David Willey is a passionate sports enthusiast and coach. Growing up with basketball and baseball, his love for sports led him across the country, mentoring aspiring athletes. Recognized not only for his athletic skills but also for his expertise in sports equipment testing, David ensures optimal performance for athletes. Read more about him here.
Take a second and think about the importance of good traction when playing baseball. You run over several different surfaces and are almost always on the move.
Whether you stand in the outfield or perhaps the infield, this is nothing. You use your feet on base paths as well, not to mention the plate. Even a pitcher can do with quality shoes.
I remember my first shoes for baseball; they were nothing like what we have now. They were not too bad either, but they had the tendency to slip every now and then.
Things have changed a lot lately, and professional equipment is now widely available to everyone.
I put together a list of the best baseball turf shoes based on my personal experience, as well as others’ reviews. Here is everything you need to know.
Image (click on it to zoom)
Product
Best for
Why it stands out
Check The Price
Adidas Men's Icon 7
Best Baseball Turf Shoes for Comfort
Sneaker appearance and fit
New Balance Men's FuelCell 4040 V6
Best Baseball Turf Shoes for Coaches
Adjustable and stretchy design
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 3000 V5
Best Baseball Turf Shoes for Wide Feet
Good sizes for wide feet
Mizuno Men's Ambition 2 All Surface
Best Baseball Turf Shoes for Durability
Quality and durable materials
New Balance Women's FuelCell Fuse V3
Best Baseball Turf Shoes for Women
Great traction on any surface
Table of Contents
I have tried pretty much everything in terms of baseball equipment, including all types of shoes. I strongly believe quality shoes can make all the difference in the world, especially if you go for turf shoes. Here are some of the best shoes I have ever had.
Available in a bunch of different colors, these shoes are specifically designed for men and come with a true-to-size standard. In other words, you can order your normal size, without worrying that they might be too tight or large. As for colors, there are different combos based on black, blue, silver, and red.
The shoes are mostly aimed at field play. They are suitable for infielders and outfielders, but they can provide an excellent experience anywhere on the pitch. Designed like sneakers, they offer the same type of fit, so they are comfortable to wear for hours.
The upper is based on textile material. It is breathable and comfortable, but it will also allow sweat to go away. However, the design is clearly not suitable if the grass is wet, so avoid wearing these shoes in the morning if there is dew. Other than that, there should be no issues whatsoever.
The shoes come with a Lightstrike EVA midsole. The technology is known for being super lightweight, but at the same time, soft. Apart from modern cushioning, the outsole is based on molded rubber. It is super durable, but it also offers excellent traction.
I think these might be the best shoes for baseball coaches, and let me tell you why. As a coach, you need the same level of traction and performance. Great so far! But then, you want a bit of style too. Players do not really care about style, but performance only. As a coach, you want to look good too.
These shoes bring in the most important elements in baseball turf shoes, but they also have that flying New Balance logo all over them, which adds to the overall appearance. They come in a bunch of different color combinations, as well as multiple sizes, including some wide sizes.
The top is based on synthetic mesh. The upper will easily stretch for a good fit, but without affecting durability. On the same note, the burrito closure is just as effective at providing a custom fit. You can get on the field, get active or just sit on the bench and organize your team without losing comfort.
The FuelCell foam is soft and offers a propulsive experience. It feels like it pushes you forward. On the outside, you have a rubber outsole. It is super durable, but it also provides excellent traction, whether on or off the field. The shoes are quite tall and provide good support for your ankles.
There are more baseball turf shoes out there providing wide sizes, but these ones stand out. They know wide feet are not slightly wider than average, but there is a big difference, and this is what their sizes provide. It is not about stretchy fabrics, but about the right fit, and the 3000 V5 model will not disappoint.
Other than that, the midsole is based on durable foam cushioning. Believe it or not, it is precision engineered. Not only is it well cushioned, but it also offers a lightweight profile. I am not joking, you will feel like running on clouds, regardless of your favorite position and location in baseball.
The upper is synthetic and has a perforated design. It is built to enhance your movement in baseball and comes with a so-called reaction-diffusion design. It is based on data and feedback from professional players. The material is quite soft and will not cause any issues with your comfort.
Unsurprisingly, the outsole is based on rubber. It is one of the most flexible and durable materials out there. It offers good traction due to the heavily textured surface, but it also provides excellent control, regardless of the surface.
You cannot really go wrong with Mizuno Baseball Turf Shoes. Everything about these shoes is designed with comfort in mind, regardless of your position on the field. You can also use them for other activities that involve physical activities, such as exercises or occasional hiking trips.
The upper is a mix of leather and textile mesh. Both materials are breathable, with the mesh allowing moisture and sweat out. You can find these shoes in different color combinations, as well as all the sizes you can think of. No matter what style you choose, the leather quality build is the same.
Moving on, you have a textile lining for support and breathability, as well as a textile insole. It is removable for easy cleaning. The round toe makes the shoes suitable for those with wide feet too, while the traditional lace-up closure provides a bit of flexibility. Again, everything is about comfort.
There is a loop tab on the heel suitable for easy wearing, a padded collar, extra padding on the tongue, and a synthetic outsole. It is textured to guarantee a good grip, regardless of where you play baseball. The branding on the side is stitched and not glued.
Available in a series of different sizes, including wide sizes, and a few color combinations, these are probably the best baseball turf shoes for women. They have a great reputation, come from a top brand and bring in all the features you need for a comfortable and effective experience in baseball.
Just like other shoes from New Balance, these ones come with the FuelCell technology. It is a modern type of foam that feels like it can push you forward due to its propulsive design. Given the soft cushioning, it is also super comfortable and allows wearing these shoes for hours without any issues at all.
The upper is synthetic. Just like you would probably expect from these shoes, it is comfortable and offers a good fit. You have a classic lace closure for a secure fit and extra adjustability. Given the design, you can probably use these shoes for other physical activities too, such as other sports.
Other than that, the outsole is based on durable rubber. It has an aggressive appearance, but then, this is what you need for traction, especially on slippery artificial fields. The outsole is just as effective on natural grass. There are no cleats, but a very similar design and a rugged surface.
Pros
Excellent traction on all surfaces
Good looking design
Durable materials
Available in wide sizes too
Useful for other physical activities too
Cons
The top heel part is a bit too high and can rub against the skin if you do not have tall socks
Are Baseball Turf Shoes Worth the Money?
There are quite a few different types of baseball shoes out there, which could make this search a bit confusing for some.
For example, turf shoes are often consideredindoor shoes, yet they are not.
You normally use them for artificial ground, yet they can be quite effective on firm outdoor ground too, even if the grip is not perfect. They come with some spikes and bumps for extra traction. Their role is to give you traction.
You will have a good grip, even if the ground is wet. Comparing them with indoor shoes, you will notice that the indoor alternative does not have any spikes or bumps because an indoor grip is quite good anyway.
On the other hand, turf shoes are often compared with cleats too. They do have some cleats themselves, but they are based on rubber, so they cannot damage the field too much.
From this point of view, turf shoes are often considereda subcategory of cleat shoes.
Since their cleats are soft and rubbery, they are less likely to damage any grounds, hence their popularity.
It makes no difference where you play baseball or what kind of ground it is. Sure, you are less likely to play it indoors, but there are many training grounds based on artificial grass.
Sometimes, you may not even be allowed with other types of shoes.
In a nutshell, baseball turf shoes are totally worth it. They provide superior traction, and they are less likely to damage the ground.
They are not the best at traction, as solid cleats are better. However, they are also more aggressive on the ground, meaning baseball turf shoes make a great middle option.
Now, are they worth your money? The best baseball turf shoes are not necessarily the most expensive ones. But then, the cheapest option you can find is probably the worst one.
You will find baseball turf shoes in a middle-range category too. Most importantly, look for value for money.
You can play baseball in regular shoes if you only play with your best friends a few times a year. But if you truly like the sport or you plan to become a professional, chances are you need to invest in proper equipment.
Even if you play it occasionally, baseball turf shoes will help you become better and can prevent injuries. The fact that you play a few times a year should not put you off. The shoes will last for ages then, so they still make a good investment.
Choosing the Best Baseball Turf Shoes – Our Buying Guide
Foot traction is the most important consideration when shopping for baseball turf shoes. You need traction on more types of surfaces, but you also need it in all weather conditions. But then, there are more things to pay attention to.
Fit and support
The wrong fit can cause serious discomfort and will most likely affect your game too. In the worst possible case, it can cause life-changing injuries, preventing you from advancing your career. Never compromise on the fit. Try more and more types of shoes until you get the right snug.
Moreover, ankle support is just as important.
Back to the fit, keep in mind that it covers both the width and the length of your feet. Shoes are also meant to slightly move up toward the ankle. Otherwise, there is no support and confidence. A twisted ankle is the last thing you need in a game.
As a general rule of thumb, baseball turf shoes must feel comfortable in any position, regardless of what you do. They should feel great when you run or pitch, but also when you hit and field. Your shoes must keep attached to your feet for any of these activities. Otherwise, you need to keep searching.
If you shop online, I recommend checking most stores in your area. Try out different pairs and brands, and see how they feel. You can buy locally, but you can find cheaper options online. This is why I recommend trying it out in real life before actually ordering online.
Your actual needs
Now, why are you looking for the best baseball turf shoes? Most players never ask themselves this question. They provide better cushioning when compared to regular shoes, but they also give you greater traction.
Different shoes are better for different positions in baseball. If you play baseball with friends for fun, you need shoes that will support you in every potential move in this sport. If you are specialized in a particular position, find shoes suitable for the associated activities.
Price and value for money
You do not necessarily need the most expensive baseball turf shoes you can find on the market. In fact, I find middle options to be better in terms of quality and design. Plus, you want value for money, rather than just a price.
I do recommend setting a budget before shopping. Quality baseball turf shoes range between $50 and $100. You can find cheaper designs and poor quality for way less than $40, but you can also find posh designs costing over $100, just because of a few random bells and whistles.
Best Baseball Turf Shoes – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use baseball turf shoes for other sports?
Baseball turf shoes are suitable for more physical activities. They are often used in softball as well, not to mention football and soccer. At the end of the day, you can also use them for walking trips. They are comfortable, lightweight, and can provide good traction on soft and rugged terrains.
How do you break in baseball turf shoes?
You can break in baseball turf shoes just like you do it for other shoes. Wear them. Get them on and walk around the house. Go outside in your backyard and wear them. The more you do it, the easier it is. You will gently break them in without risking any injuries.
How do you take care of baseball turf shoes?
The most important thing to remember is you need to clean your shoes after each game. A dry clean cloth will do the trick, but sometimes, you may need some lukewarm water and a mild detergent too.
Bottom Line
Deciding on the best baseball turf shoes is challenging if this is your first pair. There are quite a few good brands out there, as well as different models, designs, features, and technologies.
All the 5 turf shoes we have reviewed are good in their own way and it really comes down to personal preferences. However, if you are looking for something different you can use our buying guide to help you make the right decision. No matter what you choose, you will be able to enjoy your game more with a good pair of baseball turf shoes.
