So you’re looking for the best 400m spikes? The 400m has been one of the most interesting events over recent years. The World record was taken by a good friend of Usain Bolt’s Wayde Van Niekerk at the Olympic games in Brazil in 2016.
The 400 m is arguably one of the most technical sprinting events within track and field. This is because there are so many aspects
At some point of the race, every athlete will have a strong and weak point to the race itself. Finding the best 400m spikes for you can be the big difference between winning and losing the race.
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What are the best sprint spikes for 400m in 2022?
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly
The Nike Air Zoom Maxfly have dominated the track & field news headlines and made sporting headlines due to the many athletes running fantastic times while wearing the spikes. Could it be a coincidence? Maybe. But I have seen an unprecedented number of athletes gone on to run personal bests wearing the spikes. And there’s a good reason why.
The spike plate that Nike has developed, called the zoom unit, comprises a padded cell that offers great energy return from the track on every single stride. On my first try of the spikes, I couldn’t quite believe how much spring you get while running, I can feel them just forcing you down the track.
They are fantastic for the 400m, you do feel slightly less fatigue in your legs after a heavy session or day at the track.
I found they take a bit of time to get used to just because they are so different from any other pair of sprints bikes that you probably would’ve worn up until now.
I’ve covered everything you need to know in my full review of the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly.
Adidas Adizero Prime SP 2
Adidas need to hit back quickly with competition for the Nike Maxfly, and this is exactly what they done when the Adidas Adizero Prime SP 2. Arguably the best sprints point for running around the bend. The Prime SP 2 has taken the world of sprinting by storm.
The overall feel of the spike is a lot less aggressive than the Maxfly, enabling the athlete to move the foot in a wider range of motion from one stride to the next. This may suit athletes that like a more traditional fit from their spikes. Especially considering you’re having to run around the bend in the 400m.
Adidas Finesse Track Spikes
In my opinion, you’re not going to get a better spike for the 400m than the Adidas Adizero Finesse. Because the spike plate isn’t as aggressive as other sprint spikes, it allows you to comfortably run around the curve (bend) at speed.
Whereas more aggressive spikes hold the foot in such a way, it can feel weird.
These spikes are light, weighing in at 150g, so it minimises the chances of fatigue in the latter part of the 400m race, which we all try and avoid.
Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
The Nike Superfly Elite is arguably the most famous pair of sprint spikes available on the market.
They are very distinguishable, with the big Nike swoosh tick down the side and across the front of the shoe.
The spike plate is very mid-balanced so that it can feel aggressive to some people, but for most, it is excellent for a straight line and running around the bend.
The actual shoe itself has a mesh type material. This is to cut down on weight and offers great stability around the foot.
Adidas Adizero Prime Sprint Spikes
Any advantage that you may gain from having these spikes I think will not outweigh the price factor compared to the other spikes listed here.
Most Adidas sponsored athletes, especially 400m runners, will wear the Adidas Prime spikes.
This is because they are the lightest spikes you can buy and offer fantastic comfort and a rigid spike plate. It’s also worth remembering that the fastest ever 400m was set was wearing these pair of spikes.
New Balance Verge V1 Vazee
New Balance has been making very good sprint spikes for a while now, and the Verge V1 is one of the best spikes around for running the 400m.
The eight-pin configuration on the underside of the shoe ensures that you have maximum grip throughout the entire race.
They are lightweight, with a secure fit around the foot, thanks to the FantomFit no-sew overlays built within the upper.
Saucony Showdown 4
Saucony has been making excellent spikes over the last few years, and that’s why you start the same to see more people wear them for their chosen pair of spikes. The Showdown 4 Are very reminiscent of the old Nike superfly elite sprint spikes.
The spike plate is solid and hold your foot in a nice running position, Allowing you to roll from there once tried to the next which is very important for 400 meter running.
With the other being made from synthetic material it’s also breathable but does keep your feet fairly dry in that conditions.
ASICS Hyper Sprint 7 Running Spikes
These spikes and no exception as they look absolutely fantastic. With the flame effect running throughout the shoe. ASICS has always been the boldest when it comes to colour selection for the spikes.
There are a padded collar and tongue which adds extra support and cushioning against laces pressure.
They are extremely lightweight with a non-aggressive spike plate which I think with that combination make for a great pair of 400m spikes.
It’s slightly cheaper than the other spikes I’ve listed above, so they’ll be ideal if you’re working to a budget or a junior athlete who just doesn’t have a disposable income.
The conclusion of the best 400m spikes
Pretty much all of the spikes that I’ve listed here are some of the most popular within track and field.
I feel Adidas is leading the way in the best 400m spikes.
This is due to a few important factors. These are, first and foremost, lightweight sprint shoes. You don’t want to be dragging around any additional weight for the 400m, which some of the 100m spikes have because of the additional support they require due to the pressure generated in the drive phase.
The supportive upper part of the shoe is also required, this is to stop the foot from moving around whilst running around the bend. This could be one of the most annoying feelings whilst competing. So all the spikes here I have selected offer great upper support.
Pretty much all of the spikes in this section will end up costing you over £100. But there is one pair that coming under that, which are the Asics Sonic sprint elite flame running spikes.
If the price is a factor when selecting your spikes, the Asics will probably be the best choice for you.