What is the difference between sprinting spikes and distance spikes

They are made to be light and nimble. And the support is minimal. Instead, these spikes are feather-light to keep your turnover as fast as possible. Because they are so minimal, long distance spikes are only recommended for distances of meters or longer.

They lack the support or aggressive spike plate for shorter events. See our favorite long distance spikes. There are two types of jumping spikes: high jump spikes and spikes for the pole vault, long jump, and triple jump. High jump spikes have spikes in the ball of the foot like running spikes — but they also have additional spike implements in the heel. This allows for better support and traction during the approach and plant.

High jump spikes also provide a lot of lateral support on the upper of the spike. This is to keep the spike secure as you twist over the high bar. For runners new to the high jump, you can also buy a J Heel link to amazon that attaches to a mid-distance spike in the heel.

This essentially converts it to the full spike plate found in a high jump spike. Long jump, triple jump, and pole vault spikes have a thin spike plate to provide traction on the runway, but also to allow for extra support during take-off and landing. Both types of jumping spikes are highly specialized and should only be used for jumping events. See our favorite jumping spikes. Track shoes designed for the shot put and discus are made without spike implements.

Instead, they are built to provide grip for the shot put and spin for discus. They also feature supportive uppers to keep your feet locked in place. Javelin spikes are boots with a full-length spike plate to provide traction during the approach and a solid plant as you throw. The boots tend to be fairly heavy with a secure upper to keep the foot supported. When trying on spikes, they should feel secure without cramping.

Your toes should be close to the front of the spike without actually touching. Unlike trainers where you want some room between your toes and the front of the shoe, with track spikes you want them tight.

Track spikes are built to secure your foot and provide traction. Partly, this is because spikes should be snug and fit securely. A shoe gets wider the bigger it gets. One option is to size up. The problem is that while you might get the width you need, your foot will move around more and potentially slipping in the heel. You may not be used to wearing shoes that are longer than what you are used to as well. Altra running shoes have a foot-shaped design, resulting in a very wide toe box.

The Golden Spike is their cross country spike that accommodates a wider foot. The concern for some track athletes is that this is a cross country spike, not a track spike. There is a wide range in price between different track spikes. On sprint and mid-distance spikes, the budget versions often have fewer places for the spike implements and less aggressive traction on the plastic parts of the spike plate.

For long distance spikes, it comes down to weight. Using longer spikes on a track surface will tear the surface and ruin the track. Cross-country spikes are made to gain traction on high grass and through the mud, so spikes generally are longer. Many cross-country runners use their cross-country spikes on the track for longer races, such as the 3, m to 10, m races.

More of an arc in the toe is needed on anything under 3, meters, as is less heel support. When picking out spikes, athletes should put both spikes on and run around the store or go outside and run down the sidewalk to make sure the shoe fits properly. Spikes should not be used for every workout, but need to be worn a few times before competing in races.

Spikes are not as comfortable as running shoes and can cause lower leg and foot pain if your feet are not adapted to the spikes. Fitness Training Trail Running. By Judson Brooker. Judson Brooker. While oftentimes long distance spikes will feel just as good running the m as the m, mid-distance spikes can offer a more specialized fit for runners who find themselves homing in on events like the m or m.

The best mid-distance spikes feature a low-profile midsole and lightly cushioned heel, and they typically have a few more spikes in their spike plate than the average model built for long distance events. Mid-distance spikes keep the flexibility needed to run well at a longer distance, but they have more rigidity to give a snappy transition and generate speed. These versatile spikes are great for athletes competing across multiple events on the track.

Light and fast. These shoes are lightweight and much stiffer than long distance or middle distance spikes to keep your foot dorsiflexed, placing your weight on the ball of your foot. The spike plate is constructed of rigid plastic to promote fast, snappy transitions, and it can include anywhere from six to eight spikes to give you more traction off the blocks.

The best sprinting spikes do not have any padding on the heel and focus much of their technology on the forefoot. Whether you pole vault, jump or throw, the best spikes for field events can boost your performance by adding grip and traction where you need it most. Field spikes are lightweight and have enough rigidity to push you faster and higher.

Often these shoes have a higher spike count and can take a longer, needle spike to help stabilize you as you jump and run. Spikes for throwing events like shot put or discus allow for free rotation and give you enough grip so you can generate momentum to throw your farthest. High jump or long jump spikes are built to give you grip and help you get a fast start.

Learn more about what makes the best spikes for your event, on or off the track, and pick the best ones for your style and speed: [ Updated June 15, Cross Country Race Shoes.