Cleat (shoe)

A cleat is a type of footwear or an attachment to footwear designed to improve traction on soft or unstable surfaces. Cleats are typically protrusions made of metal, plastic, or rubber that extend from the sole of the shoe. The specific design, material, and arrangement of cleats vary depending on the intended activity.

Cleats are commonly found in sports such as:

• American Football and Soccer: These cleats are designed to grip grass or artificial turf, allowing players to accelerate, decelerate, and change direction quickly. They are typically made of molded plastic or detachable metal studs.
• Baseball and Softball: Similar to football and soccer cleats, these are used for traction on dirt and grass fields.
• Golf: Golf cleats, often called spikes, are designed to provide stability and prevent slipping during the golf swing. Modern golf shoes typically use soft spikes made of plastic or rubber to minimize damage to the course.
• Track and Field: Spikes used in track shoes are designed for maximum traction on synthetic track surfaces, allowing runners to achieve optimal speed and grip.
• Cycling: Cycling cleats, often integrated into clipless pedal systems, attach to specialized pedals, providing a secure connection between the rider's foot and the bicycle. This improves pedaling efficiency.
• Hiking and Mountaineering: Some hiking boots and mountaineering boots feature aggressive lug patterns that can be considered cleats, providing enhanced grip on uneven terrain.
• Ice Climbing: Specialized ice climbing boots incorporate crampons, which are metal frames with sharp spikes that attach to the boot, providing grip on ice and snow.

The primary function of cleats is to provide enhanced grip, stability, and traction, thereby improving athletic performance and reducing the risk of slips and falls. The selection of appropriate cleats is crucial for safety and optimal performance in various activities.