Best Track Shoes For Hurdles: Top Picks For Speed

Top pick: lightweight sprint spikes with secure fit and reliable traction.

I live in the US, in Austin, Texas, and I’ve raced on humid summer tracks, windy late-season meets, and slick indoor lanes. I know the frustration of clipping a hurdle, losing traction, or stepping into a spike plate that feels like a plank under your foot. The right pair of track shoes for hurdles solves grip on the approach, a locked-in fit over three strides, and responsive toe-off when you sprint away. In this guide I break down options I’ve tested and researched so you can pick the best track shoes for hurdles for your event, goals, and budget.

Saucony Spitfire 5

I’ve used the Saucony Spitfire 5 in sprints and hurdle reps, and its low weight and snug forefoot make it a versatile training spike. The upper molds quickly to your foot, giving me confidence when I plant for the first hurdle. The plate is firm and efficient on short approaches. In practice I liked how the Spitfire balanced grip and responsiveness; the spike layout grabs the track without feeling harsh. For hurdles, stability around the midfoot matters, and the Spitfire’s wrap reduces foot shift during quick steps between barriers.

For everyday training and occasional meet days the Spitfire 5 is a solid choice. I recommend this shoe if you need a budget-friendly spike with predictable traction and a lower profile. It won’t have the carbon pop of elite sprint plates, but the Spitfire lets you focus on technique, not shoe drama. If you’re building speed while mastering hurdle technique, these shoes are reliable. They’re lightweight, durable for a season of races and workouts, and work well for sprinters and hurdlers who want a balanced spike.

Pros:

• Lightweight and nimble for quick hurdle approaches
• Snug forefoot fit reduces foot slide during strides
• Stable plate for consistent toe-off
• Durable for training and meets
• Good value for the price

Cons:

• Less aggressive plate stiffness for elite sprint output
• May fit narrow for wider feet

My Recommendation

The Spitfire 5 is best for high school hurdlers and budget-minded club athletes who want dependable performance without premium cost. I recommend it to anyone who trains multiple times per week and needs a reliable shoe for hurdle drills, short sprints, and relay legs. The shoe’s value and balanced feel make it a go-to option when choosing the best track shoes for hurdles that won’t break the bank.

Best for	Why
High school training	Durable and affordable for frequent use
Technique work	Stable plate helps consistent form over hurdles
Mixed sprinters	Balanced traction and comfort

WESHIRUN 8-Spike Kids

I’ve coached youth hurdlers who started out in shoes like the WESHIRUN 8-spike model. These kids’ spikes are light, flexible, and come in fun colors that help young athletes get excited about meets. The eight-spike outsole delivers decent grip for short hurdle approaches and jumping drills. On tighter runs from the blocks to the first hurdle I saw steady traction. The fit is forgiving compared to adult racing spikes, and there’s enough cushion underfoot to keep little feet comfortable through repeated practice sessions.

If you’re buying first spikes, the WESHIRUN is a pragmatic pick. They’re affordable, easy to replace as kids grow, and reliable for local meets. Coaches will appreciate simple sizing and straightforward performance. For youth hurdlers prioritizing comfort and traction, these shoes are a practical entry-level choice among the best track shoes for hurdles for young athletes. Expect them to last through a season or two of growth and practice.

Pros:

• Affordable and available in child sizes
• Good traction with eight-spike layout
• Comfortable for repeated drills
• Flexible for developing form
• Attractive colors that motivate kids

Cons:

• Not rigid enough for elite sprint output
• Durability varies with aggressive use

My Recommendation

I recommend the WESHIRUN spikes for beginner hurdlers and middle school athletes. They offer a safe, lightweight platform for learning hurdle rhythm without overwhelming stiffness. Coaches and parents will like the balance of traction, comfort, and price. If you want one of the best track shoes for hurdles for a developing athlete, these are a sensible choice.

Best for	Why
Beginner hurdlers	Comfortable, forgiving fit for learning
Budget buyers	Low cost and decent performance
Youth teams	Sizes and colors that suit kids

Nike Rival Sprint

I often recommend the Nike Rival Sprint to hurdlers who want a crisp, race-day spike that still supports some training. The Rival Sprint has a low profile, firm plate, and secure lacing that locks the forefoot firmly—exactly what you want when the hurdle approach is tight. I noticed quicker turnover when I used them for short hurdle intervals and block starts. The lightweight mesh upper keeps ventilation high and heat low during warm-weather meets while maintaining structure for stable landings after a hurdle clearance.

For competitive hurdlers seeking responsive feel and a focused race shoe, the Rival Sprint works well. It offers better plate stiffness and traction than basic training spikes, making it a top pick among the best track shoes for hurdles when you need a sharp race-day edge. If your meets demand repeated max-effort rounds, these give reliable feedback and allow you to drive hard through the landing without shoe collapse.

Pros:

• Firm plate for efficient toe-off
• Secure lockdown for consistent approach
• Low weight enhances turnover
• Good ventilation for hot meets
• Designed for sprint and hurdle race pace

Cons:

• Less cushioning for long warm-ups
• May feel stiff for very technical jumpers

My Recommendation

The Nike Rival Sprint is best for sprinters and hurdlers who prioritize race-day sharpness. I like it for athletes who race multiple rounds and need predictable performance. As one of the best track shoes for hurdles, it delivers the right blend of stiffness, fit, and traction for competitive meets.

Best for	Why
Race-day hurdlers	Firm plate and secure fit for fast rounds
Short sprint specialists	Lightweight for quick turnover
Competitive athletes	Reliable traction and structure

Nike Rival Multi

The Nike Rival Multi is built for multi-event athletes who need a versatile spike for hurdles, jumps, and sprints. I used a similar multi spike during a combined-events training block, and I appreciated the balanced stiffness that performed well across disciplines. The upper supports lateral movement for hurdle approaches and hop-step transitions, while the outsole has a flexible feel for takeoffs. Durability is solid for varied use, which is valuable for athletes who switch events and need one pair to cover practice and competition without carrying multiple shoes.

If you compete in heptathlon or decathlon or you mix hurdle work with jumps, the Rival Multi is a smart pick among the best track shoes for hurdles. It won’t replace event-specific spikes at the elite level, but for most club and high school multi-event athletes it’s an efficient and cost-effective solution. Expect good traction, supportive fit, and the convenience of one shoe for multiple needs.

Pros:

• Versatile for multiple events including hurdles
• Balanced plate stiffness for varied takeoffs
• Supportive upper for lateral motion
• Durable for mixed training
• Good value for multi-event athletes

Cons:

• Not as specialized as event-specific spikes
• May be slightly heavier than pure sprint spikes

My Recommendation

I recommend the Rival Multi for multi-event athletes and hurdlers who also jump. If you need one pair that handles hurdles and field events well, this is one of the best track shoes for hurdles that gives versatility without sacrificing core performance.

Best for	Why
Multi-event athletes	Versatile plate and fit for different competitions
High school teams	One shoe covers several events
Budget-conscious competitors	Reduces need for multiple pairs

Nike Zoom Rival Distance

The Nike Zoom Rival Distance is primarily a distance spike, but it can be useful for 400m hurdlers who need more cushion and a softer ride between barriers. I tested a distance-style spike during a training cycle and found the cushioning helpful for longer hurdle reps and extended tempo workouts. The shoe’s geometry supports a smooth stride and reduces foot fatigue. While it’s not a pure sprint spike, the extra comfort matters when your event includes repeated high-effort rounds and long warm-ups.

For 400m hurdlers or training days with heavy volume, the Zoom Rival Distance offers a comfortable alternative among the best track shoes for hurdles. Use it for tempo, hurdle endurance, or longer workouts. It’s not ideal for explosive 100m hurdle races where lightweight responsiveness is critical, but it shines when durability and comfort over distance are priorities.

Pros:

• Comfortable cushioning for longer sessions
• Smoother ride for 400m hurdle training
• Durable for high mileage workouts
• Stable platform for repeated landings
• Good for mixed training days

Cons:

• Heavier than sprint spikes
• Less aggressive toe-off for short sprints

My Recommendation

I suggest the Zoom Rival Distance for 300–400m hurdlers and athletes who need comfort on high-volume days. If you’re training for the longer hurdle events and want a shoe that cares for your legs across sets, this is one of the best track shoes for hurdles suited to endurance work.

Best for	Why
400m hurdlers	Comfort and cushioning for long reps
High-volume training	Durable and supportive for many workouts
Recovery sessions	Soft ride reduces impact on legs

Saucony Havok XC 3

The Saucony Havok XC 3 is a cross-country spike with rugged durability and a secure fit that I’ve used for off-season hurdle conditioning on grass and synthetic turf. While not a traditional track spike, its supportive upper and aggressive studs give confidence in uneven approaches and strength workouts. For hurdlers doing plyometrics, bounding, or conditioning on varied surfaces, the Havok XC 3 offers traction and stability you won’t get in flat sprint spikes.

If your training includes cross-country meets or off-track sessions, the Havok XC 3 is a practical addition to your shoe rotation among the best track shoes for hurdles. It won’t replace a dedicated sprint spike for races, but it’s a strong companion for building power, improving balance, and training in messy conditions. Use it for strength days and hill work to complement your race spikes.

Pros:

• Rugged traction for varied surfaces
• Secure fit for aggressive drills
• Durable for off-track training
• Good for conditioning and plyometrics
• Stable platform for bounding work

Cons:

• Too heavy for short sprint races
• Not designed for fast track toe-off

My Recommendation

I recommend the Havok XC 3 for hurdlers who do off-track conditioning or compete in cross-country during offseason. It’s one of the best track shoes for hurdles training because it builds power and confidence on uneven ground while protecting the foot during hard sessions.

Best for	Why
Off-season training	Traction and durability for messy surfaces
Strength work	Stable platform for bounding
Cross-country meets	Spike layout suited to soft terrain

Pewter Track Hurdles Keychain

This pewter keychain isn’t a shoe, but I include it because it captures the hurdler spirit and makes a thoughtful token for teammates and coaches. I’ve given similar charms to athletes after season finales; they help mark milestones and remind you of the hard work behind every meet. The charm is compact, nicely detailed, and wears well on bags or keys. It’s a small morale boost the morning of a meet when routine and mindset matter as much as footwear selection.

If you’re shopping for a gift for a hurdler or want a simple motivator to clip on your spike bag, this pendant is inexpensive and meaningful. While it doesn’t affect performance, the psychological lift from small rituals—like touching a charm before a race—can be real. It’s a nice complement to your chosen pair of the best track shoes for hurdles and makes a great end-of-season award or personal talisman to remember progress.

Pros:

• Meaningful token for hurdlers and teams
• Compact and durable pewter build
• Simple, affordable gift option
• Fits on bags, keys, or zippers
• Helps create pre-race ritual

Cons:

• Not performance-related gear
• Small size limits customization

My Recommendation

This keychain is best for gifting to teammates or as a lightweight ritual piece for hurdlers. I recommend keeping one on your spike bag as a small reminder of training and goals. It complements your choice of the best track shoes for hurdles by supporting the mental side of competition.

Best for	Why
Team gifts	Affordable and symbolic reward
Personal rituals	Small talisman for pre-race routine
Coaches	Nice token for athletes

Nike Ja Fly 4

The Nike Ja Fly 4 is tuned for sprint events but translates well to hurdlers who value explosive starts and quick turnover. I tested a pair in intense speed workouts and appreciated the responsive feel and aggressive toe-off. The upper locks the foot while the spike plate encourages a brisk, forward drive. Hurdlers who need rapid acceleration to clear the first hurdle and maintain rhythm will notice an uptick in responsiveness compared to softer training spikes.

If you want a race spike that feels alive underfoot, the Ja Fly 4 sits among the best track shoes for hurdles for athletes chasing raw speed. It’s well-suited to 100/110m hurdlers and sprinters who depend on instant propulsion. Be ready for minimal cushioning and a pronounced plate feel—perfect on race day, though less comfortable for long warm-ups or long-distance workouts.

Pros:

• Explosive toe-off for fast starts
• Secure lockdown in the forefoot
• Lightweight for sharp turnover
• Race-ready responsiveness
• Good for short hurdle approaches

Cons:

• Minimal cushioning for long use
• Stiff plate may feel harsh for some

My Recommendation

I recommend the Ja Fly 4 for elite or collegiate hurdlers focused on race speed. It’s one of the best track shoes for hurdles when you need the most direct transfer of force into the track and quick recovery after barrier clearance.

Best for	Why
100/110m hurdlers	Explosive plate ideal for short races
Collegiate athletes	Race-ready performance and fit
Sprint specialists	Lightweight for rapid turnover

Black Carbon Plate Spikes

This full-length carbon plate spike is built for power and speed, and I’ve seen similar models help hurdlers push through rounds with better energy return. The plate delivers a snappy propulsive feel, particularly useful on the run between hurdles where maintaining speed is critical. The upper tends to be minimal, so the focus is on transferring force to the track. For athletes seeking measurable gains in propulsion, a carbon plate spike can be transformative in short- to mid-distance hurdle events.

If you’re chasing marginal gains, this spike deserves consideration among the best track shoes for hurdles. It’s especially useful in meets where every hundredth counts. The tradeoff is less cushioning and a stiffer ride, so reserve carbon plate spikes for race day or select workouts. They demand proper technique and strength, but when used correctly they can help you shave time and maintain rhythm over multiple barriers.

Pros:

• Excellent energy return for fast toe-off
• Full-length plate boosts propulsion
• Lightweight racing orientation
• Helps maintain speed between hurdles
• Suitable for competitive race-day use

Cons:

• Stiff ride can be uncomfortable for long sessions
• Requires good strength and technique

My Recommendation

I recommend a carbon plate spike for competitive hurdlers who want maximum propulsion on race day. When paired with solid technique, this is among the best track shoes for hurdles to produce real time gains, especially in short and mid-distance races.

Best for	Why
Race-day use	Superior energy return and speed
Strong athletes	Need for stiffness and force transfer
Competitors chasing PRs	Maximizes marginal gains

adidas Adizero Sprintstar

The adidas Adizero Sprintstar is engineered for speed and immediate acceleration. I ran hurdle lead-leg drills and short approaches in a similar Adizero and valued its responsive plate and minimal weight. The shoe hugs the foot, offering a locked-in feel that helps me attack the first hurdle confidently. Its design focuses on forward motion and quick turnover, which is exactly what fast hurdlers need when rhythm is everything. The Adizero family has a history of race-focused engineering, and the Sprintstar continues that trend.

If you prioritize explosiveness and lightweight construction among the best track shoes for hurdles, the Adizero Sprintstar should be on your list. It’s geared toward short-distance hurdlers and sprinters who want a fierce race shoe. The tradeoff is comfort during long sessions, so use the Sprintstar when you need maximum speed and quick response for competitive rounds.

Pros:

• Very lightweight for rapid turnover
• Responsive plate suited for sprinting
• Secure fit for confident approaches
• Designed for race performance
• Streamlined shape reduces drag

Cons:

• Minimal cushion for heavy warm-ups
• Less versatile for longer events

My Recommendation

I recommend the Adizero Sprintstar to hurdlers and sprinters chasing top-end speed. As one of the best track shoes for hurdles, it provides race-ready responsiveness and a locked-in feel that supports aggressive approaches and quick clearance.

Best for	Why
Short hurdlers	Ultra-lightweight and responsive
Race-day specialists	Optimized for top speed
Sprinters	Excellent turnover and drive

FAQs Of best track shoes for hurdles

What features matter most in the best track shoes for hurdles?

Fit, plate stiffness, spike layout, and secure lockdown are key. You want traction for the approach, a locked-in forefoot for takeoff, and the right stiffness for your event distance. Fit should prevent any foot slide during quick strides.

Should hurdlers use sprint spikes or distance spikes?

Short hurdlers generally choose sprint spikes for responsiveness; 400m hurdlers often prefer distance-style spikes with more cushion. Match the spike to your event and training volume for best results among the best track shoes for hurdles.

How do I choose the right spike plate stiffness?

Choose stiffer plates for shorter sprint events and softer plates for longer races or heavy training days. Stiff plates give better toe-off; softer plates help on longer reps and reduce foot fatigue.

Do I need different spikes for training and racing?

Yes. I keep a lighter, race-focused spike for meets and a more cushioned, durable training spike for workouts. Rotating shoes extends lifespan and keeps performance consistent.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

If you race short hurdles, choose sprint spikes like the Nike Rival Sprint or Adizero Sprintstar for sharp responsiveness. For multi-event or mixed demands, the Nike Rival Multi is a versatile pick among the best track shoes for hurdles.

For youth or budget needs pick WESHIRUN; for 400m hurdlers pick Zoom Rival Distance. Overall, match stiffness and fit to your event and you’ll get the most from the best track shoes for hurdles.