Want A Faster Track Time. 15 Key Tips For Choosing Women’s Spikes

Want A Faster Track Time. 15 Key Tips For Choosing Women’s Spikes

Determine Your Event – Sprinting vs Distance Determines Spike Length

When embarking on your quest for the perfect pair of women’s track spikes, one of the first factors to consider is the event you’ll be competing in. Sprinters who run shorter distances like the 100m, 200m or 400m will want a more aggressive spike length of 1/4″ or less. The shorter spikes provide better traction and grip needed for explosive starts and tight turns on the oval. Meanwhile, middle distance and long distance runners going 800m and up will opt for a 1/2″ spike, providing a balance of ground penetration without getting in the way of a fluid running stride over longer ground contacts.

Check The Spike Plate Material

Today’s top women’s track spike models utilize lightweight Pebax or TPU plastic plates to keep weight to a minimum while still providing stiffness and spike pressure. Plates made of carbon fiber and thermoplastic polyurethane are also popular for their low weight. Go for durability in the spike plate material – you want something that will hold up to repeated usage on the track without breaking down. The last thing you want is for the spikes to start warping and reducing traction in the middle of a hard workout or a peak race. This will lead to slips and loss of speed when toe-off power is compromised.

Opt For Removable Spikes

One of the advantages of women’s track spikes today is the ability to change spike lengths depending on your event or the track surface. Models with removable spikes allow you to pop spikes in and out as needed. Use longer spikes for cross country and muddy courses. Go shorter for hard track surfaces to limit nicks and damage to the spike tips. You can also fine tune for personal preference – some runners like more or less spike penetration into the track. With removable spike shoes, you have the versatility to adjust on the fly.

Consider Spike Number

In general, the more spikes on the shoe the better the traction. Most standard women’s track spikes will have 6-8 spikes in the forefoot. Entry level models may drop this number down to save on cost. Elite sprinters may opt for an increased spike number, getting up to 12 on high end racing flats. More spike coverage across the forefoot equals more piercing into the track surface, so acceleration is improved. However, don’t sacrifice weight and comfort just to get more spikes. Find the ideal balance for your needs and event.

Choose The Right Spike Length

As mentioned in the first section, spike length is determined by the race distance for most runners. Sprinters do best with 1/4″ spikes or shorter for maximal traction and limit damage from constant turns. Mid distance runners can go up to 1/2″ for better forward propulsion without getting in the way of an elongated stride. For extreme conditions like rainy cross country courses, 3/8″ to 1/2″ tends to provide the best wet weather grip. It’s a fine balance between ground penetration and not overly compromising your natural running motion.

Get Properly Fitted

Since women’s track spikes are built for speed, you want a snug fit through the heel and midfoot. This prevents your foot from sliding around inside the shoe when hitting max velocity. Look for an anatomical last shape that locks the heel in place. Lace the spikes up tight and do some mock runs on the track, making sure your foot isn’t lifting out of the shoe at all. You want that straight line power transfer from heel strike through toe-off, enabled by a secure heel fit.

Select Breathable Uppers

Today’s track spikes utilize lightweight mesh material in the upper to keep the foot ventilated during hard efforts on the track. Trapping heat will slow you down in the 100m and 400m especially, where repeat sprints are common. Look for an open mesh upper material that allows ample airflow across the top of the foot. Synthetic leather overlays provide structural support while maintaining moisture wicking for dryer feet equaling cooler feet.

Look For Extra Cushioning

Don’t expect plush soft foams in a sprinting spike, but some cushioning can help take the harsh sting out of an unforgiving track surface. Look for a thin EVA or compression molded midsole to provide some underfoot padding without the added weight and loss of road feel of maximal cushioning. This protects against fatigue and impact shock that can set in during a long day of speed work on the oval.

Don’t Forget About Weight

Every ounce counts when trying to maximize velocity on the track. The lighter the women’s spike, the less weight you have to move down the track. Aim for models in the 3-5 ounce range, with super light options coming in under 3 ounces. The trade off is generally less structure and cushioning, but for pure unmatched speed, it’s hard to beat near-weightless footwear.

Determine Your Foot Type

Like training shoes, determining your foot type can help narrow the spike options. Neutral runners can get by with minimal midsole tech. But overpronators should look for guidance features that promote an efficient stride, like medial posts and torsion systems. Underpronators likewise will benefit from some midsole tech that enhances midfoot flexibility and allows the foot to roll smoothly through toe-off.

Check For Durability

The track surface can be punishing on both your legs and your footwear. Look for abrasion resistant outsoles and durable upper materials that will hold up over hundreds of meters repeating sprints, intervals, drills and runs. Traction from your spikes will wear down over time, so exchange them once they lose that grab and pop out of the track as new. But the rest of the shoe should maintain structural integrity throughout a hard season’s worth of work.

Consider Traction Elements

In addition to spikes under the forefoot, some women’s track flats incorporate small nubs or sticky rubber under the heel or midfoot zones. This added traction provides grip upon landing for better control during technical running at high velocities. It also smoothes out the transition from rearfoot to forefoot running through the gait cycle.

Choose Bright, Fun Colors

Today’s top track spike models come in a rainbow of vibrant hues to choose from. While performance is paramount, it’s nice to have options to match team colors or just your own flashy personal style preferences. Many limited edition track spikes feature bold neon or pastel overlays over neutral bases. The rightspike color choice can be a statement maker and source of confidence before toeing the line.

Read Online Reviews

Research how real runners rate different women’s spike models before committing to a pair. User reviews can provide insight into sizing, comfort, durability and performance factors that you can’t glean from just specs alone. See what fellow competitors are saying after putting in their own miles on the track for informed decision making.

Stick To Trusted Brands

When looking for proven speed and reliability, it’s hard to go wrong with the major athletic brands that specialize in track and field footwear. Trust companies like Nike, Adidas, Saucony, Brooks, Mizuno and Asics to continually produce excellent women’s spikes each season that combine performance with durability. While smaller brands exist, you want assurance that your footwear can go the full race distance.

Check The Spike Plate Material – Choose Durable Yet Lightweight Plates

When selecting the optimal pair of women’s track spikes, one of the key elements to evaluate is the spike plate material. This will determine the stiffness, durability, and weight of the shoe. You want a plate that offers rigidity to enable powerful toe-offs, yet remains featherlight so each stride feels fast and responsive.

Most modern track spikes utilize Pebax or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) plastic plates. The thermoplastic construction allows the plate to hold its shape mile after mile, while keeping weight to a minimum. Pebax is an incredibly lightweight yet stiff material, making it ideal for sprinting shoes. The plastic will not fatigue or lose its snap like compression molded plates can over time.

Carbon fiber plates are also popular for their low weight and tuned stiffness that generates snappy toe-offs. The high-end carbon material maximizes power transfer while barely weighing anything on your foot. The drawback is carbon’s tendency to crack over time, reducing longevity.

Thermoplastic urethane is slightly heavier than Pebax but provides a more flexible and durable plate. TPU creates a smooth transition from heel to toe, which some runners prefer. It resists hard track abrasion better than carbon. Just be aware that excessive flexing can lead to power loss.

Go for a thin yet stiff plate optimized for your footstrike. Heel strikers need just enough stiffness to promote a fast rollover through toe-off. Midfoot and forefoot runners want maximum rigidity to really capitalize on each hard push into the track. The ideal plate snaps back instantly, propelling you forward without losing running economy.

Analyze the spike pressure offered by the plate. Greater midsole stiffness translates into more pressure per spike, enhancing traction. But you also want some compliance upon impact for a smooth foot strike.

Watch out for less durable thermoplastic elastomers in cheap track spikes. This material tends to compress permanently or warp under hard running, reducing power and spike pressure over time. Pay for those performance thermoplastic urethanes and Pebax plates.

Also inspect the spike receptacles in the plate when possible. Seek durable metal threads for reliable traction long term. Plastic receptacles can deteriorate or widen after repeated spike changes, lowering traction. The best plates have recessed, reinforced spike cavities.

In terms of fit, make sure the plate contours comfortably to your individual foot shape. Unlike bulky trainers, track spikes should hug your foot’s precise curves and alignment. Poor plate shaping creates uncomfortable pressure points and hotspots over distance.

The takeaway? Seek out durably stiff yet featherlight plates in your women’s track spikes. TPU, Pebax and carbon fiber are excellent modern options. Just the right plate stiffness and spike pressure optimizes power transfer into the track for record PR’s.

But also remember weight plays a role on race day. The lighter the spike, the less weight you have to repeatedly lift off the ground. Ounces here and there make a difference over 400 meters. Saving weight in the plate gets your stride into the next gear.

Do some research on the spike plates used in different models. Leverage reviews to choose a plate offering the ideal stiffness and durability for your footstrike and racing distances. Get the right plate that snaps off the track for race-winning acceleration.

With technology always evolving, keep an eye out for new spike plate materials hitting the scene. Brands are continually experimenting with composites and polymers to drop weight and tune responsiveness. Don’t be afraid to test the latest innovations seeking that perfect synergy of snappy stiffness and featherlight feel underfoot.

Choosing the optimal spike plate lets you channel all your training into track tearing speed. Stiffen up your toe-offs while shedding ounces for a faster, more economical stride. The right plate for your footstrike is a critical piece of the sprinting puzzle.

Opt For Removable Spikes – Easily Change Lengths For Different Surfaces

One of the key considerations when selecting the optimal pair of women’s track spikes is opting for a removable spike design. This allows you to easily swap out spike lengths depending on the surface, conditions, and your event needs.

Being able to change spikes gives you versatility across different track environments. Longer spikes up to 1/2″ work great for getting grip on a muddy cross country course. But that aggressive length will quickly tear up an indoor track or synthetic outdoor surface. Having removable spike shoes allows you to dial in the perfect spike height for each situation.

If you primarily race 100m and 200m sprints, go for a very short spike around 1/8″ or 1/4″ to limit nicks and damage to the track. As you move up to 400m and 800m distances, increase spike length to 3/8″ or 1/2″ for enhanced traction with less risk of damaging the track since fewer turns are involved.

You can also fine tune spike height based on personal preference and what gives you the best “SNAP” with each toe-off. Some runners like the feel of more or less spike penetration into the track surface. With removable options, you can test out different lengths during workouts to find your ideal spike height for maximum traction and speed.

Change your spike height for different track compositions as well. Hard granular surfaces may call for shorter spikes around 1/4″ that won’t sink in too deep, reducing acceleration. More weathered or softer tracks can benefit from longer 1/2″ spikes that penetrate deeper for better grip.

Look for track spikes that make it quick and easy to swap spike lengths. Many incorporate a spike key tool that simplifies twisting replacement spikes in and out. Avoid spikes that require excess force or equipment to make changes. You want to be able to adjust your spike length in a flash right on the infield before a race if needed.

Be sure to carry extra spike lengths in your track bag for race day. Having those 1/4″ and 1/2″ options on hand allows last minute changes to tune traction perfectly for the track you’re competing on. If rain hits unexpectedly, you can throw in longer spikes to improve wet weather grip in a pinch.

Examine the spike receptacles when buying removable spike shoes. Look for durable metal threaded holes in the spike plate or forefoot pads. These maintain their grip better over time compared to plastic threads which can deteriorate after repeated spike changes.

Rotate your spike usage between workouts and meets to maximize longevity. By using different spike tips each session, you avoid wearing down a single set too quickly from overuse on abrasive surfaces.

Change your spikes at the first signs of dulling for optimal traction. New spike pin tips provide noticeably better grip than worn, rounded tips. Keep close tabs on your current spike sharpness through workouts and races.

Finally, verify that replacement spike lengths are readily available for any model you buy. Some brands offer better assortments and aftermarket spike options than others. You want ease of purchasing backup replacement spike lengths when yours eventually wear out from hard racing.

The ability to quickly swap spike lengths gives you versatility across changing conditions and seasons. As track surfaces evolve over a season, you can adjust spike height to maintain maximal traction. Fine tune penetration into the track to optimize each toe-off and start.

Removable spikes also allow you to experiment with what spike configuration works best for your footstrike and racing style. Try everything from ultra-short 1/16″ rippers for all out sprints to longer 1/2″ spikes for distance work and determine your personal sweet spot.

Don’t lock yourself into a single spike height that may not be optimal if surfaces or race distances change. Go removable for the adaptability to tailor traction perfectly across all your events and training seasons. Dial in peak spike penetration to maximize speed and shave precious tenths of a second off your times!

Consider Spike Number – More Spikes Equal Better Traction

One key element in maximizing traction and acceleration in women’s track spikes is optimizing the number of spikes in the forefoot. In general, more spikes piercing into the track surface equals better grip and speed.

Most standard track flats will have 6-8 spike pins in the forefoot pressure plate. This spike count range provides solid traction for general training and competition. Eight spikes gives you ample traction coverage under the ball of the foot without excess weight.

However, more elite sprinters may opt for an increased spike number on racing models up to 10 or 12. With more spike pins spread across the forefoot, you get enhanced overall ground penetration and grip on the track. Acceleration is improved with those additional spikes biting into the surface.

But don’t just assume more is better when it comes to spike count. There is a point of diminishing returns where extra weight from more spike hardware negates any traction benefit. Going above 10-12 spikes often just adds bulk without much performance enhancement.

Also analyze spike pattern and placement on the plate in addition to number. A strategic spike layout ensures balanced traction across your footstrike. Make sure spikes are not clustered too close together or unevenly spaced, which can create pressure points.

Watch out for bare spots with no spikes in certain zones of the plate, which will slip during push-off. Make sure the spike pressure plate has full balanced coverage across your forefoot for smooth transfers of power.

Traction technology continues to evolve with traction lugs or sticky rubber being added for extra grip in spikeless areas of the outsole. So some models may reduce spike count but compensate with grip elsewhere.

Consider your foot strike when evaluating spike number. Forefoot strikers may benefit from slightly more spikes to distribute pressure across a wider landing. Heel strikers can get by with slightly less since more weight will be centered under the arch and midfoot at impact.

If opting for less aggressive track flats with reduced spike counts, just be aware traction will be decreased. Acceleration may be hampered a bit driving out of the blocks or coming off the curve. Make sure the spike layout still provides ample forefoot grip.

For general training, around 8 spike pins are recommended to balance traction needs with keeping weight down. Daily intervals and reps don’t necessitate max spike count. Save 12-spike super-traction models for peak race days.

When shopping for women’s track spikes, don’t just buy the model with the most spikes. Analyze overall plate design, spike balance, and how the layout meshes with your personal footstrike. More spikes help, but position and distribution also play major roles in optimizing traction.

Maximize forefoot spike pressure coverage but watch out for hotspots or uneven pin distribution. Effective spike positioning ensures balanced ground penetration across your entire forefoot, not just sections of it.

Let your event distance and racing goals determine ideal spike count. All out peak sprint days may call for max spikes to rip into the track. Just don’t overdo it in training where extra weight will take a toll lap after lap.

With spike technology and plate design evolving yearly, leverage the latest innovations. Brands are engineering alternative traction elements beyond just spike pins to boost grip. This allows lower spike counts without sacrificing wet or dry traction.

Choose the spike number providing complete forefoot traction coverage for your needs. Analyze the overall plate design, not just the spike count. Remember, it’s about intelligent spike layout and positioning, not simply more pins.

Choose The Right Spike Length – 1/4″ For Sprints, 1/2″ For Mid-Distance

One of the most important decisions when selecting women’s track spikes is dialing in the ideal spike length for your key events and racing distances. The right pin height provides maximum traction and speed without compromising fluid strides.

For short sprint events like the 100m, 200m, and 400m, opt for an aggressive spike around 1/4″ or shorter. The shorter spike length allows for better grip and acceleration when bursting out of the blocks and rounding tight turns. The reduced pin height also limits damage to the track surface from repeated sharpen turns.

As the race distance increases to the 800m and 1500m range, a longer spike becomes more appropriate. Moderate lengths around 1/2″ provide enhanced traction for middle distance top end speed without getting in the way of a longer, more flowing stride. The additional spike penetration offers improved push off without having to plant and pivot as sharply as in sprints.

Distance runners going 5k and up may choose to train in their track spikes with 1/2″ spike lengths for speedwork. The shorter spikes aid faster turnover versus chunky distance spikes. Just be prepared for added impact without as much cushioning as a dedicated distance racing flat.

For extreme conditions like cross country courses, opt for longer spikes still around 1/2″ in wet muddy terrain for the best traction. Even longer spikes in the 3/8 to 1/2″ range help shed muck buildup better as well compared to compact 1/4″ pins.

Consider your most common events and surfaces when choosing go-to spike lengths. But many competitive runners own multiple pairs of track spikes with different length spikes for added versatility. This allows tailoring traction perfectly for everything from short sprints to distance workouts.

Removable spike shoes are ideal for adjusting pin length as needed. Being able to swap between 1/4″ and 1/2″ spikes allows fine tuning grip for your training that day. Just carry extra spikes in your bag to change on the fly.

Analyze your personal foot strike and determine if you benefit from more or less spike penetration into the track. Forefoot strikers may prefer slightly shorter spikes around 1/4″ that don’t catch extended out in front of their landing. Heel strikers can utilize longer spikes for better leveraged push-off from their rearfoot plant.

When in doubt, start with a 1/4″ or 1/2″ spike for your primary event distances and fine tune from there. You want enough spike to grip the track without excess length that can pinch nerves or alter your natural gait.

Consider alternatives to traditional spike pins as well. Many brands now incorporate short turf gripping lugs under the heel or forefoot for varied traction. This allows shorter spike lengths up front without sacrificing wet weather grip.

Don’t forget about plate stiffness and spike pressure too. A rigid Pebax or carbon plate translates better spike penetration into propulsive power. Combine ideal spike length with ample spike pressure for maximum speed.

Monitor spike condition during training and replace once noticeably dulled for return of optimal traction. Rotate multiple spike pairs to maximize longevity throughout the season.

Determine the sweet spot spike length ideal for your foot strike, race distances and track surfaces. Shorter for tight turns, longer for top end velocity. Removable spikes allow easy changes between events. Dial in traction perfectly for record pace!

Want A Faster Track Time? 15 Key Tips For Choosing Women’s Spikes

1. Opt for a lightweight spike plate

2. Choose the right spike configuration

3. Get the right spike length

4. Prioritize fit in the heel and midfoot

5. Consider your foot type

6. Get the right sizing

7. Mind the weight

8. Try sprinting in them first

9. Opt for breathability

10. Replace spikes regularly

11. Choose the right spike height

12. Shop specialized brands

13. Mind your running style

14. Prioritize the upper material

15. Consider specialty vs. multi-purpose

Consider Traction Elements – Extra Rubber In Forefoot Adds Grip

1. Consider the spike plate

2. Choose the right spike length

3. Get the right fit

4. Opt for lighter shoes

5. Prioritize forefoot flexibility

6. Get the right cushioning

7. Consider traction elements

8. Don’t forget breathability

9. Get the right stud configuration

10. Consider any orthotics

11. Try before you buy

12. Mind the pronation control

13. Choose the right shape

14. Shop smart

15. Get the right specialty

Choose Bright, Fun Colors – Stand Out On The Track In Vibrant Hues

Want A Faster Track Time? 15 Key Tips For Choosing Women’s Spikes

Ladies, are you looking to shave precious seconds off your track times this season? One of the best investments you can make is in a great pair of women’s track spikes. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start when choosing womens running spikes for track. Read on for our top tips on what to look for in womens track shoes with spikes so you can fly around the oval with speed and style.

1. Opt for Lightweight Construction

The number one factor in womens track spikes is lightweight construction. Since every ounce counts when trying to achieve a faster time, look for track shoes made with featherlight materials. Many feature ultra-thin mesh uppers with synthetic overlays or films. This helps reduce the overall weight while still providing structure and support. The midsole and outsole will also be designed with lightweight foams and thin yet durable rubber. The spike plate should be minimal to shed precious grams. Aim for track spikes weighing 5-7 ounces or less.

2. Consider the Spike Configuration

Women’s track spikes come in different spike configurations to suit different events. Sprinters will want a higher number of spikes, generally 6-8 spikes, for maximum traction out of the blocks and around the curves. Middle distance runners may opt for 4-6 spikes for a balance of grip and weight savings. For long sprints, jumps and throws, 3-5 spikes are ideal. Make sure to choose the right spike system for your specific event.

3. Get the Right Spike Plate

The spike plate is the part of the shoe that holds the spikes. Look for track spikes with thin Pebax or carbon fiber plates. These offer stiffness for power transfer while remaining lightweight. Make sure the spike plate matches your foot shape for a secure grip. A curved plate can feel more natural. You can also look for plates with slight medial or lateral flares to suit foot strike.

4. Choose the Optimal Spike Length

Women’s track spikes come with removable spikes in different lengths. 1/4″ spikes are best for hard tracks, while 3/8″-1/2″ work well on softer tracks. Sprinters tend to opt for longer spikes up to 1/2″ for maximum traction when blasting out of the blocks. Mid-distance and long sprinters may go for shorter spikes around 1/4″ if the track surface is harder. Make sure to choose legal spike lengths for your event and consider exchangeable spikes for versatility.

5. Get a Snug Midfoot Fit

One of the most important features of womens track shoes is a snug midfoot fit. Your feet will swell slightly when running all-out sprints, so choose track spikes that grip the midfoot securely without restricting. Many spikes incorporate an internal bootie construction or midfoot cage to lock the foot in place. Make sure to try on spikes and lace them tightly to test midfoot security before buying.

6. Consider Carbon Fiber for Stiffness

Advanced track spikes for women incorporate carbon fiber plates or shanks for maximum stiffness and responsiveness. The stiff carbon fibers allow for a stronger toe-off and efficient power transfer straight to the spikes. This can help maximize speed for elite women looking for any advantage. Make sure carbon spikes don’t restrict flexibility though.

7. Add Cushioning for Comfort

While track spikes prioritize low weight over cushioning, some are adding sockliners and midsole foams for increased comfort and energy return. Extra cushioning can help reduce spike pressure and fatigue when performing multiple sprints or runs on hard tracks. Look for compression molded EVA, Pebax or TPU midsoles for lightweight, responsive cushioning during an all-out sprint.

8. Don’t Forget Breathability

All that high-speed running also means lots of heat and sweat! Make sure your track spikes have ventilated uppers to keep feet cool and dry on hot days. Mesh construction enhances airflow over the foot. Synthetic overlays add structure while remaining breathable. Some have perforations in the midsole for extra ventilation where it’s needed most.

9. Consider Support Features

For runners who overpronate, some track spikes offer added support features to help control excessive inward foot rolling. Look for medially-posted midsoles, torsional rigidity elements or flared spike plates. Pronation-control womens track spikes help improve stability for optimum efficiency and injury prevention.

10. Add an Ankle Collar

Many track spikes add padding around the ankle opening for comfort and support. This helps lock down the heel and prevent in-shoe slipping. Some incorporate memory foam or pods for a plush feel. Make sure any ankle padding doesn’t rub or restrict ankle mobility when sprinting.

11. Look for a Secure Heel

To prevent heel slippage within your women’s track spikes during all-out efforts, look for shoes with heel lockdown. Some incorporate an external heel counter or cup for rearfoot stability. Others have an internal heel counter built into the midsole to grip the heel. This prevents in-shoe movement for confident control.

12. Consider Replaceable Spikes

High-performance track spikes have removable spikes that can be switched out. This allows you to tailor traction and spike length for different surfaces and events. Carry extra spikes in your bag so you can swap them out when needed. Replaceable spikes are also handy once your current set starts getting worn down from usage.

13. Don’t Forget a Wrench!

Removable spikes require a spike wrench for installing and removing them from the plate. Most track spikes come with a special wrench. Make sure to keep it with you in your track bag so you can swap out spike lengths right on the infield when needed.

14. Mind Your Budget

Women’s track spikes range widely in price from around $40 up to $200. In general, spikes with premium features like carbon fiber plates, internal booties and extra cushioning sit at the higher end. But you can find very lightweight basic spikes for less than $100. Set a budget before shopping around for the best track spikes you can afford.

15. Get the Right Size

It’s crucial to get properly fitted for your womens track spikes. Sizes vary across brands, so be sure to try shoes on and do some test runs. Your toes should be right up against the front of the shoe when standing, and spikes should fit very snugly all around. Go a half or full size down from your regular training shoe. A tight fit ensures security and reduces movement when sprinting.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to shop for the ideal womens running spikes to give you a competitive edge this track season. Look for a lightweight, well-fitting shoe with the right spike system to suit your key events. Elite runners may want the latest technologies like carbon fiber plates for explosiveness. But any womens track shoes with spikes can help you unleash your speed when it counts. Hit the track in your new footwear and watch those PR’s drop!

Read Online Reviews – See How Real Runners Rate Different Models

Want A Faster Track Time? 15 Key Tips For Choosing Women’s Spikes

Looking to upgrade your women’s track spikes this season but not sure where to start? One of the best resources is reading online reviews from fellow runners. Their real-world experiences can give you valuable insight into the pros and cons of different spike models. Here are some key things to look for in womens running spikes reviews as you shop.

Fit Feedback

One of the most useful details in any review of womens track shoes with spikes is feedback on how they fit. With sizing varying so much across brands, it’s hard to know if you should size up, down, or stick with your normal shoe size. Runner reviews give you a better sense of the fit, like if a model runs small or narrow. Look for notes on toe room, midfoot lockdown, and overall snugness.

Weight Comments

Lightweight construction is a top priority for womens running spikes. So reviews often mention just how featherlight or heavy different models feel. Look for user impressions on if the track spikes felt ultralight and fast for sprints or jumps. Heavier shoes can feel more sluggish. Also see if added features like carbon plates or cushioning increased weight.

Traction Talk

The number, configuration and length of spikes directly impacts traction so this is useful feedback. See if reviewers thought their womens track shoes with spikes provided enough grip for their event. Too few spikes may feel slippery while too many can feel restricting. Also look for notes on spike tips holding up well vs wearing down fast on abrasive tracks.

Plate Performance

The spike plate can make a big difference in power transfer and sprinting efficiency. Look for user reviews analyzing the stiffness, flexibility and curvature of the plate. A rigid Pebax or carbon fiber plate provides better leverage but can restrict natural foot movement if too stiff. Feedback on the plate shape and if it matches the foot well is also helpful.

Cushioning Comfort

Although minimal, some womens running spikes add cushioning for increased comfort and responsiveness. User reviews are useful for determining if the midsole foam or sockliner provides enough shock absorption and energy return for repeated sprints. Or if it feels too bulky and slows you down.

Ventilation Views

Breathability is key during those all-out efforts on the track, so look for feedback on ventilation. Mesh uppers tend to provide the best airflow but some synthetic overlays or films may restrict it. See if user reviews mention hot spots or sweaty feet in certain models of spikes.

Support Strategies

If you need pronation support, reviews can detail how well different womens track spikes control inward rolling. Look for notes on if medial posts, torsion plates or flared spike plates actually help promote stability and correct overpronation. Or if they feel too restrictive.

Heel Hold Assessment

Reviews give insight into how well different models lockdown the heel to prevent slipping when sprinting in spikes. An external heel counter tends to grip better but internal counters are also effective. See if users report any heel movement inside the shoe when running.

Durability Details

It’s useful to know how well spikes stand up to repeated usage on tracks before buying. Reviews provide real-world feedback on spike tip, outsole and upper durability after miles of sprints. Look for notes on whether the spike plate wore down fast or if the mesh ripped easily. Durable spikes have higher long term value.

Sizing Specifics

With sizing varying across brands, reviews can indicate if you should order your normal size, size up or size down. Look for notes that a model runs small or narrow so you know to size up. If a brand fits true to size you can order your normal. Tight fit is crucial so err on sizing down if needed.

Style Points

Don’t underestimate the importance of feeling fast and looking good on the track! Reviews often weigh in on the color options and overall style of different womens spikes models. See if bold colors, cool graphic prints and sleek silhouettes get high marks for motivated motivation and track appeal.

Price Positions

It’s helpful to have user reviews assess if more expensive spike models with premium features and tech actually deliver better performance and value vs basic budget models. See if the latest innovations like carbon plates and cushioning systems are deemed worthy upgrades from users.

Ideal Uses

Reviews can detail which specific events and usages different womens track shoes are best suited for, whether sprints, mid-distance, jumps or throws. This helps you ensure the spike plate, number of spikes and features match your primary event when choosing.

Overall Impressions

Look for the overall takeaway in reviews of how the spikes performed and impacted their running. See if users found they achieved faster sprint times and felt a performance benefit in certain models versus others. This gives you insight into real-world speed gains.

While trying on spikes yourself is ideal, reading detailed reviews can shortcut your search and provide valuable wisdom from fellow runners. Look for feedback on fit, features and real-world performance. Key in on reviews of your specialty event for tailored guidance. Then hit the track with confidence in your new speedy spikes!