How to Put On Running Spikes

When it comes to racing, many runners opt to wear shoes, called "racers" or "spikes," that have spikes on the bottom. This allows for greater traction and grip around the track, or cross country course. Many racers have rubber spikes built in, but many more of holes for various sized spikes to be screwed in. These is most ideal for cross country running, but can be used on many tracks as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Racing shoes with holes for spikes
  • Spikes
  • Spike wrench
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Instructions

  1. How to Put on Running Spikes

    • 1

      Select the type of shoes you wish to purchase. If you are only going to be racing on all weather tracks you can buy racers with rubber spikes built in, but if you are going to be running on cross country courses, or gravel tracks, you should select racers that allow for various sized spikes to be screwed into them.

    • 2

      Select the type of spikes you wish to use. For race tracks, be they gravel or all weather, you should select small spikes. Also, many tracks will have limits on the size of spikes you can use. You may also wish to use ceramic spikes, instead of the more common metal ones. If you are running on a course, you should select a larger spike. If the course is particularly torn up, or if it is raining, go for a larger spike for better traction.

    • 3

      Screw the desired spikes into the holes in the bottom of the shoe by hand.

    • 4

      Screw the spikes in more tightly with a screw wrench, being careful not to tighten them to the point of stripping the grooves. If you strip the grooves the spike will become stuck.

    • 5

      Lace up the spikes, to desired tightness.

    • 6

      Remove the spikes soon after racing, so as to keep them from becoming stuck in the shoe.