Searching for the ultimate football cleat? We’ve rigorously tested and consulted with over 50 collegiate and professional running backs to compile a comprehensive list of the absolute best cleats available. Our team and athletes have put these cleats through the paces in demanding practices, rigorous training sessions, and high-pressure game situations. Each cleat has been meticulously evaluated for weight, support, agility, durability, and more.
Our Team’s Picks
- Nike Mens’s Vapor Edge Pro 360 2
- Nike Alpha Menace 4 Elite
- Nike Alpha Menace Pro
- Adidas Adizero Speed Juice
- Under Armour Blur Smoke 2.0 MC Cleats
Best Overall Football Cleat for Running Backs
1. Nike Men’s Vapor Edge Pro 360 2 
Worn by: Christian McCafferey, Nick Chubb, Joe Mixon
Weight: Lightweight
Support: 7/10
Built for speed: 9/10
Cutting: 8/10
Durability: 8/10
Why Running Backs Love Them:
The Nike Vapor Edge 360 Pro Cleats are designed with agility at their core, making them an excellent choice for running backs who depend on quick cuts, jukes, and bursts of speed to outmaneuver tacklers and reach the end zone. Their lightweight construction and low-cut design facilitate rapid acceleration out of the backfield. Additionally, the cleat plate is optimized for lateral movements, essential for sharp cuts that leave defenders behind. The stretchy ankle cuff secures your foot during cuts and sprints, providing a comfortable fit once broken in.
Some Considerations:
While the Nike Vapor Edge 360 Pro Cleats excel in agility, they offer less ankle support, which might be a drawback for players requiring maximum stability for power running or frequent collisions. Although they might need a break-in period to reach peak performance, these cleats can still be a game-changer. It’s worth noting that sharp cuts may occasionally cause slipping, despite the generally excellent traction.
Overall: The Nike Vapor Edge 360 Pro is ideal for running backs who prioritize quickness and explosiveness. The lightweight design and snug fit enable sharp cuts and decisive acceleration. However, if you need cleats with maximum ankle support or prioritize durability for a more physical running style, other options might be more suitable.
Worn by: TBD
Weight: Lightweight
Support: 6.5/10
Built for speed: 9.5/10
Cutting: 8.5/10
Durability: 7/10
Why Running Backs Love Them:
Built for elusive runners who rely on sharp cuts, jukes, and bursts of speed, the Nike Alpha Menace 4 Elite empowers running backs to leave defenders in the dust. Here’s what makes them a favorite:
- Lightning-Fast Cuts: The lightweight, low-cut design allows for explosive acceleration out of the backfield, giving you an edge when the play breaks open.
- Responsive Traction: The innovative outsole digs in for powerful grip on any surface, enabling confident cuts and sprints during crucial moments.
- Snug Lockdown: The breathable upper conforms to your foot for a secure, comfortable fit that keeps you locked in during sharp maneuvers and high-speed runs.
- Ready to Run: These cleats are designed to perform at their best right out of the box.
Some Considerations: Running backs who rely on a more physical running style with frequent cuts and collisions might prefer cleats with a higher ankle cut for additional stability.
Overall: The Nike Alpha Menace 4 Elite is a great choice for running backs who value agility and explosiveness. The combination of lightweight construction, superior traction, and a snug fit makes them ideal for decisive cuts and breakaway speed. However, if you need extra ankle support for a more physical running style, there might be better options available.
3. 
Nike Alpha Menace 3 Elite
Worn by: Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry
Weight: Lightweight
Support: 6/10
Built for speed: 9/10
Cutting: 7/10
Durability: 7/10
Why Running Backs Love Them:
The Nike Alpha Menace Elite 3 cleats are designed for running backs with a complete skill set, offering a perfect blend of power and agility. The updated plate provides increased stiffness in the heel and midfoot, ensuring rock-solid stability for driving through tackles. Meanwhile, the responsive forefoot allows for quick cuts and sudden changes of direction. The stretch-knit cuff provides a supportive fit without sacrificing mobility, and the durable materials ensure these cleats withstand tough games.
Some Considerations: The Alpha Menace Elite 3 prioritizes a balanced approach between power and agility, resulting in a sturdier build that might not be the lightest option on the market.
Overall: The Nike Alpha Menace Elite 3 cleats are a fantastic choice for running backs who value a well-rounded skill set. The supportive design, durable construction, and responsive traction make them ideal for a versatile running style. However, if pure speed is your top priority, you might want to explore a lighter cleat specifically designed for that purpose.
4. Adidas Adizero Speed Juice
Worn by: Aaron Jones
Weight: Lightweight
Support: 6/10
Built for speed: 8/10
Cutting: 7/10
Durability: 7/10
Why Running Backs Love Them:
Running backs become elusive weapons on the field with the adidas Adizero Speed Juice cleats. Designed for explosive quickness, these cleats are a game-changer in the backfield. The lightweight synthetic upper sheds unnecessary weight, allowing for lightning-fast acceleration and cheetah-like speed. The ultra-responsive cleated outsole digs in and propels you during cuts and jukes, making quick changes of direction and last-second bursts to the end zone effortless. The breathable upper keeps your foot secure and comfortable during sharp cuts and high-speed runs, while the snug fit ensures agility and responsiveness, enabling game-changing plays. Unlike some lightweight cleats, the Adizero Speed Juice prioritizes a comfortable fit right out of the box, eliminating the need for a break-in period.
Some Considerations: While the adidas Adizero Speed Juice offers undeniable advantages, there are some factors to consider. These cleats prioritize speed over maximum ankle support, which might not be ideal for running backs who rely on power running or brace for frequent collisions.
Overall: The adidas Adizero Speed Juice cleats are a fantastic choice for running backs who value blazing speed and side-to-side agility. The lightweight design, responsive traction, and snug fit are perfect for making defenders look slow and leaving them in your dust. However, if you need cleats with maximum ankle support or prioritize durability for a more physical running style, you might want to explore other options.
5. Under Armour Blur Smoke 2.0 MC Cleats 
Worn by: TBD
Weight: Lightweight
Support: 7.5/10
Built for speed: 8/10
Cutting: 9/10
Durability: 6.5/10
Why Running Backs Love Them
Running backs looking to take their explosiveness to the next level should lace up the Under Armour Blur Smoke 2.0 MC cleats. Inspired by track spikes, these cleats are all about maximizing your speed and agility on the field. Reviewers consistently praise the Blur Smoke’s incredibly lightweight feel, which translates to quicker bursts of speed as you race through the hole or sprint to the outside, leaving defenders grasping at air as you become a blur on the field. The low-top construction offers a full range of motion, ideal for the quick cuts and jukes that running backs rely on, allowing you to make defenders miss with lightning-fast changes of direction. The textile upper with a TPU skin conforms to your foot, providing a comfortable, sock-like fit that allows for optimal agility and responsiveness during cuts and high-speed runs.
Some Considerations for Running Backs: There are some concerns about the durability of the studs, particularly with frequent use, so it’s important to consider your playing style and the potential need for a sturdier cleat.
Overall: The Under Armour Blur Smoke 2.0 MC cleats are a fantastic choice for running backs who prioritize becoming a runaway threat on the field. The lightweight design, low-cut build, and comfortable fit allow for unmatched explosiveness and agility. However, if you need a cleat with maximum ankle support or prioritize durability for a more physical running style, you might want to explore other options.
