The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (2024)

The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (1)

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (2)

Sprinters got all the love in our first installment of the

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2.

The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (3)

No. 10 - Nike Zoom Rival D 7

Weight: 5.6 ounces
Ideal Distance: 400-5,000m

Powered by Nike Zoom units in the heel and forefoot, the Rival D 7 unisex spike has cushioning in all the right places. The shoe'sintegrated arch bandage wraps the foot for a secure and stable ride, while the mesh layer allows air to pass through and keep your feet comfortable over mid-to-long distances.

$60

No. 9 - Brooks ELMN 8

Weight: 4.9 ounces
Ideal Distance: 400-1,600m

This cutting-edge spike from Brooks Running is new to the track scene, but it has already claimed a coveted spot as one of the best options for middle distance runners. On top, the ELMN 8 features a lightweight, breathable mesh upper for a comfortable fit. Underneath, the shoe boasts a unique spike plate that is designed to leave the competition in the dust.

$100

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (5)

No. 8 - Asics FastLap MD

Weight: 5.6 ounces
Ideal Distance: 400-800m

The Asics FastLap MD is designed specifically for the 400-800 meter events, though it will hold up just fine for races up to the 1,600-meter mark. The spike features an aggressive, streamlined design that closely resembles sprint spikes. But thanks to an EVA compound midsole, and a CMEVA heel wedge for added confort, this thing can go the distance.

$90

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (6)

No. 7 - adidas Arriba 4

Weight: 6.1 ounces
Ideal Distance: 400-5,000m

If your thing is speed (and it should be), the Arriba 4 is the one you want. The lightweight spikes puts out great performance at a reasonable price. It has Sprintweb in the forefoot for a lockdown fit, and a soft collar around the ankle for lasting comfort during distance events.

No. 6 - Saucony Velocity 5

Weight: 6.6 ounces
Ideal Distance: 400-5,000m

The Saucony Velocity 5 is a solid option for runners of all levels. Its EVA midsole and a 6-pin Pebax spike plate make it perfect for 400-5,000 meter track events. An XT-900 carbon rubber outsole provides runners with the durability needed on distance races.

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (8)

No. 5 - Nike Zoom Matumbo 2

Weight: 3.6 ounces
Ideal Distance: 3,000-10,000m

With Dynamic Flywire and an incredibly lightweight construction leading the way, the Zoom Matumbo 2 is all about performance. Though it weighs only 3.6 ounces, the Matumbo 2 is durable enough for middle and long distance races. The shoe features an impressive 10-spike configuration for blazing fast speed.

$120

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (9)

No. 4 - New Balance 5000

Weight: 3.7 ounces
Ideal Distance: 1,500-10,000m

What would a "Best of" running list be without New Balance in the mix. The NB 5000 features an aerodynamic profile, with a skeletal FantonFit upper for support and a lightweight fit. A REVlite midsole provides runners with responsive cushioning, and a full-length Pebax spike plate offers superior traction on the track.

$110

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (10)

No. 3 - adidas adiZero Cadence 2

Weight:5.3 ounces
Ideal Distance:1,500m-10k

The Cadence 2 from adidas was a prime choice amongst distance runners during the 2012 London Olympics. The lightweight spike is versatile enough to be used on the track or cross country, and features an extended Torsion System in the midfoot for stability. The shoe's microfiber synthetic upper provides a glove-like fit, and is lined with Coolever lining for heat and sweat management.

$100

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (11)

No. 2 - Saucony Endorphin LD3

Weight: 3.1 ounces
Ideal Distance: 1,500-10,000m

The previous Endorphin model from Saucony got a lot of slack for being a boring, monochromatic spike that just wasn't fun to lace up on race day, particularly for us runners who like a bit of flash in our style. However it looks like Saucony got it right with the all-new Endorphin LD3, both in style and performance. The eye-popping upper features Flex Film overlays for lightweight support, along with a stiff Pebax plate that is built for intense competition.

$90

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The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (12)

No. 1 - Nike Zoom Victory 2

Weight: 3.5 ounces
Ideal Distance: 800-5,000m

The Saucony Endorphin gave the Nike Zoom Victory 2 a run for its money, but at the end of the day we had to give the top-ranked title to the Zoom Victory. The dynamic spike is the complete package in terms of performance, innovation, and reliability. The shoe’s Flywire technology holds the foot firmly in place, while a lightweight Phylon midsole keeps runners calm and comfortable during events ranging from 800-5,000m. The Zoom Victory 2 is a must-have for all serious middle distance contenders.

$120

Gurvinder Singh Gandu is a New York City-based contributing writer and wear-tester for Sneaker Report, and a contributing writer for Yahoo! Sports. A California-raised, sports-obsessed, gear junkie, follow himhereto keep up with all things performance.

RELATED:The 10 Best Track Spikes for Sprinters
RELATED:Nike Adds Flyknit to Matthew Centrowitz’s Zoom Victory Spike

The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners (2024)

FAQs

The 10 Best Track Spikes for Middle Distance Runners? ›

Sprint, jump, and throw spikes should fit like a glove. They will be snug and provide a narrow fit. Your toes should reach the end of the shoes, but not be jammed into them. This is because these shoes are intended to act as an extension of your foot to allow for a more explosive feel.

How do I find the right track spikes? ›

Sprint, jump, and throw spikes should fit like a glove. They will be snug and provide a narrow fit. Your toes should reach the end of the shoes, but not be jammed into them. This is because these shoes are intended to act as an extension of your foot to allow for a more explosive feel.

What spikes do I get for track? ›

Spike Pins

6mm - These are best for track and field events. This is the only size of spike pin that is permitted on most athletics tracks.

Can you run 800m in spikes? ›

Middle Distance track spikes are best suited for the 800m, 1500m, and1600m (Mile) track events. The most expensive Middle Distance track spikes are for use exclusively on the best rubber/all weather tracks. Lower priced models are designed for use on all track surfaces (dirt, asphalt, rubber/all weather).

What are the best track spikes for mid distance? ›

If you push off powerfully, the Nike Air Zoom Victory is one of the best choices to propel your next middle-distance PR.

Do spikes increase your speed? ›

The spikes or pins on the bottom of the shoes provide improved traction and stability, allowing athletes to run faster and jump further. This can make a significant difference in races and other events, leading to better times and distances.

Can track spikes break? ›

Just like training shoes, track spikes can break down over time, and buying used spikes could put the athlete at greater risk for injury.

Should track spikes be tight? ›

Your toes should be close to the front of the shoe but still have room to move around. The shoe should hold your heel in without movement and have a solid hold through the midfoot. There should be a small amount of space in the toebox, but with a snugger fit than standard running shoes.

Are 1/4 inch spikes legal? ›

Pins come in lengths ranging from 1/8” to 5/8” and varying designs such as needle, Christmas tree, and tartan, however, the 1/4" pyramid is most commonly used; what is recommended and allowed on the majority of tracks; and therefore, what typically comes in the box with your spikes when you purchase them.

What are super spikes? ›

Super spikes are track spikes for middle and long distance events that use the two key innovations in shoe tech that have revolutionized marathon shoes: “super foam” with high deformation and excellent energy return, and carbon fiber plates in the midsole.

What spikes do 400m runners use? ›

Shop Spikes for Sprints (Up To 400m)
  • Nike track spikes.
  • New Balance track spikes.
  • Saucony track spikes.

Can you jump in running spikes? ›

A more versatile or entry level sprint spike will often have a flexible, rubberized bottom on the back half of the shoe. This will allow for versatility in the events it can be used for (long jump, triple jump, pole vault, and high jump are all suitable uses for an entry level sprint spike).

Are track spikes worth it? ›

While running spikes can enhance your performance because of their very minimal weight and aggressive traction, a more cushioned, more stable training shoe can protect you from injury much better.

What type of spikes are best for high jump? ›

The Nike Zoom high jump spikes have been a popular choice for high jumpers over the years. They have a fibreglass bottom and remain rigid, which is good if you want strong support at the bottom of the high jump shoe.

What spikes are best for sprinters? ›

What Shoes are Best For Sprinting
The Best Sprint Spikes of 2024
Best Overall Sprint SpikeNike Zoom Maxfly
Best Traditional Sprint SpikeNike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
Best Sprint Spike for Power SprintersNew Balance FuelCell PWR-X
Best for Long Sprint DistancesNew Balance FuelCell SD-X
3 more rows
Jan 15, 2024

What spike does Usain Bolt wear? ›

Bolt competed in Puma track spikes throughout his career, while Bromell does so in New Balance track spikes.

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