What exactly is the technical differance between middle distance spikes and long distance spikes? If i'm a middle distance runner (800/1600) sould I go with the middle distance over the long distance or is their a chance that the long distance ones might be the "right fit?"
Thanx,
John
MD spikes get you on your toes a little more for the quick races. LD spikes are more comfortable and won't tire out your calves as quickly. The difference is pretty much negligible though, just get the ones that feel the best and aren't too expensive. If you've got some cash, spring for the milers. Or, if you want the most comfortable spike ever made, go for the $40 vents at eastbay. I think they're the best LD spikes ever.
if you are a decently fast 800m guy, you should be up on your toes for part if not the entire race. Thus, you will want to get mid-distance spikes. The thing is, its all relative to how you run. Haile G. has been seen wearing sprint spikes for a 5k, for example. You could actually get away with a "sprint" spike such as the Nike Maxcat, or its Nike JSC predecessor, for up to the mile. A general list of shoes that would be good for a person running 800-Mile are:
Puma Complete Harambee;
Nike Zoom Kennedy;
Nike Zoom Miler;
Nike Zoom Ventulus;
Nike Zoom Maxcat;
Adidas Adistar MD;
Adidas Adistar LD;
Adidas Nova MD;
Adidas Nova LD;
Asics Cyber LD;
Asic Cyber MD.
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