Mid-distance spikes sit between a sprint spike and a distance spike. They have a firm plate for speed and a touch of forefoot cushioning so you can stay on your toes for two to four laps. They're the most versatile spike we sell, the pair we recommend most often to high school athletes, and the right spike for hurdlers who need a heel.
A mid-distance spike handles the 400m to 1600m well, and it's comfortable enough for a 3,200m and aggressive enough for a relay leg. If an athlete is still figuring out their event, this is the safest single pair.
Hurdlers land on their heels coming off every barrier. Sprint spikes have almost no heel, so we fit hurdlers in mid-distance spikes: a firm plate for speed plus a cushioned heel for the landings. See our hurdle spikes. Triple jumpers need that heel too. A triple jump-specific spike is the best choice, and a mid-distance spike is the next best. Javelin throwers need a heel to brace on the block, so mid-distance spikes are our pick for javelin, too.
Half-milers usually want the stiffer end of the range, like the ASICS Metaspeed MD or Brooks Hyperion Elite MD. Milers and 1600m runners who log more laps may prefer a bit more cushion under the forefoot, like the ASICS HyperMD 8 or New Balance MD500 v9.
Snug through the midfoot with a thumbnail of space at the toe. Use 1/4" pyramids outdoors, and 1/8" or 3/16" indoors where required.
Want to try a few on? Stop into our Walpole, Needham or Falmouth store and we'll fit you for your event.
A firm mid-distance spike. A sprint spike works if you're a 400/800 runner.
On dry, firm courses, yes. On mud, you'll want XC spikes with a rubber outsole.
Mid-distance spikes. You get a fast plate up front and the heel you need to land on coming off each hurdle.
A triple jump-specific spike, which has a cushioned heel for the hop and step. Without one, go with a mid-distance spike rather than a sprint or long jump spike.
Mid-distance spikes. The heel gives you something to brace on when you plant, and the plate handles the runway.
Many runners use them. If you mostly race 3,200m and up, a distance spike is more comfortable.
Shop by event: All Track Spikes · Sprint · Mid-Distance · Hurdles · Distance · High Jump · Long Jump · Triple Jump · Pole Vault · Throws · Javelin · Cross Country
Stop in for a custom fitting. We look at your feet and your stride, then let you try a few side by side.