Jens Jakob Andersen on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
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Fast and light — these are the marks of a good sprint spike. With so many track and field sprinting shoes possessing these, finding the right pair can be a challenge.
But don't fret. We've done the job for you. Setting their popularity aside, we've examined and selected the best sprint spikes among the ones we have personally tested.
Even more, we've chosen our top picks from different categories because when it comes to sprint shoes, it's not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Best overall
Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
Best for race
Nike Air Zoom MaxFly
Best for beginners
Nike Zoom Rival S 9
Table of contents
How we test track spikesBest overallBest for raceBest for beginnersComparison
Overview
How we test track spikes
Our choices for the best sprinting shoes are based on multiple (rigorous) testing. And to stay objective we:
- Buy the shoes with our own money to avoid brand loyalty. We avoid playing a part in partnerships because we do not want to give ourselves and our readers a reason to think we should thread lightly with our comments and opinions.
- Clock up 30 to 50 miles of test runs in each shoe. We engage in different sprinting activities in different circ*mstances and conditions. As much as possible, we broaden our experience with the shoes so we can come up with a comprehensive review, as well as a valid conclusion.
- Go mad with numbers. We do all sorts of testing on the shoes to measure and score their various characteristics. One thing we subjectively check is the stiffness of the heel. We use our bare hands in pushing and squeezing the sides and the back of the collar, rating the stiffness from 1 to 5, with 5 being the stiffest.
Best sprint spikes overall
Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
94
Superb!
What makes it the best?
Among all the sprint track spikes we tested against flat-out and intense workouts, Nike’s Zoom Superfly Elite 2 is undoubtedly the best overall. It almost feels weightless on foot, but its power and speed are hard to ignore. This elite-level spike shines best in our 100m-400m sprints.
We experienced a different kind of energy with this lightweight and snappy spike. It’s lined with a stiff full-length Pebax spike plate that ensures great propulsion and maximum speed. It gives way to some flexion for smooth toe-offs and is comfortable enough to go all-out til 400m.
Underfoot, the sole has a honeycomb pattern with 8 removable stainless-steel pins that effectively grip on track. We had no slip issues even as we ran through fast corners.
The upper feels delightful on top, hugging our feet with a stretchy and breathable Atomknit upper. It fits like a glove for that race-ready fit, with a heel cup that locks us down effectively.
Unfortunately, this elite shoe is on the higher end of the market. Its $150 price tag proves it’s a premium shoe to invest in for all its speed-enhancing features.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Light
- Snappy & propulsive
- See-through breathable upper
- Sock-like fit
- Great heel lockdown
- Head-turning sleek design
- Elite-level spike
- Perfect for 100-400m sprints
- Notched laces keep the shoe tied
Cons
- Pricey
Full review of Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
Best sprint spikes for races
Nike Air Zoom MaxFly
90
Great!
What makes it the best?
Nike Air Zoom MaxFly showed unmatched speed and comfort among all the sprint spikes we brought on track, making it our top choice for races. It has all the advanced technology to enhance speed while ensuring a light, steady, and comfortable ride. It’s undoubtedly one of the most advanced and aggressive spikes — we think its $180 price is well worth the maximum performance.
MaxFly has a unique ride — blending insane snappiness and comfort into one. It feels airy on foot with its 5.6oz (162g) weight but feels way lighter because of its speed-enhancing features. The Flyplate is one of the stiffest we’ve tried, ensuring maximum energy return. This is balanced by the ZoomX foam and the Air Zoom Unit in the forefoot, which promotes smooth transitions and dampens landing impact. MaxFly can be used for hurdles too. Yet we discovered it performs best on 100-400m events.
The spike plate ensures reliable traction, allowing us to focus on our races. There is a full-length ShockWave Generated Outsole Plate for a smooth ride, while the 7 forefoot spikes guarantee optimal traction on speed curves.
Note that MaxFly’s ride takes some time to get used to. We recommend testing it out for better adaptation before bringing it to races.
Pros
- Very springy
- Snug race-like ft
- Extremely well-engineered
- Premium design and feel
- Perfeect for 100-400m
- Works for hurdles as well
- Superb comfort+speed combo
- Breathable
- Notched laces stay tied
Cons
- Expensive
- Adaptation period might be needed
- Feels unstable on curves
Full review of Nike Air Zoom MaxFly
Best sprint spikes for beginners
Nike Zoom Rival S 9
88
Great!
What makes it the best?
Among all the sprint track spikes we tested against hard efforts, we learned Nike’s Zoom Rival S 9 is the best for beginners. It’s really fast and grippy for an affordable $65 price tag vs. the $117 average. It’s a great entry-level sprint spike, providing enough comfort until 800m races.
This speedster feels snappy underfoot with some flex in the spike plate for smoother toe-offs. It can compete against its more expensive counterparts with a little more effort. It displays unquestionable grip on speed curves with 7 spikes for that extra bite on the track.
The midsole has a Phylon wedge in the heel area, which we found adds comfort for sprints up to 800m and even for jumping and hurdle events. This is great for beginners who are still getting used to the ride of spikes.
The mesh upper has overlays in the midfoot area to secure lockdown and durability. The overall fit feels race-ready and comfortable, with no unwanted heel slips.
Unfortunately, the upper feels toasty and breathable. We don’t recommend wearing this pair on warm days.
Pros
- True to size
- Snug race fit
- Fast and snappy
- Good traction
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Heavy
- Poor breathability
Full review of Nike Zoom Rival S 9
Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.
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Best track spikes
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
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Regarding the article you mentioned, "Best Sprints Track Spikes" by Jens Jakob Andersen, I can provide information related to the concepts used in the article. Let's dive into it!
Track Spikes
Track spikes are specialized athletic shoes designed for track and field sprinting events. They are lightweight and provide traction on the track, allowing sprinters to maximize their speed and performance. Track spikes typically have spikes or pins on the sole to enhance grip and traction.
Sprinting Shoes
Sprinting shoes, also known as sprint spikes, are a type of track spike specifically designed for sprinting events. They are designed to be lightweight, provide excellent traction, and offer support for explosive movements. Sprinting shoes are categorized based on their features and suitability for different types of sprinting events.
Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
The Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 is considered the best overall sprint spike in the article. It is known for its lightweight design and exceptional power and speed. The shoe features a stiff full-length Pebax spike plate for propulsion and maximum speed. The sole has a honeycomb pattern with removable stainless-steel pins for effective grip on the track. The upper is made of a stretchy and breathable Atomknit material, providing a comfortable and race-ready fit. However, it is important to note that the Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 is on the higher end of the market in terms of price.
Nike Air Zoom MaxFly
The Nike Air Zoom MaxFly is recommended as the best sprint spike for races. It offers unmatched speed and comfort, making it an ideal choice for competitive sprinting. The shoe features advanced technology to enhance speed and provide a light and comfortable ride. It has a unique ride, blending snappiness and comfort, with a stiff Flyplate for maximum energy return. The ZoomX foam and Air Zoom Unit in the forefoot promote smooth transitions and dampen landing impact. The spike plate ensures reliable traction, and the shoe is suitable for 100-400m events. However, it may require some adaptation time before using it in races.
Nike Zoom Rival S 9
The Nike Zoom Rival S 9 is recommended as the best sprint spike for beginners. It offers speed and grip at an affordable price. The shoe provides a snappy underfoot feel with some flex in the spike plate for smoother toe-offs. It has good traction and displays unquestionable grip on speed curves. The midsole features a Phylon wedge in the heel area for added comfort during sprints and other events. The mesh upper provides lockdown and durability. However, the shoe may feel heavy and have poor breathability.
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