Men's Cleats

These letters tell you the type of sole:

• RM (rubber molded): soft rubber studs, comfortable and allowed everywhere. See our molded rubber cleats.

• TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane): firm molded studs with traction close to metal. See our molded TPU cleats.

• ST or Metal (steel): metal spikes for maximum grip. See our metal cleats.

• MCS on Nike and Jordan models: the molded version of the cleat.

Metal cleats give the most bite on firm, competitive fields; molded cleats are more versatile and are allowed in leagues where metal isn't. Check your league's rule before buying.

Wear turf shoes for batting-cage sessions, indoor practice and artificial turf; save your cleats for game day on grass and dirt.

Baseball cleats generally fit true to size, but it's worth trying them with the socks you'll actually play in, since a snug fit prevents blisters and improves stability.

Metal cleats tend to wear down faster on hard surfaces since the spikes take direct impact, while molded cleats generally hold up longer across a range of surfaces.

Low-tops offer the most speed and flexibility, mid-tops add a bit of ankle support without much weight, and high-tops give the most stability and protection for players who need extra ankle support.

Many of the most popular men’s cleats are signature lines built with MLB stars: the Under Armour Harper (Bryce Harper), the New Balance Ohtani (Shohei Ohtani) and Lindor (Francisco Lindor), and the Nike Force Trout (Mike Trout). The Jordan 1 Retro brings a classic basketball icon to the diamond.

• Infielders usually prefer light, low-cut cleats for quick lateral movement, like the New Balance 4040 or Mizuno Wave Lightrevo Low.

• Outfielders need maximum traction for sprinting and quick starts; metal cleats are the top choice on natural fields.

• Pitchers often prefer mid-cut cleats for stability and add a toe guard from our shoe accessories for their drag foot.

• Catchers spend the game in a crouch, so comfort and cushioning matter most; many choose mid-cut models like the UA Leadoff Mid.

Often not. Many recreational and slowpitch leagues don’t allow metal cleats for safety reasons. Molded TPU or rubber cleats are accepted almost everywhere, so they’re the safe choice if you play in several leagues.

Fresh Foam models, like the 3000 series, focus on soft cushioning and all-game comfort. FuelCell models, like the 4040 and Ohtani series, use a more responsive foam for a lighter, more explosive feel. Both are available in metal, TPU and turf versions.

New Balance is known for offering several models in wide widths. Mid-cut models and brands with roomier toe boxes can also help. The best way to be sure is to try them on in store in Laval, Saint-Hubert or Ottawa.

Replace them when the studs or spikes are worn down and you start slipping, when the upper tears or the sole separates, or when they no longer give support. Players who practice and play several times a week often need a new pair every season.

Slides are the go-to for recovery and getting around the dugout and parking lot without wearing down your cleats.