Specialized shoes for any sport are less a luxury and more a necessity. Baseball cleats provide the necessary traction. Traction is particularly important in baseball, as you're working with two surfaces: grass and soil. Baseball cleats grip the outfield grass, while also working effectively in the infield as a player fields the ball or dashes about the bases. Cleats keep the player from sliding about in the infield. Traction on the field and during intense play is critical, and only true baseball cleats can ensure safety and performance excellence. Baseball cleats, unlike those for soccer and football, are shorter and wider. Be sure to pick out a pair that are snug on your feet, but not overly tight, as blisters or other injuries may occur. Also, lighter is better, so that you are not weighed down on the field. Bear in mind that younger children in youth leagues should not wear metal cleats, due to the level of injury that can result to opposing players.