Anatomy of a Lacrosse Cleat

By Perry Hua

Parts of a Lacrosse Cleat

  1. Cut length – Lacrosse cleats come in either mid-top or high-top options, each with varying levels of mobility and ankle support
  2. Eyelets – Small holes toward the top of the upper help to guide the laces in place
  3. Lacing – Traditional laces are most common although some lacrosse cleats can have ankle straps
  4. Toe cap – A reinforced toe cap helps to improves durability
  5. Toe box – A flexible toe box is necessary for dynamic movements
  6. Upper – Uppers are made of tough materials such as leather or synthetic leather
  7. Heel panel – The piece of fabric that covers the heel portion of the cleat
  8. Tongue – A padded tongue helps to provide comfort and a snug fit
  9. Insole – The footbed that your feet rests on, helps to provide comfort and orthotic support
  10. Last – Lies underneath the insole and is what a shoe is built around. Determines the shape of the shoe
  11. Midsole – A thin midsole allows you to feel the ground underneath you without pain from pressure points
  12. Heel counter – A sturdy plastic insert behind the heel that provides structural support for the heel
  13. Collar – A padded collar provides comfort and ankle support
  14. Outsole – Often made of molded plastic or rubber, the outsole houses the studs
  15. Instep – The arched middle area of the cleat
  16. Studs – Plastic or rubber studs are strategically placed to provide optimal traction on fields. Many cleats feature removable studs

Learn how to choose lacrosse cleats here