Do cross country spikes make a big difference?

Question

I bought xc spikes two weeks ago and I have a race tomorrow. I have not run with my spikes yet. Do they make a difference in running a 5k? The course is mostly grass and steep hills. How much time would they take off my 5k time?

Answer 1

I really don't know if spikes will help you cut time or run faster. For me it's more about the mental aspect of it. When I put on my spikes I go into a competition mindset. I feel faster.

Good luck on your race!

Answer 2

There are lots of variables in cross, so it is difficult to say how much the spikes will help.

It depends on the course as to exactly how much difference you would have between flats and spikes.

There is no question that spikes will help you especially on the up hills.  

Answer 3

Spikes are really important, especially the mental aspect. In spikes you just feel faster. They also help deal with the rugged terrain of cross country. However, if you are racing on a course that isn't as "traily" try road racers. They have more support and feel much better.

Answer 4

It really doesn't make a huge difference - it's all about running your race. They defiantly will help you on muddy or steep hills. They basically give you better grip.  Spikes are also said to be lighter on your feet, therefore you will run better.

At any rate, you should get used to running in spikes as well as any other running shoe. You will be using them if you plan on running more races.

Good luck with you race tomorrow, I also have a race tomorrow! : )

xoxoxoxo

Answer 5

spikes help a lot they take off time, prevent you from slipping or falling and let you get a good grip. If you were racing someone who was the same speed as you and they had spikes and you didn't they would most likely win. But you should have worn your spikes a couple times before your race day to break them in. Running in spikes that are right out of the box could give you bad blisters or injure you in another way. But that doesn't happen all the time. it depends on the conditions of the course. but i would say you should wear them because they will make you that much faster