Molded cleats are made for grass and soft natural surfaces, while turf shoes use low-profile rubber nubs for artificial turf. Start with the surface and facility rules, then check comfort, fit and whether the outsole complies with your league's footwear rules. NFHS boys' rules prohibit metal spikes; rules can vary by level and code.
Choose footwear for the surface you play on, then check the exact league rules and field policy. Cleats have molded studs for natural surfaces; turf shoes use many low-profile rubber nubs for artificial turf. Neither label guarantees that a specific shoe is allowed at every facility.
Side by side
| Lacrosse cleats | Turf shoes | |
|---|---|---|
| Outsole | Molded or detachable studs | Low-profile rubber nubs |
| Common surface | Grass and softer natural fields | Artificial turf |
| What to check | Stud type, fit and applicable metal-spike rule | Field policy, outsole pattern and fit |
| Good fit when | Your schedule is mostly on grass | Your schedule is mostly on artificial turf |
Start with the field
Under Armour’s footwear guide recommends turf shoes for most artificial turf and describes molded cleats for natural playing surfaces. Turf products also reduce the chance of damaging a turf surface, but the facility’s rule is the final word. If you use more than one type of field, choose for the surface where you play most and ask whether the venue has a shoe policy.
Fit and rule checks
Try shoes with the socks and braces you normally wear. Check that the heel stays secure, your toes have room, and the sole does not twist under the forefoot. NFHS boys’ rules state that metal spikes are not permitted; players in other age groups or codes should check their current rules before using detachable studs.
For backyard sessions, compare the lacrosse rebounder guide and men’s lacrosse heads by position. The stick-length guide covers the legal stick sizes by position. Browse all training and field gear.
Sources
Common questions
Are turf shoes or cleats better for lacrosse?
Match the outsole to the field: molded studs are commonly used on natural grass, while low-profile turf shoes are designed for artificial turf. Follow the field operator's footwear rules.
Can you wear turf shoes on grass for lacrosse?
You can use turf shoes on grass if your league and field allow them, but their small nubs are designed for artificial surfaces. Check the surface and outsole before the season.
Are metal cleats allowed in lacrosse?
NFHS boys' high school rules do not permit metal spikes. Check the current rulebook for your age group and game code.
Can you wear soccer cleats for lacrosse?
Check the shoe's outsole and fit against your league rules. Under Armour notes that soccer cleat patterns differ from lacrosse designs, so compare the stud layout and how it feels during lateral movement.