Distance Running Shoes With Spikes | 2023 Buyers Guide (2024)

What Are Running Shoes With Spikes?

Running shoes with spikes, also referred to as "track spikes" or simply "spikes", are running shoes with removable or permanent metal pins. These shoes are used in track & field competitions as well as during training for running and various athletics events.

Why Are Running Shoes With Spikes Important?

In order to run your fastest and train at your best, it is important to have shoes which are supportive, provide excellent traction, and that are light enough to let you run free of distraction.

Normal running shoes provide high levels of cushion and support, but they fall short when it comes to weight and traction. This is where spikes come in.

Running shoes with spikes provide runners the opportunity to run fast and stay safe while they train on a synthetic track. If you are an avid runner and want to bump up the intensity in your training sessions or you plan to compete in track and field, then you should pick up a pair of running shoes with spikes.

Benefits of Running Shoes with Spikes

There are a variety of benefits that come with wearing spikes when you run.

Improved Traction

Because of the metal spikes in the bottom of the shoe, running shoes with spikes let you grip the track at high speeds. You can trust that with every step, you can put out high levels of effort and speed without the risk of slipping.

Better Speed and Performance

Because of the enhanced grip, light weight, and spike plate technology, running shoes with spikes well let you run faster and perform better.

Depending on the spikes you choose, some may come with partial or full length plates, pebax or carbon spike plates, air pads, or special foams, all of which give you more energy return from each step so you can propel yourself down the track with ease.

Beginner runners can typically use less stiff, more basic running spikes, whereas more experienced athletes can take advantage of high tech spikes to maximize their performance.

Reduced Risk of Injury

Because of the enhanced traction and low weight, running shoes with spikes will usually help you avoid injury, especially as it relates to slipping related injuries. Also, because they are light weight, they will put less stress on your hip flexors and hamstrings each stride.

Types Of Running Shoes With Spikes

Depending on your preferred style of running or competitive distance, there are a variety of different types of running shoes with spikes you may want to consider. These include:

Sprinting Spikes
Distance Running Spikes
Jumping Spikes

The different types of running shoes with spikes are differentiated based on their intended use, with differing designs to meet the demands of the events they are designed for.

Distance Running Spikes

Below are the top 3 running shoes with spikes for distance runners. If you run distances such as the 800m, 1500m, 1 mile, 5k, or 10k, these are good spikes for your needs.

#1 -Nike Air Zoom Victory

The Nike Air Zoom Victory is an elite level pair of spikes for distance runners. These running shoes with spikes offer the highest level of energy return, the stiffest spike plate, and the most advanced technology available in all Nike distance running spikes.

Built for events ranging from the 800 meters to the 5000 meter race distance, the Nike Air Zoom Victory is best for faster middle and long distance runners, experienced distance runners, or runners who want to ensure they're getting the most out of every step.

Nike Air Zoom Victory Features:

A very stiff carbon plate in addition to the spike plate gives you maximum energy return from each step you put into the track, propelling you forward with ease.
A breathable mesh upper that ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable for the long run.
Nike Air Zoom air pad technology enhances the bounce you feel from each step, making these spikes feel like no other pair of running shoes with spikes.
6 removable spike pins that offer maximum traction.

Nike Air Zoom Victory Specifications:

Weight: 4.6oz
Events: 800m, 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, Steeplechase
World Athletics Approved: Yes
Price: $180

#2 -Nike ZoomX Dragonfly

The NikeZoomX Dragonfly is another top performer when it comes to running shoes with spikes. The Dragonfly is the long distance counterpart to the Nike Zoom Victory, featuring Nike ZoomX foam and a moderately stiff spike plate which combine to give you a great combination of cushioning and performance.

Built for events from 1500 meters up to the 10k, the NikeZoomX dragonfly is best forlong distance runners, but can be used in shorter events if needed.

NikeZoomX DragonflyFeatures:

Astiff plate and ZoomX foam give you maximum propulsion while ensuring you have comfortable cushioning as you run your distance event.
A breathable mesh upperkeeps you comfortable and you feet dry as you run.
6 removable spike pins that offer maximum traction.

Nike Air Zoom VictorySpecifications:

Weight: 4.7oz
Events: 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, Steeplechase, 10,000m
World Athletics Approved: Yes
Price:$150

#3-Nike Zoom Rival Distance Spikes

TheNike Zoom Rival is the best running shoe with spikes if you want something affordable, forgiving, and well cushioned. Designed for high school athletes and casual runners, the Nike Zoom Rival distance spikes will get you comfortably through your run without breaking the bank.

Built for all distance running events, these running shoes with spikes are versatile, comfortable, and a great way to try out spikes if you have never used them before.

NikeZoom Rival Features:

Significant cushioning from heel to toe helps you get down the track with minimal impact.
The breathable upper material is comfortable to use with or without socks.
4removable spike pins that offer ample traction in wet or dry conditions.

Nike Air Zoom VictorySpecifications:

Weight: 4.7oz
Events: 800m, 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, Steeplechase, 10,000m
World Athletics Approved: Yes
Price:$70

Distance Running Shoes With Spikes | 2023 Buyers Guide (2024)

FAQs

What is the recommended distance for running shoes? ›

It's generally accepted that the standard lifespan of road running shoes is somewhere between 300 - 500 miles, or around 500 - 800km, with lightweight shoes somewhere between 250 - 300 miles. So if you're running 20 miles per week, you'll probably need to replace your running shoes after around 4 - 6 months of wear.

Should you size up for running spikes? ›

These shoes are made for explosive movements and short durations. They have stiff soles and uppers that lock down the foot. These types of spikes will generally require half to a full size down from your normal running shoe size, and this is the best fit for sprint, jump, and throw shoes.

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What should I look for in XC spikes? ›

CROSS COUNTRY SPIKES

Different types of spikes let runners adapt their shoes to the terrain of the race. Shoes with shorter spikes provide better traction on grass and gravel, while longer spikes work best on wet, muddy, or loose terrain.

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Are spikes or flats better for track? ›

Should I Get Spikes or Racing Flats? For serious racing and training on the track, you're best served by a pair of track spikes—extremely lightweight, stiff-soled shoes that envelop your feet and have spikes (a.k.a., pins) underneath the forefoot.

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Are you meant to size up in running shoes? ›

A properly fitting running shoe should be a half size bigger than your usual street shoe to accommodate for swelling but it's important that it's not too big. Your running trainers should feel snug in the heel and around the midfoot but still have plenty of wiggle room in the toe box to keep your digits comfortable.

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Should running shoes be tight or loose? ›

When you're first trying on your running shoes in the store or at home, look for the following: Proper toe fit: You want a thumb's width of space between your toe and the end of the shoe. Midfoot and heel fit: You should have a snug (but not tight) fit at the midfoot and heel.

What size spikes are best for distance runners? ›

For long distance events on tartan or synthetic tracks, you will want to use spikes that are between 3-5mm long. These spikes will provide good traction without being too hard on your feet. For shorter distances or sprints, you can use running spikes that are 6mm long. These nails will give you more traction and grip.

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Do you need spikes for distance running? ›

Middle distance races, such as the 800 meters or 1500 meters, require a different type of shoe that can provide stability and endurance over a longer period of time. Definitely wear long-distance spikes for long-distance track races. Cross-country spikes are also a great idea.

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Do you wear socks with XC spikes? ›

For some cross country runners, a little bit of cushion and support goes a long way on uneven terrain. Other runners feel totally fine in a stripped-down-to-nothing sock with a spike pin.

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What is the difference between XC spikes and track spikes? ›

Track spikes, with their hard, plastic forefoot plate and lack of padding in the heel, is incompatible with Cross Country racing. Wearing Track spikes on a Cross Country course will be uncomfortable at best, and a recipe for injury at worst.

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How tight should distance spikes be? ›

Keep in mind, though, that it's important they're not too tight either, if you're attached to your toenails at all! There should still be a tiny bit of space between your toes and the front of the shoe. Of course, middle to long distance spikes require a bit more comfort since you're asking your feet to go farther.

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What not to do with track spikes? ›

If there are firm sections on the course, try and not use too long a spike, as this can cause the spike to 'buckle' into the shoe. Pick the balance between running comfortably on the harder ground, yet still having enough spike length to purchase in the mud.

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Is it better to run in spikes or running shoes? ›

The spikes or pins on the bottom of the shoes provide improved traction and stability, allowing athletes to run faster and jump further. This can make a significant difference in races and other events, leading to better times and distances.

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How much of a difference do spikes make in track? ›

To improve performance, spikes should allow an athlete to run faster by increasing their acceleration, their top speed, and/or improving their running economy.

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Is it OK to wear shoes 1 size too big? ›

The only time that you could wear a shoe in a bigger size is when purchasing a sneaker but you should only go up about half a size. The reason for this is that our feet tend to swell because fluid accumulates due to gravity with prolonged standing and weight baring activities.

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Is it OK to walk long distances with running shoes? ›

The extra cushioning, flexible design, and lighter weight of running shoes make them a good option for walking. The most important thing to consider when choosing shoes for walking is comfort. You want to make sure that your shoes adequately support and cushion your feet so that walking is comfortable.

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Should you buy running shoes a half size bigger? ›

The further you run the more your foot will naturally expand. This means it's wise to have just a little extra room (about a thumb's width) between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. With this in mind, your running shoe should be around a half size larger than the shoe size you usually get.

How long should a pair of sneakers last? ›

When do our shoes become worn out? According to podiatrists, everyday shoes need to be replaced every 8 to 12 months – or when they start showing signs of wear and tear.

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