New 2018 Cross Country Spikes

A woman wearing cross country spikes while running a race

Our top 4 recommendations

As the summer days begin to wane, albeit slightly, the hint of the upcoming cross country season sweeps in. When August approaches, for high school and college runners, it’ll be spike season — a time to dig deep and run fast. Thing is, there are a plethora of cross country-specific spike options out there. So, how do you choose the pair that best fits your needs? Look no further. We’ve got the run down of our favorite 2018 models. But before you read any further, take a gander at our Spikes 101 post to learn when, why and where you even need to slip on a pair of spikes in the first place.

Now, for our top 2018 recommendations:

NEW BALANCE XC SEVEN

Weight: 6.5 oz. (men’s size 9); 5.8 oz. (women’s size 7)

MSRP: $70

This to-the-point spike is both lightweight and aggressive thanks to a breathable, mesh upper fitted with a lightweight screen-printed overlay and a rugged, lugged outsole for superior traction. It performs exceptionally well on wet, muddy and steep terrain.

We like that this model is available as both a spike and a spike-less racer (the former of which comes with a six-pin spike plate). It's all set with a traditional collar and lace up atop a comfy, cushioned tongue.

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Saucony Kilkenny

Weight: 5.8 oz. (men’s size 9); 5.3 oz. (Women’s size 7)

MSRP: $65

The Saucony Kilkenny is an annual favorite at a stellar price point; It’s been touted by many a cross-country runner over the years as the most comfortable spike available. This year, it yet again lives up to its name. The shoe is lightweight and cushioned with midfoot-securing overlays for a sock-like fit. Like the XC Seven, take your pick between a spiked (four pins in the spike plate) and unspiked version.

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Nike Zoom Victory XC

Weight: 4.8 oz. (men's size 9)

MSRP: $120 (with free shipping!)

You’ll earn some major style points wearing the sleek Nike Zoom Victory XC. And you’ll feel fast, too. The shoe is built atop a narrow, race-ready last with a midfoot-wrapping, water resistant upper (the first of its kind!) and a surprisingly durable outsole.

So, while it may not look all that grippy, it is. That’s because six spikes grab the ground effortlessly while a hardy outsole easily sheds mud and debris. What’s more, the bootie construction extends over the ankle bone to add an even more secure, next-to-skin fit, and responsive cushioning feels fast and light.

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Saucony Carrera XC 3

Weight: 4.2 oz. (men’s size 9); 3.8 oz. (women’s size 7)

MSRP: $110 (spiked version); $100 (flat version)

The Carrera XC 3 from Saucony is so unbelievably featherlight, you’ll hardly notice it’s on your foot. The engineered mesh upper offers unparalleled breathability with an ISOFIT upper for optimal comfort and midfoot lock down. Choose between the spiked version (six pins in the spike plate) or racing flat, and prepare to run a new PR.

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