Editing Track spikes (section)

== Types of shoes ==
[[File:Nieuwespikes2.jpg|thumb|left|[[Nike, Inc.|Nike]] Air Zoom Distance]]
There is considerable variation among track shoes depending on their intended use within the sport of [[track and field]].

[[Sprint (running)|Sprint]] spikes generally have a very stiff spike plate with the greatest number of spike wells. The taper is highest and most rigid in sprint spikes, maximizing the efficiency of energy transfer with each stride. Very little heel support is needed because sprinters spend most or all of their time on their toes. Sprint spikes may have a zip-up cover instead of or in addition to laces to improve aerodynamics. Sprint spikes should fit tightly but they should not be too tight to the point that the runners toes are cramping and they should not be too loose that will result in the runner losing power and speed. They should fit tighter than regular athletic shoes yet still comfortable enough to perform in.

[[Distance running|Distance]] shoes have a more flexible spike plate with less taper and fewer spikes. Because of the longer race distances, support through the mid-foot and heel is as important as efficiency with distance spikes. This means that distance spikes generally have a softer, more durable sole, particularly through the heel region. Although still "glove-like," the fit for distance spikes is generally slightly looser than for sprint spikes, given the longer race duration.

Middle distance spikes are a hybrid of a sprint shoe and a distance shoe, featuring an intermediate level of taper, spike plate rigidity, cushioning and support. Certain middle distance spikes are also popular among hurdlers because they have a relatively steep taper for sprinting and a cushioned heel for landings.

[[cross country running|Cross country]] spikes usually have no more than six spike points and are similar to distance spikes in many respects. However, given the wide range of terrain encountered off-track, cross country spikes have a more durable rubber sole and supportive mid-foot to provide a level of cushioning and stabilization not required on a track. Depending on race length, surface types and personal preference, cross country spikes may be abandoned in favor of [[racing flats]].

Shoes for field events and specialty events vary widely depending upon the specific requirements of each event. For example, [[long jump]] shoes are most similar to sprint spikes to provide good top speed, [[high jump]] shoes have flat bottoms and heel spikes to allow energy transfer through the entire foot, and [[Steeplechase (athletics)|steeplechase]] shoes are predominantly a water-resistant mesh for exceptional ventilation. While shoes for [[shot put]], [[discus throw|discus]] and [[hammer throw]] have flat rubber soles with no spikes, they may still occasionally be referred to as "track spikes."

Notable spike manufacturers include [[Adidas]], [[ASICS|Asics]], [[Brooks Sports, Inc.|Brooks]], [[Mizuno Corporation|Mizuno]], [[New Balance]], [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]], [[Puma AG]], [[Reebok]] and [[Saucony]].