What is the best spike for a 400/800m highschooler? I have more of a sprinter base but I can run a decent 800m. Any suggestions on a good durable spike, as a highschool runner they will get a fair amount of use so I want something that can last.
-Thanks
Adidas if you want them to last...
First of all, both Asics and Adidas have much better sprint spikes than Nike these days.
Take a look at the Japan Lite-ning, which I used to use as a sprinter for both training and racing until switching to the Adidas SP Prime this year.
The SP Prime is without a doubt that finest pure sprint spike I have ever seen (Gay, Yoahn Blake, VCB, etc. aren't using it for no reason), but the forefoot plate is sharply angled up, which makes it perfect for 60-200 only. I wouldn't even want to use it for 300. The spikes are also non-removable, so I don't think a high school sprinter can even use these in competition.
Asics has a new series called Sonicsprint which is just slightly heavier than SP Prime, has removable spikes and is the lightest spike that a HS athlete could use, but once again, the forefoot seems to be angled up sharply enough that it would be tough to hold form for all of 800. Adidas has one called Prime Finesse which is similar here--you might be able to use it for 800, but you've blown $100 if it is too aggressive.
The Japan Lite-Ning is more like the old Nike JSC (I used to use that) and I have coached 400/800 people that have used these for 800. the Lite-ning has that additional advantage that you can buy them on sale.
BTW, for any pure sprinters reading this, what you see online about the SP Prime falling apart after 3 races are false. I started using mine on 12/15/2013 and have done about 25 workouts and 1 race in it with no problems. Just be a little careful putting it on and off and you should be able to use it for a whole season easily.
Robert.S
Try on the adizero Ambition. Briefed, designed and developed as a true middle distance spike. Everything you need; nothing you don't.
I know this isn't helpful but I think the optimal 400m spike is different than the optimal 800m spike.
I prefer running the 800m in a lighter mid-distance spike but I feel like it's not enough for the 400m.
With that said, I haven't found a 400m spike that I like.
Nike maxcat?