An article of cleated footwear comprises an upper for holding a foot of a wearer
to a sole having an outsole plate. The outsole plate includes a predetermined first
metatarsal region that generally overlies the respective skeletal structure of
a human foot. Several ground engaging members extend downwardly from the outsole
plate to provide traction on a ground surface. The outsole plate includes a downwardly
extending metatarsal head cradle located on a lateral side and a medial side of
the first metatarsal region to reduce stud pressure and provide traction control.
The outsole plate may include a distal phalanx region and a predetermined proximal
phalanx region. A first ground engaging member is located in the distal phalanx
region and a second ground engaging member is located in the proximal phalanx region
for toe off movements.