Cross-country spikes are a special kind of sport shoes, which differs from ordinary sneakers with a special structure of the sole and the presence of special spikes on it (which gave them the name). Studs for running have a rather narrow specialization: some are suitable only for short distances, others are for long ones. Their structure takes into account the anatomy of the human foot and is designed to protect joints and make running easy and enjoyable.
The choice of sports spikes: what should I consider?
The main thing that will help you decide on a choice is your specialization. First, decide on short or long distances you are going to run. If you are engaged in both types of running, it makes sense to purchase two pairs of running shoes, each of which will be designed for one particular type of training.
In addition, when choosing, it is important for you to know your foot size (or to try several models for comparison directly in the store). The leg should be fixed very well, do not go back and forth. In addition, it is important that there is no feeling of tightening your fingers - this is a sure sign that the shoes do not fit you in size or completeness.
Because the studs for running need to fix the leg well, it is best to choose the classic version of the fastener - namely, the good old shoelaces. Despite the fact that now many models are equipped with various new-fashioned Velcro, there is still no better way to fix the shoes on the foot than a thorough lacing.
Studs for running: the stages of choice
So, let's get down to business. Like any choice of shoes, this is a very responsible step - because nothing brings so much inconvenience as incorrectly selected shoes or sneakers.
- Sprint or cross-country spikes? During the period when you are a master craftsman and run any distance, from 60 meters to 3 kilometers, buying any "highly specialized" shoes is not recommended, unless you decide to take two pairs, as suggested above.
- After you finally decided and understood that you, for example, need spikes for the sprint, do not be lazy to walk to the sports shoes shop and measure each pair that suits you in size and specialty. Yes, just so, by comparison, you can calculate the ideal for yourself sneakers.
- If you run for short distances, choose sprints for a sprint - remember, you need minimal depreciation! Ideally, if there is a plastic insert under the front of the foot - it will allow you not to lose the right technique of running. In addition, such spikes are usually equipped with sharp metal or replaceable ceramic spikes in the front of the foot - this property makes it possible to achieve perfect adhesion to the surface.
- If your choice fell on long distances, you need a stud for a cross. Their distinctive feature is a special structure of the heel, in which there are reinforced shock absorbers, absorbing impact from contact with the surface. By the way, ultralight spikes are also suitable for these purposes, if they have shock absorbers in the heel part.
- When running for medium distances, you also need sneakers with cushioning - in this case
fit "heel", located in the heel of the shoe. - If you are running at very long distances or running with obstacles, you need sneakers that will be equipped with maximum shock absorption, not only in the heel area, but from the middle of the foot to the heel. It is this choice that will effectively protect your joints and make running pleasant and safe.
Good spikes are the secret of your sporting success, so their selection should be done especially carefully. However, knowing these rules of choice, it is unlikely it will be difficult for you.