Title: How to Buy Track Spikes
Headings: How to Buy Track Spikes
How to Buy Track Spikes
Step 1: Choose Your Event
Determine Which Kind of Spike to Buy
If You Are Buying for Multiple Events
Step 2: Choose Your Performance Level
Entry Level
Elite Level
Step 3: Get the Right Fit
How Your Spikes Should Fit
Written by Kaitlin
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Content: Step 1: Choose Your Event
Determine Which Kind of Spike to Buy
Track Event
Spike
Sprint Distances
100m, 200m, 400m, 110m hurdles (men), 100m hurdles (women), and 400m hurdles. Relays: 4x100m and 4x400m
Sprint Spike
Men's | Women's
Middle Distances
800m, 1500m, 1600m (1 mile)
Middle Distance Spike
Men's | Women's
Long Distances
3,200m, 5,000m or 5k (3.1 Miles), 10,000m or 10k (6.2 Miles)
Distance Spike
Men's | Women's
Field Events
Shoe
Throw Events
Discus, Hammer, Javelin, and Shotput
Throw Shoe
Men's | Women's
Jump Events
High Jump, Long Jump, Triple Jump, and Pole Vault
Jump Shoe
Men's | Women's
If You Are Buying for Multiple Events
If this is your first year competing in track and field, you may be trying out several different events, and it's probably not realistic to buy specific spikes for every event you hope to try. In this case, an entry-level spike will be the most versatile. We recommend beginning with a middle-distance spike as a starting point, but you could also start with a spike for whichever event you are most excited about. Step 2: Choose Your Performance Level
Entry Level
Entry-level spikes are intended for newer athletes. These shoes will have a more substantial upper for a secure fit, and a less rigid spike plate for a more comfortable underfoot feel. While entry-level spikes are less expensive, they are often more durable than their elite counterparts.