![]() ![]() Those first track spikes were priced at $6 a pair, pretty hefty for that time period. ![]() Very quickly, runners wanted even lighter shoes, so soft, light-weight kangaroo hide replaced the cow leather. Make of leather, cow-hide at first, with six spikes in the fore-foot, these shoes were a major transition for the sport of track. In fact, they looked much like men’s dress shoes, with metal spikes stuck in the bottom. These first shoes were rather dull, heavy and hot compared to today’s brightly colored, light-weight footwear. Experts agree the first track spikes made their appearance around 1850 and began to be sold commercially in the late 1800’s by a man named Joseph Williams Foster, who is famous for beginning the company that eventually became Reebox. Sneakers became athletic shoes for children at first, and then for cyclists, thus beginning specialized shoes. In 1832, the process for putting rubber soles on shoes was patented and the sneaker, so named for its noiseless quality, was born. Track spikes actually have their beginnings in rubber. So what is the history of the track and field spike shoe? How did the idea come about that runners who have sharp points on their feet would go faster? In a chicken and egg kind of way, running shoes and running companies grew together, with the great barons of running taking the lead in creating faster shoes for faster runners. That sound, feet shod in track spikes crossing concrete to the rubber track, is unique and to some, beautiful. This is not to say there are not fantastic options from other brands, some of which are called out as honorable mentions in this article, but as of now, Nike is at the top of the track and field food chain.For anyone who has ever run track, the sound of metal spikes on concrete or asphalt can bring on a flood of memories about nervous anticipation, the smell of sweat, the burn of muscles and the thrill of coming down the stretch with the crowding roaring in your ears. In making our selections, our team of experts (including the GOAT himself, “Connor from Running Warehouse”) huddled together and came to consensus for each category. Without further ado, we hereby present our staff picks for the best track and field shoes of 2023. ![]() Learn more about how track spikes should fit. Jump Spikes (high jump, long jump, triple jump, and pole vault): While there are spikes designed for each specific jump event, jump spikes generally prioritize a high level of traction and a locked down fit.Glide and rotational movement shoes have smooth, flat soles that allow for ideal traction during different throwing techniques. Javelin spikes feature built-in spikes (forefoot and heel) and added ankle support. Throw Shoes (Discus, Hammer, Javelin, Shot-put): Throw shoes can be broken down into three categories: glide movement, rotational movement, and javelin.They are extremely lightweight and have semi-flexible soles for added comfort over long distance races. Like mid-distance spikes, they will offer a more slipper-like fit, which is to say a more relaxed fit, but still contoured and snug. Long Distance Spikes (3,200m, 5k, and 10k) Long-distance specific spikes generally have the most cushioning out of the different running events.Depending on personal preferences, runners can choose between mid and long distance spikes depending on the level of cushioning they prefer. They are extremely lightweight and have semi-flexible soles. Middle Distance Spikes (800m, 1500m, and 1600m) - Mid-distance spikes will offer a more slipper-like fit, which is to say a more relaxed fit, but will still be contoured and snug.These will offer a sock-like fit and act as an extension of your foot to promote a more explosive ride. Sprint Distance Spikes (100m, 200m, 400m, hurdles, and relays) - For sprint distances, we recommend sprint spikes, which are designed to be aggressive on the track.Here's a quick refresher on how we categorize our track and field shoes and spikes and what types of events each type is designed for: If you are new to track and field and are unsure where to start, check out our guide on how to choose a track-and-field shoe. Whether you are a sprinter, jumper, thrower, or distance athlete, read on to learn our experts' top spike and shoe picks for each track-and-field event. For track-and-field athletes looking to gain an edge this season, the spike you are wearing can make all the difference. ![]()
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