![]() ![]() “No other spike provides a ride that feels as smooth and effortless rounding corners and sprinting straightaways as the Dragonfly,” one tester noted. A thick layer of Nike’s highest-energy-returning foam, ZoomX, embedded with a full-length, curved, slightly-flexible Pebax plate, delivers cushioning and rebound. The Dragonfly’s stiff sole and moderately aggressive forefoot rocker promote smooth and efficient transitions, making the spike the unanimous favorite among our middle- and long-distance testers. Still the best all-around, elite-level spike for distance runners, the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly is suitable for all track events 800 meters and longer. The Best Distance Spikes (Photo: Courtesy Nike) Nike ZoomX Dragonfly ($150) We compiled the reports to tease out the best models in each category and gathered additional feedback on these models from other athletes to broaden the following reviews. Each runner then ranked each spike on a scale of one to ten and submitted a final report based on performance, fit, ride quality, and overall impression. They tested the leading models from each major running brand in both track workouts and races ranging from 60 to 10,000 meters. To test this spring’s spike collection, we recruited a group of eight experienced male and female track runners, including sprint, middle-distance, and long-distance specialists. “If you’re not yet decided on an event group, a middle-distance spike is the most versatile and can be used across sprints, hurdles, jumps, and distance.” How We Tested Spikes “If you’ve never worn spikes before, find something that fits the foot comfortably and allows the feeling of natural movement,” Lang says. Typically, more experienced runners who stay up on their toes and push off powerfully will favor a stiffer and more curved spike. Knowing whether you prefer a stiff sole or a more flexible one will go a long way in helping you find the ideal track spike. Of these, sole rigidity seems to vary the most between spikes. Long-distance spikes tend to offer even more flexibility than middle-distance spikes and typically have more cushioning through the midsole for increased comfort during long track races.Īfter sorting out what type of spike you need, the choice comes down to fit and personal preferences on cushioning, stiffness, and geometry. “A middle-distance spike,” Lang says, “maintains an aggressive geometry that helps the runner get to their midfoot for an efficient, powerful gait, but typically the plate will only run one-half to three-quarters of the length of the shoe, to allow slightly more flex and comfort over the multi-lap races.” The uppers tend to be light and flexible, prioritizing comfort and efficiency over power. Lang explains that this locks down the foot to harness the incredible amount of power created by the sprinter’s explosive moments. Sprinting spikes will also have a more structured upper than distance models. Sprint spikes, Lang says, “are built with a stiff spike plate, usually running the length of the shoe, to provide rigidity underfoot and promote power transfer and propulsion.” These stiff plates feature an aggressive forward-leaning geometry that helps sprinters stay on their toes. Paul Lang, senior manager of footwear merchandising at ASICS, explains that the distinction is based primarily on how they move with the foot. These distinctions are not absolute, and some runners may find a spike works well for them outside their intended event category. Track spikes are divided into three categories: sprint (optimized for 60 to 400 meters), middle distance (400 to 3,000 meters), and long distance (3,000 to 10,000 meters). Given the vast differences in how each spike feels and performs-even in various models from the same brand-you have to try a spike on and run in it to evaluate whether it works for you.įirst, determine which type of spike you need for your preferred events. Here’s what you need to know about choosing a track spike, our top picks from this spring’s options, and the technology behind today’s super spikes. ![]() If you want to compete at your best in track and field, spikes are essential-and today’s are better than ever. Whether you’re getting ready for a race or a hard workout, the process of spiking up stirs a familiar excitement and anxiety for what’s to come: your body instinctively knows it’s time to perform. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |