Last Updated on August 13, 2023
Under Armour, Mizuno, New Balance, Nike, and Adidas have the best slowpitch softball shoes, specifically made for softball players.
In a nutshell, Glyde RM, Advanced Finch, Velo V3, Purehustle 2, and Hyperdiamond 4 Elite are the best series of shoes and cleats from these brands.
However, to make it easier to pick the right shoes, I’ve listed 2 of the best series from these companies, which are recommended by even some pro league players such as Kayla Lombardo, Paige Murphy, Brianna Copeland, Kinsey Fiedler, India Wells, and many more.
Important Editor’s Note:
“I’ve listed both softball training shoes and cleats (rubber and metal.) In some states and leagues, metal cleats or even cleats aren’t allowed. So, before going for softball cleats, make sure to get this information from the authority or your coach.”
Best Slowpitch Softball Shoes and Cleats – At a Glance
Best Under Armour Slowpitch Softball Shoes
Under Armour is the underdog competitor of big whales like Nike. The company was established in 1996 by Kevin Plank. Back then, he was a teammate of the University of Maryland football team. So, it was easy for him to understand the pain points of athletes and deliver something to solve their issues.
Though started as a T-shirt brand, in 2006 the company stepped into footwear. At that time, they captured 23% of the total footwear company. They also became the official supplier of sports shoes for the National Football League.
And currently, even they’ve evolved much more than that. Whether you talk about baseball, soccer, or softball, Under Armour shoes get the first priority.
2 of their best slowpitch softball shoes are Glyde RM and Glyde ST. Let’s find out what made them my favorite.
Under Armour Glyde RM Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Glyde RM
- Size: 5-12
- Color: White+pink, white, black
- Cleats: Molded
- Gender: Women
Among UA’s 4 softball series shoes, the Glyde RM is the most selling one. The women’s dedicated craftsmanship makes these softball shoes light like sneakers, which is necessary for female softball players.
The inner fabric is completely breathable to promote airflow. As a result, you don’t stress out with excessive sweating and discomfort.
Its midfoot construction is built in a way so that you can enjoy a snug-fitting during harsh softball action. I also like the cushioning midsole, which provides good responsive support during movements like jumping, running, etc.
The Glyde RM is a good deal for ones who prefer softer heel pockets also. This provides extra comfort to your feet. Hence, there’s less risk of blisters when used for a prolonged time.
What actually makes the shoes long-lasting is the TPU toe cap. It protects the front area of the shoes from abrasions, and impacts and also keeps the structural integrity longer.
The sock liner is molded with its patented Ortholite design. It maintains the compression set for an extended period.
“For softball players, it’s important to maintain traction with the surface as they need to do a lot of quick actions.”
To ensure you get this support, it features rubber molded cleats. So, you’ll get super traction and don’t need to stress about metal cleats, which many athletes don’t feel comfortable with.
Benefits
- Lightweight and sneaker-like design.
- Breathable inner fabric for airflow support.
- Snug fitting and midfoot construction for stability.
- Cushioning midsole for responsive support.
- TPU toe cap for durability.
- Molded Ortholite sock liner for long-lasting comfort.
- Rubber molded cleats for traction without discomfort.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
Some people complained about its narrow cleats, which felt uncomfortable during the first trial. However, you’ll get used to it within 2-3 runs.
Under Armour Glyde ST Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Glyde ST
- Size: 5.5 to 12
- Color: White, black, red, midnight navy, blue
- Cleats: Metal
- Gender: Women
The Glyde ST is the second-best softball shoe from Under Armour. At a budget-friendly price, you can get these highly durable synthetic shoes to reshape your softball skills.
To ensure you play with this pair for a whole season, Under Armour added durable textile materials. And it’s comfortable too.
What makes it different from the RM series is its soft suede-like panels. The midfoot placement ensures your feet get sufficient airflow.
I also liked the cushioning around the tongue and heel area, which provides a plush step-in feel. You can feel the benefits especially when wearing them for a prolonged period.
Another good design trait is its plush sock liner. This molds perfectly to your feet, resulting in a snug-fitting experience. BTW, the sock liner area is also cushioned.
Sooner or later shoes abrade. And you’ll see the same in these shoes also. But to make it more resistible and long-lasting, the manufacturer added TPU film on the toe cap.
The key differentiation factor of this ST series is the metal cleats. This helps you get the required traction against grassy or muddy surfaces.
Benefits
- Highly durable synthetic and textile materials.
- Soft suede-like inner design provides sufficient airflow.
- Cushioning around the tongue and heel for a plush step-in feel.
- Sockliner fits perfectly to any foot shape.
- TPU film to enhance durability.
- Metal cleats provide enhanced traction on various surfaces.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
Some people complained the Under Armour cleats aren’t consistent with their sizes. So, I advise you to first consider the size list from the seller and then place your order.
Best Mizuno Slowpitch Softball Shoes
Mizuno is one of the oldest athletic equipment manufacturers with a heritage of 117 years. Though most of their first sports equipment was mainly for baseball players, now they’ve got an extensive list of products from running, softball, swimming, volleyball, golf, etc.
I’ve tried many of their baseball gloves, and bats and they were all up to the mark. Many of my softball trainees use Mizuno shoes. And according to their feedback, the 9-Spike Sweep and Finch are their best shoes for the price.
Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Sweep 3 Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Advanced Sweep 3
- Size: 4-13
- Color: White, gray+green, blue, red, black
- Cleats: Metal
- Gender: Women
The Mizuno Advanced Sweep 3 shoes consist of many features that are specifically beneficial to women softball players. But the key buying factor for many slowpitch players is its 9-Spike outsole.
This outsole configuration provides excellent traction and stability so that you can make quick movements on the field with confidence. The shoes also feature a full-length midsole to ensure maximum comfort.
A unique spec is the wave technology (basically it’s a unique pattern of cushioning) of the parallel outsole. With this support, you feel less impact while running, acting as a safeguard for your feet.
“Softball players frequently face high-impact situations that can put a strain on the toes. The toe protector gives you protection against these impacts. Besides, it also reduces the chance of wear and tear, increasing the lifespan of the shoes.”
Although many athletes praised the above factors. But during testing what I loved the most is its lightweight. It weighs only 2.8 grams or 10.1 oz. making it the most lightweight slowpitch shoe I’ve seen so far.
Benefits
- Spike outsole provides excellent traction and stability for quick movements.
- Full-length midsole ensures maximum comfort.
- Wave technology in the parallel outsole reduces movement shocks and protects the feet.
- Toe protector enhances durability, protecting against impacts and increasing shoe lifespan.
- Lightweight design at only 10.1 oz provides agility and reduces fatigue.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
Even though the price is pretty high, these shoes start to wear within the first 3 months. So, don’t expect them to last forever.
Mizuno 9-Spike Advanced Finch Elite 5 Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Advanced Finch Elite 5
- Size: 7-16
- Color: Navy-blue, Blue, Red, White, Black
- Cleats: Rubber Cleats
- Gender: Women
Who doesn’t love signature sports shoes? And if you’re looking for something to show off on the ground, you must try this Advanced Finch Elite 5 cleat. The cleat is the signature model of legendary softball player, Jennie Finch.
The main reason it caught my attention is its translucent I-shaped TPU studs. It provides the maximum traction on the muddy softball fields unlike any of the competitors. Because of that you get the utmost stability and make quick and precise leg movements.
It features Mizuno’s C-Flex outsole. The rib design also supports and enhances stability and flexibility at the same time. Whether you’re in the professional league or just starting out, you’re gonna love the experience of this pair of shoes.
Another reason to pick this for this best slowpitch softball shoe review is its lightweight nature. When wearing and running with these shoes, you’ll feel like walking on the clouds.
Aside from that, I should also appreciate the material quality, which seemed to be durable to me. Though there’s no information about the built material, I think these are pretty high-quality synthetic and breathable fabrics that can resist harsh torture.
Benefits
- Designed with input from softball legend Jennie Finch.
- I-shaped TPU studs to increase the traction ability on different surfaces.
- C-Flex outsole for extraordinary flexibility and stable movements.
- Lightweight and comfortable design to decrease stress on the feet.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
A few customers raised concerns about the inconsistent sizing of the shoes. So, try to talk to the manufacturer about whether you prefer EU or USA sizes. The high price is also a concern, especially for beginners.
Best New Balance Slowpitch Softball Shoes
New Balance, the 117 years old company is a well-known name in the baseball shoe industry. And now it has become one of the favorite names of softball players also.
The American footwear manufacturing company has several shoes for softball players under the Velo series.
After inspecting a few softball teams in Texas, I found many prefer the Foam Velo V3 and the Fuse V2. Let’s check out what makes them a frequent choice by professional softball players.
New Balance Fresh Foam Velo V3 Turf-Trainer Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Velo V3 Turf
- Size: 5-13 wide
- Color: White and red
- Cleats: No
- Gender: Women
To make women-friendly shoes, New Balance added incomparably comfortable and flexible shoes. Among them, this Velo V3 turf is their most selling and iconic model. If you’re looking for something for training, this turf pair deserves your attention.
The softball turf features midsole cushioning (precision engineering) to provide a very satisfying ride. I’m not sure about the midsole material exactly but this is quite lightweight.
“One of the trainees, Sarah, from Texas Longhorns softball said to me that she used to wear the V2. According to her, they’ve improved the sole quality in version 3 compared to the previous series.”
Because of the internal cushioning, the shock absorption capability has also been raised in this model. And it’s inevitable to mention the trait along with the lightweight design helps players keep agility and reduce fatigue.
Also, to maintain a fresh airflow during long hours of gameplay, New Balance added an athletic breathable mesh upper – a true mark of excellence to ensure healthy feet and durability.
You can’t expect these turf shoes to provide similar traction to cleats but they also provide good traction to the ground, especially on the artificial fields. Maybe that’s why, NB featured it for trainees.
The TPU heel clip is also a good spec in these softball training shoes. It gives you additional support and stability to the heel area while ensuring a locked-in feel.
Benefits
- Foam midsoles provide a comfortable experience.
- Lightweight craftsmanship for ensuring agility and decreasing fatigue during gameplay.
- A breathable and durable mesh upper offers optimal comfort.
- Premium turf outsole has good traction on artificial grounds
- TPU heel clip to enhance stability and support
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
Without the limited color option and a high price tag, I didn’t find any notable drawbacks to this turf pair.
New Balance Fuse V2 Metal Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Fuse V2
- Size: 5-13 wide
- Color: Royal blue, black, white, gray, red, navy blue
- Cleats: Metal
- Gender: Women
I know that although there are some drawbacks of metal cleats, many softball players love them over turf shoes. So, if you love the New Balance but are seeking a metal cleat, this Fuse V2 is just made for you.
Though I didn’t get the chance to test them personally, I found it has established itself as one of the best choices for women slowpitch softball players. The softball shoes got a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 500 softball players on Amazon.
The key selling factor of these softball metal cleats is the Lace Cage. It allows you to tuck your laces away (a very deep thought from the designers.) I especially liked this feature as I don’t like lacing my shoes every day. However, I know the goods.
So, there’s no pain in the head to end up with tangled or snagged shoes in the middle of drilling your skills or a real game.
The Revlite midsole in these shoes is a combination of balance and responsiveness. It absorbs impact during intense movements and provides a responsive feel. Hence, you can enhance overall performance.
The closure system of the Fuse V2 provides a snug fit. This feature is crucial to prevent slippage or discomfort during dynamic movements. So, you always have control and confidence in your footwork.
Benefits
- High rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 500 softball players.
- Lace Cage feature keeps laces tucked away for a clean look and prevents tangling.
- Long-lasting and comfortable nubuck upper delivers support during quick actions.
- Revlite midsole provides proper balance and responsiveness.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
According to some customers, there are dissimilarities in sizes in different colors. However, I talked to New Balance’s officials, regarding this issue. And they told me that it was a logistical fault.
Best Adidas Slowpitch Softball Shoes
Softball America’s Kayla Lombardo, Paige Murphy (Eastern Kentucky), Brianna Copeland (Indiana University Athletics), Kinsey Fiedler (University of Washington Athletics), and India Wells (Grambling State) – they all prefer using Adidas softball shoes.
Along with them more than 250 state-level softball players also use Adidas. If summing up their preferences, most of them actually use Adidas Purehusltle and Fv9038 series.
Adidas Purehustle 2 MD Women’s Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: Purehustle 2
- Size: 5-13
- Color: Black and white
- Cleats: Molded rubber cleats
- Gender: Women
Under the $60 budget range, the Adidas Purehustle 2 MD is considered one of the best slowpitch softball shoes for women players.
The standout feature of these shoes is their 9-Spike outsole, which provides excellent grip and stability on real and artificial ground.
If talking about its construction quality, the shoes are built with synthetic upper, which offers durability. Besides, it’s also lightweight.
Many women softball and baseball players liked this pair of shoes because of the mesh tongue. It enhances breathability, preventing excessive sweating and discomfort.
Without that, the lace closure also has a good design though. It ensures you get a snug fit, allowing for better control and agility while playing.
Players who’re addicted to cleats but aren’t looking for alternatives to metal should try this out. Unlike metal cleats, these shoes feature rubber molded cleats.
With the support, the outsole delivers reliable traction, enabling quick movements and confident play. Even for indoor training, you can choose this shoe as they don’t make much scratch noise.
Lastly, the shoes are praised for their comfortable fit and true-to-size dimensions. Hopefully, you won’t have any serious issues with the size.
Benefits
- Lightweight synthetic upper offers durability.
- Mesh tongue to ensure enough breathability for long hours.
- Lace closure gives a secure fit.
- Molded rubber cleat outsole delivers reliable traction.
- Comfortable fit and true-to-size dimensions.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
However, some players found the upper tends to wear faster than expected. I think that’s due to outdated stock as after a certain time the material quality falls and it’s normal.
If you find any issue, please contact the seller, they’ll replace it if you’re within the warranty period.
Adidas Women’s FV9038 Softball Shoe
Highlighted Features
- Model: FV9038
- Size: 5-13
- Color: White
- Cleats: Metal
- Gender: Women
If you’ve got a slightly higher budget and don’t have an allergy to white cleats, try this Adidas FV9038. And for this higher spending, you’ll get premium quality softball shoes, which don’t have many complaints from the existing customers.
Adidas has used 100% synthetic materials in its construction. You don’t have to wear them, you can feel the premiumness of the fabric just by touching them. It’s a true milestone of durability.
Just like the upper mesh fabric, the lower part of the shoes is also impressive. For instance, the cleats on the rubber sole provide excellent traction so that players can avoid slipping while playing.
“This is particularly important in softball, where players need to sprint, pivot, and change directions rapidly.”
According to other customer’s reviews, the shoes generally fit well. But one of them mentioned that the shoes were a little tight, however, he also mentioned having wide feet.
Lastly, if it comes to the design aspect, the softball cleat is available in a classic white-silver color option. Though many players prefer colorful picks, they’ll match any color of the uniform.
Benefits
- Suitable for female softball and baseball players.
- Built with 100% synthetic materials for extra long-lasting service.
- Synchronized cleat placements for good traction and stability.
- All size options are available.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
Lack of color options may become a reason to avoid buying these very good quality softball shoes.
Best Nike Slowpitch Softball Shoes
Though most think Nike shoes are expensive, in softball, the scene is a bit different, Their softball shoes price starts from $40. However, I’m not a fan of budget gigs, if there’s a quality I don’t resist spending more.
Following my nature, the best softball shoes from Nike are Hyperdiamond 4 Pro and Elite. Basically, both are made for professional-level softball players who want reliable shoes for training and matches.
Nike Hyperdiamond 4 Pro Molded Women’s Softball Cleats
Highlighted Features
- Model: Hyperdiamond 4 Pro
- Size: 5-11
- Color: Gray, black, red, blue, white, etc. combination
- Cleats: Rubber molded
- Gender: Women
Hyperdiamond 4 Pro is Nike’s most expensive series of rubber cleats and these are also the most popular ones. The softball cleats are committed to last several seasons, no matter how harsh you go on the field.
I gave these softball shoes to my daughter last June. She’s still using it without any issues. Moreover, she loved the comfort.
The upper is made of leather with several molded designs also. Because of that, it tends to last longer. However, it also makes the cleat a bit heavy.
Additionally, with the support of the thick heel counter, you can prevent excessive damage to the shoe, ensuring they remain in good condition for a longer time.
As softball batters need to get more traction during baserunning, this rubber cleat can be a lifesaver. You won’t experience unnecessary slipping while running with these shoes.
Besides, because of the advanced traction support, you can generate the force easily while preparing for a ride.
By spending on these Nike softball shoes, you’re investing in the environment also. They added environmentally-friendly materials to the design. For example, The rubber outsole is made of Nike’s grind material, which contains recycled contents.
Benefits
- Excellent traction on the field, allowing for quick movements between bases.
- Durable leather with molded designs for longevity.
- A thick heel counter prevents excessive damage to the shoe.
- Environmentally-friendly rubber outsole with Nike Grind material.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
These cleats have many positive aspects, but there is a notable drawback also. The pair is a bit heavy compared to other rubber cleats.
Nike Hyperdiamond 4 Elite Women’s Softball Cleats
Highlighted Features
- Model: Hyperdiamond 4 Elite
- Size: 5.5-12
- Color: Photon dust, black, white, red, blue, gray
- Cleats: Metal
- Gender: Women
It’s time to wrap up this best slowpitch softball review. From the design perspective, this is the most elegant series of softball cleats, especially the Photon Dust color. It’s one in a thousand softball cleats that catches everyone’s attention.
Just imagine entering the field, your teammates are looking at your shoes, asking where the hack you got this beauty from!
It’s not only about the design but also the shoes come with several beneficial features for softball players.
One of them is the comfort they provide. It features React cushioning technology that helps to keep the feet comfortable throughout the game.
Durability is another strong point. Unlike the Pro series, this one features Nike Drag-On material used on the forefoot. It makes the shoes both lightweight and tough.
“Softball involves sliding into bases and diving for catches, and the cleat is the perfect companion to withstand these actions without wearing out quickly.”
While most softball cleats I mentioned earlier have 9 cleats, the Elite shoes have 8 angular cleats. At first, you may feel like wearing something new, especially if you’re used to wearing 9 spikes. But within a few runs, you’ll become comfortable.
Benefits
- Provides comfort with React cushioning technology.
- Durable Nike Drag-On material for longevity.
- Delivers required traction with 8 angular cleats.
- Suggested for its snug fitting and lightweight design.
Things to Consider Before Placing an Order
The shape isn’t suitable for wide feet owners. So, I strongly suggest not purchasing it if you’ve got the same characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wear cleats in slow-pitch softball?
In slow-pitch softball, it’s suggested to wear gym or running shoes. Also, rubber training shoes and molded plastic or rubber soccer-type cleats are allowed. In some leagues, metal cleats aren’t allowed.
Can you wear metal spikes in slow-pitch softball?
It completely depends on the league you’re playing in. In some leagues, metal cleats are permissible and therefore, you’ll see the players are frequently using them. They provided advanced traction support to the players. However, if your league doesn’t allow metal cleats, go for plastic or rubber cleats instead.
Are trail shoes good for softball?
Many softball players are confused about trail shoes. However, this can be used if you’re rumbling on grassy or muddy fields. Also, go for them if your league doesn’t allow metal cleats. BTW, they are more comfortable compared to metal cleats. But you won’t feel the same level of traction.
How to choose softball shoes?
Choosing the right softball shoes is more about preference than right or wrong. As a general guide, you can follow the below tips:
- Ensure that your toes have less than a ¼ inches distance from the end of the cleat,
- The heel area should have a secure fit.
- For players with “Between the sizes” feet, opt for the size that provides a snug fit.
- Prioritize comfort as the most important factor when selecting softball shoes.
- Look for shoes with reinforced toe caps and ankle support if needed.
- Having good ventilation enables keeping your feet cool and dry during the game. Go for shoes with breathable materials and mesh panels.
Wrapping Up
If sum up, the best slowpitch softball shoes should have long-lasting upper mesh, good traction supportive sole, breathable upper area, and well-designed midsole for maintaining balance.
Keeping these fundamental characteristics in mind will help you find the right softball shoes from the most precisely selected options I shared above. Good luck!
Want to learn more about softball and baseball shoes or cleats? Check out the below:
Can You Use Metal Cleats In High School Baseball | All Facts You Must Know!
Molded Cleats vs Turf Shoes | Which One Do You Need?
5 Best Cleats For Pitchers | Take your Game to the Next Level
Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.
I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.