New Balance Fortress Cleats Review: Built for Big Skill Athletes
Introduction
New Balance may not dominate conversations about football cleats, but their latest offering, the Fortress, isset to change that. Designed for big skill players who rely on strength, stability, and sudden bursts of speed, the Fortress combines a rugged build with refined comfort. After previously testing the lighter Prodigy, I came into this review hoping for a cleat that could bring power without sacrificing performance. So, how does the Fortress perform in real-world conditions? Let’s dive in.
Comfort
New Balance’s reputation for shoes that feel good starts strong with the Fortress cleats. They feature the same FantomFit synthetic technology used in the Prodigy, which offers rock-solid support, though it leans toward stiffness rather than soft comfort. Underfoot, the FuelCell insole brings a welcome burst of cushion that stands out during high-impact plays. One of the best surprises was the sock-like internal bootie, thin, breathable, and hugging the foot all the way up to the ankle, offering a snug, supportive feel without the pressure. The tongue continues this lightweight design, avoiding painful lace pressure on the top of the foot. There’s also a horseshoe-shaped heel pad about half an inch thick, which provides good comfort during cuts and landings. My only gripe? I wish there was a front loop to make slipping the cleats on easier, as the cuff can roll inward. Additionally, adding just a touch more padding around the ankle would have taken overall comfort to another level.
Fit and Support
Support is where the Fortress truly shines. Thanks to the FantomFit upper, these cleats feel more like a combat boot intended for sports use. The structure is thick and supportive—frankly among the stiffest I’ve tested—and makes your foot feel locked in, especially during sharp side-to-side movements. The cleats run true-to-size, though the fit leans tight, which some players may find restrictive. That said, once laced up, the mid-cut collar and layered bootie combine to create a spat-like grip around the ankle that's ideal for players operating in heavy traffic. If “locked-in” means anything to you as a big skill athlete, the Fortress delivers exactly that.
Traction and Performance
Traction is another standout in this cleat. The plate is rigid, constructed from a blend of nylon and TPU and reinforced by a springy plastic shank beneath the insole. The stud layout, seven triangles and two arrowhead studs in the forefoot, followed by additional triangle and arrow studs in the heel, reminds me of high-end models like the Nike Alpha Menace Elite 2. On grass, I felt planted and in control during cuts, straight-line bursts, and sudden directional changes. The stud design, particularly the long, sharp triangles, delivers reliable grip without compromising agility. Overall, the traction on these cleats gave me serious confidence in explosive situations.
Style and Design
Visually, the Fortress succeeds with a clean, no-nonsense style. The mid-cut silhouette is sharp, and the black colorway with silver accents offers a classic yet refined look. I appreciate how understated the branding is, there’s no flashy elements, just a sturdy, professional design. At launch, the cleat is available in only two color options, black or white, which feels somewhat limited. That being said, the minimalist aesthetic lends itself well to potential future team or custom color releases that could appeal to a broader range of players.
Best Position and Use
The Fortress is clearly engineered for bigger skill athletes. Quarterbacks needing support under pressure, running backs making sharp cuts through traffic, tight ends blocking and catching, linebackers shifting from read to react, and edge defenders bursting off the line, these cleats are tailored for your demands. The combination of a wider platform, high ankle support, and locked-in fit make these cleats ideal for explosive, multidirectional play. While not built for offensive or defensive linemen, big skill players will appreciate how the Fortress balances power with agility.
Price and Final Verdict
At $170, the Fortress sits comfortably in the premium cleat market. It rivals other high-end options such as the Nike Alpha Menace Elite and Adidas Impact+. Given the quality materials, neutral colorways, and sturdy build, I’d say the cleats provide good value for their price. They’re dependable, durable, and deliver when it matters most, on the play.
Overall Thoughts
After being let down by the Prodigy, the Fortress was a welcome surprise. These are among the most capable big skill cleats I’ve worn, sturdy, locked-in, and stylish. The structured feel might take some breaking in, but once on, they transmit power and confidence with every move. If you're a big skill athlete looking for cleats that support strength, speed, and performance, the New Balance Fortress deserves your serious consideration.
