What To Look For
Cross country shoes, or spikes, have different traction, comfort and shaping for maximum effectiveness during longer runs. These shoes are designed to grip uneven ground and provide traction in rough terrain. Look for shoes that offer metal spikes on the bottom of the sole for runs through soft dirt or grass. Use rubber soles for harder surfaces such as when running on sidewalks or hard dirt. It is likely that you will need two or more pairs of shoes to match the running terrain. Best Running Tips.com recommends the Brooks Mach 9 Spikeless shoes for cross country races on tracks, sidewalks and other hard surfaces. The Saucony Grid Fast Star RR offers rubber spikes or waffles for slightly rough terrain. Runner's World Magazine recommends the Asics 15-50 or the Nike Kennedy XC with metal spikes for soft terrain runs.
Common Pitfalls
One of the most common pitfalls that runners fall into is the line of thinking that a regular running shoe will work for cross country. Regular running shoes are designed for tracks and hard surfaces. They will not perform well on uneven or softer terrain types. It is important to purchase a shoe specifically designed for cross country. Consult with your coach to determine what kinds of courses you will run on during the season to choose the best type of shoe for your needs. If you run cross country on your own, then a hybrid shoe with rubber spikes is probably the best shoe to prepare for all running conditions.
Where To Buy
Cross country shoes are harder to find than most other running shoes. Fewer people run cross country, and some stores may not carry cross country shoes at all. Everything Track and Field.com offers a wide selection of cross country shoes and brands including Nike, Asics and Adidas. They offer rubber spikes, waffle bottoms and metal spikes. Eastbay.com offers an even wider selection of shoes with brands including Mizuno, Saucony and Brooks in addition to the brands that Everything Track and Field offers. Both stores have excellent customer service and fast shipping.
Cost
Expect to pay between $60 and $100 for a quality pair of cross country shoes. There are shoes that cost more than $100, but for most runners the advantage of these higher priced shoes are negligible. The Brooks Mach 9 Spikeless shoes cost around $55. The Saucony Grid Fast Star RR shoes cost about $75 to $80. The Asics 15-50 and the Nike Kennedy XC both are priced between $75 and $90.
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