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10 Best Cross Country Spikes 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Saucony Men's Havok XC 3 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 9
The Saucony Men's Havok XC 3 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe is designed with a 6-pin spike plate which provides excellent traction on varied terrains, making it ideal for cross-country running. The breathable monomesh upper ensures your feet stay cool and comfortable during long runs. The SSL EVA midsole offers lightweight cushioning, minimizing fatigue and enhancing performance. The shoe is relatively light, which is great for maintaining speed and agility.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,145
Fit and Comfort
Most important from
143 reviews
#2
Brooks Draft XC Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe - White/Black/Nightlife - 11 Mens/12.5 Womens Medium
The Brooks Draft XC is designed with young cross-country runners in mind, offering good traction thanks to its strategically placed spikes that provide solid footing on rugged terrain. The shoe features BioMoGo DNA cushioning, which helps keep your feet comfortable and responsive throughout your run, supporting both speed and endurance. It uses a lace-up closure and a canvas outer material, making it lightweight but potentially less durable compared to synthetic or leather options.
Rating
9.7
Traction
Fit and Comfort
Weight
Most important from
203 reviews
#3
Brooks Draft XC Spikeless Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe - Green Gecko/Red Orange/White - 6 Medium
The Brooks Draft XC Spikeless Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe is designed with young cross-country runners in mind. It offers several strengths, including a durable outsole with lugs that provide better traction on various surfaces, making it suitable for uneven terrain. The wide midfoot further enhances stability, which is crucial for cross-country courses.
Rating
9.4
Durability
Traction
Most important from
203 reviews
Top 10 Best Cross Country Spikes 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Saucony Men's Havok XC 3 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 9
Saucony Men's Havok XC 3 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 9
Spike Length: 6-pin
Fit and Comfort: secure, locked-down fit
Weight: relatively light
Durability: rubber sole adds durability
Traction: excellent traction
Breathability: breathable monomesh upper
Chosen by 1145 this week
Brooks Draft XC Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe - White/Black/Nightlife - 11 Mens/12.5 Womens Medium
Brooks Draft XC Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe - White/Black/Nightlife - 11 Mens/12.5 Womens Medium
Fit and Comfort: standard unisex sizing, order larger
Traction: spikes placed for solid footing
Brooks Draft XC Spikeless Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe - Green Gecko/Red Orange/White - 6 Medium
Brooks Draft XC Spikeless Supportive Cross-Country Running Shoe - Green Gecko/Red Orange/White - 6 Medium
Fit and Comfort: unisex sizing, BioMoGo DNA
Weight: lightweight
Durability: durable outsole, canvas material
Traction: lugs for better traction
Breathability: canvas outer material
Saucony Women's Havok XC3 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 9
Saucony Women's Havok XC3 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 9
Spike Length: 6-pin spike plate
Fit and Comfort: embroidered eyelets, SSL EVA cushioning
Durability: mesh and rubber materials
Traction: 6-pin spike plate for reliable traction
Breathability: breathable monomesh upper
Saucony womens Kilkenny Xc9 Varsity Spike Cross Country Running Shoes, Varsity, 10 US
Saucony womens Kilkenny Xc9 Varsity Spike Cross Country Running Shoes, Varsity, 10 US
Spike Length: 4-pin spike plate
Fit and Comfort: heel support, secure comfortable fit
Durability: synthetic rubber sole
Traction: 4-pin spike plate
Breathability: mesh upper
Related Products
New Balance Men's XC 5K V6 Running Shoe, Cyber Jade/Pixel Green, 11.5
New Balance Men's XC 5K V6 Running Shoe, Cyber Jade/Pixel Green, 11.5
Spike Length: 5-spike
Fit and Comfort: lace-up closure, streamlined collar
Weight: lightweight
Durability: mesh outer, rubber sole
Traction: aggressive 5-spike outsole
Breathability: mesh upper
New Balance Men's XC Seven V4 Running Shoe, Electric Red/Victory Blue, 11
New Balance Men's XC Seven V4 Running Shoe, Electric Red/Victory Blue, 11
Fit and Comfort: secure fit
Weight: lightweight
Durability: rubber material
Traction: decent traction
Breathability: good airflow
Saucony Men's Kilkenny XC9 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 10.5
Saucony Men's Kilkenny XC9 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Prospect Quartz, 10.5
Spike Length: 4-pin spike plate
Fit and Comfort: fit can vary
Weight: lightweight
Durability: may be a concern
Traction: adequate grip on various terrains
Breathability: mesh upper for breathability
New Balance XC Seven v4 Neon Dragonfly/Poppy 1 US Men's 9, Women's 10.5 Medium
New Balance XC Seven v4 Neon Dragonfly/Poppy 1 US Men's 9, Women's 10.5 Medium
Spike Length: 6-pin
Fit and Comfort: Traditional tongue, collar, lace-up, REVlite
Weight: Lightweight
Traction: 6-pin spike plate
Breathability: Mesh upper
#10
Saucony Women's Kilkenny XC9 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Fog/Black/Vizi, 10.5
Saucony Women's Kilkenny XC9 Spike Cross Country Running Shoe, Fog/Black/Vizi, 10.5
Fit and Comfort: Mesh upper, lace-up, SSL EVA midsole
Weight: Lightweight
Traction: 4-pin spike plate, rubber sole
Breathability: Mesh upper
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Buying Guide for the Best Cross Country Spikes
Choosing the right cross-country spikes is essential for optimal performance and comfort during your runs. Cross-country spikes are designed to provide traction and stability on various terrains, including grass, mud, and gravel. When selecting the best pair for you, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the perfect fit for your needs.Spike LengthSpike length refers to the length of the metal spikes on the bottom of the shoe. This is important because it affects the level of traction you get on different surfaces. Spike lengths typically range from 3mm to 15mm. Shorter spikes (3-6mm) are suitable for firmer, drier conditions, while longer spikes (9-15mm) are better for muddy, soft, or uneven terrain. Choose the spike length based on the typical conditions of your running courses.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for preventing blisters and ensuring you can run efficiently. Cross-country spikes should fit snugly but not too tight, allowing for some wiggle room for your toes. Look for shoes with a comfortable upper material that conforms to your foot shape. Try on different brands and models to find the one that feels the best for your foot type.
WeightThe weight of the shoe can impact your speed and endurance. Lighter shoes can help you run faster and feel less fatigued over long distances. Cross-country spikes are generally lightweight, but there can be variations. Shoes weighing between 5-8 ounces are common. If you prioritize speed, go for the lighter end of the spectrum. If you need more support, a slightly heavier shoe might be better.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the shoes can withstand wear and tear over time. This is important because cross-country running involves rough terrains that can quickly damage less durable shoes. Look for shoes made with high-quality materials and reinforced stitching. Consider how often you run and the conditions you typically encounter to determine the level of durability you need.
TractionTraction is the shoe's ability to grip the ground, which is crucial for maintaining stability and preventing slips. The design of the outsole and the placement of the spikes contribute to traction. Shoes with aggressive tread patterns and well-placed spikes offer better grip on slippery or uneven surfaces. Choose a shoe with good traction based on the types of terrain you run on most frequently.
BreathabilityBreathability refers to how well the shoe allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is important for comfort and preventing blisters. Shoes with mesh uppers or ventilation features are more breathable. If you run in hot or humid conditions, prioritize breathability to keep your feet comfortable.