A well-selected pair of track spikes can be a real performance booster or even help you set a new PB.
We have tested these track spikes to help you buy the best pair. We cited every little detail we discovered and assessed during our lab tests. Whether you are an advanced athlete looking for a premium shoe or a beginner on a tight budget, we’ve got the top picks for you.
Table of contents
How we test track spikesBest overallBest for sprintsBest budgetComparisonWhy use a track shoeTrack shoes vs running shoes: 3 key differencesTrack and field shoe categoriesFrequently asked questions
Overview
How we test track spikes
Here at RunRepeat, we provide you with recommendations for the best track and field shoes based on our very own experiences and observations. We set the process in motion by getting hold of the shoes we wanted to test. We purchase the pairs so that we do not need to gratify anyone, especially brands, by providing a good review.
We then proceed with wearing the shoes in our actual track and field sports and activities. We assess all the things we can notice about the shoes, but we make sure that we spend a good and substantial amount of time on each of them before we finalize our thoughts.
Next up, we collect more usable data by measuring and scoring the parameters of the shoes through our lab tests. We quantify 30+ parameters, one of which is durability. For this test, we use our Dremel tool to apply force on the different parts of the shoes, then we employ our expertise to subjectively discern how durable and abrasion-resistant the shoes are.
By the way, we also split the shoes in half to uncover all the parts of the shoes for us to investigate and take note.
Best track spikes overall
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly
76
Good!
What makes it the best?
We pushed track spikes to the limit and found Nike’s Air Zoom MaxFly as the best track spike overall. MaxFly screams maximum record-breaking speed with its light weight, race-ready fit, and snappy ride. We learned it showed optimum performance in 100-400m events and surprisingly felt comfortable on foot. We believe this premium spike is one of the most advanced of its kind, justifying its $180 price tag.
MaxFly gives one of the most unique rides we’ve ever tried. For a racer, it’s pleasantly cushioned with full-length ZoomX foam and has an Air Zoom unit in the forefoot that launches us forward. The ride feels incredibly energetic because of the stiff Flyplate, culminating in the most comfortable yet fastest spike we’ve raced in. We feel like flying since it’s so light on the foot.
Underfoot, transitions feel smooth and the overall ride feels steady thanks to the highly engineered spike plate. The forefoot has 7 spike pins for reliable traction on the track.
Nike’s Flyweave upper feels high-quality. Together with the laces and slightly padded heels, the fit is spot-on. We’re confident that the lockdown is secure, allowing us to focus on smashing our PBs.
We discovered MaxFly is not for maximum distances and performs best on events 800m and below. We recommend exploring other options for mid-to-long-distance track runs.
Pros
- Extremely springy ride
- Snug, performance-oriented fit
- Propulsion from Flyplate and Zoom Air
- Premium design and materials
- Ideal for 100-400m sprints
- Can be used for hurdles
- Unmatched comfort and speed
- Notched laces for secure lockdown
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires some adaptation
- Can feel unstable for some
Full review of Nike Air Zoom Maxfly
Best track shoes for sprints
Adidas Prime SP2
86
Great!
What makes it the best?
We bolted through the track and discovered Adidas Prime SP2 dominates the sprint category. Its visuals already reveal an aggressive ride, yet its actual performance in and out of the lab blew us away. With a propulsive Lightstrike Pro foam, stiff carbon plate, and grippy spikes, it unleashed our speed and power like no other.
It’s hard to ignore SP2’s aggressive offset. Our caliper reveals a -5.8 mm steep drop. Its thin 11.0 mm heel demands faster transitions and smoother toeoffs, while its 16.8 mm forefoot boasts the Lightstrike Pro’s powerful energy return. We learned this shoe truly comes alive in 60m to 400m distances and even hurdles due to its remarkable bounce.
The spike feels airy on foot with its ultra-breathable upper, but its propulsion makes its presence undeniable. Underfoot, the full-length carbon plate adds stiffness to ensure optimal speed. It put up a good fight with our flex test, emerging 104.9% stiffer than the average track spike!
The 2.0 mm outsole has a grippy pattern with 6 removable pins that we adjusted to our liking. Its thin nature brings the midsole closer to the ground, allowing it to fully come alive.
While it’s not a heavy shoe, its 6.5 oz (183g) weight pulls us down slightly compared to other lightweight elite competitors.
Pros
- Exceptionally breathable
- Impressive overall durability
- Responsive forefoot bounce from Lightstrike Pro
- Aggressive, performance-driven ride
- Handles 60m to 400m with ease
- Ideal for hurdles
- Premium feel and design
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Needs notched laces
- High price point
Full review of Adidas Prime SP2
Best budget track spikes
Adidas Sprintstar
87
Superb!
What makes it the best?
At only $65, Adidas Sprintstar is the most affordable option among our lab-tested track spikes ($117 average). For almost half the price, it delivers impressive durability and a natural feel. Based on actual tests, this spike suits runners who want to test their leg power and raw speed for 60-400m sprints.
As soon as we stepped on the track, this spike emphasized ground feel, which is a great way to strengthen our legs for shorter sprints. It has a very thin 10.4/8.6 mm heel and forefoot stack highlighting the barefoot experience.
The flexible and plateless midsole moves easily with our feet and keeps it all natural. We noticed the shoe wasn’t too rigid and felt gentle on foot. Our flex test confirms it’s 48.6% more adaptive than average.
What truly blows our minds is how durable this spike is, even for its budget-friendly price! We barely saw signs of wear after extensive testing. Both the toebox and heel strongly resisted our rigorous Dremel, showing promising signs of longevity. Meanwhile, the outsole measures a tough 88.0 HC and is 1.1 mm thicker than average. These results also translate to a longer shoe lifespan.
Unfortunately, because of the absence of a propulsive midsole, we experienced leg fatigue faster. We found that this spike is not suitable for sprints beyond 400m.
Pros
- Excellent track grip
- Ultra-padded tongue
- Unbeatable value
- Removable pins
- Ideal for novices
- Exceptional ground sensation
- Solid durability
Cons
- Zero cushioning
- Poor ventilation
- Requires strong feet
Full review of Adidas Sprintstar
Why use a track shoe
Here are some of the distinct components of a track and field shoe that make it more efficient for the sport than other types of athletic shoes:
- Lightweight and breathable: Track and field shoes are light and airy because of the thin mesh upper that usually accompanies them. usually have a rigid upper construction to provide a snug fit.
- Snug fit: Aside from a thin mesh, the upper of track shoes have a rigid structure to provide a snug fit and keep the foot in place.
- Minimal midsole: Unlike other cleat-type footwear such as those for football and soccer, track shoes usually have a midsole that is thin and minimal. It acts as both underfoot cushioning and impact absorber.
- Spike pins and spike plate: Some track shoes use spike pins. These are small pointed attachments on a plastic plate that aid in gripping the track surface. Spike pins vary in type, size (pin width), and number depending on the event it is used for.
Track shoes vs running shoes: 3 key differences
Although track-and-field as a sport includes running events, the shoes used for those are different than the typical running shoe. Each shoe has its particular design and purpose, which we can differentiate through the following:
- Weight: Track and field shoes are significantly lighter than running shoes. They use fewer materials and are relatively smaller in figure because they intend to boost the athlete’s momentum.
- Cushioning: Track spikes for running events are thin and minimal. On the other hand, running shoes are plush and substantial as their focus is on underfoot cushioning and arch support.
- Overall appearance: The most noticeable difference between track shoes and running shoes is the use of spikes. Track shoes for running use spike pins to make the forefoot higher and promote better traction.
Track and field shoe categories
The various events within the track-and-field sport are distinctive from one another and, as such, require the use of different shoes. Here are the types of track spikes and the notable qualities of each one:
Running events
| Running | ||
| Sprints | Mid-distance | Long-distance |
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Jumping spikes
| Jumping | ||
| Long-jump / Triple-jump | High-jump | Pole vault |
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Throwing events
| Throwing | |||
| Javelin / Shot put / Discus throw / Hammer throw | |||
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Frequently asked questions
Are spike pins important in track shoes?
There is no absolute rule that track and field shoes should be used with spike pins. Additionally, not all track shoes are used with spike pins. When used accordingly, spike pins improve traction and support.
Are socks important?
You might be hesitant to use socks because track shoes are intended to fit snugly on its own. Socks are not important. Many athletes prefer not to wear socks because it makes the fit of the shoe too tight and the movements uncomfortable.
Similar buying guides
Best sprints track spikes
Author
Zack Dunn
I race distances between 800 meters and 10K whether it be on the track, the roads, or on cross country courses. My typical training consists of easy days, long days, workouts (fartleks, tempos, interval training, etc.). My typical training paces range from 7’30 a mile on easy days to sub-5 minutes a mile on fast interval days, and with many paces in between. I run anywhere from 40-60 miles a week. My personal bests are 2:00 for 800m, 4:30 for 1600m, 9:50 for 3200m, 15:57 for 5K, and 34:10 for 10K.
