Cross Country Footwear – Our top picks
A new season of mud, grit, sweat and tears is almost upon us as Ashford & District RRC’s finest prepare for war over various battle grounds across Kent and further afield.
One key factor to cross country success is trading in those comfy and clean road running shoes for some 4WD battle amour that will carry you through the sloppiest of mud holes.
If you are not sure what kicks you’ll be wearing this season, do not despair! We have put together our top picks of cross country spikes and flats for your consideration.
Nike Zoom Victory 5
If you are looking to replicate that extra push that you have been experiencing all summer from your carbon plate Vaperflys, look no further than the Nike Zoom Vicory 5. These shoes are selling just inside the £100.00 mark and are proving a popular choice.
- Mesh Uppers – Provides breathable comfort.
- Overlays – Increases durability and support.
- Speed Laces – Keeps knots more secure and promotes a locked-down fit.
- Cushlon Midsole – Lightweight and responsive cushioning.
- Carbon Fibre Plate – Creates a stiff platform of propulsion.
- Forefoot Pebax Plate – Houses 6 spike receptacles for even pressure dispersal plus superior grip.
- Translucent Rubber Forefoot and Heel – Smooths the transition from heel-strike to toe-off.
- Rubber Pods and Patterned Lugs – Have a sharp, crisp shape to yield grip in all conditions.
- Anatomical Heel – Rolls with the ground to encourage a more natural and fluid range of motion.
These spikes are sold HERE.
NIKE ZOOM RIVAL XC 5
A more affordable option is the Nike Zoom Rival XC 5. This is arguably a more attractive looking design if style is your jam. Retailing at around £60.00, this shoe will give you the most bang for your buck. Where the price tag drops, the performance remains high.
- Mesh Uppers – Provides breathable comfort.
- Overlays – Increases durability and support.
- Speed Laces – Keeps knots more secure and promotes a locked-down fit.
- Cushlon Midsole – Lightweight and responsive cushioning.
- Forefoot Pebax Plate – Houses Six spikes for even pressure dispersal plus superior grip.
- Translucent Rubber Forefoot and Heel – Smooths the transition from heel-strike to toe-off.
- Strategically Placed Lugs – Have a sharp, crisp shape to yield grip in all conditions.
- Anatomical Heel – Rolls with the ground to encourage a more natural and fluid range of motion.
- Weight – 169g.
These spikes are sold HERE.
NEW BALANCE XC5KV5
This top tier option from New Balance offers an enhanced fit and lightweight feel. It’s a great looking shoe that promises a performance. These spikes will cost you around £100.00 which is more to the premium end of the scale.
- 50% Synthetic, 50% Mesh
- Imported
- Man Made sole
- Synthetic/mesh upper
- New burrito construction and single layer mesh provide an incredibly lightweight but aggressive fit
- Responsive REVlite midsole with a 5-spike configuration for an agile ride
- Designed for elite cross country athletes
These spikes are sold HERE.
SAUCONY KILKENNY XC9
Saucony are as cross country as they come. Their latest version of the Kilkenny range feature a lightweight upper and a molded midsole for that extra level comfort. These are our top pick all-rounder and for that reason are perfect for beginner athletes.
- Molded EVA for lightweight comfort, rebound, and durability.
- Spike Plate is a rubber plate engineered for flexibility and traction.
- Contains 4 spike receptacles per shoe.
- Open Mesh covers the entire upper and is a breathable lightweight fabric.
- 3D Printed Overlays are made of a thin film that is welded to the upper for a snug, secure fit.
NEW BALANC XC SEVEN SPIKE
Sleek meets secure in the XC Seven v3 unisex cross country racing flats, newly updated with bold colours and a softer feel. These New Balance shoes combine lightweight cushioning of elite racing shoes with a more traditional fit and extra protection.
- Bootie Construction
- Removable SPikes
- No-Sew Overlays
- 6.7 oz
- Color: Glacier/Cobalt
Get them HERE.
ASICS HYPER XC 2
Power through the season in ASICS Unisex HYPER XC 2 Track and Field Shoes. Designed for cross country runners, they feature breathable mesh uppers for an open fit. Contoured arches provide support while lightweight spiked outsoles dig into the ground for a powerful grip.
- 5-spike soles provide lightweight traction
- Mesh uppers deliver a lightweight, breathable fit.
- Contoured arches support your feet
Get them HERE.
Hoka Evo XC Spikes
A breathable upper keeps the air circulating. And lightweight laces and a thin tongue help keep the spike feeling nimble.
If you run in Hokas, you’ll love the EVO. If you just want more cushioning, you’ll also love the EVO. If you want a responsive, super lightweight shoe, maybe look elsewhere.
- Tons of cushioning
- Rubber outsole for added traction
- Breathable upper
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