Adidas Howzat Junior Full Spike 2021
All new running inspired mesh upper construction reduces weight and provides maximum comfort.
- Combination sock style tongue provides a running inspired fit for greater comfort.
- Proprietary adiPRENEO+ midsole for excellent comfort and shock absorption.
- Modified band of power helps secure foot and reduces movement inside the shoe.
- TPU grid outsole reduces overall weight while providing stability and traction.
- PU reinforced toe section provides batting protection.
- Bevelled heel section for better landing transition when bowling.
- Reinforced heel counter provides structural support.
Things to consider when making a choice to buy new cricket shoes?
1.Size
Size is very important. Your shoes need to be perfect fitting else something that is too tight will cause discomfort, nor too large that you can’t get into a full stride without losing your shoes in the runup.
2.What surfaces will you be playing on?
Pitch Type synthetic or turf pitches?
For synthetic pitches, good rubber shoes are important for grip. This is especially important when soil or moisture from the outfield ends up on the pitch. Normal sports sneakers or running shoes can wear very quickly, especially for bowlers.
For turf pitches, you will need spiked cricket shoes.
See how the size of your shoe is not the only important factor?!
3. Your Role as a Cricketer
For batsman, half-spiked shoes are the right choice. Longer spikes can dig into the turf surface, which can limit your footwork significantly. Your footwork needs to on point against both pace and spin bowling, and if your shoes don’t enable good footwork, it will have a negative impact on your game and confidence.
For bowlers, you need the ultimate grip, and as mentioned, good cricket rubber shoes are important for synthetic surfaces. On turf tracks though, full cricket spikes are the way to go, giving you full grip through your delivery stride and follow through. Also, shoes that offer additional support around the ankles is a good choice, particularly if you are a high-impact fast bowler.
For all-rounders, light shoes with the chance to change from full to half spikes when necessary is key!
Here are more details on the specifics of cricket shoes:
- The “Upper”: Top of the shoe. If you know your size, you’d know that a little bit of room is important to cater for impact and reduce the impact on your toes.
The “Outsole”: Part of the shoe that makes direct contact with the ground. The surface you play on plus your cricketing role is key.
The “Midsole”: Layer between outsole and insole, which provides an important cushion. This is especially important if you are a bowler.
The “Sock Liner”: Extra cushioning around the heel and ankle areas. This is again important for bowlers, especially if you have a high-impact action.
Also Read: Cricket Bat - Buyer's Guide
4. Your Budget
A budget will help narrow down your choices.
If you are playing at a high level, or just want to be the best player you can be at any level, do aim for a higher budget shoe that provides an optimum level of performance, if possible.
But, in some circumstances, lower budgets work better. For example, if you are buying shoes for your 11-year-old son, going with a really expensive option is not ideal as your child is growing and will likely need new shoes in a year or two’s time.
Hopefully, these four tips help you choose the right cricket shoes to help with your performance!