Picking the right 100m spikes can make all the difference for a sprinter. The right pair can boost your performance, make you faster (or at least make it feel like you’re running faster), and give you the comfort you need to power through every race. If you’ve been sprinting for a while, you know exactly what to look for in a pair of spikes. Whether the weight or overall feel, every detail counts to help you get the most out of your training and race.
In this guide, we’ll review some of the top options available, including favourites like the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly, Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2, and Adidas adiZero Prime SP2 so that you can make the best choice.
Table of Contents
What to Look for in 100m Spikes
When it comes to choosing the right pair of 100m spikes, there are a few key features that can make or break your performance on the track:
- Weight: Lighter spikes mean less effort to lift your feet, which can help you maintain speed and reduce fatigue over short distances. The lighter, the better—especially for those crucial last few meters.
- Stiffness: Stiffness is crucial for energy return. Spikes with a rigid plate provide that snappy feel that propels you forward, giving you an edge in acceleration and maintaining top speed.
- Comfort: Comfort might seem secondary to performance. Good spikes should fit snugly without causing blisters or discomfort.
- Carbon or No Carbon: Some of the newer models feature carbon plates, which help increase stiffness and energy return. This can mean extra propulsion off the blocks for some sprinters, but it depends on personal preference and running style.
- Feel at Different Points in the Race: Spikes need to feel good at the start and through every phase of the 100m. Make sure the pair you pick gives you the responsiveness you need out of the blocks and that they keep their edge as you hit full stride.
- Price: Spikes come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Your choice will depend on your experience level, how often you compete, and how much you’re willing to invest in performance.
Why These Features Matter
Each of these features plays a critical role in your performance. Weight and stiffness affect how quickly you can accelerate and maintain top speed, while comfort keeps you focused. Carbon plates can boost you, but they might only be for some. Understanding how each feature impacts your run can help you find the perfect pair that suits your needs.
Top 100m Spike Recommendations
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly
- Price: $190
- Weight: 6.0 oz (169g)
- Best For: 60m to 400m events, including hurdles.
The Nike Air Zoom Maxfly is built with a carbon Flyplate that provides incredible energy return, giving you a bouncy, responsive feel that can make a real difference during the race. It’s lightweight and designed for comfort through every phase of the 100m—from settling into the blocks, powering through the drive phase, to hitting your top speed.
The durability can be a bit hit or miss. Some users have reported that the spike plate can break quickly, which could be better if you have a big race coming up. xHowever, Nike offers replacements if they’re still under warranty, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re considering buying a pair.
Why it’s a Favorite: The Air Zoom Maxfly is popular with elite sprinters for its advanced tech that delivers speed and comfort. The energy return from the Flyplate and the lightweight feel make it a standout choice for those looking to maximise performance.
Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
- Price: $150
- Weight: 5.2 oz (156g)
- Best For: Sprints from 60m to 400m.
The Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 is all about ground connection. A thinner spike plate gives the track a responsive, almost direct feel, helping sprinters feel in control and making it easier to recover between strides. The lightweight design means you’re not carrying anything extra, letting you focus entirely on your speed.
However, one downside is the lack of a carbon plate, which means these spikes tend to lose stiffness quicker than high-end models. For sprinters who value speed and quick transitions, though, the Superfly Elite 2 still delivers.
Why it’s a Favorite: The Superfly Elite 2 is ideal for those who prioritise quick, snappy transitions and that close feel with the track. It’s a great option for sprinters who don’t need a lot of extra tech and prefer something that feels fast and responsive.
Adidas adiZero Prime SP3
- Price: $200
- Weight: Approx. 5.5 oz
- Best For: Competitive sprinters seeking speed and comfort.
After wearing the Adidas adiZero Prime SP3, they are lightweight and provide excellent traction, which is why they’re a favourite for many athletes. However, the spike plate has a higher stack height than most non-carbon spikes, which took some getting used to. The added height does give a noticeable boost in energy return, but it felt a bit different initially.
I also noticed that wearing these spikes for training and races put extra pressure on my calves and Achilles, which wasn’t always comfortable. If you plan on using them, having a separate pair of non-carbon spikes for training helps reduce the strain and prevent potential injuries.
Why it’s a Favorite: I like the adiZero Prime SP3 for its balance between speed and comfort. Its lightweight design and good traction make it perfect for competitive settings, but I’d recommend getting another pair for regular training to avoid overworking your muscles like calves and Achilles.
Puma Tokyo Future 4
- Price: $220
- Weight: 6.0 oz (170g)
- Best For: Advanced sprinters.
Highlights: I’ve had the chance to test the Puma Tokyo Future 4 spikes, and I can confidently say they’re a game-changer on the track. Right out of the box, I noticed how incredibly lightweight they are at just 6.0 oz (170g).
Performance: These spikes stand out for their exceptional propulsion. The carbon fibre plate integrated into the sole provides a stiff and responsive feel, giving me that extra push with each stride. I felt explosive power off the blocks and could maintain my speed throughout the sprint.
Comfort and Fit: After wearing the Puma Tokyo Future 4, I found the upper, made with MATRYX MICRO TECHNOLOGY, to be breathable and secure. The single-piece design wrapped around my foot comfortably, eliminating any potential hotspots or distractions during the race. The sleek silhouette looks great and helped with aerodynamic performance, making me feel faster.
Traction: The eight permanent pins on the Tokyo Future 4 gave me a fantastic grip on the track.
Value: At $220, these spikes are certainly an investment. However, for advanced sprinters looking to shave off those crucial fractions of a second, the Puma Tokyo Future 4 delivers exceptional performance that justifies the price tag. The combination of cutting-edge technology and premium materials makes these spikes a worthwhile purchase for those serious about their sprint times.
Overall Impression: The Puma Tokyo Future 4 spikes are a top-tier choice for advanced sprinters who demand the best from their equipment. They excel in providing a lightweight, responsive, and propulsive experience that can make a real difference in competition. While they may not be the most budget-friendly option, the performance benefits make them a valuable asset for sprinters aiming to reach their peak potential on the track.
New Balance FuelCell SD-X
- Price: $160
- Weight: Approx. 6.0 oz
- Best For: Sprinters wanting cushioning with speed.
Performance: After trying the New Balance FuelCell SD-X, I was immediately impressed with the energy return. The combination of FuelCell foam technology and the responsive carbon fibre spike plate gave me a bouncy, propulsive feel. Each step felt like I was being launched forward, translating to explosive power off the blocks and helping me maintain speed throughout the race.
Comfort and Fit: The upper is made from a breathable, form-fitting material that gives me a sock-like feel. When I wore them, the snug fit felt secure without causing any discomfort. However, I noticed they run a bit small, so I recommend sizing up by half a size for the best fit.
Cushioning: After testing out the FuelCell SD-X, I was pleasantly surprised by the cushioning it offered. Despite being a sprint spike, the FuelCell foam provided a soft yet springy ride that perfectly balanced comfort and performance. This cushioning made a noticeable difference, especially in events ranging from 100m to 800m, where speed and endurance are crucial.
Durability: One drawback I noticed is the permanent spike configuration. While it guarantees consistent performance, it doesn’t offer the same versatility as models with replaceable spikes. That said, the overall build quality feels solid, and with proper care, I believe they will hold up well over time.
Budget-friendly, cheaper 100m spikes
Nike Zoom Rival S9
- Price: $75
- Best For: Beginner to intermediate high school sprinters, particularly those on a budget.
Performance: After trying out the Nike Zoom Rival S9, I found it to be a solid choice for newcomers and students looking for an affordable yet effective sprint spike. The spike plate provided enough stiffness for propulsion while still being flexible, which allowed me to have smooth toe-offs during sprints up to 400m. It’s not as aggressive as high-end spikes, but it delivers exactly what a developing sprinter needs—support and performance without feeling too rigid.
Comfort and Fit: I was pleasantly surprised by the Zoom Rival S9’s comfort. The padded tongue and the overall flexible design made it easy on my feet, even during extended training sessions. The shoe fits snugly, with enough room in the toe box to allow for natural foot movement, which I really appreciated. It felt comfortable for both training and competition, which is a big plus for a budget-friendly spike.
Durability: One of the Rival S9’s standout features is its durability. After several training sessions, the upper and the spike plates still looked and felt great. From my experience, these spikes seem built to last, which makes them an excellent value for someone who doesn’t want to replace their spikes frequently or for schools buying in bulk.
Breathability: The Rival S9 does an adequate job of breathability. It’s not the most breathable spike I’ve tried, but it’s certainly enough for most sprint events. During longer training sessions, I did notice the upper getting a bit warm, but it wasn’t unbearable.
Versatility: What I loved most about the Rival S9 was its versatility. It worked well not only for sprints from 60m to 400m but also for hurdles, and you could even do the long jump in them. I found this versatility incredibly convenient as someone who occasionally dabbles in different events. It makes the Zoom Rival S9 an excellent choice for high school athletes who need a single spike to cover multiple events.
Overall Impression: The Nike Zoom Rival S9 is a great entry-level spike that offers a balance of comfort, performance, and durability. It’s ideal for beginner to intermediate sprinters, especially those on a budget. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of elite-level spikes, it’s more forgiving and versatile, making it perfect for those just getting into the sport or looking for a reliable spike that can handle multiple events.
Adidas Sprintstar
- Price: $70
- Best For: Beginner to intermediate sprinters, particularly those on a budget.
Performance: The Adidas Sprintstar has been a great budget-friendly option for me. They felt light and simple when I first put them on, nothing too fancy. The focus is really on getting the basics right—speed, control, and comfort. The spikes don’t have any high-tech carbon stuff, making them more flexible and allowing my feet to move more naturally. It’s not as stiff as the expensive spikes, but I actually prefer that for training, as I mentioned with some of the other carbon spikes.
Comfort and Fit: They fit snugly around my feet, almost like they were hugging them. The upper isn’t the softest, but it’s not uncomfortable either. There’s a bit of padding in the tongue, which makes it feel okay, especially for shorter runs. It’s lightweight, and there’s enough space in the toe box, which lets my toes move without feeling cramped.
Durability: What impressed me the most about the Sprintstar is how well it holds up. After using them for several training sessions, the material still seems strong, and nothing feels like it’s wearing out quickly. For the price, they’re solid. It feels like they’re built to last for at least a season or two, which is great if you’re not looking to spend a lot on new spikes every year.
Traction: The removable pins give good grip on the track. I felt stable, even when taking the bends at higher speeds. The traction’s not top of the line, but it’s enough to make me feel confident while sprinting. No slipping, just solid contact with the track.
Breathability: Honestly, these aren’t the most breathable spikes I’ve worn. My feet did get a bit warm during longer training sessions. But for shorter sprints, it’s not much of an issue. The upper material feels tough, and I think that’s why it doesn’t breathe as well. It’s a trade-off between durability and airflow.
Versatility: What I liked was how versatile these spikes are. I’ve used them for different events—sprints, hurdles, even some long jump practice—and they’ve worked pretty well for everything. They might not be specialised, but for someone like me, who dabbles in multiple events, they’re perfect.
Personal Observations: The first thing I noticed was how close I felt to the track. There’s this ground feel that’s hard to describe—it makes you more aware of how you’re running. The flexibility of the spike also made my foot movement feel natural, which is great for newer sprinters like me who are still figuring things out. The lack of cushioning, though, means you feel everything, every step. It’s fine for shorter sprints, but for longer practices, it gets a bit tiring. I found alternating with more cushioned shoes during training helped me avoid that fatigue.
Overall Impression: The Adidas Sprintstar is a solid choice for anyone starting out or on a budget. It’s simple, durable, and gets the job done without too many bells and whistles. It might not have the advanced tech of more expensive models, but it gives a great natural feel, which is perfect for developing the basics.
| Spike Model | Price | Weight | Best For | Key Features | Versatility | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Air Zoom Maxfly | $190 | 6.0 oz (169g) | 60m to 400m, including hurdles | Carbon Flyplate, lightweight, excellent energy return | High | Moderate |
| Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 | $150 | 5.2 oz (156g) | 60m to 400m | Thin spike plate, lightweight, quick transitions | Moderate | Lower due to no carbon plate |
| Adidas adiZero Prime SP2 | $200 | 5.5 oz | Competitive sprinters seeking speed and comfort | Higher stack height, lightweight, good traction | Moderate | Moderate |
| Puma Tokyo Future 4 | $220 | 6.0 oz (170g) | Advanced sprinters | Carbon fiber plate, lightweight, excellent propulsion | Moderate | Moderate |
| New Balance FuelCell SD-X | $160 | 6.0 oz | Sprinters wanting cushioning with speed | FuelCell foam, responsive carbon plate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Nike Zoom Rival S9 | $75 | Approx. 6.0 oz | Beginner to intermediate high school sprinters | Padded tongue, flexible spike plate | High | High |
| Adidas Sprintstar | $70 | Approx. 6.0 oz | Beginner to intermediate sprinters | Flexible, good traction, budget-friendly | High | High |