Parts of a Baseball Cleat
- Cut length – Cleats come in either low-cuts or mid-cuts. Low-cuts allow more mobility while mid-cuts offer more ankle support
- Eyelets – Holes on the eyestay keeps the laces in place
- Lacing – Laces are ubiquitous as they allow the most adjustment, although mid-tops may have ankle straps
- Upper – Very tough and rugged upper, most often made of leather or synthetic leather
- Toe cap – Prevents wear on the toe while running and pivoting
- Ventilation holes – Provides some breathability for when the heat gets high
- Tongue – Thin but slightly padded for comfort
- Padded collar – For comfort and ankle support
- Heel counter – Plastic insert behind the heel that reinforces the heel cup and increases support; helps lock in the foot
- Heel cushioning – Some cleats may have additional heel cushioning for added comfort
- Insole – What your feet will rest on, provides comfort and orthotic support. Some may be removable
- Midsole – What lies between the insole and outsole, provides cushioning and is thicker in the heel for running
- Plate – Often made of a hard, durable TPU plastic, keeps studs in place and is highly resistant to wear from running on dirt
- Studs – Most cleats will use metal studs to help dig into the ground, although molded plastic studs are also used (more often in youth leagues)
Learn how to choose baseball cleats here