In this paper, the mechanical performance of cracked surface-coated Zircaloy cladding, which hasdifferent coating materials, coating thicknesses and initial crack lengths, has been investigated. Byanalyzing the stress field near the crack tip, the safety zone range of initial crack length has been decided. In order to determine whether the crack can propagate along the radial (r) or axial (z) directions, theenergy release rate has been calculated. By comparing the energy release rate with fracture toughness ofmaterials, we can divide the initial crack lengths into three zones: safety zone, discussion zone anddanger zone. The results show that Cr is suitable coating material for the cladding with a thin coatingwhile FeeCreAl have a better fracture mechanical performance in the cladding with thick coating. TheSi-coated and SiC-coated claddings are suitable for reactors with low power fuel elements. Conclusions inthis paper can provide reference and guidance for the cladding design of nuclear fuel elements.