TL;DR: Stuck spikes are caused by oxidation and wear. Prevention: Clean spike sockets every 2 weeks, replace worn spikes early, hand wash shoes, and keep sockets dry. For stuck spikes: Try lubricant and pliers first. For severely damaged spikes: Cut a groove with a hacksaw, widen with a file, then unscrew with a flathead screwdriver. Regular maintenance prevents most problems.
Every athlete has encountered this frustrating problem at least once: a spike pin that's become so damaged or stuck that it simply won't come out of the shoe sole. This common issue is typically caused by oxidation or wear due to inadequate maintenance, leaving you with a spike that has rounded edges and won't grip properly with your spike key or pliers.
The good news? With the right techniques and preventive care, you can avoid this problem entirely and if you're already dealing with a stuck spike, there are proven methods to remove it without damaging your shoes.
The Importance of Preventive Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid stuck spikes. If you maintain your spikes properly, it's unlikely you'll ever face a pin that's completely impossible to remove through normal means.
Follow these essential maintenance practices:
- Remove and clean spikes regularly. Take out all spikes at least once every two weeks and clean the sockets to prevent oxidation and rust buildup.
- Replace spikes before they're completely worn. Don't wait until the tip is completely rounded. As soon as you notice wear, replace the spike.
- Clean the spike housing regularly. Use a toothbrush to reach all the nooks and crannies inside the plate.
- Lubricate threads when needed. If you feel resistance when inserting a spike, apply lubricant to prevent friction and damage to the threads. Never force a spike in.
- Avoid over-tightening. Don't wear down the edges of the spikes by over-tightening with the spike key.
- Keep sockets dry. Moisture leads to oxidation, so always keep the spike housing and edges dry.
- Hand wash your shoes properly. Never machine wash track shoes or use very hot water, as this can damage the plates, spike housings, and cause the upper material to shrink or the sole to separate. Instead, hand wash with warm water and soap, using a toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas.
- Dry shoes correctly. Stuff shoes with newspaper and let them air dry naturally. Never place them near direct heat sources like radiators, as this can damage the materials.
Initial Removal Attempt
If you're dealing with a stuck spike that won't come out with the standard spike key, try these steps first:
- Clean around the damaged spike to remove any dirt or debris from the housing.
- Apply lubricant around the spike to reduce friction.
- Attempt to grip the spike head with a pair of pliers.
- If successful, remove the spike and immediately clean the socket before installing a replacement.
Advanced Method for Severely Damaged Spikes
When a spike is completely flattened, rounded, or otherwise damaged beyond the point where pliers can grip it, you'll need to take a more drastic approach.
Here's the step by step process:
- Remove all other spikes first. This gives you clear access and prevents interference.
- Create a groove. Using a small hacksaw, carefully cut a straight line along the top of the damaged spike.
- Widen the cut. Use a file to slightly widen the groove, creating a visible slit in what remains of the spike head. You've essentially created a flathead screw slot.
- Extract the spike. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slit and carefully unscrew the spike.
It is important that the groove must be deep enough to securely accommodate the screwdriver head. If it's too shallow, the screwdriver may slip out and damage the surrounding area further. Take your time and work carefully.
Key Takeaways
The best approach to damaged spikes is prevention through regular maintenance. By cleaning your spike threads regularly, replacing worn spikes promptly, and using proper washing and drying techniques, you can avoid most spike related problems entirely.
However, if you do encounter a stubborn spike, the techniques outlined above from simple lubrication and pliers to the more advanced hacksaw method will help you remove it successfully without damaging your expensive track shoes.
Remember: patience and proper technique are essential. Take care of your equipment, and it will take care of you on the track.
About the Author
Alessandro Bacci
An accomplished sprint and hurdles coach with extensive experience across Italy’s top athletic institutions. He currently serves as sprint coach for the Italian Navy Academy and track & field practice teacher at the University of Pisa. Alessandro also coaches at Atletica Livorno 1950 and collaborates with the Regional Technical Sector of Tuscany, contributing to the development of elite athletes across the region.
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