10 Best Track Spikes for 2026

Below we highlight what we think are 10 of the best track spikes on the market right now, the shoes that let you maximise your training and find your spot on the podium.

What is a running spike?

Specifically designed for the track, they use lightweight uppers, but the standout feature are the metal spikes that allow you to put down all your power on the running track. Housing the spikes, a near rigid spike plate allows various amounts of flex depending on the shoe and the distance it is aimed at.

Are spikes worth it?

The grip difference and explosive speed from the rigid footplate will make all the difference. To know you are lining up on the track with every advantage you can have, to match your dedication and training, a proper pair of track spikes are a must.

What is the difference between sprint spikes, mid-distance spikes and long-distance spikes?

Sprint spikes aim to put you on your toes. They have maximum grip, which means more spikes underneath, all placed on the forefoot. Lightweight and explosive, comfort is not a prime consideration when they may only be needed for 10 seconds!

Middle distance spikes allow a little more flex in the spike plate and although still lightweight, they may have cushioning underfoot.

Designed to withstand forces for a much longer period, long distance spikes are more cushioned and more durable. With less aggressive (meaning more flexible) spike plates they are still fast, and still lightweight, but also a touch more comfortable.

What are the best track spikes?

A highly contentious question, your preference will be down to several factors, from weight, propulsion, price, grip, and fit, but below we have listed some of the major contenders to help you make your choice. You can also browse our men's track and field running shoes and women's track and field running shoes to find the right spikes for your event.

Sprint spikes

Nike Maxfly

Used by Elite athletes in the biggest events around the world, the Maxfly crams a full-length carbon plate, two air zoom units and a spike plate under your foot to give you an aggressive, fast and powerful stride.

Adidas adizero sprintstar

Built for 100 - 400m the Sprintstar features a highly breathable upper with a 6-pin spike plate that lets you change your spikes to match the conditions.

Middle distance

Cielo X 3 MD

From 800m to 3k this is the choice for HOKA's Elite athletes, it features a full length, reverse forked carbon plate, and PEBA based cushioning for lightness, propulsion and efficiency.

ASICS Hyper Md 8

With a remit that includes hurdles, and every distance from 400 to 1000m, the Hyper Md 8 uses an open mesh upper with no-sew films to give lightness, hold and comfort. EVA foam underfoot delivers comfort and cushioning

Long Distance

PUMA evoSPEED Forte Nitro Elite

With both a full-length carbon fibre PWRPLATE, and a full-length Pebax spike plate, the Forte delivers a huge amount of propulsive, and efficient drive forward. Add in their innovative Nitrogen infused NITROFOAM and you get even more energy as well as comfortable cushioning.

Nike Rival Distance

Taking lessons from their elite Dragonfly shoe, the Rival Distance uses 4 replaceable pins in the spike plate and a supportive arch band that ensures you don't lose any of your power through your stride.

Jump Spikes

adidas adizero Long Jump

With an adizero for triple Jump, high jump, and pole vault also available, you get 7-spikes and sharkskin grip to ensure maximum grip and propulsion at take-off.

Nike Rival Jump

With a grippy textured heel and a 6-spike plate you get loads of traction for secure footing on take-of.

X-Country

On Cloudspike XC

Combining their propriety CloudTec cushioning with Helion HF foam, you get cushioning and propulsion to help you get new PBs across any terrain. 6 Removable pins ensure you get traction even on the worst courses.

ASICS Sonicrace XC

Lightweight thanks to the Flytefoam cushioning and delivering traction with a 5-pin spike plate, the Sonicrace XC makes an excellent option for those below the elite level.

Bonus non-spikes

Technically, they don't feature spikes, but these field shoes help make the most of any athletics meet up.

Throwing shoes

Nike Zoom Rotational

Elite level throwing shoes that focus on giving a fully locked down fit, and a stable platform to throw from, through flywire cables in the midfoot. A durable PEBAX plate gives you the perfect platform to pivot on.

Adidas Throwstar

A versatile throwing shoe designed for shot put, discuss and hammer throw events, it features a textured sole for grip in any weather.

Find your spikes

There is no one perfect pair of spikes, and what works for a 100m sprinter is going to feel very different to what you need over 5,000m. Start with your event, then look at how much grip, cushioning and aggression you want underfoot.

Once you have that sorted, the fun bit is choosing the pair. Check out our men's and women's track and field running shoes to find the spikes that suit your event, your training and hopefully your next PB.