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
Visit our website, like our page on Facebook, and follow our tweets on Twitter. 

Baseball and Your Feet

Baseball is the national pastime in America. From kids to adults, playing baseball is one of the most enjoyable team sports. But as with other sports, it's important that you keep yourself in good condition and have the right equipment to play safely and enjoy the health benefits of the game. Baseball players are advised to condition their entire bodies and be sure to stretch the leg, ankle, and foot muscles before, during, and after play to avoid injuries. 

Baseball can be characterized by lots of stops and starts, lots of running, and, of course sliding. Practice and technique can enhance your competency and enjoyment of the game, but they are also crucial for building up the muscles needed in baseball. The rapid and changing movements associated with the sport place many pressures on your feet and ankles. Inadequate stretching, improper shoes, and repeated motions lead to the most common foot problems that occur among baseball players, such as Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, stress fractures, ankle sprains, and bone fractures.

Baseball Shoes and Cleats

As with most athletic shoes, comfort is the most important element in choosing the right baseball shoe for you. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box that give your toes enough room to wiggle. The widest part of your foot should fit comfortably into the shoe without stretching the upper. Look for a snug heel to help keep your foot stable. Most importantly, remember to replace your baseball shoes after 70 to 75 hours of active wear.

For league play, cleats may be recommended to give you the traction needed for the surface in the diamond. Baseball cleats come in a variety of materials ranging from leather and synthetic materials (plastics) to rubber and metal. Be sure to follow the regulations of your league regarding the material allowed; many leagues no longer permit the use of metal spikes or cleats, particularly on artificial turf. Be sure to give yourself time to adjust to cleats by wearing them on the designated surface.

Craig M Kaufman, DPM

Connecticut Foot Care Centers

Sports Podiatrist in Newington, CT

Podiatrist in CT

Visit our website, friend and like our page on Facebook and follow our tweets on Twitter

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