Track and field is an all-encompassing sport, testing its athletes in speed, strength and aerobic fitness. Because each event is highly specific, there is not one type of shoe that would be appropriate for all. Instead, each event has a type of shoe precisely designed for optimal performance in that event. The four main types of shoes in track and field are sprinting, distance running, jumping and throwing shoes. There are further subtypes within these categories, as well as additional types of training shoes.
Distance Shoes
Shoes that are designed for distance competition are often referred to as spikes and are appropriate for distances of 800 through 10,000 meters. This type of shoe is much lighter than the typical training shoe but has the same basic features: textured rubber sole, heel padding and a mesh upper. However, distance competition shoes will have four to six optional metal spikes that screw into the bottom for additional traction on the track.
Sprinting Shoes
These competition shoes are also referred to as spikes, but have some distinct differences from the distance spikes. First, the bottom of the shoe is often plastic instead of rubber to keep the shoe in a pointed position. This stiff design forces the runner on her toes; ideal for sprinting, but not appropriate for any event longer than 400 meters. There is little to no heel cushion, as the sprinter will not be spending time running on his heels, and given the nature of the race, having a light shoe is much more important than having support.
Throwing Shoes
These shoes are the most distinct from other track and field shoes, and could not be used for other events because the bottom of the shoe is flat and smooth, with no spikes. This shoe is designed to allow the thrower to execute a spinning motion while throwing the shot put or discus. They may have higher ankle support than other types of competition shoes.
Jumping Shoes
Jumping shoes are similar in structure to sprinting spikes with little support and hard plastic soles, but the arrangement of spikes on the sole is less dominant at the toe. With fewer spikes at the end of the shoe, the jumper is able to make last-second corrections before take off and is able to better absorb hard landings.
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