Track Spikes

   

Track Spikes

Track spikes are the shoes used in Olympic Games which involve running, throwing, jumping and walking. These shoes are different from the ordinary sports shoes because it has a spikes plate or spikes screwed at the bottom which helps the athletes to perform at a higher level while running or jumping and they also provide a firm footing on the ground which leads to better grip, enhancing the performance and increasing the chances of performing well.

A spike wrench is used to fit the spikes in front of the track spikes in generally 3 to 11 spike holes. In a lot of track events the heel of the shoe doesn’t have spikes. Most of the exceptions include high jumping sports. Spikes can be classified into three types; sprinting, distance running and field event shoes. Sprint shoes have a more aggressive spike plate attached to it but generally have less support so that the athlete can improve his speed and agility. They usually weigh less because speed is indirectly proportional to mass and lighter shoes means faster running. Distance spikes give a better grip and have fewer spike holes. They serve a dual purpose; speed and support. Field shoes are usually even different from each other as they are built according to the field event and number of spike holes can vary accordingly.

To help run with greater speed, these track spikes have a taper which allows the athlete to run faster as its toes are pointed up and not touching the ground. These cleats also have a glove like material inside which acts as a cushion and shock absorber thus keeping the runner up in better condition for a longer period of time while minimizing the aching his feat underneath.

These cleats vary in length from 3-12mm but mostly 6mm shoes are used all over the world and are most common. The spikes used in these shoes can also vary and are categorized in three types; pyramid, needle, and a compression tier. Pyramids have spikes shaped in a triangle, pointed at the tip of the shoe and broad at the spikes plate. Needles also are pointed at the front but they are smaller in diameter at the top. Both of these cleat formations provide a better grip. The compression tier has a flat end which provides a better running speed for the athlete.

If you’re competing in any track events, it doesn’t matter what level of competition you are at, be it professional, high school, or just your 10 year old son or daughter, you need to have the appropriate equipment to perform well and minimize the risk of injury. Track shoes are no exception.

Customer Reviews

Adidas Demolisher Sprint Spikes
adidas Men's Demolisher 2005 Track Shoe - These are world-class short sprint (50-400 meters) spikes. They are very stable and lightweight. I was able to buy a pair from Amazon for only $34 with free shipping. When I tried to order a second pair they were out of my size, and from another supplier would have cost $99. I give the shoes 5 stars; the 4 star rating is because although they were new and in the box, the spikes and wrench were missing. I have plenty of spare spikes and a wrench, but this could leave a newby to track without useable shoes. Still, a great deat (spikes cost ten cents each!).  

I Love These Cleats
adidas Men's RB619 Fly - The shoes arrived at my home the next day after ordering! I immediately put them on and took off! What comfort, support, and light weight! We're headed into winter months here in Michigan, and they're going to get a bit of a rest until next spring; but then watch out!  

Long Lasting
New Balance Men's RX505C Racing Spike - We bought these for our son who is in 6th grade for running 4-6 miles a day in cross country. These have lasted the whole season, but the spikes did wear down after about 4 months of using them every day (I think that's to be expected). Now that he's moved on to weightlifting, he still uses these shoes and they still look brand new. He says they are comfortable and fit very well - and he hardly knows they're on his feet sometimes because of them being lightweight.