Finding the best spikes for hurdles can feel like a bit of a maze. There are many factors to consider, like durability & flexibility.
Hurdle spikes must be durable, As even the best in the world hit hurdles during the race and training.
To maintain optimum speed during the race, athletes must drive across the hurdles, maintaining the speed as efficiently as possible. To do this, the spikes need to be flexible enough for the hurdlers to achieve the best range of movement.
Not only are the sprint hurdles to think about, but there are also 400m hurdles to consider. The 400 m is different, so that it will require a slightly different sprint spike. But I will go into all of the various options below.
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Best Spikes For Hurdles in 2023
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly
The Nike Air Zoom Maxfly has been a big talking point for many athletes and sporting pundits for the last year since I’ve been out. Nike completely changed again with the new place, incorporating a cushion-type construction that helps propel the athlete down the track.
While wearing the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly for hurdling, they can take some time to get used to as the spike plate moves differently from other traditional spikes. But once you’ve overcome the different feelings of running off the hurdles, you’ll love the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly.
Adidas Adizero Prime SP2 Sprint Spikes
The Adidas Adizero Prime SP2 Sprint Spikes are lightweight spikes that provide maximum speed and acceleration, essential for hurdling. The spikes feature a carbon fibre plate that helps to increase energy return, allowing the athlete to generate more power with each stride.
We have the SPRINTWEB upper, which provides a comfortable and secure fit around the foot and stops the foot from moving around into the shoe, precisely what you want when you land off those hurdles slightly off balance.
Overall, the Adidas Adizero Prime SP2 Sprint Spikes are an excellent choice for hurdlers looking for a lightweight, stable, and high-performance shoe that will help them maximize their speed and agility on the track.
Nike Superfly Elite 2
Nike has had this spike design for quite a while now, And it’s been one of the most popular sprint spikes for many years.
I think the Nike Superfly elite spikes are great for hurdling as the spike plate allows you to rotate nicely off the hurdle, enabling you to put power back into the track as quickly as possible.
The material which the upper is made from is durable enough to withstand hits from the hurdles. It’s not padded in any way, so if you do clip the hurdle with your trailing foot. It could cause slight pain.
Adidas Adizero Fineese
The Adidas Adizero Finesse spikes aren’t the most aggressive spikes which Adidas offer within the sprints. With that in mind, it’s perfectly designed for sprint hurdling.
Now onto the spike plate. I’ve got to say this particular design and construction of the spike plate is one of my all-time favourites in any spikes. It has an excellent flexion needed to put all your force into the track but still allows enough movement, so it doesn’t feel like your foot is being forced into a non-natural position.
Some of the older models of the Adidas Accelerator are quite a bit cheaper than the newer models. They are the same. The only difference is the colour scheme.
Puma Evospeed Sprint 10
Puma returned to the scenes after Usain Bolt wore their spikes during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he rewrote history setting multiple world records.
We know Puma has an excellent pedigree for sprint spikes, but they also convert to hurdles.
The upper is well made from a synthetic material which is solid and durable. It’s seamless, so there are less weak points throughout the shoe.
And material hugs your foot nicely while you wear them, giving you a sock-like feeling.
If we look at the spike plate, it’s not aggressive at all. It’s very comfortable to wear, allowing a good range of motion, perfect for sprint hurdling.
New Balance 100v3
New Balance is another manufacturer which has progressed over the last few years. New Balance has managed to bridge the gap between sportswear and fashion. There are a lot of their athletes wearing their branded Apparel not just at the track but for casual wear as well.
These spikes certainly turn heads with designs you don’t usually see. The new balance 100v3 Is undoubtedly no different.
The sock design comes up much higher than most other spikes. I can’t see there being any immediate performance gains from having this. But if you think it looks good, then definitely get the shoes.
It’s a well-balanced all-around spike, which isn’t too aggressive and is comfortable to wear for long periods. The Synthetic upper is durable and breathable, keeping your feet well-ventilated.
Best Track Spikes For 400m hurdles
Now let’s take a look at the best bikes for 400m. Many aspects are the same as the sprint hurdles. But the main difference is aiming for a pair of comfortable spikes for 400m.
One of the most significant technical aspects of the 400m hurdles is being able to run around the bend at speed and hurdle simultaneously. Choosing a pair of spikes which allows doing this is imperative.
Some athletes for the 400m hurdles also opt for middle-distance spikes. This is because they are very well built and have excellent support around the foot, protecting you from damaging your feet when you inevitably hit the hurdle.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is a vast range of hurdle spikes. Although there are no specially adapted sprint spikes for hurdles, you can find the best-suited ones from the Sprint category.
I always go for structurally supportive ones; not only will these help prevent injuries, But they also protect your feet when you hit the hurdle.
Durability is also essential. The last thing you want is to spend hard money on hurdling spikes. Then on the first outing, hit some hurdles and split the shoe, rendering them useless.