Picking Out Baseball Cleats

Soon, the weather will turn warmer, animals will come out of hibernation, and children will return outdoors. Hard to believe it was just winter, doesn't it?

It seems a rite of passage for all little boys (and girls sometimes too) to participate in spring Little League or baseball. If you've never had a child participate in baseball before, don't fret. I'll give you all the tips you need for selecting the right pair of cleats for little Johnny's feet. 

1. You should get an information packet when you register your child for Little League. In there should be instructions for what type of cleat is suitable for each age group. Little League International allows Junior, Senior, and Big League divisions (ages 13 to 18) to wear cleats with metal studs. Younger players must wear molded cleats with polyurethane studs. 
2. Talk to the coach about what type of surface your child will be playing on. Artificial, or harder, packed ground would require a shorter stud. Softer ground will require a longer stud to allow the player to grip when running. 
3. Have your child bring the socks they will be wearing when they are playing. Some socks are thin, some socks are thick, and therefore may require different sizes depending on the thickness. The sales associate should measure your child's foot to ensure the correct size.
4. Select a cleat made from natural materials, like leather, that will allow the foot to breathe during play. Synthetic materials are less expensive and may be an appropriate choice for a child whose foot is rapidly growing, but they will cause the foot to sweat.
5. Look for cleats that have a hook-and-eye fastener or buckles across the foot. These have the most secure fit. This type of fastener will be more expensive than lace ties, and may be appropriate for a foot that has slowed growing. Baseball cleats should fit comfortably, and the foot should not have room to slide around.  

If you are a baseball player and have a foot problem, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Medicine Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington
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