Information About Softball Cleats
To an outsider, softball cleats may appear no different than football cleats, soccer cleats or baseball cleats. However, there actually is a difference. Softball cleats are specifically designed to create traction across both dirt and grass surfaces, and also sustain a great amount of wear and tear. For optimal performance, softball players should wear softball cleats that are designed for the specific elements of the game.
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Design
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Softball cleats feature a unique design. Wide cleats along the perimeter of the foot serve a purpose of cutting into the dirt to maintain stability in the batter's box. On the interior of the shoe, smaller cleats provide traction, but allow the player to move quickly. With many softball games played in the spring and summer, a number of cleats are designed to repel water from absorbing into the player's shoe. Likewise, a thick tongue folds over the tops of the laces to keep dirt out of the shoe.
Rule Changes
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Until 2008, high schools required softball players to wear rubber molded cleats. Unlike soccer or football cleats that featured replaceable cleats, softball cleats consisted of a single molded piece of cleated rubber along the sole of the shoe. Although metal cleats provide a safety issue if improperly exposed, the benefits of a stronger grip in all weather conditions prompted the National Federation of State High School Associations' (NFHS) Softball Rules Committee to make the change.
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Toe Plate
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The dynamics of fastpitch softball call for the pitcher to constantly drag her foot along the mound and through the dirt. As a result, shoes became worn out quickly and some pitchers even experienced toe injuries from the constant repetitions. To accommodate pitchers, softball organizations across the country allowed for shoe manufacturers to insert a metal toe plate across the front tip of the shoe. The plate operates like a steel toe boot by creating a sturdy frame at the end of the shoe. This enhancement results in greater durability among softball cleats and fewer toe-related injuries.
Style
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Softball cleats come in three primary styles. These styles include low-cut, mid-cut and high-top. For many players, selecting a cleat style comes down to a matter of style or comfort preference. However, the different styles serve some purposes as well. Speedy players often opt for the low-cut shoe, which is lighter and less restrictive in running. High-top shoes, on the other hand, offer more support for players with weak ankles or may be at risk for ankle injuries. For most players, a mid-cut cleat offers a compromise between speed and support.
Customization
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When looking to purchase a softball cleat, players should compare their playing style to a particular cleat. For example, a pitcher may benefit from a metal toe cleat, whereas an outfielder would have no use for one. Outfielders also may want a water-resistant shoe, whereas an infielder may prefer one with better protection against dirt. A first baseman who does a lot of stretching but little running, might be better suited for a high-top shoe than a center fielder who does a lot of straight-ahead running and would benefit greater from a low-cut shoe. Although appearance of a shoe often attracts most buyers, realize that a cleat customized to a player's particular attributes and functions will serve her better in the field.
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References
- Photo Credit girl playing softball image by pixelcarpenter from Fotolia.com
