7 Best Nike Running Spikes in 2026

How we test Nike running spikes

Nike running spikes are tested in our lab just like any other spikes. All the tests we perform are standardised. We follow the official protocols for some tests (like SATRA TM144 for measuring the dynamic coefficient of friction, or ASTM F1976-13 for testing the energy return and shock absorption) or we follow our protocols that were set in place after extensive testing. This means that every spike is treated the same, using the same force, same number of rotations per minute, same durometers and callipers, same smoke machines, etc. You can read more about how we test shoes on the Methodology page. 

Our reviews are not based on lab tests only; they are also backed by our field testing. This allows us to examine the spikes from all possible angles and to deliver objective reviews. We also buy all the spikes with our own money and base our choices on which shoes to buy on yet another protocol. 

Every March, we see a spike in track spike popularity, so we hope this guide prepares you for the season ahead and helps you find the best track spike for you!

What makes Nike running spikes different?

Nike has its own technologies that make the running spikes stand out: 

1. Air Zoom units are found in Nike footwear in different categories, such as trainers, running shoes, HIIT shoes, and running spikes. These units add explosiveness to the ride, which is exactly what’s needed in running spikes.
2. ZoomX foam: this foam has gone through some serious changes that we covered in great detail in our guide on foams, section ZoomX. What stands today is that Nike adjusts the ZoomX to the shoe, so it’s not identical across different models. But, we know it’s soft, bouncy, and resilient!
3. Great combination of resilient foams and carbon-fibre plates, making some of the running spikes super spikes. 

Nike super spikes 

For a track spike to be classified as a super spike, it needs to feature: a premium foam, which has a sky-high energy return, and a carbon-fibre plate. Some of Nike's super spike models are: Dragonfly 2, Dragonfly 2 Elite, Victory 2, Maxfly, and Maxfly 2. 

The Nike ZoomX Dragonfly received the most attention when a study (Bertschy et al., 2025) showed that it enabled a 1.6% speed increase on 200m sprints compared to a traditional track spike. This study also compares other models to traditional spikes and we highly recommend reading it.

Another study (Geisler, Hannigan, 2024) compared the super spike models Nike ZoomX Dragonfly and Nike Air Zoom Victory to a traditional spike Nike Zoom Matumbo and recorded significantly lower peak ankle dorsiflexion in the Dragonfly. Also, the Dragonfly allowed for a lower whole foot, forefoot and rearfoot peak and average pressure. This may have laid the groundwork for future studies, like the one from 2025, which also used the Dragonfly.

If you’re interested in how the records have changed historically, before and after the introduction of super spikes, we recommend reading a study (Needles, Grabowski, 2024) that analysed this and concluded that super spikes bring more to the table when used on longer distance events. 

Cushioning in Nike running spikes 

When we look at the midsole in Nike running spikes, we can see the variation in height, and we can sense the variation in softness. So, let’s cover both. 

The highest heel stack allowed is 20 mm. This applies to elite, professional events, like the Olympics. If you’re racing at your college or high school, there’s no such limit. 

However, just because there’s more midsole below your feet, it does not mean that the spikes are softer. There’s no such correlation here. 

Platform stiffness in Nike running spikes

Stiffness varies. Usually, the plate that holds the spikes is very stiff, but it also depends. Some spikes feature a Pebax or a carbon-fibre plate, and all of that influences the overall stiffness. 

Fortunately for you, Nike has both flexible and stiff plates! You can find what works best for you. Keep in mind that super spikes often feature a carbon-fibre plate and that they are stiffer than the budget-friendly or beginner models. 

How lightweight are Nike running spikes?

If you’re a competitive athlete or somewhat close to that, you most likely already know that the lighter the shoes, the better. Scientific research has even put a number on this claim, with runners being 1.2% slower on 200 metres when running in spikes that are 200g heavier (Bertschy et al., 2025).

Knowing that the lighter is better, one may want to find the lightest running spikes out there. Other, less competitive runners, may be willing to sacrifice some grammes for extra comfort. It’s on you. 

Toebox volume in Nike running spikes

Although spikes are used for short distances and many can endure a few hot spots for short bursts of effort. But, that’s not the idea; worse circulation, dark toenails, or toenails bleeding the neighbouring toes should not be the option. 

In the lab, we use a special formula to create a gel mould of the track spike’s interiors. We fill the shoe, freeze it, and once all set, we have a mould we can use for accurate measurements. 

We don’t stop there. We cut the gel mould in half lengthwise and measure the height of the toebox. This is a very important data point for athletes with high-volume toes or big toes pointing up. 

Knowing these values, you can find Nike running spikes that offer the most room exactly where you need it. 

Spike plate and pins 

Most of the Nike running spikes have removable pins, so you can easily customise them or replace them. 

For example, Dragonfly 2 Elite does not have removable pins, which makes the plate lighter, more durable, and more stable. These spikes are aimed at elite athletes.