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Playing as lineman is one of the most difficult and injury-prone positions in football. Whether you’re on the offensive or defensive, you’ve got to give and take as much hits as necessary to ensure your team doesn’t lose the game.
However, you can be quite disadvantaged if you’re not on the right pair of football cleats. You’re certainly going to slip or lose your footing to the detriment of your health and your team victory. To perform well, you need strong footing and better ankle protection. And so, in this article, we’ll be showing you the 10 best football cleats for linemen. One pair from this list is enough to give you better performance. Let’s go!
Best Football Cleats for Linemen
1. Adidas Performance Men’s Crazyquick 2.0 Mid Football Cleat
Another satisfying product on this list of best football cleat for linemen is the Adidas Performance Crazyquick 2.0. It is a medium-sized football cleat that, due to its design, always receives positive reviews from its users especially from linemen. It is known to help any lineman improve his athletic performance on the field
This particular pair of football cleats is designed to allow users to sprint from one end-zone to another via its top-of-the-line features. One of which is the Tech-fit construction that allows you to enjoy a locked-down fit. It is also noticeable that this cleat helps users make quick cuts and breakthrough its quick studs.
A unique thing about this cleat is that it prioritizes the user’s security. So you can enjoy additional protection on your ankles. This is provided by its durable and foot-hug construction.
PROS
- Provides a locked-down fit with its Tech-fit build
- Helps with quick cuts and breaks
- Prioritize your safety
- Features a web-locking system to prevent loosening of your laces
- Can handle multiple turfs
CONS
- Not suitable for people with wide feet, as it is narrow
If you’re worried about your laces getting undone during gameplay, then this cleat has you covered. It includes a web-lock system designed to provide security to lock the laces in place removing the risk of getting undone at any time. This eliminates the need to worry about the tendency to be distracted during game time.
2. Adidas Men’s Freak X Carbon Mid Football Cleat
If you’re a lineman, then heel and ankle support should your top priority when searching for a good cleat as this will help you in pushing the opposing team with the highest amount of force possible. Fortunately, there is the Adidas Freak X Carbon Mid football cleat that makes this possible.
This Adidas cleat is a great choice because of its awesome heel and ankle support. It also has the necessary grip to make sure you can wrestle without slipping backwards. We are pleased with the extra support its heel cup offers especially when pushing.
Rest assured, this cleat can offer you the highest level of stability. Courtesy of its extended collar, you can move faster and more stable. Its carbon footprint makes it a good fit every time you plan quick stops and turns.
PROS
- Improves stability with the help of its extended collar
- Strong and durable construction
- Provides maximum heel and ankle support
- Has a good grip which prevents users from slipping backwards
- Comfortable which prevents your feet from being injured while playing
CONS
- Not quite affordable
This product has a strong and durable construction. It’s tough enough to survive at least one season. You will also notice more holes as you approach the tongue, which is why it has a wide range of tightness across the feet. It ensures that your feet won’t hurt while playing the game due to the comfortable material used to construct its inside.
3. Under Armour Men’s Hammer Mid RM Football Cleat
Under Armour lineman cleats, specifically, the Hammer Mid RM model should also be at the top of your options. This cleat is made mainly of synthetic material. Its unique and distinctive look is quite amusing. We are pleased to say that it can provide football players with rigid support.
An amazing benefit of this cleat is that it fits the user’s feet naturally. This is because of its die-cut EVA insole, which is also durable and sturdy. It is also designed to give additional traction irrespective of the surface on which it is used. We think it’s because of the built-in molded rubber.
With the thickness of this cleat and its flat edge, you can certainly achieve a more complete contact seal when in contact with the ground. You can further improve your traction in all directions and angles. This is key to an excellent performance on the field.
PROS
- Synthetic material construction for a sturdy and unique look
- Create a firm and more stable ground contact
- Improves traction regardless of direction and angles
- Offers a supportive and lightweight fit
- Comfortable and easy to break-in
CONS
- A bit tight on the sides
A big advantage of the Under Armour Men’s Hammer Mid RM Football Cleat is its synthetic upper because it gives you a supportive and lightweight fit. It is lightweight without sacrificing durability and ankle support. It also fits players with flat feet. This versatile pair of football cleats is one of the most comfortable football cleats you can find today. Plus, it’s easy to break-in.
4. Under Armor Men’s UA Highlight MC Football Cleat
This Under Armour Highlight MC Cleat coming in as the last cleat on our list of best football cleat for linemen is built to impress. We can confirm the brilliant performance of this cleat because we noticed its effectiveness and properties first-hand.
Under Armor used the ClutchFit technology in this product, which is a great advantage because this cleat wraps around the top of your feet effectively. This allows you to feel almost barefoot while running, so you can enjoy the highest level of comfort on the field.
This pair of football cleats offers a good level of stability courtesy of the Plasma-X plate and its mid-cut design. In terms of style and support, this cleat is quite satisfying. It’s stylish and supportive, so you feel protected on the field and have the confidence that you look good.
You can also choose between the different sizes and combinations of style and color. Another thing that caught our attention was the incredible comfort this cleat offers. Such a high level of comfort can be attributed to the built-in 3D molded tongue. You can also feel the extra protection its 4D insole offers.
PROS
- Good stability
- Maximize your comfort with the aid of its ClutchFit technology.
- Various sizes, styles, and colors are available.
- Reduces foot pressure with the aid of its 4D insole
- Lightweight while providing maximum protection and support
CONS
- Not compatible for players with wide feet
This type of insole reduces the pressure that the feet receive. In addition, it is lightweight while providing the highest level of protection and support a lineman desperately needs. Check out here for the nicest football cleats.
5. Nike Men’s Lunarbeast Pro TD Football Cleat
Topping our list of best football cleat for linemen is one of the most popular football cleats from the reputable Nike brand which is the Lunarbeast Pro TD. We realized how effective it is for linemen, and it’s not only designed with the highest quality of Nike material but also uses NIKESKIN material inside the cleat.
This refers to the skin material developed and patented by Nike. This material is intended to improve the ability of the cleat to protect football players from hard knocks. This cleat, which is primarily made of high quality and durable synthetic proves to be tough. Plus, it’s sold in black and white colorway which has a compelling appearance.
We are also completely pleased with the mid-foot foot stamina guaranteed by this cleat, which can be associated with the built-in hook-and-loop wide enough for your comfort. It’s also one of those cleats that provide both support and protection for your ankles. It’s because this pair of cleats is constructed with a half-height collar that naturally encloses your ankle.
PROS
- Protects against hard impacts thanks to the use of patented NIKESKIN
- Tough and good-looking
- Designed to offer mid-foot stability
- Can also be used during the rainy season
- Ensures that users have a good grip on turf and natural grass
CONS
- The size could be quite off sometimes
Additionally, a more responsive cushioning is what you can expect from its three-quarters long Phylon wedge. Its overall durability is quite satisfying, and this cleat lasts longer than a few seasons.
6. Nike Men’s Lunarbeast Elite Football Cleat
Another pair of cleats on the market you should research and check out is the Nike Lunarbeast Elite. We are sure Nike can give you the quality and durability you expect from a football cleat. Yet this pair is specially made for the linemen position.
It comes with a combination of an extended collar and a strap, which is a very smart thing as it helps tighten the cleat to your feet. This will give you the amount of support you need when dealing with other players on the field.
Another great feature designed and built into this cleat is the unique Flywire material used for its exterior. We find it helpful as it increases your stability especially when running. Note that your stability is very important if you are a lineman. So you will certainly enjoy this advantage.
PROS
- Ideal for basically linemen but can be used by other positions as well
- Locks down on your feet
- Comfortable with the help of its cushioning
- Provides sturdy and lightweight support, especially for the ankle.
- Versatile
CONS
- Wearing it is sometimes difficult, especially at the beginning.
We cannot deny how durable this cleat is. It can pass the test of time and harsh weather conditions in specific types of fields . We are also glad that this Nike cleat does not disregard user comfort. The Lunerlon material is used for its midsole, which is known to provide incredible cushioning.
7. Nike Men’s Alpha Strike 2 Three-Quarter Football Cleat
The fourth football cleat on our list for linemen is the Nike Alpha Strike 2 Three-Quarter cleat. One thing that makes it all the more impressive in our opinion is its affordability along with its high quality and rugged construction.
It looks more traditional and is available in many colors. This makes it suitable for linemen and other football players who prefer a rather old-fashioned design. Another favorable advantage is the fact that it’s easy to wear and pull off.
The outer material of this football cleat is made of durable synthetic leather. Although Nike gives priority to cleat durability, it still ensures the output is lightweight. We’re sure that this cleat does not affect your movements negatively.
PROS
- Affordable yet durable
- Lots of color options
- Lightweight, so you can move easily and change your direction
- Comfortable, as it has a soft and nice interior lining
- Easy to wear and pull off
CONS
- Support for arch and ankle is a bit lacking
Also, the Under Armour Men’s Hammer Mid RM Football Cleat has fantastic traction achieved through the use of a seven-spike cleat system. It works great and offers a sung fit on your feet.
8. Nike Men’s Alpha Menace Pro Mid Football Cleat
If you’re looking for versatility, the Alpha Menace Pro Mid Cleat by Nike will not disappoint. It has an innovative design that also makes it a versatile cleat. We think its versatility is reflected by its ability to handle different playing fields and sports.
It’s very lightweight and retains its strength, durability, and modern appearance. We’re sure it will do its job on the field with its low-profile and breathable materials. It’s a single-layer mesh with mid-foot overlay designed to keep the cleat as breathable as possible and provide user support.
We are also pleased with the inner-sleeve construction of this cleat as it provides a tight user lock-down. With this, we can say that it makes the fit safer and more comfortable. Also, in terms of impact protection, this cleat works well because of its built-in Phylon heel. It also offers extra support through your arch because of its mid-foot EVA shank.
PROS
- Versatile and innovative
- Looks cool and sharp
- Provides the right amount of grip and traction
- Comes with low-profile cushioning for comfort
- Highly breathable and elements. It has an impressive grip and traction, and it is also light.
CONS
- It is a narrow cleat
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Read Alpha Meance Pro Mid Full Review
This cleat’s inner-sleeve construction is effective in locking the foot over a spike. With that, we can say that it can make the fit more comfortable, secure, and snug. Another positive quality of this cleat is its impressive grip and traction which is made possible with its removable spikes.
9. Nike Men’s Alpha Field General Elite Camo Football Cleat
If you’re looking for a cleat that maximizes your speed and agility as a lineman, you won’t regret using the Nike Alpha Field General Elite Camo Cleat. It’s perfect for you as a lineman because you need a cleat that suits your needs and makes you have full control over the direction of the game.
The Nike Men’s Alpha Field General Elite Camo Football Cleat is a well-designed pair of football cleats that boasts rugged and sturdy construction. It is properly constructed thanks to the use of strong and solid mesh material. The amount of ventilation present in this cleat is quite satisfying. We can attribute this advantage to the crosshatch webbing used in it.
It works just as well as the most reliable and high-quality cleats on the market today. If you like style without compromising performance, then this Nike cleat will certainly work for you. Another benefit of this cleat is that you always have full control over your ability to turn and balance. You can also dig deep into the grass to make sure you have no trouble releasing your hold quickly.
PROS
- Has a cool and stylish look
- Well ventilated, strong and durable
- Gives you complete control over your ability to turn and balance.
- Provides a more dynamic fit with the aid of its crosshatch webbing
- Can maximize your speed and agility
CONS
- A little tighter compare to what most players prefer
The upper part of this cleat has a crosshatch webbing which helps you enjoy a more dynamic fit. In addition, it guarantees potential users of a more responsive snap.
10. Nike Vapor Shark 2 Men’s Football Cleat
For well-experienced linemen, Nike Vapor Shark 2 is one of the best cleats. This is a great product from a trusted brand, designed to meet the pressures and challenges of playing football. This means that this pair is sturdy, light, and responsive.
We are pleased to say that this cleat is made with synthetic materials and is available in different colors and styles. Thus, this pair provides you with a wide range of choices that meets your preference and allowing you to choose one that is perfectly compatible with your team jersey or personality.
It is also breathable, which offers great help in allowing you to stay cool and avoid odors. In terms of comfort, we can say that this cleat is a winner because of its rubber sole and well-cushioned collar. We also like its exact fit that is achieved with the use of a standard lacing system.
PROS
- Aids easy movement
- Quite affordable.
- Very breathable and adapts well to your feet
- Tough and durable construction for harsh weather condition and rough play
CONS
- Not much ankle protection
The Nike Vapor Shark 2 Men’s Football Cleat also features a moulded foam design and a padded midsole, which makes it capable of providing additional cushion to your feet. It boasts of a fast-Flex technology that allows for easy movement.
PRODUCT
PRODUCT DETAILS
- Provides a locked-down fit with its Tech-fit build
- Helps with quick cuts and breaks
- Prioritize your safety
- Features a web-locking system to prevent loosening of your laces
- Can handle multiple turfs
- Improves stability with the help of its extended collar
- Strong and durable construction
- Provides maximum heel and ankle support
- Has a good grip which prevents users from slipping backwards
- Comfortable which prevents your feet from being injured while playing
- Synthetic material construction for a sturdy and unique look
- Create a firm and more stable ground contact
- Improves traction regardless of direction and angles
- Offers a supportive and lightweight fit
- Comfortable and easy to break-in
- Good stability
- Maximize your comfort with the aid of its ClutchFit technology.
- Various sizes, styles, and colors are available.
- Reduces foot pressure with the aid of its 4D insole
- Lightweight while providing maximum protection and support
- Protects against hard impacts thanks to the use of patented NIKESKIN
- Tough and good-looking
- Designed to offer mid-foot stability
- Can also be used during the rainy season
- Ensures that users have a good grip on turf and natural grass
Buyer’s Guide – What To Consider When Buying Football Cleats For Linemen
#1. TYPES OF FOOTBALL CLEATS FOR LINEMEN
There are three major types of football cleats for lineman that you should consider–low-cut, mid-cut, and high-cut. Each of them have features that distinguish them from one another, as we’ll discuss below.
Low-cut
Low-cut cleats are light-weighted cleats with great maneuverability, speed and agility. It offers poor protection against injury, but offers heightened performance for linemen and running backs.
It’s safe to say that low-cut cleats offer less protection compared to middle and high cut cleats. This is because the low cut type ends just below the ankle, which somewhat lacks ankle support. Nevertheless, it still works for the support needed by most linemen.
Mid-cut
Mid-cut cleats are designed to provide players’ ankles a higher level of protection. An advantage is that it remains fairly lightweight despite the broad protection it offers. With regards to its design, you will notice that it ends above the ankle. Its main purpose is to find the right compromise and the right balance between mobility and protection. It works not only for linemen but is also a great quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs cleat.
High-cut
The High-cut cleats offer the most stability and protection for linemen. This style ends well above your ankle and is usually built with solid and tough materials. Many linemen prefer the use of high-cut cleat due to its full ankle protection for lateral movements. It is, therefore, one of the best types of football cleats with ankle support.
Apart from the low-cut, mid-cut, and high-cut styles, you may also want to try the molded and detachable football cleat. The detachable football cleat has hard spikes that are usually made of plastic or metal that are bolted to its bottom. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for good traction, irrespective of the field condition.
#2. HEIGHT AND FIT
The height of a cleat determines how much ankle support and protection it can give. The fit is directly proportional to the comfort you’d gain from the cleat. That’s why you shouldn’t overlook these two factors when making a buying decision. If possible, choose the high-cut type because it offers maximum ankle protective coverage. It can provide complete protection against strain and twists.
Also, remember that you also need to wear thick socks. Take this into account before deciding on size. In addition, you can check the weight, spike length, and the lacing system used in this cleat. Find out if you prefer detachable or molded cleats.
#3. MATERIALS
The materials used to produce a cleat goes a long way to determine how durable the cleat will be. Some materials are weak they rip off at the slightest collision with an opponent. Such materials will certainly expose your ankles and entire feet to possible injury. Remember that you need the best cleats for a defensive end, especially if you play the defensive or offensive lineman position considering how difficult it is. Your choice should be able to increase your strength to repel your opponents.
The materials also need to be tough enough to handle abuse and beatings in the field. Search for a cleat with strong build quality. You should not sacrifice the quality of the materials at a low price. Look for the most reliable cleat manufacturers who value the use of high-quality solid materials.
If you decide to use the hard molded cleat, make sure it’s made of high quality, hardened synthetic. If you choose a detachable spike cleat, be aware that it is made to be replaceable. This means you can change it if necessary based on field conditions. In this case, you need cleats made of materials that can provide much stronger traction. The choice of a cleat made of thick material is also an advantage. The leather material should serve as foot protection.
#4. THE FOOTBALL FIELD
There are three major types of football field surfaces, natural grass, artificial turf, and hybrid. Each of these fields have different kinds of cleats they are best suited for. For instance, artificial turf may need a pair of cleats with short studs that are made from rubber or plastic. Anything other than this may pose a serious mobility challenge for you.
Players on natural grass, however, face a different form of challenge, ranging from swampy pitch to extraordinarily hard ones. The condition of the pitch will definitely affect how much traction you can gain. It’s advisable you purchase cleats with detachable studs. That way, you can always replace the studs with something befitting, depending on the state of the field on game day.
But then, a muddy field would need little longer studs so your feet can dig in and dig out without getting your cleats stuck. Players on hybrid field surfaces may also borrow a leaf from those on natural grass.
#5. DURABILITY
A durable pair of cleats will save you a fortune and give you a good return in your investment. You need to evaluate this factor before buying a pair of cleats. The upper refers to the specific section of the cleat that is directly above your feet. In most cases, this section is made of synthetic material or leather. Some linemen prefer the leather material for the upper because it offers superior flexibility and durability while maintaining comfort. The problem is that it is heavier and not quite affordable compared to synthetics.
On the other hand, synthetic material is often an affordable choice, although it is less breathable and durable compared to leather. If you are a lineman, then you should opt for the more durable option, which is leather. This can ensure complete protection on the field.
#6. WEIGHT AND PROTECTION
The weight of cleats is determined by the materials they are made of as well as the type of cleats. For instance, high-cut are usually heavier than mid-cut and low-cut. Moreover, it also provides you with more protection than others.
However, this does not mean that you cannot choose to invest in a high-cut with a more manageable weight. Nowadays, you will find modern high-cuts that are light enough, which ensures complete durability and protection. If possible, choose these cleats as they accelerate faster, allowing you to surprise your opponents with your performance. But make sure that there is a good compromise between protection and weight.
For superior protection here are other football protective equipment and linemen gears to look into: the best football helmets, shoulder pads, football girdle, backplate, and linemen gloves.
#7. COMFORT
If you choose the high-cut option, make sure that it doesn’t scrub your Achilles tendon. This can lead to potential injuries that can damage your ankle movement. The cleat you choose should not be too tight, and it has to be comfortable. If you feel that your feet and toes are cramped, consider a larger size. Another feature that allows you to determine if the cleat fits well is if it is flexible enough and when it lets you turn quickly and run naturally. You should also be able to cover long distances without the risk of blisters.
Frequently Asked Questions
CAN A LINEMAN WEAR LOW-CUT CLEATS?
Yes, a lineman can wear low-cut cleats but most footballers and experienced football players recommend using either the medium or the high-cut cleat. This is because the low-cut cleat offers less ankle protection than the two. Remember that as a lineman, you need excellent support for the ankle.[1]
This is critical in protecting and stabilizing your ankle. Thereby avoiding unnecessary movement during every workout and game. It should also be supportive and fit perfectly.
WHAT MAKES A FOOTBALL CLEAT DIFFERENT FROM A SOCCER CLEAT?
The three major differences between football cleats and soccer cleats are the protrusion, thickness and height. Football cleats use a longer protrusion than those of soccer. Secondly, football cleats are usually thicker. The extra thickness is to protect the football players against collisions due to the rough nature of the game.
Thirdly, most cleats used for soccer are only available in low-cut and mid-cut. It’s not common to see a soccer player wearing high-cut cleats. Beyond these difference, both cleats are just the same and they have spikes at the bottom.[2]
HOW TO MAINTAIN THE STUDS OF A LINEMAN CLEAT?
You can maintain and prolong the life of your cleat studs by not wearing your cleats on the wrong surface. As a rule of thumb, pull off your cleats when a football game is over. Wearing it on hard surfaces, such as concrete, paving stones, and walkways could damage the studs. This gets worse if they are made of plastic or rubber.
Also, each time you pull off the cleats, ensure you hit the soles together to remove any dirt and grass that must have clung to the studs.
HOW TO CLEAN A LINEMAN CLEAT?
You can cleat a pair of cleats using an old toothbrush and solution of water and laundry detergent. First, dust off the excess grass, mud, and dirt by clapping the soles of the cleats together. Get an old toothbrush (or new one, as long as you’re no longer using it for your mouth), and use it to dry scrub the cleat. The aim is to remove as much leftover dirt as possible, while paying keen attention to the studs.[3]
For the actual cleaning, you need to use the solution of water and the laundry detergent. This mixture can help in the removal of stains. Apply it to the cleat with the help of an old toothbrush or a washcloth. When you’re done, take a towel and put it in water until it is wet.
Use it to wipe your football cleat clean. The next thing you need to do is to let it dry at room temperature. Avoid using a hairdryer to dry or expose it to direct sunlight. Note that one of these can damage the cleat. Also, avoid storing the cleat while it is still wet, you have to wait until it is completely dry.
It is also necessary to wash the insoles, as this helps to eliminate bad odors. Place the insoles in a pillowcase, also put the shoelaces in it. Put the pillowcase in your washing machine and let it wash after adding the right amount of detergent. Make sure your washing machine is set to delicate and cool.
HOW CAN THE SOFTNESS AND FLEXIBILITY OF THE CLEAT BE MAINTAINED?
You can maintain the softness and flexibility of your cleats by following these tips:
- If you are using a leather cleat, polish the leather material with cream to prevent it from drying out.[4]
- Don’t leave your cleats out in the sun for too long. Excess sun heat will make the cleats dry and cracked. If possible, avoid direct sunlight, except you’re on the field. This tip is for all types of cleats, including those made of synthetic materials.
- Don’t place your cleats close to a dryer or oven heat vent to get it dry. It’s as bad as leaving it under direct sunlight.
- Don’t submerge your cleats in water, it will mess up the leather on the long run. You should only do this when extremely necessary such as in scenarios where your cleats were submerged in mud while playing.
- Lastly, avoid washing your cleats with hot water.
Once you are done drying and cleaning, you can rub in the cream to avoid cracks and ensuring it’s not too hard. You can also make the leather material more flexible and maintain it by avoiding heat unless you are using it on the football field for practice or a real game, or direct sunlight after cleaning. Because the heat might cause the leather material to dry out and you won’t have the nicest football cleats, so watch out and avoid this as much as possible.
Our #1 Best Football Cleats for Linemen
- Protects against hard impacts thanks to the use of patented NIKESKIN
- Tough and good-looking
- Designed to offer mid-foot stability
- Can also be used during the rainy season
- Ensures that users have a good grip on turf and natural grass
Interested in fantasy sports? See our dfs articles on DraftsKings fantasy review and FanDuel daily fantasy review.
Resources:
- Football Cleats: Hi-Top vs. Low-Top. Retrieved from http://footgear92.blogspot.com/2013/09/football-cleats-hi-top-vs-low-top.html
- Difference Between Soccer Cleats & Football Cleats. Retrieved from https://www.sportsrec.com/4337381/difference-between-soccer-cleats-football-cleats
- How to Clean Football Cleats Retrieved from https://www.sportsrec.com/clean-football-cleats-2105496.html
- How to Clean Football Cleats. Retrieved from https://tokay-ultimate.com/welcome-how-to-maintain-your-cleats/
