Q. I don't want to buy a spike for each specific
track and field category. Is there a track spike that can be used for a wide
range of events?
A. Yes, consider the Middle Distance (MD) track
spike. Most can be used for a variety of track events from the 50m dash up to
1600m, including hurdles. They can also be used in many jump events such as the
long jump, triple jump, pole vault, and high jump. For those who require extra
cushioning, consider a distance spike. Though they weigh slightly more than
most types of track spikes, however, distance shoes provide more protection
against stressful types of injuries.
Q. How should a track spike fit?
A.
Snug, but not tight. As a result, most spikes are manufactured slightly smaller
and narrower than running or training shoes. Nevertheless, many male athletes
usually select spikes that are a half size larger than their typical athletic
shoe. Since, most spikes are available in men's sizes only, most gals select a
track shoe which is a half size smaller than their typical, women's sized,
training shoe. For those considering a throwing shoe, most models are not
constructed as small as track spikes. Nevertheless, most throwers reportedly
obtain a shoe which is a half size larger than normal. Note that desired fit is
a personal preference which also has to be taken into consideration.
Q. Can I run in my shot & discus
shoe?
A. Though not intended for running, many throwing shoes can be
used for light jogging on the track, but not on asphalt or concrete surfaces
such as roads. Shot & Discus shoes, however, do have some versatility
outside of the track & field world. For example, many throwers reportedly
wear them while weight lifting due to its flat outsole and excellent support.
In fact, many weight lifters wear shot & discus shoe exclusively for weight
lifting without any intention of using them for track & field.
Q. Is weight really that important?
A. To certain degree, yes. However other factors may be more important than
weight, so it should not be the sole consideration when selecting a track
spike. Generally speaking, the lighter the shoe, the less support, cushioning
and durability it will have. In many instances, the specialized and more
expensive track spike will weigh slightly more than the less expensive,
counterpart model due to the shoe's unique structural characteristics. When
browsing our track site, we provide as much detail as possible when describing
a shoe's characteristics to assist in determining which track spike may be best
suited for your particular needs.
Q. Do I really need track spikes. Can't I just
compete in my running shoes?
A. Of course you can compete without
track spikes. However, athletes competing in track spikes should notice some
improvement in performance. The degree of improvement will vary though based on
many factors such as personal ability, the type of event, weather, and track
surface just to name a few. Please note, we do not guarantee improvement.
Q. Are wide width spikes available?
A. As of this writing, very few do, if at all. Most manufacturers do not make
wide width track spikes, including throwing shoes.
Q. How do I remove broken or stubborn spikes from my track shoes?
A. This answer derives from 10 years of personal experience with track spikes that become
well worn or broke. There are probably other remedies and solutions, hwoever, the following has always worked - but may
require some effort and patience. The track wrench that accompanied the shoe is great for screwing
spikes in, but dismal in removing heavily worn spikes. Your coach
may have a "real" spike wrench - one made of solid metal. If he/she does,
try using it (it's also available on opur site.). Apply it over the spike, GENTLY rotate the wrench counter-clockwise
and find a locking point of sort where the wrench meets some resistance. Even
if the spike is broken, there should be a small fragment that the wrench can "grab".
At that point press down hard on the wrench while maintaining grip on the spike,
then rotate the wrench counter-clockwise until the spike is loose. Once it is loose, use
your fingers to remove the spike. If that does not work or you do not have
access to a metal track spike, then spray WD-40 or similar lubricant into
the threads of the spike via the seam where the track spike is attached to the shoe,
wait a minute or two for the threads to lubricate, hit the spike with the wrench to jar it a bit,
then use a needle nose plier to remove it. Try not get the lubricant on
the spike itself to maintain friction, and use a good plier that has serrated or grooved teeth.
Firmly grasp the pliers onto the spike with as much
grip as possible, and rotate counter-clockwise. With perseverance, the above
two methods should work.
Q. Should I train in my track spikes?
A. Only when necessary. Common workout and pre-competition routines such as
warm-ups should be done with your regular training shoes. In most other
instances, you need not wear track spikes. In fact, the more you use a track
spike, the more wear and tear it will cause. Throwers may want to take
exception to this rule. When practicing throwing techniques, the thrower may
want to consider wearing his/her throwing shoe. Many throwing events,
especially the discus and the hammer throws, put great stress on shoes, and may
prematurely wear out other types of athletic shoes. In addition, athletic shoes
may hinder a throwers form due to its outsole traction configuration. If you're
unsure when to wear a track spike or shoe, consult with your coach.
Q. Should I wear socks with my track
spikes?
A. Yes, as a cautionary suggestion, though many athletes do
not. For most track events, wear properly sized and structured socks which
utilize thinner textile materials. Tube socks or other types of bulky socks
which due not a have heel should not be worn.
Q. I run cross country and track. Do I need a
separate shoe for each?
A. Generally speaking, a cross country spike
is suitable for track events 800m or longer. However, not all long distance
track spikes make good cross country shoes. Cross Country spikes provide more
cushioning, traction, and stability than their track spike counterparts in
order to accommodate the diverse range of terrain and distances covered.
However, all this extra protection comes at a cost in terms of extra weight
which on the average is few ounces. If your first love is cross country, then
obtain a cross country spike. If the opposite is true, then purchase a track
spike, and be sure that it makes a suitable cross country spike. Of course,
like track, one need not wear spikes when competing in cross country.
Q. I need to obtain a new set of replacement
spikes. How do I know which will fit into my shoe model?
A.
Fortunately, track spikes utilize a universal thread design. As a result, you
should be able to obtain any type or brand of replacement spike.
Q. Do track spikes come with spikes. How do I
insert them into the shoe?
A. Track spikes, except shot & discus
shoes, should include one set of spikes and an accompanying spike wrench. Some
shoes may arrive with the spikes already inserted. In that case, use the spike
wrench to insure tightness. Many spikes come with spikes packaged in an
individual container, usually a small bag. Inserting spikes into a shoe is
almost the same as inserting household screws, and is very simple process. Pick
up the spike at the head, and not by the thread, and place the thread to one of
the available receptacles located at the bottom of the shoe. Rotate the screw
clockwise into the receptacle by hand until the spike can no longer be rotated
by hand. Use the spike wrench to finish the job by aligning it correctly to the
base of the spike using normal rotational effort. Once the spike tightens into
place, use one quick extra turn to ensure fastness. Do not over tighten; one
quick effort should do it. Some users apply a small amount of household oil or
Vaseline onto the threads first before inserting the spikes. This may allow a
smoother rotation, and possibly extend shoe life by reducing rust in the
receptacles, and will not harm the shoe itself. If you do utilize the oil or
Vaseline method, be careful, as it can be messy if you overdo application, and
your brand new shoes may inadvertently get grease spots due to greasy hands
before the shoe is even used. To remove track spikes, align the wrench to the
base of the spike, and turn counter-clockwise until the spike is loose. Use the
wrench to finish removing or use your fingers to finish the job, if
preferred.