8 Best Cross Country Spikes 2025 in the United States

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.

While the rubber sole offers reliable grip, the canvas upper might not be as breathable as mesh alternatives, which could affect comfort during longer or hotter runs. Fit-wise, the shoe follows standard unisex sizing and is recommended to be ordered slightly larger than your normal dress shoe for the best comfort. The customizable heel piece is a nice touch for team spirit but doesn't impact performance.

These spikes represent a solid choice for runners prioritizing traction and cushioning on varied courses, though those needing extra breathability or maximum durability might want to consider other options.

The Saucony Women's Kilkenny XC9 Spike is designed for cross-country running, emphasizing features crucial for this category. It's equipped with a 4-pin spike plate, which suggests a decent level of traction suitable for varied terrains. Buyers should ensure it meets specific race requirements due to unspecified spike length.

In terms of fit and comfort, the Kilkenny XC9 features a mesh upper, which enhances breathability, keeping feet cooler during intense runs. The lace-up closure allows for a customizable fit, which is important for comfort over long distances. The SSL EVA midsole adds a layer of cushioning which may provide a balance between comfort and responsiveness, albeit not as plush as more cushioned models.

The shoe is lightweight, an essential trait for cross-country spikes, enabling quicker movement and less fatigue over longer distances. However, durability might be a concern given the mesh construction and lack of water resistance. These shoes may not hold up well under extremely wet conditions, which are common in cross-country races. Traction is supported by the rubber sole and 4-pin spike arrangement, but without specific details on spike length, it's hard to gauge its performance on particularly muddy or slippery surfaces. For runners focused on breathability and weight, the Kilkenny XC9 is a compelling choice. However, those needing robust durability and better water resistance may need to look elsewhere. This shoe is likely to appeal most to competitive runners looking for lightweight and breathable options for dry to moderately challenging courses.

The New Balance Men's XC Seven V4 Running Shoe in Electric Red/Victory Blue is designed with cross-country runners in mind. The shoe features a REVlite midsole that offers lightweight cushioning, making it easier on your feet during long runs. The engineered knit upper provides both a lightweight structure and an attractive design, which adds to the shoe's comfort and visual appeal.

The traditional tongue and collar construction, along with the lace-up closure, ensure a secure and reliable fit, which is essential for cross-country running. The rubber lugged outsole provides decent traction, although it may not be as effective as actual spikes in muddy or extremely uneven conditions.

In terms of breathability, the engineered knit upper allows for good airflow, which helps keep your feet cool and dry. On the downside, the shoe is not water-resistant, so it may not perform well in wet conditions. Durability is supported by the rubber material used for the outer and sole, but the lack of water resistance could be a concern for frequent use in various weather conditions. The New Balance Men's XC Seven V4 is a lightweight, comfortable, and visually appealing option for cross-country runners who prefer spikeless shoes and run on less challenging terrains.