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Lacrosse Cleats vs. Soccer Cleats: What's the Difference?
For athletes stepping onto the field, having the right equipment is important for both performance and safety. Both lacrosse and soccer demand agility, speed, and traction, but there are key details that set the two types of cleats apart. Our Footwear Experts highlight the features of lacrosse and soccer cleats as well as explain the main differences so you can find the right pair that meets your needs for the upcoming season.
About Lacrosse Cleats
Lacrosse cleats are built for multi-directional movement, stability, and lateral agility. They combine features of soccer cleats for speed and football cleats for physical play, making them ideal for fast-paced games with cutting and pivoting.
Key Highlights of Lacrosse Cleats:
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Stud Length: Slightly longer for better grip during sharp cuts and pivots
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Stud Pattern: Optimized for lateral movements and quick pivots
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Upper: Mostly low-cut styles for ankle mobility and flexible materials
Related Expert Content: How to Choose Lacrosse Cleats >
About Soccer Cleats
Soccer cleats focus on speed, acceleration, precise ball control, and footwork. Lightweight and responsive, they help players make sharp cuts, maintain traction, and strike the ball cleanly.
Key Highlights of Soccer Cleats:
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Stud Length: Shorter for better ground feel and precise ball control
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Stud Pattern: Conical or bladed studs for quick acceleration and multi-directional grip
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Upper: Lightweight materials designed to enhance touch and ball control
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Upper Cut: Nearly always low-cut for ankle mobility
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Toe Shape: Rounded or slightly pointed for cleaner strikes and improved precision
Related Expert Content: How to Choose Soccer Cleats > | Best Soccer Cleats >
Key Differences Between Lacrosse & Soccer Cleats
Although lacrosse and soccer share similar movement patterns—quick cuts, fast acceleration, and constant direction changes—the cleats designed for each sport serve different performance needs. Our Footwear Experts highlight the differences below as well as commonly asked questions from our customers.
Feature | Lacrosse | Soccer |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Built for quick cuts, multi-directional movement & mobility | Built for continuous movement, acceleration & precise footwork |
| Weight | Lightweight | Ultra-lightweight |
| Cut | Mostly low-cut | Mostly low-cut |
| Cushioning | Mid | Minimal |
| Stud Length | Slightly longer | Shorter |
Although lacrosse and soccer cleats share similarities—like low-cut designs and lightweight construction—key differences in stud length, traction, upper technology, and performance focus make each pair sport-specific. If you have additional questions about preparing for the upcoming sports season, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.