I may receive a commission if you purchase products through the links on this page at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep this site free but doesn't affect my opinions in any way.
Like all field sports, cleats are an integral part to success on the lacrosse field. They give you traction to maneuver, leverage to accelerate, and stability to cut even in the worst of conditions.
With a new season quickly approaching, we have scoured the market for the best performance and value in women’s lacrosse cleats for all age and skill levels.
Best Women's Lacrosse Cleats
After hours of research and testing, we’ve found the best women’s lacrosse cleats currently available. Scroll down to see all options or click a link below to jump down to that review.
Best Women’s and Girls’ Lacrosse Cleats
- Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite
- New Balance Freeze LX V4 Low
- New Balance Freeze LX V4 Mid
- Under Armour Women’s Glory MC Lacrosse Shoe
- Adidas Adizero Natural 1.0 Mid Lacrosse Cleat
- Under Armour Women’s Highlight MC Lacrosse Cleats
- New Balance Freeze LX V4 Youth Lacrosse Cleats
- Nike Kids’ Alpha Huarache 8 Youth Lacrosse Cleats
1) Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Elite
- Age Level: Women
- Cut: Low (Pro) OR Mid/High (Elite)
- Colors: White, Black, White/Blue/Pink, Turquoise, Grey
- Key features:
- Flexible TPU plate offers more flex
- React midsole to reduce stud pressure
- X fit system locks in heal providing unmatched stability
First up on our list is Nike’s flagship lacrosse cleat—the Alpha Huarache 8 Pro/Eite.
These are technically two different women's lacrosse cleats but the only real difference is that one is low cut (Pro) and one is mid/high cut (Elite).
The base uses a triangular cleat setup that provides added traction in all directions for quick, safe cutting when needed. Its mould also prevents some of the slippages that can come with less superior cleats.
There is also an X-fit system that locks your heel into place, making sure your foot doesn't move around in the shoe. When you want to move your feet, you can rest assured that these cleats will move with them.
Another improvement over the Huarache 7s is that the TPU plate is now more flexible, allowing for easier and smoother cutting and acceleration.
Overall, the Huarache does Nike proud with its well-proven track record on the field and sleek design that’ll make you look good on the job. This is definitely a cleat worth considering at all skill levels and positions.
Pros
- Breathable & lightweight but durable
- Extra traction & stability from molded TPU plate
- X fit system prevents foot from moving in shoe
- Clean designs
Cons
- On the expensive side
2) 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.
The FreezeLX V4 is the same for both the women's and men's games, so 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 one of the best options 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
3) 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
4) Under Armour Women’s Glory MC Lacrosse Shoe
- Age Level: Girls & Women
- Cut: Low
- Colors: White
- Key features:
- Micro-perf tongue for breathability
- Durable synthetic overlay for control & stability
- Cording lace system for added security
- OrthoLite sockliner for comfort and traction
Something about the Under Armour Glory MC…you just have to do a double-take when you see the clean, all-white design.
The stout, durable looking design demands admiration for tearing out all of the outer glitz some cleats depend on to show you the soul of what makes a solid boot a solid boot out of the gate. Its synthetic overlay and Micro-perf tongue create an impenetrable but still breathable outer skin for comfort.
A cording lace system along the exterior and OrthoLite sockliner inside add to said comfort while providing security and responsiveness to the wear. Overall, the design mirrors that of a soccer cleat that looks ready for extended action from season to season, no matter the conditions.
The one real visible knock is in the sole of this cleat—the stud layout leaves something to be desired especially though the center of the foot. A marketed secondary layer of spikes also comes off a bit underwhelming so this doesn’t appear to be a cleat for those players who thrive on hard, quick cuts.
That said, the Glory MC is a solid option for a no-frills player looking for a no-frills, durable cleat. Position wise, the Glory is worth considering for defensive players and around the crease attackers.
Pros
- Prioritizes a secure & responsive fit
- Tight, trimmed down design for a light & durable wear
- Designed to perform in all seasons
Cons
- Minimal cleat layout & trimmed secondary layer
- Only one color
- Limited customer feedback
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
5) Adidas Adizero Natural 1.0 Mid Lacrosse Cleat
- Age Level: Girls & Women
- Cut: Mid/High
- Colors: White, Purple, Pink, Orange, Red/Black, Sky Blue, Navy/Red, Black
- Key features:
- Lightweight synthetic exterior for added agility
- TPU molded outsole for enhanced traction
- Pronounced heel for added stability
- Front & rear slip tongues for security
Adidas enters the fray with the Adizero Natural 1.0 that brings a more old school, familiar approach to the cleat game.
The Adizero focuses on stability from ankle to sole with a solid exterior shell and molded base. This shoe is first and foremost meant to keep you on your two feet no matter the condition of the field.
Even with all of that security and stability, the Adizero has a lightweight shell to keep it all nice and breathable as the game heats up.
But, the Adizero does require some patience—it has been noted to have a long break-in period, so be ready for some initial rigidity and blistering.
This cleat is still a solid option for anyone who frequently flirts with ankle injuries, especially those on the defensive side of the ball.
Pros
- Mid/high cut design for stability
- Several color options
- Exterior design offers all-weather performance
- Good option for those with wider feet
Cons
- Some have pointed to heel discomfort & stiffness
- Sizes appear to run small to true foot size
- Long initial break-in period
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
6) Under Armour Women’s Highlight MC Lacrosse Cleats
- Age Level: Women
- Cut: High
- Colors: White/Rose Gold, White/Navy, White/Red, White/White
- Key features:
- Lightweight exterior for breathability
- Molded 4D Foam footbed for comfort
- Molded TPU cleat plate for superior traction
And yet another very sleek, very trimmed down looking UA cleat enters the arena with the Highlight MC.
The Highlight MC is our first true high top on the list for the women’s game with a wrap around ankle and full lacing that gives support and security to those players that need it. Interior elements form to fit your specific foot for extra comfort.
Lookwise, a unique undertone color shade and bone pattern give this a very cool aesthetic. It is definitely a looker, even more so than its low top counterpart.
The main knocks on the Highlight come with durability and permeability—this cleat has been noted to take on water in certain conditions. Additionally, the customized feel does come with the caveat of a notable break-in period so be prepared. The sole and spike pattern do also mirror the low top Glory.
Still, the Highlight is a looker and a solid cleat to consider for those players in search of ankle security via a high-top women’s lax cleat.
Pros
- Focused on customized comfort in wear
- High cut ankle for added stability & security
- Sleek, clean exterior shell for a solid look
Cons
- Permeable outer shell can take on moisture
- Some durability issues based on previous buyers
- Tough break-in period for initial uses
Buying Options
– Amazon
– Dick's Sporting Goods
7) 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
8) Nike Kids’ Alpha Huarache 8 Youth Lacrosse Cleats
- Age Level: Youth
- 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
Women's Lacrosse Cleats Buying Guide
Before we send you off into the wild world of women’s lacrosse cleats, we do want to leave you with the necessary tools to consider other options beyond our list.
Here’s a rundown of things to consider before swiping that credit card on a new pair of women’s or girls’ lacrosse cleats:
1) Turf Shoes vs. Normal Cleats
The clash of turf shoes versus normal cleats is always at the forefront when considering footwear for a player.
As artificial surfaces become the norm, the natural purpose for cleats is shifting to be less about simple stability and more into added value: quick cutting and maneuverability.
Turf shoes do not have quite the studs that normal cleats sport, with a trimmed down base that keeps them a bit lighter weight and a wear that skews closer to a normal sneaker. These are a solid option for more rug like turfs that do not have the dirt or rubber base that you can dig into.
The turf shoes’ main caveat, though, is that they do not have the versatility of a normal cleat. A normal cleat is transferable between grass and artificial surfaces with no real drawbacks. They may be heavier than a turf shoe and wear differently, but that Swiss army nature gives them a bit more bang for your buck.
No matter if you end up settling on a turf shoe or traditional cleat, be sure to consult the rules for your league before purchasing. Certain organizations may have regulations on the types of footwear you can play in as well as restrictions on things like stud length.
2) Fit
As with any and every type of shoe, fit is the ultimate element to consider when purchasing.
The stiffness and tightness of a cleat can make or break your performance on the field. You do not want to handicap yourself out of the gate with an uncomfortable shoe or one that takes weeks to properly break-in.
Fit is also indicative of security; you want a cleat that fits well not just through the toe but around the ankle as well to avoid any of the sprains and breaks that can come with a quick cutting sport like lacrosse.
You should also consider foot width as well. Most cleats skew towards a more narrow design through the insole and even into the toe box to prioritize a more focused pressure center as you’d see in a runner’s cleat. It can be extremely uncomfortable for those with a wider foot and lead to non-contact injuries that could put you on the sideline for an extended period.
Be sure to find the cleat that best fits your specific foot and do your best not to settle for any small discomforts as those can exacerbate into larger problems.
3) Cut
Cut is the shape and length around the ankle of a cleat.
The higher the cut, the more stability that is provided to your ankles. The lower the cut, the more maneuverability that you can exert.
It is safe to say that those who are more at risk for ankle trauma should consider a higher-cut cleat as it will provide the stability to withstand the lapses that can lead to a sprain or break. It also gives you the added peace of mind to care less about your footing and more about the game.
Mid-cut cleats are a sampler platter of both worlds but are not the best in either stability or maneuverability. It is a solid cut for those players that have had some ankle issues but who rely on a full range of motion to cut and accelerate on the field.
Low-cut cleats are for those players who are fearless when it comes to their ankle health and who want to maximize their maneuverability without being hampered by a clunky cleat. This is a solid option for those frequent dodgers with a clean bill of health.
4) Weight
As cleat technology advances, the weight just keeps going down.
And that is worth considering when looking at options to rock on the field. Breathable material and interlocking patterns makeup for the heaviness of previous generations of footwear, but you should know what you are losing with those dropped ounces.
Weight can be indicative of durability both in the long and short terms. Breathable, lightweight material sounds nice but, in the chance of showers or a recent sprinkler job, you may find your socks making up for the weight that space-age tech cut.
In the same token though, you do not want bricks on the bottom of your feet in day-to-day play just because you can wear them from cradle to grave.
It is important to strike a balance when it comes to weight—something that sheds the pounds where it can, not by outright excising elements but replacing them with something lighter but just as durable.
In the end, it all boils down to your personal feel with a cleat. Just don’t fall too hard for the “breathability” assessment without looking a bit deeper into it.
5) Materials
Naturally progressing from weight into material, which has shaved off those LBs considerably and helped usher in new elements for comfort and stability.
The frequent player you’ll see when looking for cleats is Thermoplastic Polyurethane, or more often shortened to TPU. TPU is a lightweight material used for the molded sole of a cleat and is the heart of what tends to make a cleat a cleat. The TPU extends into the studs as well which tend to be molded into one continuous piece.
This singular piece of sole is an important advancement from the removable spikes of the past as it better avoids the slippage and “flat tire” effect of a lost spike. But the drawback is a lack of adjustment to a cleat if the conditions are truly horrendous (see muddy).
Going inside of the shoe, mesh liners and foam beds for your toes and sole are the mark of comfort. Added elements of compression liners similar to nylon compression shorts appear as well to provide extra security to the wear.
When it comes to certain cleats, an interlocking technology, such as Nike’s Flywire, over the foot mixed with a synthetic outer shell should cling over the top of your step to provide extra responsiveness.
The main things to watch out for with a cleat are mentions of elasticity or interlocking elements that seem to be of a lesser material. While nylon can provide durability, lesser fabrics and those meant to stretch have been known to break as exemplified in the New Balance Freeze above.
Other Women's Lacrosse Gear Guides
Here are some other women's lacrosse gear guides you may be interested in:
Photo credit: Flickr