Track Spikes Spring 2008

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Track Spikes 2008

by Cregg Weinmann

The 2008 season—an Olympic year—opens with both new and updated competition shoes for track and field, which we review here. A second wave of introductions is anticipated by midseason, just before the summer competition begins in earnest. We’ll provide reviews of these shoes as they become available. adidas, ASICS, Mizuno, New Balance, Nike, and Reebok continue to offer complete lines of technical track and field shoes, with many styles unchanged over the past few seasons. Brooks, Puma, and Saucony offer a range of economy and more technical shoes, for sprints through the distances, contributing to perhaps the broadest range of track and field shoe choices ever available to the U.S. market.

In this article, we review some of the first wave of 2008 models from adidas, ASICS, Brooks, Mizuno, Nike, and Saucony. As usual, we have listed the shoe weights, but please note that we weigh the specific pairs we test. Whenever possible, we use men’s size 11 and women’s size 8 to reflect the average U.S. sizes. This time, the sizes of our test samples varied, so their weights will, too. Also of note is the unisex sizing of many of the models. This means the model is built on a man’s last. Generally, women will wear a size-and-a-half smaller in a unisex shoe than they do in a women’s shoe.

ADIDAS’ build-up to Beijing will culminate with a collection to be introduced later in the spring for the summer season. However, the high school and college seasons are not forgotten; a new distance shoe joins their broad line-up that carries over largely unchanged from the 2007 season.

adidas Boston LD

$80

The Boston LD joins the affordable Boston training shoe, providing similar outstanding performance for competition. By utilizing three different air meshes, the upper is breathable, well-supported, and close-fitting to maximize traction by keeping the foot in position over the spikes, even during the steeplechase. In the midsole, the thin, full-length layer of adiPrene+ combines with an adiPrene+ heel wedge to provide additional cushioning without compromising the flexibility of the shoe. The 6-spike plate features removable spikes and aggressively molded ridges to bite into the surface effectively.

Sizes: unisex 4–13,14,15 Weight: 7.1 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 9) Spikes: 6 removable Recommended for: 800–5000 meters & steeplechase, on all track surfaces

ASICS has focused attention on its elite shoes designed for use at Beijing and other top flight venues. For the rest of us, its successful mid-range and upper-end track and field models carry over to this season, with mostly cosmetic updates to freshen them up.

ASICS Japan Lite-ning 2

$110

The original Japan Lite-ning was light, sleek, and positioned the foot to move fast. Round 2 maintains the best of that, while making incremental improvements. The upper is a bit more substantial (and partly responsible for the gain of a few fractions of an ounce), but the improved lateral support and durability justify it. The spike configuration is now more versatile with 6 removable spikes; their placement, however, remains nearly the same. The plate has a softer feel, but is still responsive.

Sizes: unisex 6–12,13 Weight: 6.1 oz. (w/spikes, men’s size 11) Spikes: 6 removable Recommended for: sprints & hurdles up to 400 meters, on synthetic surfaces for competition

ASICS Cyber Jump Beijing

$110

The Cyber Jump has been an excellent choice for horizontal jumpers and pole vaulters. This year, it’s been freshened up. Its strongest features are a very snug fit, courtesy of the monosock construction and the hook-and-loop strap at the ankle, and the lever-like stiffness of the spike plate and rearfoot. The SharkDuo heel provides additional traction, which is especially critical in the triple jump. Though not as event-specific as either a long jump/pole vault shoe or triple jump shoe, the middle ground of a very functional runway shoe has been achieved.

Sizes: unisex 6–13,14 Weight: 9.7 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11) Spikes: 8 removable Recommended for: long jump, triple jump, & pole vault, on synthetic surfaces

ASICS Cyber Javelin Beijing

$110

The successful Cyber Javelin adds to its strengths this year. The security of three hook-andloop straps at the ankle and over the instep continue to provide outstanding support, but are made of stronger materials. The stiffness of the spike plate and removable 7-spike forefoot/4spike heel allow you to adjust the layout to suit all types of runway surfaces. The upper features a generous amount of breathable mesh and is fully lined with moisture-wicking polyester. RhynoSkin continues to be used in the toecap, along with a high-friction rubber on the very tip of the toe. Security, durability, and function are present in spades.

Sizes: 6–13,14 (unisex) Weight: 15.6 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11) Spikes: 7 forefoot/4 heel Recommended for: javelin throwing, adaptable for natural or synthetic surfaces

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Track Spikes 2008

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➔ Brooks’ commitment to all athletes, from team through elite, is reflected in its updated track lineup. Its mid-range shoes receive a boost to bring them closer to the higher-end models that carry over from last season.

Brooks Twitch S

$55

The Twitch S maintains the versatile outersole and spike plate that work well on all surfaces, while concentrating updates on the upper. The new upper, a synthetic leather with a kind of grid-like surface, is very comfortable if you like to run without socks, and a new midfoot saddle improves the support. The spike plate is not a rigid platform—a requirement for some sprinters—but its versatility on natural surfaces will produce sprinting improvement at an attractive price point.

Sizes: unisex 6–13,14 Weight: 7.1 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11) Spikes: 7 removable Recommended for: sprint events up to 400 meters, on all surfaces

Brooks Surge MD

$55

As with previous updates to the Surge MD, round four carries over the same basic midsole and outersole/spike plate. This update focuses on the upper in both the men’s and the women’s versions. The flashier graphic treatment is the most obvious change, but the updates go deeper. Overlays have been repositioned and beefed up to provide more support while maintaining its light weight. The women’s version now features a last specific to the narrower feet many women have.

Sizes: men 5–13,14,15; women 6–12 Weight: 6.8 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11); 5.6 oz. (w/ spikes, women’s size 8) Spikes: 7 removable Recommended for: 800–1600 meters and beginning hurdles & jumps

MIZUNO returns to the U.S. market with new track models ranging from entry level to elite. It reintroduces its high-end field lineup with colors to reflect Mizuno’s hopes for the Olympics and other elite meets.

Mizuno Osaka 3

$90

As Mizuno’s flagship distance shoe, the Osaka is both efficient and simple. Excess weight has been pared back to give the shoe a lighter touch, while still providing the necessary support. The responsive, full-length midsole and the outersole/spike plate remain the same. The forefoot overlays have been reduced and those in the heel have been increased, improving support without increasing the weight. The fit hasn’t changed, though the rearrangement of the overlays means that you should pay attention to where they are relative to your own foot flex, just to avoid any potential hot spots.

Sizes: unisex 5–13 Weight: 7.1 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11) Spikes: 5 removable, 1 permanent Recommended for: 800–10,000 meters, on synthetic surfaces

Mizuno Tempo MD

$55

Feature for feature, the Tempo series is one of the strongest among the entry level to midrange track offerings. This update continues with the die-cut EVA wedge and the very effective spike plate/polyurethane heel treatment that stands up to a variety of track surfaces. The hook-and-loop strap of the original upper has been eliminated, and unnecessary overlays have been removed to save weight. Now offered in women’s sizing on a women’s-specific last, the versatility is better than ever.

Sizes: men 7–13; women 6–11 Weight: 8.2 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11); 6.3 oz. (w/ spikes, women’s size 8) Spikes: 7 removable Recommended for: 800–1600 meters, hurdles & beginning horizontal jumps

Mizuno Tempo S

$55

Entry-level sprint spikes must often forgo some key features—usually in the plate and contact area—that are common in high-end models. Here, Mizuno comes very close to duplicating the stiffness of many high-end shoes without breaking the bank. The effective plate and outersole remain the same, but the upper has been altered to take better advantage. Multiple hookand-loop straps have been replaced with a traditional lace setup, but the construction is more of a mono-sock with a lateral supporting “wall” of synthetic leather and a single hook-andloop strap to customize the fit. A new lining of moisture-wicking polyester has a soft feel against the skin to help prevent irritation.

Sizes: men 7–13; women 6–11 Weight: 8.2 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11); 6.3 oz. (w/ spikes, women’s size 8) Spikes: 7 removable Recommended for: 100–400 meters

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Track Spikes 2008 ➔ Mizuno Tokyo 4

$90

The Tokyo has been a staple in Mizuno’s track and field line for a number of seasons, always making a statement for speed. The success of the previous midsole/outersole/spike plate combination allows these features to continue without update. The upper, in its characteristic fire engine red, has received some attention. The previous double criss-cross support straps are now a midfoot criss-cross with single upper and lower support straps that cinch the foot a bit better and provide a more customizable fit. A synthetic leather ankle collar lining replaces the polyester of the previous version, which some may find more comfortable, though it really boils down to personal preference.

Sizes: unisex 5–13 Weight: 7.9 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 9) Spikes: 6 removable Recommended for: sprints to 400 meters & 110 meter hurdles, on synthetic surfaces

NIKE rolls out two distance shoes for the early season, though that’s likely not all they have in mind for 2008. The updates include a proven performer, and a little throwback flavor combined with modern shoemaking for outstanding performance.

Nike Zoom Shift Montreal

$80

The Zoom Shift Montreal may seem familiar, as it draws on more than 30 years of Nike history.

Its fit and basic styling echo the Zoom Miler, while its two-toned look comes from a model released prior to the 1976 Olympics called the Pre Montreal—which, not so coincidentally, was worn by the late Steve Prefontaine. The upper fits closely, keeping the foot over the spike plate, with a sueded interior that will be most appreciated by those running sockless. The midsole is responsively cushioned with a generous heel, though it’s not too wide. The 5 spikes are removable to accommodate a range of preferences, surfaces, and to prolong usefulness.

Sizes: unisex 4–13,14,15 Weight: 7.0 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 10) Spikes: 5 removable Recommended for: 800–10,000 meters, racing on synthetic surfaces

Nike Zoom Ventalus

$110

The Zoom Ventalus has been one of Nike’s most versatile distance spikes. Very lightweight, it’s effective for all of the distance races on synthetic tracks, including the steeplechase. This version maintains the responsive Phylon midsole and horseshoe-shaped Pebax plate with four permanent Omni-Lite spikes, though the plate has been pared down, opening the center of the sole to a thicker Phylon layer. The upper has been reduced to a minimal mesh with a thin, sueded lining for comfort and internal midfoot support. The overall effect is a responsively cushioned, slipper-like, high-performance racing vehicle.

Sizes: unisex 4–13,14,15 Weight: 4.1 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 10.5) Spikes: 4 permanent Recommended for: 3000–10,000 meters, racing on synthetic surfaces

SAUCONY updates its top-end spikes to go with the excellent mid-range shoes that were introduced last year. The combined strength of its track and cross country offerings continues to broaden its lineup of competition footwear.

Saucony Endorphin LD

$80

The Endorphin LD is updated as a pure distance shoe. Technically, it has improved measurably from spike plate to upper design. The new upper features a soft, synthetic suede that’s perforated at the tongue, toe, and on the lateral side for cooling. The fit is close, even foothugging, to secure the foot over the sole. The new plate is shaped to promote efficient foward motion, and the thin layer of responsive cushioning offers a bit of protection and excellent flexibility. With this update, the Endorphin measures up to any of the top distance spikes on the market.

Sizes: men 7–13,14; women 5–12 Weight: 5.6 oz. (w/ spikes, men’s size 11); 4.8 oz. (w/ spikes, women’s size 8) Spikes: 4 removable Recommended for: 1500–10,000 meters, racing on synthetic surfaces

Cregg Weinmann is footwear and running products reviewer for the Running Network LLC. A competitive runner for the past 41 years, he also has coached runners at all levels for over 25 years. He can be reached via fax at 661.872.1233 or via e-mail at shuz2run@lightspeed.net.

Copyright © 2007 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this article may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior written permission of the Running Network LLC. Reprinted here with permission.