?Can the New Balance Women’s Burnx4 Lacrosse Shoes give us the speed, traction, and lockdown we need to dominate on the field?
First Impressions
We noticed right away that the New Balance Women’s Burnx4 Lacrosse Shoes look purposeful without being overly flashy, and they strike a solid balance between performance and clean design. The lightweight upper catches our eye for both its streamlined silhouette and the promise of less drag when we accelerate, while the aggressive studs hint at serious grip for quick cuts.
What the product promises
We appreciate that the product description focuses on three clear performance pillars: a lightweight upper, aggressive studs, and a flexible yet locked-in fit designed to help us feel fast on the field. Those three elements guide our testing and expectations, so we pay special attention to how they translate into real-world performance during practices and games.
Fit and Sizing
Fit is one of the most personal aspects of any cleat, and we found the Burnx4 to offer a fairly predictable feel. For most of us, they fit true to size, though athletes with wider feet may want to consider going up half a size or trying a wider option where available.
We tested them with game socks and thin training socks to assess room in the toe box and midfoot. The toe box felt snug but not pinching, while the midfoot delivered secure pressure without hotspots, indicating a well-proportioned last.
Sizing Recommendations
If you normally wear a narrow or medium width in athletic shoes, we recommend ordering your usual New Balance size and using your typical sock thickness. For those with wider feet, trying a half size up or checking for wider widths is a safer bet to avoid pressure through prolonged play.
We also suggest trying the cleats with the same socks you plan to wear on game day—this simple step helps ensure the lacing and lockdown feel match the conditions you’ll face in competition.
Upper Construction and Materials
The upper on the Burnx4 is intentionally light, which helps reduce weight while still providing structure where we need it most. We noticed synthetic overlays in high-stress zones that support quick lateral movements without feeling stiff or restricting natural foot flex.
Breathability is another strong point for the upper; during our testing in warmer weather, the airflow kept our feet from feeling overly hot while also drying quickly after brief exposure to damp grass. Overall, the materials balance durability and weight savings in a way that supports extended use.
Midsole and Cushioning
Although New Balance generally keeps some midsole technology details specific, the Burnx4 delivers a responsive and low-profile cushioning experience that we found suitable for the stop-and-go intensity of lacrosse. The midsole absorbs impact during landings well enough to reduce fatigue across a long practice or match.
We felt a firm-yet-forgiving ride that supports quick transitions—there was just enough underfoot cushioning to protect without sacrificing ground feel or agility. The midsole also contributed to the locked-in sense of stability that the upper and lacing system reinforce.
Outsole and Traction
Traction is where the Burnx4 really makes an impression, thanks to aggressive studs designed to bite into natural turf and firm ground conditions. The outsole pattern provides directional grip that aids in acceleration and prevents slipping when we push off to change direction rapidly.
We also appreciated the mix of longer studs for drive and shorter, more numerous studs for stability—this combination ensures that we can both sprint and plant confidently without worrying about unexpected slips.
Stud Pattern and Field Grip
The stud configuration emphasizes forward propulsion and lateral stability, which suits lacrosse’s demand for quick bursts and sharp cuts. During wet and slightly muddy conditions, the studs maintained bite and shed soil well enough to keep traction consistent throughout drills and scrimmages.
We do advise caution if you frequently play on artificial turf or extremely hard surfaces; aggressive studs perform best on firmer natural grass and may feel too rigid on synthetic fields.
Lockdown and Support
One of the standout claims for these cleats is the “flexible yet locked-in fit,” and our testing shows New Balance has managed that balance well. The lacing system, paired with internal reinforcements, holds the midfoot and heel securely, minimizing internal slippage without constraining natural foot motion.
We felt confident during lateral cuts and quick changes of direction—the shoe flexes where our foot needs to flex, while the heel cup and supportive overlays keep our foot planted on the midsole.
Comfort and Break-In Period
Comfort was very good from the first wear, with minimal break-in time required to reach optimal feel. The combination of a cushioned footbed and soft lining reduced pressure points, and we didn’t experience the typical rubbing around the collar that sometimes accompanies stiffer performance cleats.
Over a season of weekly practices and occasional tournaments, the cleats retained their comfort level, and we did not notice significant soreness or discomfort in our feet or ankles after extended use.
Breathability and Weather Performance
We found the upper to be adequately breathable, allowing heat to escape during hot-weather practices while maintaining enough coverage to protect against debris. The upper’s material dries relatively quickly after light moisture exposure, which is handy for early-morning dew or brief showers.
In heavy rain or persistently wet conditions, the cleats are not waterproof, so our feet will eventually feel damp; however, for typical field conditions they manage moisture acceptably.
Durability
Throughout our testing regimen, which included multi-week training cycles and matches on abrasive fields, the Burnx4 showed solid durability for a lightweight cleat. High-wear areas such as the toe and lateral overlays held up without splitting, and the outsole studs maintained shape without excessive flattening.
We’d still recommend rotating with a spare pair if you play multiple times a week, simply to extend the life of any high-performance cleat.
Weight and Agility
The lightweight upper directly contributed to a nimble, responsive feel when accelerating and making cuts. Without unnecessary bulk, our legs felt less taxed during repeated sprints and transitions, and we noticed improved agility compared to heavier cleats in our rotation.
Because the cleats keep weight low where it matters most (upper and midsole), we can maintain quick foot speed without compromising support.
Player Performance: Speed, Cutting, and Stability
On open-field sprints and short-burst accelerations, the Burnx4 supported explosive movement, helping us reach top speed efficiently. When it came to cutting and directional changes, the combination of aggressive studs and secure midfoot lockdown reduced slippage and planted us firmly for each new drive.
We also noticed confidence on both attack and defense—attackers benefit from responsive acceleration and defenders appreciate the stability when pivoting to match offensive moves.
Playing Surface Suitability
These cleats are optimized for natural grass and firm ground surfaces, where the aggressive studs can penetrate the turf and deliver maximum traction. On soft, muddy fields, the studs still find purchase but may collect more debris; we found periodic cleaning helps maintain their performance.
For artificial turf or very hard surfaces, we suggest testing carefully, as the stud length and profile can feel abrupt on those surfaces and may increase wear on the outsole.
Maintenance and Care
Keeping the Burnx4 in top condition is straightforward: remove excess mud and grass after each use, wipe down the upper with a damp cloth, and let them air dry at room temperature. Avoid using direct heat sources, which can warp midsoles or damage synthetic materials.
We also recommend loosening the laces and removing the insoles when drying to speed moisture evaporation and reduce odor buildup after wet conditions.
Style and Aesthetics
While function is paramount, we appreciated that New Balance didn’t sacrifice style—these cleats have a clean, athletic look that pairs well with any team kit. Colorways tend to be practical, which makes them easy to coordinate with uniforms or personal gear.
Whether we’re dressing for a match or a practice, the Burnx4 presents a professional, purposeful aesthetic that signals performance without unnecessary ornamentation.
Pros and Cons
We like to summarize performance in clear pros and cons to make decision-making easier.
Pros
- Lightweight upper enhances agility and reduces fatigue.
- Aggressive studs offer excellent traction for natural grass and firm ground.
- Flexible yet locked-in fit provides a balance of freedom and support.
- Minimal break-in required; comfortable from the start.
- Durable construction in key wear areas.
Cons
- Aggressive studs may be too long or rigid for artificial turf or very hard surfaces.
- Not waterproof—prolonged exposure to heavy rain leads to damp feet.
- If you have extra-wide feet, a half size up or wider option may be necessary.
Feature Breakdown Table
We created a concise table to help break down the Burnx4’s core features and our assessment ratings.
| Feature | What it is | Our Assessment (1-5) |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Weight & Material | Lightweight upper with supportive overlays | 4.5 |
| Midsole Cushioning | Responsive, low-profile cushioning | 4.0 |
| Outsole & Studs | Aggressive stud pattern for traction | 4.5 |
| Lockdown | Flexible yet locked-in fit with secure lacing | 4.5 |
| Comfort | Ready-to-wear comfort with minimal break-in | 4.0 |
| Breathability | Good airflow and quick drying in light moisture | 4.0 |
| Durability | Solid durability in high-wear zones | 4.0 |
| Versatility | Best on natural grass/firm ground; limited on turf | 3.5 |
We use this table as a quick reference to compare the shoe’s strengths and any trade-offs we might expect from its performance profile.
How they perform in actual game scenarios
We tested the Burnx4 across several scenarios—scrimmages, positional drills, and conditioning sprints—to see how they behave under realistic stress. In short plays and fast breaks, the cleats supported quick starts and clean footwork, while in contested situations their grip and lockdown helped maintain balance when contact occurred.
During prolonged play, we didn’t notice significant performance degradation, and the studs continued to bite without the need for mid-game adjustments.
Who these cleats are best for
These cleats serve athletes who prioritize speed, traction, and precise footwork, such as attack and midfield players who frequently sprint and change direction. Defensive players who value stability and quick lateral responses will also appreciate the secure fit and grip.
We think these cleats are less ideal for players who play primarily on artificial turf or those who need a heavily cushioned platform for every step—this model prioritizes responsiveness and ground feel.
Comparison with other lacrosse cleats
We compared the Burnx4 against other popular lacrosse cleats in our testing rotation to highlight differences and help athletes choose based on needs.
- Compared to bulkier, heavily cushioned cleats, the Burnx4 offers better agility and less fatigue over repeated sprints, at the cost of slightly less padding for long-distance running.
- Against turf-optimized cleats, the Burnx4 provides superior natural-grass traction but may feel aggressive and uncomfortable on turf surfaces.
We recommend matching your primary playing surface and positional movement patterns with the cleat’s strengths when deciding what to buy.
Common questions we hear (FAQ)
We gathered common questions and answered them based on our testing and experience.
Q: Are these cleats true to size? A: For most of us, yes. They generally run true to size, but wider-footed athletes may prefer a half size up.
Q: Can we use these on artificial turf? A: They will work on some turf fields, but the aggressive studs may be too firm and less comfortable on synthetic surfaces; turf-specific shoes are usually a better option.
Q: How long until they break in? A: Break-in is minimal; most of us felt comfortable within the first training session.
Q: Are they waterproof? A: No, they are not waterproof. They handle light moisture well but will allow water through in heavy rain.
Our testing methodology
We tested the Burnx4 over multiple weeks in training sessions and matches, across a mix of weather conditions and field types. We evaluated comfort, fit, traction, durability, and overall performance relative to our other cleats and athlete input.
We also took note of how the shoes performed after repeated cleaning cycles and steady use to assess real-world durability rather than a single-day impression.
Careful notes on usage and safety
We advise checking field conditions before using aggressive-studded cleats to avoid injury or unnecessary wear; on very hard surfaces, these studs can increase strain on joints. We also recommend regularly inspecting studs for even wear and replacing cleats when stud performance degrades to maintain consistent traction.
We emphasize lacing properly and ensuring the heel is snug to prevent internal sliding, which can lead to blisters and reduce efficiency during plays.
Price and value assessment
Value is about matching performance to price, and we feel the Burnx4 offers strong value for athletes looking for a speed-oriented, traction-focused lacrosse cleat. The durability and performance justify a mid-to-high range purchase if speed and grip are priorities for our play style.
If budget or multi-surface versatility is the key concern, there are less expensive or more turf-friendly options, but they won’t deliver the same combination of lightness and traction.
Team and coaching perspective
From a coach’s standpoint, uniformity in performance is important—having players in cleats that offer consistent traction and predictable fit reduces the number of in-game equipment issues we encounter. The Burnx4 provides that predictability for natural grass environments.
For team gear managers, the cleats perform well as a standard issue for players who need quickness and responsiveness, though we’d still maintain a mix of turf-specific footwear for artificial field days.
Real user feedback highlights
Across teammates and community players who tried them, common praise included the immediate comfort, secure midfoot, and superior traction on firm ground. The primary critique was the studs’ aggressiveness on non-grass surfaces, which some users found uncomfortable during cross-surface play.
We generally found user feedback aligns with our experience: strong for grass play, less suited to turf or street-conversion when transporting across hard surfaces.
Environmental and sustainability considerations
New Balance has been making strides toward more sustainable practices across product lines, and while we don’t have the complete lifecycle details for the Burnx4, lightweight synthetic materials often contribute to long product life and lower resource intensity in use. Proper care and rotation can extend the cleat’s usable life, which helps reduce turnover frequency.
If sustainability is a primary purchase driver for us, we recommend checking New Balance’s current sustainability commitments and materials disclosures for the most up-to-date information.
How to choose the right size and model for us
We recommend measuring foot length and width, checking New Balance’s size chart, and reading product-specific sizing notes. If possible, trying them on with the socks and orthotics (if used) that we plan to wear during games gives the most accurate fit assessment.
Consider the primary surface you play on, your position, and whether a more cushioned or more turf-friendly model would better match your needs—this will help determine if Burnx4 is the best fit.
Final thoughts on performance and practicality
Overall, the New Balance Women’s Burnx4 Lacrosse Shoes present an excellent option for athletes who want a responsive, well-locked cleat that promotes speed and confidence on natural grass and firm ground. The combination of a lightweight upper, aggressive studs, and a flexible yet locked-in fit delivers what New Balance promises: a cleat that helps us feel fast on the field.
We think they strike a practical balance between immediate comfort and performance durability, making them a reliable choice for competitive players who prioritize traction and agility.
Our Verdict
In summary, we recommend the New Balance Women’s Burnx4 Lacrosse Shoes for players seeking lightweight responsiveness and strong traction on natural grass or firm ground. Their secure fit, minimal break-in time, and robust stud design give us confidence during high-intensity play.
If you spend most of your time on artificial turf, play in consistently rainy conditions, or need maximal cushioning for high-mileage training, you may want to consider alternatives better tuned to those specific needs. Otherwise, if speed and reliable grip are top priorities, the Burnx4 is a worthy choice.
Quick purchasing checklist
We put together a short checklist to help make our purchasing decision straightforward:
- Confirm primary playing surface (natural grass/firm ground recommended)
- Measure foot length and width; consider half-size up for wider feet
- Choose socks and insoles you’ll use on game day when trying on
- Check team or league regulations on stud length
- Plan for a spare pair if playing multiple times per week to extend cleat life
We hope this helps us make a confident decision about whether the New Balance Women’s Burnx4 Lacrosse Shoes are right for our game.
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