cleats

A cleat is a type of shoe or boot equipped with protrusions, or studs, on the outsole to provide traction on soft or uneven playing surfaces. Cleats are used in a variety of field sports, including association football (soccer), American football, rugby, and baseball, as well as in golf footwear. The studs help players accelerate, decelerate, and change direction while reducing the risk of slipping.

Cleat designs differ by sport and surface. The main categories are molded (or integrated) studs, screw-in studs, and turf shoes. Molded cleats have fixed studs and are common on firm natural grass or artificial turf. Screw-in cleats use replaceable studs of metal or plastic, allowing players to tailor length and pattern to field conditions—longer studs for soft ground, shorter studs for firm ground or artificial surfaces. Turf shoes have many small rubber studs to provide stability on artificial turf without penetrating the surface.

Stud patterns vary: conical studs provide rotational mobility, while bladed studs offer more resistance to slipping during quick direction changes. Cleat materials range from leather or synthetic uppers to lightweight midsoles; the outsole and studs are typically rubber, plastic, or a combination.

Care and safety: select the appropriate surface for the studs; check and replace worn studs, especially on screw-in designs; clean debris after use to prevent deterioration; ensure a proper fit to prevent blisters and improve traction. Regulations on stud length and type are set by leagues and governing bodies and may affect equipment choices.

History: early football boots in the 19th century featured simple nailed studs; modern cleats evolved with standardized stud systems and performance materials. Today, cleats are designed to balance traction, weight, and comfort across different surfaces and sports.