TL;DR: Both these carbon-plated sprint spikes will help you shave fractions off your time. But if you're looking for a more affordable and stable super spike with bold designs and season-long durability then opt for the Hyper Carbon CP2. If you can afford to spend more, desire a slightly wider & lighter fit, and durability or breathability are not important factors, then opt for the Maxfly 2.
One of the fundamental upgrades you make as a sprinter, is to trade in regular running shoes for a pair of sprint spikes. Nevertheless, as your speed improves and your experience grows, it quickly becomes clear: not all sprint spikes are created equal.
And it's true.
If you haven't yet heard of carbon fiber sprint spikes, then it's safe to assume you're not maximising your true speed potential. It's these "super spikes" that have been propelling so many athletes to faster performances on the track, and they could do the same for you.
Two high-performance models in this category are the Hyper Carbon CP2 and the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2. Both are designed for sprinters running 100m to 400m (including the sprint hurdles), and both feature carbon plate technology to enhance energy return as you power down the track.
This review compares the price & durability, design & stability, as well as the comfort & fit of both these powerhouses, to help you decide which option is best for you.
PRICE & DURABILITY
In general, carbon track spikes cost more than their traditional counterparts, due to the advanced materials used to make them. Be sure to keep this in mind if you are looking to make the switch from traditional track spikes.
Almost every athlete will tell you that the feeling you get when "flying" in carbon plate spikes is more than worth the financial investment. However, it wouldn't be fair for you to take that financial plunge without knowing how long your new spikes will last you.
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2:
One common complaint with the original Maxfly was the air pod in the forefoot popping over time. With the Maxfly 2, Nike has improved the durability; however, it's still unlikely that they will last you the whole season. Especially if you plan to train and compete in them. If you want your
Maxfly 2 to last longer, then you may need to consider purchasing another pair of spikes for practice. But when you're likely to pay around $200 for them (retail prices vary according to the retailer), you'll need to weigh up if this is something you can afford to do.
Hyper Carbon CP2:
On the other hand, the Hyper Carbon CP2 are only available via trackspikes.co and can be purchased for just under $179 (plus free worldwide shipping). In terms of durability, they'll have no problem holding up for both training and competitions, so you won't need to consider buying another pair of spikes during the track & field season.
Summary:
- Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2: Around $200 + shipping. Improved but durability still limited.
- Hyper Carbon CP2: Around $179 + free shipping + a 10% discount for new customers. Durable, can be worn in practice and at competitions.
DESIGN & STABILITY
In terms of aesthetics, both spikes impress.
If you're looking for something sleek and more mainstream in style, then the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for something unique with a bit more flare, then you definitely need the Hyper Carbon CP2 in your life. Both models come in a variety of colours so there's definitely a style to match your speed.
The two spikes also have that familiar foam bottom that you find on most carbon fiber track spikes, as well as a full-length carbon fiber plate.
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2:
The Maxfly 2 has only 6 spike pins (the middle one has been removed since it's upgrade from the original model). Less spike pins can often mean less stability for sprinters. However, in this case, the middle spike pin was removed as part of Nike's attempt to make the Maxfly 2 more stable than the original (which they did successfully by also raising the platform at the big toe).
Removing the middle spike pin also paid off in weight because the Maxfly 2 is lighter than the first Maxfly (weighing approximately 164g at a Men's US size 8.5).
Hyper Carbon CP2:
In comparison, the Hyper Carbon CP2 has 7 spike pins and weighs 184g at the same shoe size. This means the Maxfly 2 is 20g lighter (about the weight of a garlic clove). So, although the CP2 is light, it is not as light as the Maxfly 2, and when it comes to sprinting, every little margin helps.
There is a tradeoff here, though, because the additional spike pin, along with the lower stack height on the CP2 model helps with proprioception and foot placement, enhancing repsonsiveness and allowing you to feel more stable as you sprint.
Summary:
- Hyper Carbon CP2: Bold designs, full length fiber plate, enhanced stability and traction.
- Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2: Mainstream sleek styles, full length fiber plate, super light.
COMFORT & FIT
Both spikes deliver on comfort although built differently.
Hyper Carbon CP2:
The CP2 spikes fit snug like gloves and are comfortable, not just during flight, but also when walking back after completing a training rep. Although they are quite narrow, the material of the spikes seems to mold and expand to your feet after a few wears, so unless you do have wider feet, there's no need to upsize.
The foam grip at the back of the heel is another welcome touch that you don't often find in sprint spikes. If you're someone who has had achilles issues in the past, then you will definitely appreciate the additional support. The foam grip also prevents that uncomfortable rubbing that can can occur when shoes become worn over time.
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2:
In comparison, if you're someone who's feet struggle with narrower spikes, then the Maxfly 2 could be a good option for you. With the widest part of the shoe (from big toe to baby toe) wider than the average sprint spike, the Maxfly 2 runs true to size.
The flyweave yarns of the Maxfly 2 also help the spike to conform to the shape of your foot, so you can tighten the shoe with just the right amount of grip. If you're a part of team "no socks", then you'll also be happy to know that the material of this super spike is soft and comfortable allowing freedom for your feet as you bolt down the track.
Unfortunately, if you value ventilation for your feet as you run, then you'll have to look elsewhere.
Summary:
- Hyper Carbon CP2: Comfortable, narrow, additional achilles/heel support.
- Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2: Comfortable, true to size, low breathability.
|
Hyper Carbon CP2 |
Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Event | 60m-400m (incl. hurdles) | 100m-400m |
| Carbon plate | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 184g | 164g |
| Use | Training, drills, competitions | Competitions |
| Comfort | Very comfortable, heel cushion | Comfortable, Air bubble prone to popping |
| Price | $161.99 ( w/ 10% discount) | $200 |
| Shop CP2 | Shop Maxfly 2 |
Ultimately, both the CP2 and the Maxfly 2 will help you level up your sprinting game. But the right choice for you depends on your budget, style preference, foot shape, injury history, and training demands.
About the Author
TOREMA THOMPSON
Torema Thompson is a UK Athletics accredited speed coach, qualified personal trainer, and athleTuber. She’s passionate about helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts transform from beginners to masters in sprinting and overall fitness, sharing expert guidance both on the track and online.
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