If you are familiar with competition running, can you help…
A teenage daughter attends a track club every week and needs a new running spike for the track. What you are looking for on the Internet seems to be biased either for long or short distances. Is there a more “generic” spike that suits the daughter who performs various events?
Even if I ask a club leader, I can’t understand my intentions and just say, “Buy a generic type,” but I have no idea what it refers to.
Can you give me some advice? Thank you!
I don’t know if there is a “generic” spike. If it is a long distance, does it point to the 1500m of the track, not more than 10km of the road?
If you buy one spike shoe for athletics, you should be able to accommodate most of the distance on the track. If I am in your daughter’s position (not a joke), I recommend asking my club colleagues what they are using. However, avoid any cross-country spikes!
Generally speaking, “spike” probably refers to “for long distances.” If you focus on fit, can you go to a running specialty store? Truck spikes have rules regarding the length and number of spikes, but specialty shops should also help.
My son would do anything like running width, running short distance, 800m, 1500m, and always wore Adidas all-round star junior spike. It was amazing.
It can be any product. The spike itself is interchangeable. The shoes come with tools and you can buy spikes online if the length doesn’t fit.
For juniors who are still trying different events, most brands make “all-round” spikes. Nike Zoom Rival and ASICS Hyper MD are both solid options and not too expensive.
At that stage, don’t overthink it. A middle-distance spike (800–1500m type) is usually what coaches mean when they say “general.” They’ll work fine for most track sessions until she specialises.
My son’s club recommended Adidas Distancestar. He uses them for sprints, middle distance, and even a bit of long jump. They’re versatile and much better value than having multiple pairs.
If she’s still growing, I’d go for an affordable all-rounder rather than top-end models. You’ll probably be replacing them in a year anyway.
General-purpose spikes do exist, they just aren’t labelled that way online. Search for “middle distance spikes” and you’ll find what you need. They’re a good balance between aggressive sprint plates and longer-distance comfort.