The Best Sprint & Hurdle Spikes of 2025

With the 2024 world's fastest man headlining the roster of the world's greatest athletes, you know we HAD to recognize adidas; they're obviously doing something very right!

With this adizero Prime SP 4 Strung, we've been gifted with a thick stack of uber-responsive Lightstrike Pro foam under the forefoot. Combined with a full-length carbon fiber-infused plate and stunning Strung upper, this beast is just begging to explode off the blocks and bound through the tape. Some might call this pick a "surprise" victory over the fully worthy Nike Zoom Maxfly 2, but not us!

At a glance: adidas adizero Prime SP 4 Strung

• Weight: 7.0 oz | 210 g
• Pins: 6 pins
• Foam: Lightstrike Pro superfoam
• Plate: Full-length caron fiber infused plate
• Strung upper

Hold it right there! Are we even allowed to pick a MID distance spike here? Well, we did it, so hear us out. The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp MD-X v3 is a ridiculously worthy and championship-decorated option for the top pick in this category.

This super spike has premium features like 100% PEBA superfoam and a full-length carbon fiber plate for world-class speed. While its stunningly broad range technically spans from 800m up to 5000m distances, we should recall these spikes were on the feet of gold medal winners in Paris for the 400m hurdles and the 200m, among other accolades. Maybe that only works for elites, but it's also worth trying for all of us. Yes, please!

At a glance: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp MD-X v3

• Weight: 6.0 oz | 170 g
• Pins: 6 pins
• Foam: FuelCell 100% PEBA superfoam
• Plate: Full-length carbon fiber plate

If you don't want to break the bank, or for sprinters who run multiple events, we present the Nike Zoom Rival Sprint as the perfect choice. This spike can handle the power of the 60-meter, the finesse of relays, and the speed of the 400-meter. Plus, for athletes starting younger, it's also available in the Nike Zoom Rival Sprint Kids.

At a glance: Nike Zoom Rival Sprint

• Weight: 6.1 oz | 173 g
• Pins: 6 pins
• Foam: Phylon foam
• Plate: 3/4-length Pebax plate

While we’ve highlighted the top spike models for each distance, it’s helpful to understand how sprint, mid-distance, and long-distance spikes differ:

Choosing the right spike type depends on your events and which features you prioritize, such as speed, comfort, or responsiveness.

Top-end spikes perform best on synthetic rubber tracks. Entry-level or simpler spikes can be more comfortable and durable on dirt or grass, but it’s important to check the outsole: would it handle slippery grass or hard-packed dirt with rocks? Some outsoles do, while others don’t.

For hard paved surfaces, spikeless, flat, or waffle-style options (such as the Nike Zoom Rival Waffle or New Balance XC7 Spikeless) are safer if allowed. Performance road shoes can also be a good choice.

Avoid walking across pavement or hard surfaces with spikes inserted; a carrying bag (included with many models) helps protect both your spikes and the track.

A top-notch super spike usually includes:

• Advanced superfoam: PEBA/Pebax, TPEE, or A-TPU
• Full-length plate: High-performance thermoplastics, fiberglass, or carbon fiber

Lighter spikes are typically faster, but the lightest isn’t always best. Prioritize a model that offers the right fit, feel, support, and performance for you.

While some spikes are designed specifically for short sprints (60m–100m) and others for longer sprints (up to 400m), most models are versatile enough to handle multiple distances. The key is comfort and how the spikes feel for you.

For example:

• In a 400m race, you might feel too much heel impact in a spike with little to no cushioning.
• In a 60m–100m sprint, a more cushioned spike could feel less responsive and stable when exploding out of the blocks.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your preferences and which trade-offs feel best for your events.

Track spikes are only for use on the track, and your coach will know best about what is and isn't allowed at each of your meet locations. If spikes are permitted, the "standard" pins are usually pyramid-shaped and 1/4-inch length or shorter. Many facilities discourage longer lengths and other shapes (such as needles), but virtually all track spikes come with standard pyramid spikes in the box.