Winter Track 2023-2024
Come in and get set up for Winter Track. If you need a soft plated spike or are racing in hard plates, Ridgefield Running and Darien Running have your spikes in stock!
Track and Field athletes will receive:
- • 20% off all track spikes
- • 10% off all trainers
Do I need to wear spikes if I’m running track in Middle or High School?
Using a spike for your track event will help you to run faster or jump higher or farther. There are all-purpose spikes and some that are specific for events. Not sure what you need? Read on…
Sprint Spikes
The lightest running shoe on the market they are designed to put the runner on their toes, leaving them with little to no cushioning at the heels and usually quite stiff on the bottom and have no padding. The spike plate at the front will have the maximum number of pins to take more force and provide as much grip as possible. For short distances at speed, sprinting spikes are best for 100m or 200m dash, the 4x100m or 4x200m relays. These spikes are for short distances and we do not recommend using them for distances greater than a lap of the track.
NOTE: A middle distance spike will work for shorter distances as well. New to track? You can also consider a XC spike that can be used next Fall. While a little softer, any spike will give you some traction.
Middle-Distance Spikes
The most universal set of spikes that can be used for every event is the middle-distance spike. Middle-distance spikes are lightweight, and have a flexible bottom plate with a padded heel for greater cushioning. The middle-distance spikes will allow for a more natural running motion. They are less rigid than sprint spikes and the spike plate is not as far forward on the toe which will allow for more comfort.
This is the most diverse spike as a sprinter can use a middle-distance spike, and use for some of the multi-events like long jump and hurdles. We often recommend the middle-distance spike to a new track athlete or an athlete who doesn’t necessarily know what event they will be competing in. A middle-distance spike would also work well for athletes competing in multiple events, and do not want to buy more than one pair of spikes.
These spikes are good for any running event but are designed for the 800m to 3200m distances. Other events that this spike can be used for 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1600m, 3200m, All Relay Races, Long Jump, High Jump, Triple Jump, Hurdles, Pole Vault.
Distance Spikes
Best suited for events from 1500m to 10,000m, these running spikes provide the most cushioning while still maintaining a lightweight feel. Designed to take on more force over a longer period they’re made from more durable materials. Sometimes middle- and long-distance spikes are grouped together.
Field Events
Due to this year’s supply chain issues, specific field event spikes are very hard to get. We can try to source them for you but currently we are not carrying them. We suggest a middle distance spike for jumps and a solid court shoe for throws.
Due to supply chain issues, we have brought in and brought back several Cross Country Spikes. These differ in that their entire sole is rubber, so slightly heavier and more flexible. They also feature the padded heel, so they are similar to Middle Distance and Distance track spikes. But they can be used for any event (except throwing).
An advantage of a Cross Country spike is that it can be used for Cross County in the Fall with a quick change of the spike. NOTE: Track shoes do not make good Cross Country spikes because track spikes are hard plastic bottoms and shouldn’t be worn anywhere but on the track.
Spikes Size Guide:
At RRC/DRC we carry a variety of replaceable spikes:
- • 1/8” Pyramid Spike
- • Sprints
- • Jumps
- • 1/4″ Pyramid Spike
Are spike shoes mandatory?
While they are not necessary, especially if you are new to track and trying all distances, we do recommend a pair of training shoes.
At Ridgefield Running and Darien Running, we fit the shoe to the runner to make sure they are in a shoe that is right for them. Visit us at Darien Running or Ridgefield Running and we can get you set up for the shoe that is right for you! No appointment is necessary.