The Best Throw Shoes for Track & Field of 2024

Power, distance, and speed takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to the throwing events in the world of track and field. Featuring the shotput, discus, hammer, and javelin, the throw events showcase not only incredibly strong athletes, but ones who are equally graceful. Each of these events requires a throwing technique that involves rhythm, coordination, and explosiveness, which is no easy task! Before you dig into finding the ideal shoe for your event, you can go to our full breakdown of each of these events in the Beginners Guide to Throwing Events article which highlights throwing techniques and the best type of shoe for each style and event. But if you know what event you are looking to crush this season, we are here to help with our insight on the best shoes for the job.

For athletes looking to gain an edge and throw farther this season, we are going to take a look at our top picks for track-and-field throw events and go into a little detail about what makes them stand out. The great thing about the sport of track and field is there is an event for every athlete. If you are new to track and field and are unsure where to start on finding a shoe that goes with your choice of event, check out our guide on How to Choose Track & Field Spikes which will speak to the wide variety of events and shoes to go along with them. With no further ado, let's take a look at our selections for the best throw shoes of the year!

Rotational throw shoes are appropriate for the Shot Put, Discus, and Hammer throw events. Rotational shoes have smooth outsoles that allows for faster rotations and a mid-foot strap that provides a solid lock down throughout every phase of the throw. Key aspects you want to look for a comfortable, snug fit, stability/security for that good lockdown feel on your foot, and durability for enduring training sessions and competitions.

The Nike Zoom Rotational 6 is a top-notch rotational shoe that athletes should grab on meet day. Nike engineered this shoe to spin faster, lock down longer, and allow throwers to hit big-time marks. With a stiff Pebax plate for unprecedented durability for rotational throwers and durable mesh covering and Dynamic Flywire for superior fit and reduced weight, the Zoom Rotational 6 is a throwing shoe that is designed for those technically advanced throwers who are looking for top marks this season.

The Puma evoSpeed Throw 10 shoe is a highly versatile, advanced level throw shoe that is engineered to deliver quality performance in the shotput (glide or rotational technique), discus, and hammer events. With a premium rubber outsole for durability and grip, the shoe features a pivot point strategically placed underneath the forefoot, allowing this versatile throw shoe to be used with either the rotational or glide technique.

The javelin requires speed, power, and precision. Therefore, javelin throwers need a special shoe to handle the rigors of the event. Similar to high jump spikes, javelin spikes contain spikes in the forefoot and the heel to have optimal traction at the time of release. They also need to have that snug, comfortable fit, while remaining protective for maximum stability and power transfer support.

The PUMA evoSpeed Javelin elite 2.0 Spikes is constructed to give you every ounce of exceptional performance in a comfortable and secure fit. A full-length Pebax plate with 11 replaceable spike pins on each shoe will give you maximum speed and propulsion on your approach. The internal bonded suede and a cushioned Eco Ortholite sockliner makes for a comfortable experience for your feet while a triple strap around the midfoot give a secure lockdown feel.

Carefully crafted to meet the needs of the best javelin throwers in the world, the Nike Zoom Javelin Elite 3 Spike is one of the advanced javelin spikes ever created. This shoe features a full-length outsole plate combined with a stiffer midsole foam to provide optimal energy transfer upon foot blocking. Finished off with a high-top ankle for support and a damping foam in the cap of the shoe, the Javelin Elite 3 protects your toes when your lead foot plants, channeling all the force upward into your body.

For shot putters who prefer the glide technique, a throw shoe featuring a textured outsole is better suited for the event as speed is not as important for this style as it is with the rotational technique. The glide technique uses the back foot as the power position to start, and through a transitional movement of the body to the opposite foot for the transfer of power release of the shot from the thrower to the landing area to be measured for distance. With this transitional movement or energy, some traction and a secure fit with durability are what you will want to look for a shoe.

Packing high-quality carbon rubber pivot points along with a reliable support strap, the Nike Zoom SD 4 is sure to maximize performance in the circle no matter the event. This throwing shoe provides plenty of traction and support for both glide and rotational techniques with it's contoured carbon rubber, flex grooves for flexibility, and support straps around the midfoot to give you a perfect and comfortable lockdown fit.

Another versatile throw shoe that can deliver high performance in shot put using the glide technique is the Under Armour Centric Grip. Highlighted by a PEBA mid-foot shank to keep the foot in a stable position, while a rubber toe cap provides increased protection and durability. Finishing with a high-strength yarn on the upper for a breathable and stylish fit, his throw shoe has what it takes to glide your way to the top of the leaderboard.

The Nike Rival SD 2 is the perfect shoe for throwers who do it all. This shoe is built for the athlete who wants to master each event and learn a variety of different techniques. With an updated engineered upper to provide great breathability while having that protective and supportive fit and feel, the Zoom Rival SD 2 is perfect for entry-level throwers and ideal for those who want a shoe that will give them fit and function while they master their craft in the throwing events.