Welcome

Track spikes themselves might not be much of a mystery as they have been around for quite a long time.However, there is quite some confusion as to when to use track spikes and when not to. Furthermore, the spikes (or needles) themselves require a quite constant maintenance.

Track spikes should be used in most running sports. Period. Sprinting, 10k runs, off-track runs, all of them require track spikes to ensure best performances and fastest times. However, the more they are used, the more tearing is created. Also, the human body is obviously not build to withstand the constant pressure of needles in ones foot. Therefor you should always train in normal training shoes or with very small needles.

Different kind of spikes have to be used in different situations. The pyramid shaped spikes with a width of 1/4 inch should be used on tracks and are the only allowed spikes in official matches according to the USA track & field organisation. The longer and more pointy needles spikes can be used outdoors. Heavier persons however do not always require longer needles, simply because the force with which their feet are slammed onto the ground might slow them down because of their shoes digging into the ground.

The removal of spikes

Spikes and needles might break of while running, especially when running on harder surfaces such as frozen grounds or rocks. Removing them is not a lot of trouble when using a spike wrench. Simply lock onto the broken spike, and turn a bit counter-clockwise until you notice a click-like sound. You should be able to take the spikes right out of your shoe. You might need to use some household oil or Vaselin to make the job easier. If this does not work, try to use more fluid to make it loose and let it sink in for a few minutes. Even if only a small part of the needle is left, a proper spike wrench should be able to remove it. Fixing a spike works exactly the same way, obviously reversing the procedure.

If you want more information on track spikes, be sure to check out more sections of Track Spikes Pro!