Best Baseball Cleats for Pitchers in 2023: Tried & Tested

Attention all baseball pitchers! 

Are you looking for the best pitching cleats to give you that extra edge on the mound? 

Look no further! 

We’ve scoured the market and compiled a list of the top baseball cleats specifically designed for pitchers. From comfort to traction, these cleats have it all. 

Continue reading to defeat your opponent.

Our Top Picks for Pitchers

Best Overall Pitching Cleats – adidas Icon 7 Baseball Shoe

Best Molded Pitching Cleats – New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Molded Baseball Cleat

Best Cleats for Wide Feet – New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Metal Cleat

Best Cleats for Narrow Feet – Under Armour Leadoff Low Rubber Molded Cleat

Best Cleats for Ankle Support – Under Armour Harper 7 Mid Rubber Molded Cleat

Comparing Pitching Cleats

Baseball Cleats for Pitchers

Best Overall Pitching Cleats

Adidas Icon 7 Baseball Shoe

There are many different cleats that exist and being a pitcher I have tried many of them. But Adidas Icon 7 is just something that is my favorite. These cleats are built for traction, with a snug fit that helps me maintain my balance and agility on the mound.

The lightweight construction of the cleats is a huge plus for me. The textile upper offers breathability, which is especially helpful during hot summer games when my feet tend to sweat. The textile lining also adds an extra layer of comfort, so I don’t have to worry about blisters or discomfort during the game.

One of the standout features of these cleats is the Lightstrike midsole, which provides lightweight cushioning. This is like a blessing for me as it really helped in improving my game and helps in maintaining my balance.  The cushioning helps to absorb any impact from my movements, preventing any unnecessary strain on my feet.

The metal cleated outsole is also a huge plus for pitchers. It provides an excellent grip on the field, helping me maintain my footing and preventing any slips or falls during my throws. The grip is especially important during high-pressure games where every movement counts.

So, Adidas Icon 7 Baseball Cleats are my number one recommendation for baseball pitchers. They are comfortable, supportive, and durable, with a range of sizes and colors to choose from. They have become a staple in my baseball bag, and I wouldn’t play without them.

Previous Models of Adidas Icon Cleats

The previous models in the Adidas Icon series were Adidas Icon 4, Adidas Icon V, and Adidas Icon 6. All were good, but the Adidas Icon 7 Cleats are the best. 

Pros:

• Available in metal cleats
• Snug fit for balance and agility
• Lightweight construction for breathability and comfort
• Lightstrike midsole for lightweight cushioning
• Cleated outsole for excellent grip
• Available in many different sizes and colors

Cons:

• Not available in wide width

Best Molded Pitching Cleats 

New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Molded Baseball Shoe

The New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Molded Cleats are my number one choice if you want molded pitching cleats. 

You can say, these are my second favorite after the Adidas Icon 7. 

One of the standout features of these cleats is the TPU molded cleat outsole. This provides superior traction on both turf and natural surfaces, which is important for pitchers who need to maintain their footing during throws. The low-cut design also adds to the lightweight and fast feel, allowing for quick movements on the field.

I also appreciate the Fit Weave upper, which provides durability and stretch where it’s needed most. This is important for pitchers who need to move quickly and stay comfortable during long games. The lace closure offers a secure fit, which is crucial for maintaining stability and avoiding injury.

Another great feature of these shoes is the FuelCell foam midsole. This delivers a propulsive feel, which helps drive pitchers forward and adds to the overall performance on the field.

I like the fact that these cleats come in a wide width. This gives you the opportunity to choose between the standard width and wide width for a particular size, which is really good because most of the cleats out there comes in only standard width. 

Overall, I think the New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Molded Cleats would be a great choice for pitchers looking for a combination of comfort, support, and traction. 

Pros:

• Available in molded cleats
• Superior traction on both turf and natural surfaces
• Fit Weave upper for durability and stretch
• FuelCell foam provides a propulsive feel
• Available in 13 colors
• Wide width available for a comfortable fit

Cons:

• Some users may find the sizing to be inaccurate

Best Cleats for Wide Feet

New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Metal Cleats

Over the past few years, I have used and tested many baseball cleats, and I can confidently say that if you need metal cleats in wide width, then there is no better option than New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Metal Cleats. 

I can see why the New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Metal Cleats would be a good choice for pitchers. The shoe’s FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel, which can help a pitcher to drive forward and generate power in their pitch. This is a significant advantage for any pitcher looking to improve their performance on the mound.

The Fit Weave upper is a feature that would also be beneficial for pitchers. The upper is designed for durability and stretch, providing a secure fit that can withstand the rigors of the game. Pitchers need a shoe that can provide support and stability throughout the game, and the Fit Weave upper is a perfect match for that.

The metal spike outsole provides superior traction on the field, which is critical for pitchers who need to plant their feet firmly on the ground during their pitch. The metal spike-cleated design is ideal for providing support around the ankle and delivering traction and speed. This feature allows pitchers to pivot and change direction quickly, helping them to make the most of their abilities on the field.

The lace closure of the New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 offers a secure fit, which is essential for pitchers who need a shoe that can keep their feet in place throughout the game. This feature prevents any unwanted movement or slipping, allowing the pitcher to focus on their game.

Additionally, the shoe is available in 13 different colors and also comes in a wide width, making it suitable for a wide range of players with different preferences and foot sizes.

Pros:

• FuelCell foam provides a propulsive feel
• Fit Weave upper is durable and stretchy
• Metal spike outsole offers superior traction
• Lace closure provides a secure fit
• Available in 13 colors and wide width

Cons:

• Metal cleats may not be allowed in all leagues

Best Cleats for Narrow Feet 

Under Armour Leadoff Low Rubber Molded Cleat

If you have narrow feet, and you’re a baseball pitcher, then Under Armour Leadoff Low Rubber Cleats are best for you. 

As mentioned earlier in the review, Adidas Icon 7 is my number one recommendation, and I also really like New Balance FuelCell 4040 V6 Cleats. But, to be honest, they’re not really good for narrow-feet players. 

However, it depends on how narrow is your foot. 

If we talk about these cleats, the synthetic upper is lightweight, and durable, and includes perforations in the toe box that provides added breathability. This feature is particularly useful for pitchers who may experience sweaty feet during a game. The toe box also includes a durable overlay for added protection, which is essential for players who frequently slide into bases or make quick pivots.

The padded collar and heel construction provides ultimate step-in comfort. This feature ensures that your feet are comfortable throughout the game and prevents any unwanted movement that may cause blisters or discomfort.

The full-length EVA midsole is another feature that adds to the comfort and cushioning of the cleat. It evenly distributes cleat pressure underfoot, reducing any potential discomfort or pain that may occur during a game.

The rubber molded cleats provide optimal traction and durability on all field surfaces, including grass and dirt. This feature allows pitchers to plant their feet firmly on the ground, providing the necessary stability and support to generate power in their pitch.

One downside of these cleats is that they are only available in four colors. However, this is a minor issue compared to the overall quality of the cleats.

Another consideration is that they run a little small, and it is advised to buy a half size larger than your usual shoe size. 

Pros:

• Lightweight synthetic upper with added breathability
• Durable overlay on toe cap for added protection
• Padded collar and heel construction for comfort
• Full-length EVA midsole for cushioning
• Rubber molded cleats for optimal traction and durability

Cons:

• Only available in four colors
• Runs small, advised to buy a half-size larger

Best Cleats for Ankle Support 

Under Armour Harper 7 Mid Rubber Molded Cleat

If you need ankle support, then the Under Armour Harper 7 Mid Molded Cleat is a good option. 

Out of all the options available, they are different as they are extremely comfortable and breathable. This is particularly important for pitchers, who need a shoe that will allow their feet to stay cool and dry during long games. Additionally, the internal lateral TPU lacing system creates a secure, lockdown fit that gives added support to your feet and ankles.

Speaking of ankle support, the Harper 7 Mid cleats are designed with a mid-cut height that provides extra stability and protection for your ankles. This feature is especially important for pitchers, who are at a higher risk of ankle injuries due to the constant pivoting and pressure on their feet during gameplay.

In terms of comfort, the full-length EVA midsole provides underfoot cushioning that helps evenly distribute cleat pressure. This means less fatigue and soreness in your feet after long games or practices. The rubber molded cleats also provide optimal traction and durability on all field surfaces, so you can confidently pitch without worrying about slipping or losing your footing.

I appreciate the range of sizes available for these cleats, with sizes going up to 17. Color options provided to choose from are 5. Still more color options could have been better.

Previous Models of Under Armour Harper Cleats

The Under Armour Harper 7 is the most recent baseball cleat in the Harper series. The previous models of the Harper series were UA Harper 5 and UA Harper 6. The Harper 7 has a lot of improvements, and it’s way better than the previous models. 

Pros:

• Good ankle support
• Comfortable midsole
• Durable rubber cleats
• Breathable and lightweight upper
• Available in large sizes (up to 17)

Cons:

• Limited color options
• Lacing system may require adjustments
• May run slightly large

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

Low Top vs. Mid Top vs. High Top

Whether you need low-top cleats or high-top cleats, it depends on how much ankle support you want.

The high tops provide extra support to the ankles and help to give protection against ankle injuries, but it also restricts ankle movements up to some extent.

However, the low tops do not provide ankle support, but they are also lightweight that help you to gain speed quickly.

The mid-tops offer moderate ankle support and they’re good for easy movements.

For a baseball pitcher, choosing low-top or high-top cleats doesn’t affect their performance.

If speed is more important to you, then low-top or mid-top cleats should be your choice.

However, if you want ankle support, then go with high-top cleats.

Construction

The baseball cleats are made of synthetic leather and genuine leather.

The cleats made of genuine leather are more breathable, durable, and of superior quality as compared to synthetic leather.

But, these cleats are also much more expensive. Along with the features, you should take care of how much you can afford.

For most of the young baseball players who play in little leagues or maybe in high school, inexpensive cleats made of synthetic leather should work fine. If you can afford some expensive baseball cleats, then it’s your choice.

However, if you are a professional player or playing at such a level where your performance matters a lot, and you can’t afford a single element that can reduce your performance, in that case, genuine leather cleats are the best.

Reinforced Toe

When pitchers throw a pitch, they have a tendency to drag their toes through the dirt when they fall through the rotation. Therefore, to extend the life of your pitching cleats, you should prefer cleats with reinforced toes.

The reinforced toe provides extra protection on the toe area of your cleats and helps them to last longer.

Take a look at this short video (42 seconds long).

Zack Greinke throwing a pitch, and it clearly shows why you need toe protection in your cleats. Focus on his feet.

Perfect Fitting

If you’re not comfortable in your cleats, then it’ll definitely affect your performance. Your cleats should be perfectly fit in your feet.

When buying your pitcher’s shoes, make sure they have some wiggle room for your toes, and allow some movement. But, do not buy a large size just because you want some extra room for your toes.

The gap between your toe and the end of the cleat should not be more than ¼ inches. If you are confused between two sizes, then choose a little tight shoe instead of a loose one.

As you wear them, you’ll break them in, and the cleats will expand and they’ll become comfortable.

However, if you buy little too loose cleats, then they will stay uncomfortable whether you break them in or not.

If you have flat feet or wide feet, then you need to take extra precautions while purchasing your pitching cleats. There is nothing worse than wearing uncomfortable shoes on the field that are not according to your feet.

If you have flat feet or wide feet, then consider buying wide baseball cleats in which your feet will be comfortable.

Thick Tongue

It is not a deal-breaker, but having cleats with a thick tongue makes them a little more comfortable, and it also stops the dirt from getting inside your cleats.

Metal vs. Molded vs. Turf Shoes

Which type of baseball cleats you should buy depends on a few factors. Let’s discuss them.

The metal cleats provide more traction and grip on the ground. If you play on grass and dirt grounds, then metal cleats are perfect for you. As pitchers require more stability to throw an accurate pitch, therefore, buying metal cleats can be a good choice for pitchers whether they are in Baseball or Softball.

Note: Before buying metal cleats, make sure your league allows them because many little leagues don’t allow players to wear metal cleats.

In case, your league doesn’t allow metal cleats or if you personally don’t like metal cleats, then molded cleats are the best alternative you have. They provide good traction and grip, and they are more suitable for soft grounds.

If you play on artificial turf ground, then you shouldn’t wear molded or metal cleats. In that case, you should go with turf shoes.

Final Words

With these tips, you should have a good idea of what kind of baseball cleats to look for as pitchers in 2023.

From materials to traction and stability, being properly equipped can be the difference between an average pitcher and one who dominates the mound.

When choosing your cleats, be sure to consider every aspect in order to maximize your performance on game day.

Good luck!