World Athletics Approved Track Spikes

Your Guide to World Athletics Approved Spikes

If you’re aiming for big competitions, making sure your spikes are World Athletics approved isn’t just a detail, it’s a must. The last thing you want is to line up at the start line only to find your shoes aren’t legal.

Understanding the Rules

World Athletics has set clear limits for competition spikes. As of November 1, 2024, all track shoes must have a maximum sole height of 20mm. They also restrict plate designs and pin numbers to keep things fair, while still leaving room for modern tech to help athletes perform at their best.

Certified and Ready to Compete

Every spike in our approved collection has been tested against these standards and officially cleared by World Athletics. That means you can train and race with confidence, knowing your footwear is legal at every level, from local meets to international championships.

The Science Behind Approved Track Spikes

Our carbon fiber spikes are built with plates that return as much energy as possible all while staying within World Athletics’ rules. With a strict 20mm stack height limit, every millimeter of foam has to be carefully engineered to give you the best mix of cushioning and responsiveness.

Depending on the event, spikes are capped at either 20mm or 25mm. Shoes can use one rigid plate, but stacking multiple plates isn’t allowed. These rules are designed to keep the playing field fair and making sure technology helps athletes perform at their peak without replacing raw ability.

Key Features 

Advanced Spike Plate Technology

Our approved spikes utilize premium carbon plates strategically positioned. These plates provide exceptional energy return while maintaining the flexibility needed for natural foot movement.

Premium Lightweight Construction

Weight matters when milliseconds determine victory. Our certified sprint track spikes combine lightweight materials with durable construction, helping athletes achieve their fastest times while maintaining structural integrity through demanding training and competition schedules.

Choosing the Right Approved Shoes

Selecting the ideal World Athletics approved track spikes depends on your specific events and competition level. Consider these factors when making your choice:

Event Distance: Sprint models prioritize maximum energy return and minimal weight, while distance options balance speed with comfort for longer races.

Competition Level: Elite athletes often prefer stiffer plates for maximum energy transfer, while developing athletes may benefit from slightly more forgiving designs that promote proper running form.

Surface Conditions: Different track surfaces require specific spike configurations. Our approved models accommodate various pin lengths and patterns to optimize grip across all competition venues.

World Athletics Approved Spikes FAQs

What makes a spike “World Athletics approved”?

To be approved, spikes have to meet certain rules: the sole can’t be thicker than 20mm, only one rigid plate can run the length of the shoe, and you’re limited to 11 pins. These standards keep competition between brands fair while still allowing for innovation.

Can I wear them in high school meets?

Yes. If a spike is World Athletics approved, you can use it at almost any level in high school, college, club, masters, or pro. Most local meets don’t strictly enforce WA rules, but wearing approved spikes means you’ll be covered no matter where you compete.

How do I check if my spikes are approved?

Since August 2024, World Athletics has a Shoe-Checker tool where you type in your model and see which events it’s cleared for. On our site, all approved models are clearly marked so you don’t have to guess.

What’s the difference between approved and regular spikes?

Approved spikes are tested to meet World Athletics’ limits on sole thickness, plates, and pin setup. Non approved models might be fine for training or local meets, but only approved ones guarantee you’re good to go at every level of competition.

Do I need approved spikes for local races?

Not always. Most community meets don’t check. But if you train and race in approved spikes, you’ll never be caught out if you suddenly qualify for a bigger competition.

How often do the rules change?

The last big update came on November 1, 2024, when World Athletics simplified the rule to a 20mm sole limit across all track and field shoes. Changes don’t happen often, and they usually give plenty of notice so athletes and brands can adjust.

Are approvals different for each event?

Yes. Some spikes might be legal for sprints but not for jumping events. That’s why the shoe checker is helpful as it tells you exactly what your model is approved for.

What happens if I wear non-approved spikes in a big meet?

At the top level, you risk being disqualified if you compete in non-approved shoes.

About the Author - Peter M.

Peter is the founder of TrackSpikes.co and a lifelong track & field athlete. Drawing on years of experience, he’s building a new track spike brand focused on performance, innovation, and elevating athletes through thoughtful design and community impact.