with a lot of the same features as the low-cut version (see above) but the upper goes a bit higher up on the ankle, providing extra support. If you frequently have ankle issues, this support can help you stay on the field.
If you don't regularly have ankle issues, I recommend trying both the low-cut and mid-cut versions to see which you feel more comfortable in. Some people like the extra mobility that low-cut cleats give them while others feel better in mids.
Like the Lows, the FreezeLX V4 Mids are very lightweight and provide great traction for lacrosse movements. Also, there are 5 colors available for the mid-cuts, as well—white, black, tan, red, and blue.
If you prefer a mid-cut lacrosse cleat, the New Balance FreezeLX V4 Mids are the best option currently available in our opinion.
Pros
- Cleats designed for lacrosse movement
- Hybrid tongue provides extra ankle support
- Extremely lightweight
- Variety of color options
Cons
- Less ankle mobility than low-cut cleats
Buying Options
– Amazon
– SportStop
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White/Silver
- Features:
- Nike's elite mid-cut lacrosse cleat
- Sock ankle liner is comfortable yet supportive
- X fit system locks heel in place
The new Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite Cleats are one of our top recommendations for lacrosse players and are what I currently use.
Whether you’re an attackman, middie, or defenseman, these cleats provide the perfect blend of support and mobility with their mid-cut and no-slip tongue.
The X fit system also helps keep the back of your heel in place when you’re making sharp cuts or sprinting down the field.
One of my favorite things about these cleats is the sock liner at the ankle. Compared to some other mid-cut lacrosse cleats, the solid material on the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite Cleats ends just a bit lower and there is a soft sock liner that wraps around your ankle. This frees up ankle mobility while also preventing grass and turfies from getting into the cleat.
Compared to past lacrosse cleats I’ve bought, I’ve found the actual cleats on the Huarache 8 Elites to be perfectly placed for the many movements on the field. Whether I’m dodging, facing off, or playing defense, I always feel like I have the traction and leverage necessary to move as fast and quick as I need to.
The only real downside of these cleats is that it can be sometimes hard to find the right sizing. Many of the stores I buy shoes from don’t yet have them in stock. I’ll try to keep this page updated so you can always see the current buying options.
Overall, the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite Cleats are one of our top recommendations for lacrosse players, including attackmen, midfielders, and defensemen. There’s a reason why countless college players throughout the nation are using these cleats this season.
Pros
- New for 2023
- Breathable & lightweight
- Great for any position
- Mid-cut provides stability & mobility
Cons
- Can be hard to find
- Cleats aren't removable
Buying Options
– SportStop
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro Adult Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White/Silver
- Features:
- Nike's elite low-cut lacrosse cleat
- Flexible traction plate allows for controlled cutting
- Foam cushioning for extra comfort
If you prefer low-cut cleats, the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro Adult Lacrosse Cleats are another great option.
These are the cleats that I use when playing and I absolutely love them. Not to mention, I think they are the nicest-looking lacrosse cleats ever created. The all-white design, especially, is super clean.
New for 2023, these Nike cleats are specifically designed for lacrosse. Everything from the cleat placement to the ankle support are designed for the unique cuts and movements that the fastest game on two feet requires.
The Alpha Huarache 8 Pro Cleats have flexible TPU plates and triangular spikes that make it easy to cut in any direction. There is also extra foam cushioning to provide more comfort and support.
The Huarache 8 Pro cleats are easy to put on and take off and the no-slip tongue always stays in place so you aren't constantly having to adjust your cleats while on the field.
Nike also uses breathable materials throughout to keep your feet cool no matter how hot it is.
The biggest downside of these cleats is the same as any other low-cut cleat: there is naturally less ankle support since the cleats don't come up as high.
With that being said, if you are used to low-cut cleats and don't have any issues with them, the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pros are one of the best lacrosse cleats available.
Pros
- New for 2023
- Breathable & lightweight
- Easy to put on & take off
- Designed specifically for lax
- Great for sharp cuts
Cons
- Less support than mid and high-cut cleats
- Cleats aren't removable
Buying Options
– SportStop
– Dick's Sporting Goods
New Balance Freeze LX 3.0 Men's Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White, Grey, Navy/White, Red/White, Black
- Features:
- Designed specifically for lacrosse
- Quixrail outer cleats for lateral cuts
- Hybrid tongue provides extra ankle support
- Built with breathable materials to keep your feet dry
The New Balance Freeze LX 3.0 are the second-newest version of the Freeze cleat line but are still a great option.
What I like the most about these cleats is the amount of traction they provide. Aside from the standard spikes on the bottom foot plate, there are also cleats on the outside angled outwards that help with lateral cuts.
Aside from that, the Freeze LX 3.0s are built with breathable materials throughout to keep your feet dry. They also have a hybrid tongue designed to keep your ankle in place no matter which way you move.
One issue that has consistently come up in online reviews is the eyelets ripping easily. While I never experienced this with my pair, it's something to watch out for.
If you prefer a mid-cut lacrosse cleat, the New Balance Freeze LX 3.0s are a solid option to consider. They are one of the most popular pairs of cleats for lacrosse—and for good reason.
Pros
- Cleats designed for lacrosse movement
- Hybrid tongue provides extra ankle support
- Very breathable
- Variety of color options
Cons
- Some issues with eyelet tearing
- A bit bulkier than other options
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Lacrosse Monkey
– Dick's Sporting Goods
New Balance Men's Burn X2 Mid-Cut Lacrosse Shoe
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White/Red, White/Grey, White/Navy, Black, Grey
- Features:
- Dual-Density TPU plate for flexibility, stability and traction
- TPR outsole for durability and flexibility
- TPU support skin for exterior protection
New Balance comes in as the next option on our list of the best lacrosse cleats with the Burn X2 Mid-Cut shoe—a sleekly designed, durable boot to take the field in.
The Burn X2 is made of thermoplastic polyurethane to reinforce the base and sides, providing protection from the elements without sacrificing flexibility.
Functionally, the Burn values comfort and control. A one-of-a-kind plate works to maximize downhill speed and acceleration. A plush insert works with the design for a snug fit regardless of the intensity of movement.
The rub comes in the fit: the Burn X2 runs narrow and with a sewn-in front, lacks the tongue necessary to loosen the top to slip on and off. Additionally, the cleat may run well below your traditional shoe size (up to two sizes as noted by one user).
New Balance puts out the bold assertion that the Burn X2 is the perfect cleat for players who build their game around a quick first step. The intangibles point to this being the truth—this is a great cleat to consider for those quick cutting, dodging attackmen out there.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Comfortable, supportive fit
- Unique, interesting design and color options
Cons
- Run narrow and are without a tongue
- Sizes run small (up to two sizes)
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Under Armour Command Pro MC Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White/Silver
- Features:
- Woven upper for lightweight, sock-like fit
- TPU cleat plate provides great traction
- Lightweight & durable
The Under Armour Command Pro MC Cleats come up next on our list of the best field lacrosse cleats.
Another functionality-focused product from UA puts extra value into a secure fit and traction. The low-cut, sock-like ankle collar provides additional support and comfort for those sprain-conscious players.
A built-in support cage keeps the heel in place during aggressive directional changes and movements. The molded TPU cleat plate is lightweight but still provides great stability and traction.
Like other low-cut cleats, you exchange some ankle stability for better mobility and less weight as compared to mid-cut cleats.
If you are a fan of low-cut cleats, the UA Command Pro MCs are a great option.
Pros
- Sock-like collar is very comfortable
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Extremely lightweight
Cons
- Less ankle support than mid-cut cleats
Best Youth Lacrosse Cleats
Nike Kids Alpha Huarache 8 Lacrosse Cleats
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White, Black, Red, Purple, Turquoise, Pink
- Key features:
- Synthetic upper for easy break-in and support
- Traditional lacing for comfort and support
- Molded TPU plate for traction
We finish off similar to how we started, with Nike’s well-known Huarache 8 cleat returning with its youth version—a trimmed down prequel to its parent boot.
The first notable departure from the adult Huarache 8 is the look; this is a true low top cleat with a sleek outer design. It is a compact cleat with a solid exterior that appears to be the footwear equivalent of a tank.
The molded cleat plate provides a similar stud setup to the adult version, which makes this a solid candidate for any athletic, young players who already have a love for dodging and quick cutting.
The main knock on this cleat is the stiffness and break-in period. A synthetic outer is meant to ease the break-in process but wearers have noted that it takes some more getting used to than advertising.
Still, the youth version of the Huarache 8 is a great cleat, especially for those players caught between youth and adult sizing; a solid option for a quickly developing player.
Pros
- Trimmed down design for a clean, durable look
- Front side outer studs provide for quick cuts and pivots
- Newer cleat
- Many color options
Cons
- Past versions have run small to true foot size
- Has been noted to be stiff and somewhat difficult to break-in
Buying Options
– SportStop
– Dick's Sporting Goods
New Balance Kids' FreezeLX V4 Mid Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Age level: Youth
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White, Black
- Features:
- TPU molded cleat outsole provides great traction on grass & turf
- QUIX outsole keeps foot in place no matter what you're doing on the field
- Lightweight & breathable
New Balance shrinks down their adult FreezeLX V4 cleat into the Kids' FreezeLX V4.
The Kids' FreezeLX V4 cleats provide the perfect mix of support and traction. They are a bit bulkier than the adult version of the cleats, providing more ankle protection.
Still, they have strategically placed spikes that allow young players to make all the necessary moves on the field without losing traction.
The only real downside I can see with these cleats is that they currently only come in one color: black/neon green. They also don't have any longterm reviews since they just came out.
All in all, Kids' FreezeLX V4s are on the best options for young laxers looking for a new cleat to play in.
Pros
- Provide great traction in all directions
- Supportive & comfortable
Cons
- Limited colors
Buying Options
– SportStop
– Dick's Sporting Goods
New Balance Kids' Freeze LX 3.0 Junior Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White, Black
- Features:
- TPU molded cleat outsole provides great traction
- Hybrid tongue designed to keep your foot securely in place
- Quixrail outer cleats support lateral cutting
New Balance shrinks down their adult Freeze 3.0 cleat into the Freeze 3.0 Junior—another cleat designed specifically for the game of lacrosse.
The Freeze 3.0 values a lightweight build of breathable mesh to sacrifice little in terms of comfort and speed.
Like its adult counterpart, the Freeze 3.0 Youth cleat has Quixrail outer spikes to help with lateral cutting in addition to the main spikes on the bottom.
On the downside, these cleats are bulkier than some other options which could potentially slow down some players. There are also limited color options.
With that being said, the Freeze 3.0 is still a great cleat to consider for any young lacrosse player who prioritizes support and comfort.
Pros
- Provide great traction in all directions
- Supportive & comfortable
Cons
- Bulkier than some other options
- Limited colors
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Under Armour Kids' Command RM Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White
- Features:
- TPU molded cleat outsole provides great traction
- Die-cut EVA sockliner adds comfort
- Lightweight & durable
Last up on our list of the best kids lacrosse cleats is the Under Armour Kids' Command RM.
These cleats have a mid-cut that provides good stability without restricting mobility. They are lightweight and comfortable.
The sockliner hugs the ankle, providing extra stability and comfort.
The spikes are designed to provide excellent traction in all conditions. Whether the field is bone dry or covered in mid, the UA Command RM Kids Cleats will help you stay up on your two feet.
Though they are last on our list, these cleats are a phenomenal option to consider for you or your youth lax player.
Pros
- Run true to size
- Provide great traction
- Supportive & comfortable
Cons
- Bulkier than some other options
- Limited colors
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Best Turf Lacrosse Cleats
New Balance Men's FreezeLX V4 Turf Lacrosse Shoe
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White
- Features:
- Hybrid tongue provides ankle support
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides lightweight comfort
- Breathable construction keeps you dry
The New Balance FreezeLX V4 Turf is the newest turf shoe in the most popular line of lacrosse cleats. It is designed to let your play turn heads rather than your ankle.
The snug design of the FreezeLX V4 Turf hugs your foot for added security and comfort. The added layers of teeth to the sole provide additional traction for the quick cuts you’re accustomed to on turf.
Despite having added Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, the V4s are still lightweight and mobile. In fact, the V4 version of the Freeze line are the lightest shoes that New Balance has made to date.
There aren't any big knocks on these turf shoes. They only come in white with black accents, but that's pretty much it.
New Balance comes into the turf shoe game with a pedigree for functionality that is on full display here.
Pros
- Designed specifically for lacrosse
- Lightweight but comfortable
- Supportive
Cons
- Limited colors
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pro Turf Lacrosse Cleats
Key Details
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White/Silver
- Features:
- Nike's first low-cut turf lacrosse shoe
- Hexagonal rubber studs provide great traction that won't wear down
- Flywire cables provide extra foot security
If you're looking for low-cut turf cleats, the Nike Alpha Huarache 7 Pros are a great option to consider.
They have hexagonal studs specifically designed to provide traction on turf surfaces. The flywire cables—which the laces connect to—also keep your foot secure, providing even more stability.
The Huarache 7 Pro turf shoes are easy to put on and take off with the tongue-less design and Nike uses breathable materials throughout to keep your feet cool on the field.
The biggest downside of these cleats is that they run a little narrow compared to other options. If you have a wide foot, you might want to size up by 1/2 a size or look at another option.
Pros
- New for 2023
- Breathable & lightweight
- Easy to put on & take off
- Hexagonal studs provide flexible traction
Cons
- Run narrow
- Less support than mid and high-cut cleats
Buying Options
– Dick's Sporting Goods
Under Armour Command Turf Lacrosse Shoe
Key Details
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White/Silver
- Features:
- Fit like a normal tennis shoe
- Die-cut EVA sockliner providers great comfort
- Mini spikes provide great traction on all kinds of turf surfaces
Another great pair of low-cut turf shoes is the Under Armour Commands—the turf version of the popular field cleat. They have mini “lugs” that are meant to provide great traction on both turf and dry natural fields.
Like the normal Command cleats, these turf shoes have a die-cut sockliner that provides comfort to the bottom of your foot without adding a lot of weight.
They also use lightweight materials throughout so your feet won't hold you back on the field.
On the downside, some customers have complained about the long-term durability of these turf shoes. In addition, the insoles are glued in, making it difficult to replace them if you want to.
Pros
- Comfortable yet lightweight
- Mini spikes provide good traction
Cons
- Soles glued in
- Questionable durability
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
>> Read More: Best Lacrosse Turf Shoes
Best Box Lacrosse Shoes
New Balance Men's FreezeLX V4 Box
Key Details
- Cut: Mid
- Colors: White, Black
- Features:
- Ndurance outsole provides traction & durability
- Traditional tongue
- Adjustable lace closure
We must be dreaming…New Balance put out a box lacrosse specific shoe?!
Yes, they did, and they spared nothing in the way of design and features with the FreezeLX V4—the newest box shoe in their popular line of lacrosse-specific shoes.
Designed in the same vein as an indoor soccer boot, the FreezeLX V4 Box boosts superior grip adaptable to hardwood, astroturf, and concrete playing surfaces.
The V4 Box shoes have an Ndurance outsole that gives you great traction on box fields while the adjustable lace closure keeps your foot locked in whether you're face dodging, roll dodging, or turning around.
There aren't any obvious negatives when it comes to the New Balance FreezeLX V4 Box. It was just recently released in November 2022, so there aren't any longterm reviews yet, though it doesn't feel like there will be any durability issues based on the quality of construction.
Pros
- Designed specifically for box lacrosse
- Comes in wide sizes
- Mimics the control of field cleats
- Multi-sport use
Cons
- No longterm reviews
Buying Options
– Amazon
Lacrosse Cleats Buying Guide
Beyond the specific products listed above, we decided to create a quick buying guide to help you figure out what to consider when choosing lacrosse cleats.
1) Turf Shoes vs. Normal Cleats
This is probably the best place to start. The difference between turf shoes and cleats is extreme and knowing how each performs (or doesn’t) on certain playing surfaces is an important thing to consider before splurging on one over the other.
Let’s start with lacrosse turf shoes. These are best used on artificial surfaces. Given the predictability of such surfaces, turf shoes forgo the stabilizing agent of studs for less weighty teeth that still provide enough traction to safely navigate the field. If you find yourself playing primarily on grass, it’d be best to steer clear of turf shoes unless you want to supplement the cleats you already have.
Normal cleats on the other hand function on every playing surface but really shine on grass fields and in the elements. Longer studs provide the traction you need on such surfaces to maintain balance and speed while making runs into the box or closing out on an attackman.
If you’re not looking to open a Foot Locker and want a shoe that prides itself on utility across playing surfaces, a normal cleat is definitely the way to go.
2) Fit
After deciding the kind of shoe that you are looking for, size is the next greatest factor to consider. Proper fit means less slippage and more control on the field and less wear and tear on your feet (e.g., blisters, arch pain, etc.).
Given the unpredictability of sizing between brands, be sure to do your research before settling on a size especially when purchasing online; some cleats may run big or small to your true foot length.
Additionally, be aware of the structure of your foot. Do you have a wide or narrow foot? Cleats need to be snug so many will skew narrow which can be very uncomfortable and even damaging to those folks with wider feet. Reviews will usually indicate if this is the case. Luckily some shoe types do offer wide versions as well.
>> Check this out: Best Lacrosse Bags
3) Cut
The cut specifically means the height of the ankle. This is important to consider if you fall into the ankle injury-prone demo as the cut could either be helpful or detrimental to your fitness.
High and mid cuts offer ankle support, the former more than the latter. But, a mid-cut, while providing some protection, grants a wider range of motion and flexibility to make the movements you need to on the field.
Low cut shoes provide very little ankle-specific support so these are probably best for those not too worried about a sprain or twist and would rather save the extra weight in favor of speed.
4) Weight
Lighter = faster = better…right?
Maybe not.
While having a lighter shoe is more comfortable and may allow you to move the fastest, it is always important to consider that lighter also typically means less supportive.
Heavier cleats may slow you down slightly, but having the support you need means fewer injuries that could take you off the field altogether.
It really comes down to a cost-benefit analysis and consideration of your position on the field. Think about how much you cut on the field and how prone you are to ankle injuries. If you cut a lot and are prone to injuries, choosing a slightly heavier yet more supportive shoe may be the smart choice.
There is a decent balance of weight and support in the cleats we listed above because many use lighter weight materials for the bulk of the shoe but supplement them with other supportive materials to give the shoe some more structure.
5) Materials
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) is the current gold standard for cleat plates and extra exterior protection. It is a durable, yet lightweight, material that you should look for in whatever cleat you may be interested in.
Mesh exterior elements, especially along the tongue and knit ankle liners, are other things to look for. They promote breathability but also security in the wear and can provide the sock-like feel that you may be after.
Foam insoles are another good element to keep an eye on. Foam is now a standard inside of the boot, providing support without the weight in addition to shock absorption that can save your feet and shins from micro-trauma.
As with all things, the technology for lacrosse cleats is constantly in flux with newer, lighter materials coming on the market every year. Be sure to do your research on the latest cleat releases to see what the never flavor of the week materials are out there that you should keep an eye out for.
How We Rate Lacrosse Cleats
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend products that we would use ourselves.
To come up with our ratings for each product, we test the product ourselves whenever possible, review product specifications (weight, materials used, etc.), and read customer reviews/talk to lacrosse players we know that use the product.
When testing cleats, specifically, we try bringing them to a field and testing lacrosse moves in them for a few sessions at least. This helps us understand how they perform in a game situation and how long it takes them to break in.
When we can't bring them to a field ourselves, we try them on at the store (at the very least) and spend more time talking to players we know that use them.
If you ever have any feedback for any of the products listed on this page or have a recommended addition, please contact us and let us know!
Photo credit: Flickr