QUIX rail traction, a mid-cut option and zero break-in. Here's how New Balance's Freeze V5 held up after seven games, and how it stacks up against the Freeze 3.0 and Nike Huarache 9.
CSConnor Stifel · Equipment · Updated October 22, 2026 · 7 min read
Rating8.8/ 10
LaxDrip verdict: the best grip in the game, a true-to-size fit and no break-in at all. It's on the heavy side and the QUIX rail can nick your ankle, but it replaced my go-to cleats.
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New Balance lacrosse cleats have always been my pick over the Nike Huarache Elite. They're easier on the wallet and give you the best grip in the game.
So when I heard about the Freeze V5's mid-cut design and ankle padding, I added a pair to my collection right away. Here's my New Balance Freeze V5 review.
The New Balance Freeze V5.
New Balance put out a few versions, including a box shoe and a junior cleat. I've worn the V5 for about seven games and have a pretty good feel for them. Let's see if they have the traction, support and fit.
Coach's note: I've played on wet April grass in upstate New York, sticky turf in Virginia Beach summers and the hard indoor floors of Ontario box. The cleat that wins is the one that grips on the plant and doesn't chew up your feet by the fourth quarter. The V5 does both.
First, they come in white, black, gray and a limited edition colorway. Comfort and support matter more, but I'd have liked more options for juniors.
I got the field cleats in a 10.5 and loved them from the first wear. They felt ready to go, which is rare with new cleats. They're true to size and fit perfectly, with no tightness in the toe box or heel.
The slim tongue and heel setup.
The V5 skips the full-sleeve style a lot of cleats use and goes with a slim tongue and heel setup. The heel cup feels locked in and snug without being too tight. I also liked the back pull tab, a small but appreciated detail that makes them easy to get on.
With a mid and a low version, the V5 gives you a choice of ankle support. The dual lace holes lock the laces in place so they don't loosen mid-game. The result is a secure fit that keeps me stable on sudden pivots and cuts and cuts down on rolled ankles.
Traction
The main selling point of the Freeze line has always been the QUIX rail, the outer rim of teeth on the cleat. It's the same QUIX rail you had on the Freeze 4.0 and the original Freeze, and it gives you exceptional traction on quick changes of direction.
As an offensive player, I love how it grips the turf and keeps me from slipping on quick pivots and acceleration. I did scratch my ankle on it once, though.
The QUIX rail and diamond-shaped studs.
It's not just me. A few buddies who wear the V5 complained about the same thing, so it's good to be aware of.
New Balance improved the stud pattern on the inside and used a molded TPU outsole for even better grip. The diamond-shaped studs in the midsole add excellent traction when I dig in, especially on deeper cuts.
If you play box, go with the V5 box shoe. Its nubbed rubber outsole supports lateral movement on turf and concrete. BattleLax doesn't carry the box version, but the New Balance FreezeLX v5 Turf ($119.99) is a great indoor turf option.
Comfort
Even at 13 ounces, the Freeze V5 is the most comfortable men's cleat I've worn.
It has a two-part upper: a tough synthetic section in the back for structure and breathable mesh up front for flex and airflow. It feels tough but not heavy, with a good balance of stiffness and flexibility.
The two-part upper.
They didn't need any break-in because they're light and well built, and I was impressed by the heavily padded, really soft insole. Usually my feet hurt after the first session in new cleats, and I have to wear them for at least a couple of practices. I wore these straight into a game, and my feet felt fine.
Breathability is another highlight. The mesh layer on top gives you better airflow and kept my feet dry even after long summer games. The soft, absorbent inner layer adds comfort and wicks away moisture to prevent blisters and irritation.
It doesn't have a sock liner, but my feet didn't feel sweaty. If you sweat a ton, the Nike Huarache 9 Elite may be a better fit.
The Freeze V5 colorways.
Freeze V5 vs. Freeze 3.0 and Nike Huarache 9 Elite
The Freeze 3.0 was my go-to cleat for a long time at only 11 ounces per cleat. The V5 is a little heavier at 13 ounces but still feels light. It's also heavier than the Nike Huarache 9 Elite at 12 ounces.
Freeze V5
Freeze 3.0
Huarache 9 Elite
Weight
About 13 oz
About 11 oz
About 12 oz
Traction
QUIX rail + diamond studs
QUIX rail
10-stud TPU plate
Feel
Supportive mid
Light
Most flexible, most breathable
Even so, the V5 doesn't feel heavy on the field and still gives strong support and stability. I also like the mid cut for ankle support on quick cuts compared to the low-cut Huarache 9 Elite Low.
The Huarache 9 Elites are more flexible and better for players who like a low-profile fit, and I find them more breathable. Still, I prefer the New Balance for the QUIX rail and the value. See how it compares to the rest in our best lacrosse cleats, newest men's lacrosse cleats and Nike Huarache 9 review.
Shop the Freeze V5 at BattleLax
BattleLax carries the Freeze V5 in mid, low, youth and turf versions, plus a couple of colorways on sale.
Choose cleats built for lacrosse, with durable studs and strong grip for quick cuts. The New Balance Freeze V5 is a top pick for support and traction.
Are lacrosse cleats OK for soccer?
They aren't ideal. Lacrosse studs are placed for lacrosse movements, while soccer cleats are usually more flexible and lighter.
How long do lacrosse cleats last?
With regular use, most lacrosse cleats last about a season. Well-built cleats like the Freeze V5 can last longer.
Are baseball and lacrosse cleats the same?
No. They have different stud designs and traction. Lacrosse cleats like the Freeze V5 have studs built for stability and quick changes of direction.
When did the New Balance Freeze V5 come out?
The Freeze V5 came out in 2024 with better traction, a mid-cut option for ankle support and a more breathable design.
Final Verdict
These were great to wear. I only planned to wear them for a few games for this review, but I kept going. They've replaced my old go-to cleats for rough games, the Freeze 3.0.
If you want lighter, more flexible cleats, try the Nike Huarache 9 Elite. Otherwise, the Freeze V5 is the grip-first cleat I'd recommend to just about any field player.
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.
DRDave Rathmanner · Equipment · Updated October 22, 2026 · 12 min read
Drip level5/5
Coach's pick: the New Balance FreezeLX. It's built for lacrosse, the same cleat in the women's and men's game, and BattleLax has the v5 Low, v5 Mid and the Freeze 4.0 Low on sale.
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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.
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.
Pros
Breathable and light but durable
Extra traction and stability from the molded TPU plate
X-fit system keeps your foot from sliding
Clean designs
Cons
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pros
Secure, responsive fit
Trim design that's light and durable
Built for all seasons
Cons
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.
Pros
Mid/high cut for stability
Lots of colors
Holds up in any weather
Good for wider feet
Cons
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).
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.
Pros
Custom-feeling comfort
High cut for ankle stability and security
Sleek, clean look
Cons
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).
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.
Pros
Trim, clean, durable design
Outer studs up front for quick cuts and pivots
Lots of colors
Cons
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).
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.
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.
