Title: 8 Tips for Selecting Track Spikes - Freelap USA
Headings: 8 Tips for Selecting Track Spikes
8 Tips for Selecting Track Spikes
Your Event
Try On
Fit Preference
Socks or Without
Break In
Saving Money
Spike Count
Extra Extra

Content: A brand new pair of spikes will undoubtedly have some hot spots or high friction areas, so racing in them without any break-in can be bad news, as Dathan Ritzenhein found out when he tore his foot open while racing in an unworn set of spikes. Doing 3 to 4 light workouts or sets of strides will help the track spikes conform to the foot better, and if there are problem areas, a little petroleum jelly or other anti-chafe product will help to alleviate the issue come race day. Saving Money
Most manufacturers release new models of track spikes every year, but do not change much in the designs. If the running specialty store has any stock of previous years’ models, chances are they are significantly less expensive than the current models. Secondhand track spikes can be another money-saving option, but tread lightly in this area. Just like training shoes, track spikes can break down over time, and buying used spikes could put the athlete at greater risk for injury. Spike Count
The spike plate in a pair of track spikes will have a varying number of spike pins depending on the designated use for the shoe. Sprinting spikes will normally have the maximum allowed, which currently stands at 8. Distance spikes will have less, usually somewhere between 5 and 7. The track spikes should never be worn without first inserting spike pins or blanks first.