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To spike or not to spike?
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 2013-10-29 11:27 AM |
 Seattle |  Subject: To spike or not to spike?That IS the question! Thus far, the weather has been so good I've been doing all of my cross country races in flats. It's worked out pretty well and generally I feel "If it aint broke, don't fix it." Buuut I have a big XC meet this weekend (6K) and there is a pretty good chance that it's going to rain + I have to think there is at least a slight speed advantage of wearing spikes (although I cannot verify that.) I also would like to get some more actual racing experience in them before Nationals because as of now, I have none. The reason I am really torn is because this weekend's meet is pretty important. It will determine whether I make the Elite team for nationals, or the B team. What do you guys think? |
| 2013-10-29 11:41 AM in reply to: Asalzwed |
Expert  3145    Scottsdale, AZ | Subject: RE: To spike or not to spike? Spikes are awesome and therefore should be worn whenever possible just for their awesomeness. I really wish I had a valid reason to buy spikes
In all seriousness though, given it's cross and your location and the possibility of rain; I'd lace up spikes. Do you already own some or would these be brand spanking new? If new I'd at least try and get out for a shake out run in them but I know you already know that. |
| 2013-10-29 11:41 AM in reply to: Asalzwed |
Member 622 Franklin, TN | Subject: RE: To spike or not to spike? Definitely if weather comes into play. If there's a hint of speed advantage (if only in your mind) I would go for it (using the spikes). |
| 2013-10-29 11:45 AM in reply to: Asalzwed |
Champion 9407 Montague Gold Mines, Nova Scotia | Subject: RE: To spike or not to spike? What does the course consist of and are there are sections with pavement or concrete? Generally I would recommend spikes for cross country racing but there are situations where spikes can be more detrimental than beneficial. Shane |
| 2013-10-29 11:47 AM in reply to: thebigb |
| Seattle | Subject: RE: To spike or not to spike? Originally posted by thebigb Spikes are awesome and therefore should be worn whenever possible just for their awesomeness. I really wish I had a valid reason to buy spikes
In all seriousness though, given it's cross and your location and the possibility of rain; I'd lace up spikes. Do you already own some or would these be brand spanking new? If new I'd at least try and get out for a shake out run in them but I know you already know that. Nah, I have had them all season. I've practiced in them a little bit and didn't have any issues or anything. They are a little heavier than my flats.
Also, I should mention, the course is VERY hilly with about 30% tall grass and then the other 70% dirt trails with leaves and roots etc. There is one part where we have to cross a small paved maintenance road (which sucks in spikes) but it's obviously minimal. |
| 2013-10-29 11:59 AM in reply to: Asalzwed |
Champion 9407 Montague Gold Mines, Nova Scotia | Subject: RE: To spike or not to spike? Originally posted by Asalzwed Also, I should mention, the course is VERY hilly with about 30% tall grass and then the other 70% dirt trails with leaves and roots etc. There is one part where we have to cross a small paved maintenance road (which sucks in spikes) but it's obviously minimal. For a course like that, especially with rain, I like 13mm or 11mm and have had athletes run on grassy muddy courses with 15's. The downside is the crossing and I usually recommend that athletes consider going one length shorter than they would normally use if they are concerned about paved/concrete crossing. Shane |
| 2013-10-29 12:41 PM in reply to: 0 |
| Seattle | Subject: RE: To spike or not to spike? Originally posted by gsmacleod Originally posted by Asalzwed Also, I should mention, the course is VERY hilly with about 30% tall grass and then the other 70% dirt trails with leaves and roots etc. There is one part where we have to cross a small paved maintenance road (which sucks in spikes) but it's obviously minimal. For a course like that, especially with rain, I like 13mm or 11mm and have had athletes run on grassy muddy courses with 15's. The downside is the crossing and I usually recommend that athletes consider going one length shorter than they would normally use if they are concerned about paved/concrete crossing. Shane Great. Thanks for the advice. Considering the pavement is such a small portion (I think it takes maybe 2 strides to get across and we do the loop 3 times) my 3/8" pyramid spikes should be good.
Woops, I said 3/4 at first. Ha! Now that would be cray Edited by Asalzwed 2013-10-29 12:47 PM |
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