The Best Jump Spikes of 2025

Why run when you can fly? For athletes with the gift of jumping abilities, there are four track and field events that allow them to showcase their talents: the high jump, long jump, triple jump, and pole vault. For this guide, our staff has huddled together to compile a list of what we believe are the best jump spikes in the game right now to help you level up this season, whether it's your first time taking to the runway or your hundredth.

The high jump event is a test of precision and execution. From the approach, to the take, to the flight and landing, a high jumper must have complete control of their body through every phase of the jump. That kind of precision requires a specialized spike that is engineered to meet the demands of the event, keeping you stable as you move forward, and laterally, and twist and turn and go up and around.

You need pinpoint accuracy in multiple directions, and so you need a shoe that can lock you in, and pivot right along with you.

Triple jump, long jump, and pole vault track spikes are all very similar, with the main difference being added padding in the heel of a triple jump spike, but high jump spikes are designed exclusively for use in the high jump. Starting with the fit, a high jump spike should have a contoured and snug fit in order to prevent unwanted foot movement. Moreover, a mid-foot strap will provide full control over the wrap of the foot, offering both comfort and security. The spike plate will contain spikes in the heel in addition to the forefoot to provide the necessary traction when you plant your foot and prepare for liftoff. Finally, the best high jump spikes will have a stiff plate that will give you an explosive liftoff as you sail to victory.

Featuring powerful athletes who can gracefully go from sprinting to soaring, the long jump event is quite a sight to behold. Due to the sprinting phase of the event, long spikes are quite similar to sprinting spikes. They will have a snug and narrow fit to act as an extension of the foot and a stiff spike plate for propulsion, but long jump spikes contain more cushioning for impact absorption, and some will include a mid-foot strap to keep the foot as locked in as possible.

When you're just a hop, skip, and a jump away from eternal glory, make sure you've got the right pair of spikes to give you the best chance! The keys to a good triple jump spike include: a flat sole, strong grip in the heel, and a locked-in fit. Flat soles are beneficial for triple jump athletes because they allow the wearer's feet to fully roll through their jumps. A strong grip in the heel provides the traction needed to allow for an explosive takeoff, and a snug and secure lockdown minimizes any undesirable foot movement and maximizes power at every stage of the jump.

One thing to keep in mind is that triple jump spikes and pole vault spikes feature many of the same characteristics and can be used for either event. The biggest difference between the two is a higher level of cushioning in triple jump spikes, to help protect you from your higher impact landings.

Pole vault spikes need to be fast, stable, and secure. Given the intensity and inherent risks involved in the sport, it's essential for elite athletes to have elite spikes on their feet as they sail through the sky. As previously mentioned, pole vault spikes and triple jump spikes are very similar and can be used in both events, depending on your personal preferences regarding cushioning level.

What are the advantages of more, or fewer spikes in the shoes?

Different shoes and different event specialties might require different numbers of spikes placed on the bottom of a shoe. It's a balancing act. More spikes will provide more traction, and an increased ability to accelerate quickly due to your grip on the track. But each spike will add to the shoe's weight and potential drag. So, while you might be able to speed up quicker, there will be consequences elsewhere.

If you aren't sure how many spikes you would prefer, we recommend just going with the standard models that you see for each event. Then, as you learn more about your stride and your strengths, you can start experimenting with some of the more creative spike placements or quantities.

What is the difference in the types of plates?

In general, all plates help to add structure and support to shoes. Their extra added rigidity will offer more propulsion for your stride, meaning you can run and turn and...yes, jump...faster. But making these plates out of different materials can emphasize different aspects of the plates.

• Carbon Fiber plates offer elite performance, often at elite prices. With Max Propulsion and Stiff Rides.
• Fiberglass-Composite Plates are more flexible and more comfortable.
• TPU Plates offer extra stability and durability.
• Nylon Plates offer the smoothest rides with an emphasis on energy transfer.

And those are our top picks for the best Track and Field Jump Spikes.

We hope that our selections help you to jump higher, farther, and faster than ever before. Now go get those marks down and do a practice run or two. Your next big competition is about to begin!