Undoubtedly, the type of shoes that an athlete wears directly relates to the performance, especially on the track. If your shoe isn’t the perfect fit or isn’t the right one for the event, it can potentially mess everything up. Therefore, it would be best if you had the right pair that makes you faster, which is why we take a look at how spikes can make you a better athlete.
So, how much faster do spikes make you? Using spikes makes you run faster than using regular running shoes. The shoes provide a better grip which helps you propel yourself forward to give you more speed. According to experts, an athlete using training shoes will take 10 to 20 seconds more than another runner in spikes going the same distance. Generally, using them adds two more seconds for every 100 meters if you keep all other factors constant.
If you are still uncertain about your choice to use spikes in sprinting or any other event, this is guide is for you. Read on as we enlighten you on how fast the shoes can make you compared to the regular running shoes.
How Much Faster Do Cross-country Spikes Make You?
You may run on grass, rock, or tarmac surfaces for cross-country events. In such a case, it would be best if you had all the traction you can get. Given the unpredictable terrain, a metallic spike would be the best option. Besides the firm grip on the ground, you may wonder whether these shoes have an impact on your speed.
Cross-country spikes will make you run faster than athletes wearing regular shoes. Runners in spiked shoes have a better advantage than those using trainers or other running shoes. The footwear is lighter, grasps the course aggressively, and puts your toes in shape, encouraging you to stay on the high course for the rest of the race.
Moreover, unlike sprinter shoes that can be uncomfortable, these pairs come with a sole to rest your heel on throughout the distance. These features, combined with stamina on the tracks, guarantees excellent performance.
Notably, you can only wear long-distance track spikes for cross-country but not sprint footwear. Sprinters typically have less or no heel cushioning in their shoes, while marathon spikes have in-built rear and forefoot pads to absorb all the shock on your feet. However, long-distance track spikes offer more traction and cushioning, making them more reliable for longer courses.
How Many Seconds Do Spikes Take Off?
Speed is crucial in the world of athletics, and for you to achieve this, you need the lightest and most comfortable shoes. As opposed to training shoes (which are slightly heavier), spiked shoes are more lightweight and provide more traction on the track.
There is no well-established time standard that spikes take off because it entirely depends on the individual. What matters is the athlete’s speed and weight. However, we can say that a runner on spiked shoes can take about 10 to 20 seconds less than another runner going the same distance in training shoes.
Spikes increase the traction with the race track and reduce the chances of slipping across the surface. The pins dig into the surface and give the athlete a firm grip on the ground. With a reduced number of slips, one will take a shorter time to complete a race.
Spikes may not necessarily increase your speed, but they give you a better grip on the track surface, enabling you to push yourselves forward, exerting more force on each stride. As a result, you will likely take away approximately 10-20 seconds off your time, which is advantageous to you as an athlete. Time is vital to any event, and spikes will help you maximize every second.
Should I Wear Spikes for the 800m?
Every athlete would want to be the best in any race, and one key factor to help you win is the type of shoes you wear. There are various spikes for different races, and each has a specially-made spiked shoe. Let’s find out whether you can use them for the 800m race.
You can wear spikes for 800m events. Veterans and experienced athletes prefer wearing them as long as they are the correct size. In contrast, we don’t recommend them for beginners since they may be uncomfortable at first. Using them will otherwise interfere with your performance and derail you.
We recommend practicing more while wearing them to get used to how they fit. Fortunately, there are many options available for use in different events, including the middle distances. You will eventually gain more experience and learn how best to run while wearing them to use them for the 400m or 800m comfortably.
Middle distance spikes will serve you better if you are doing 800m events. The shoes will provide you with the speed and comfort you need, unlike regular running shoes. Various outlets are selling such footwear but be careful to only buy from a trusted dealer. The ideal option should be lightweight, cushion your heels, and provide you with the ultimate traction and balance. We believe that with all these considerations, you can easily win any race at record time.
Should I Wear Spikes for the 1600m?
The type of shoes to use in a particular race solely depends on the distance you need to cover and the kind of track. Professional athletes know this and have specific shoes for specific race tracks and events.
Spikes should be worn for the 1600m where there is likelihood of slipping, with reduced traction affecting the grip. Running 1600m on grass would require spikes for better traction whilst concrete tracks would be better suited to training shoes.
Whether or not to use spiked shoes for the 1600m event depends on an individual’s preference, the type of track, and the rules put in place by the event organizers. However, what matters the most is how comfortable you are while wearing them.
Secondly, spikes are best for use on grass or rubber fields since they provide a firm grip on the surface, reducing slipping and increasing traction. On the contrary, concrete tracks are more compatible with training shoes than spikes.
If you are going to use spiked shoes, note that the authorities governing the track events usually direct the standard of the shoes to use. These standards ensure the athletes’ safety and maintain the racing tracks’ quality.
How Much Faster Do Spikes Make You Run in The Mile?
The mile is a middle distance race that falls in the same category as the 800m distances. The sprinter spikes may not be appropriate for use in the 800 because they can slow you down. However, we wish to gather more information on how fast you can run longer distances while wearing spikes.
Depending on your athletic prowess, spikes can help you run approximately two more seconds per 100 meters than other runners using the typical padded footwear. They may be more comfortable than spiked shoes, but you need an alternative that grips the ground more firmly. The speed may also be slower in the mile than the sprint; hence, we can estimate an 11-second difference between any two runners.
The advantage of spikes is that they are featherweight and have a solid grasp. They also focus on the forefoot, thus making you quicker and forward-oriented, which is more effective than using your entire heel while running.
Additionally, the track’s nature also matters. If you are on a rubber surface, the best shoes to use is the metallic one for maximum traction. Therefore, it is crucial to change your spikes depending on the track you are using.
How Much Do Spikes Help on 100m?
Spikes are effective for 100m, middle and long-distance tracks. However, they are traditionally known for sprinting. You may want to understand how vital these shoes are to a 100-meter athlete.
Researchers argue that using short-distance track spikes may improve your speed by about six percent. It isn’t a mean fete for athletes because every second counts. You can save around two seconds more than another runner using ordinary training shoes. The spikes will offer you grip, foot balance, and put you on the forefoot to enhance your speed and propulsion. Besides, it reduces your leg’s contact with the surface by letting you sprint solely on your toes.
Remember that this footwear is only practical if you combine it with speed and stamina. You would only be confident of victory if you practice hard and give your all on the field. It is also best to go for sprinter spikes because there are many options in the market, each with its specific use. Opt for short-distance non-padded shoes from a reliable retailer, and you will notice tremendous results on the track.
Using the Correct Spiked-Shoes Will Make You Faster
Many athletes are shifting their focus to spikes and doing away with the regular running shoes since they understand how essential grip is when running. Spiked shoes can help increase your pace because they provide a better grip, which helps you exert less force you exert on the ground. You will realize that you will have enhanced speed when using them compared to any other pair.
The advantage of spikes is that they are versatile for use in different events and terrains. Therefore, you can use them for sprinting, middle distance, or cross country races. Similarly, they can work on track, dirt, or grass surfaces. Another advantage is that they don’t wear out as fast as other types of shoes; hence, serve you longer. Go ahead and add spikes to your shoe collection if you want to enhance your performance as you shed off more time in your races.
