Your 2024 Guide to XC Spikes

Q1: Do I need cross country spikes?

You can certainly run without them, however, cross country spikes give you an advantage over those that aren’t wearing them. They are designed to help you run faster on uneven terrain by providing extra grip to your forefoot while improving stride and turnover. Cross country spikes are also lighter than regular road running or trail running shoes, helping you pick up speed with less effort and more energy return.

The best cross country spikes do two things really well:

1. Feel lightweight and quick on your feet for the distance and course
2. Are secure and grippy enough to handle top speeds as you twist and turn through the woods on slippery grounds

Today's best cross country spikes offer speed boosting technology, lightweight energy boosting cushioning, and advanced lacing systems, so you can focus on performing. 

Q2: How do I know which ones to get?

The quantity of spikes in the shoe’s spike plate, length of spike, and overall fit are the most important factors to consider when purchasing a pair of competition spikes. We’ll break down more of what this means below and answer common questions we get asked by our xc athletes.  

How many spikes (pin holes) will I need? 

Usually the longer the distance, the fewer spikes (pins) in the spike plate are needed. Cross country spikes typically have four to six spikes, while sprinting and mid-distance spikes can range from six to eight spikes, which gives you the extra traction needed to push top speeds.

What length of spike (pin) will I need?

When it comes to the spikes or pins that are screwed into the plate of the shoe an important consideration to keep in mind will be what length of pin to use. ⅜” pins are standard for cross country. However, muddy conditions call for a longer pin up to ½”. For a course with lots of pavement or very firm dirt, you may want to run without the pins in your spikes and only use a spike that has an all rubber bottom. *Always make sure to check in with meet rules before changing out your pins in your spikes as some have regulations for the length of pin that is legal.

How should my spikes fit?

In comparison to your trainers, they will most likely feel different and may take a bit of getting used to. You want your spikes to have a secure and snug fit to give you better control during toe-off. Many athletes prefer a tighter fit, sometimes moving down as much as a full size from their training shoes. Other runners find smaller sizes too constricting. Your best bet is to always try on several models and go off what feels most natural on your foot.

Do I need a carbon fiber or pebax plate in my cross country spikes?

While it is fun to have, they definitely are not a necessity. Carbon fiber adds speed and enhances stability and support on uneven surfaces, but they cost $150+ for a pair. So, if you want to splurge on a higher end spike or you want to hit that PR - spikes with a carbon fiber or pebax plate will give you optimal energy return, while remaining lightweight.

Q3: Anything else to consider when choosing the right spikes?

What types of courses will you be racing on? What is your budget? What is your experience level? The answers to these questions will help you make an informed buying decision and make your race day experience the best possible. The price of cross country shoes varies depending upon the type of spike, and its features such as the material of plates used, its foams and upper materials used. 

Spikes will range between $65 to $160. While the more expensive spikes are going to have higher quality materials and better performance, it doesn't mean that the most expensive spike is right for you! The first ever running spikes used by some of the fastest and greatest runners in the world were made out of leather, cowhide at first, were around $6 and significantly heavier than even the heaviest trainer in todays standards. Your grit, determination and practice put in everyday is what makes a great athlete and race, the shoe is second. 

Now that you're an expert, let's compare the best spikes of 2024 from budget-friendly to elite status.

1. The Saucony Kilkenny XC9 ⎻ $65

Lightweight, comfortable, and affordable. Overall, the Kilkenny XC9 a great option for any cross country runner, especially a freshman or new athlete. With its well-made design, comfortable cushioning and versatility, this entry-level cross country spike has a value that's hard to beat. 

2. Nike Zoom Rival XC 6 ⎻ $65

Another great option for a newbie. With a protective midsole, structured upper, and grippy traction, this spike helps runners gain the confidence they need when toeing the line for the first time. Ultimately, with a great price and well-loved fit, these spikes are a great, versatile option for runners of any level.

3. New Balance FuelCell XC7 V5 ⎻ $70

This spike brings a level of premium performance, designed specifically for the emerging cross country runner. It features a FuelCell midsole foam that delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward, a 6-pin spike plate for traction and speed, and an angular midsole design which reduces weight. Focus on the race ahead, not on your feet.

4. Saucony Havok XC3 ⎻ $85

The Havok XC3 delivers everything you need to create chaos and separate yourself from the competition in the best way possible. A tight breathable mono mesh upper and aggressive full length rubber outsole provide the confidence needed to tear up the grass, dirt or anything else thrown at you.

5. HOKA Crescendo XC ⎻ $90

An inconceivably light cross-country racer. It's great choice for the runner looking for a smooth, cushioned ride thanks to its soft EVA midsole and adaptable, durabrasion rubber outsole. Its breathable single-layer mesh upper and anatomical tongue design helps give it a glove-like fit, perfect for any athlete.

6. ON Cloudspike XC ⎻ $150

The ON Cloudspike XC is new to the lineup this year. It is an elite-level cross country spike that delivers an explosive ride and propels you to your best times yet. It features a Helion™ HF hyper foam midsole, which makes for soft landings & propulsion. That combined with the 6-pin plate and speedboard gives you optimal durability and energy return.

 7. Nike Dragonfly XC ⎻ $160

The Dragonfly XC has all the tools needed to lead the pack and tackle tough courses at an elite level. Equipped with Nike’s famous ZoomX cushioning, a Pebax plate, and a Vaporweave upper, finished off with a six-spike design for exceptional grip in muddy conditions. Its responsive, full-length layer of foam, trustworthy traction and lightweight design make this spike one of the most competitive options in the game. This is for runners looking to secure state titles, make it to nationals or crush personal records.

8. New Balance FuelCell SuperComp XC-X ⎻ $160

Another cross country super spike! This top-level performer offers FuelCell foam cushioning and a carbon-fiber plate that propels you through any course and puts you ahead of the competition. Featuring six removable spike pins in the forefoot and a mesh upper with no-sew overlays, allowing you to focus on charging the hills on a variety of terrains. 

Tips on Caring for your XC Spikes

Once you find the right cross country spike, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind to avoid pre race issues and improve the longevity and performance.

Remove spikes between meets.

Trust us. Getting a pin stuck, or even worse, having it break off and leave you with a nub and pre race anxiety is no fun. Removing the spikes from your cross country shoes will prevent rust from building up and also extend the life of your spikes and shoes overall. 

Clean your shoes after a race.

Mud, sweat and tears - you’ve put your shoes through the wringer on race day. It's crucial to clean them after every race to prevent the upper from losing its form and the outsole from losing traction. A little warm water and an old toothbrush will do the trick. Then pack some paper towels to the insides of the shoes. This will help absorb any left over moisture, allowing the shoe to air dry. No one wants to be the reason someone asks, “what’s that smell?” on the bus ride to a meet. It's important to note, DO NOT put your spikes or flats in the washing machine and definitely DO NOT put them in the dryer.

Always carry spare pins.

If you're heading out for an event, make sure you check your pins frequently, as they can wear down as quickly as in 3 months, especially if they are worn on concrete or other hard surfaces. Make sure you only wear your spikes at a cross-country event on a soft surface.

Socks vs. Sockless?

Going sock-free is up to you. We know many XC athletes opt for no socks. Maybe a right of passage as a XC runner? However, this can increase your chance of blisters. So if you want to be safe, look for a thin running technical sock.

Get used to your spikes before race day.

Always break in a pair of running spikes before competing in them to reduce your risk of injury. Running spikes have a negative heel drop, so extra stress is placed on your forefoot, increasing your risk of plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, and shin splints. Break them in on the grass a few weeks out or pop them on for that mile time trial on the trails before an official meet.