By Fast Running Club Coaches · Updated September 2026
The 400m is a sprint, but it’s a long one. You need a stiff plate for speed, and also enough cushioning and comfort to hold your mechanics when the lactic hits in the final 100m. That’s why many 400m runners race in a slightly more forgiving spike than pure 100m sprinters.
The short answer: the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 is the best 400m spike for most serious athletes in 2026. The New Balance FuelCell MD-X is the best choice for 400m runners who want more cushioning, and it also works for the 400m hurdles. Beginners should start with the Nike Zoom Rival Sprint.
Quick picks
- Best overall: Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2
- Best cushioned (and for 400m hurdles): New Balance FuelCell MD-X
- Best lightweight: Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2
- Best deal on an elite spike: adidas Adizero Prime SP 3
- Best value: Nike Zoom Ja Fly 4
- Best for beginners: Nike Zoom Rival Sprint
Comparison table
Prices are from VS Athletics in September 2026 and change often.
| Spike | Best for | Level | Plate | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 | Best overall | Advanced–elite | Carbon Flyplate + Air Zoom | $200 |
| New Balance FuelCell MD-X | Cushioning, 400m hurdles | Advanced–elite | Carbon + FuelCell foam | $143.99–161.99 |
| Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 | Lightweight | Advanced | Rigid plate, no midsole | $160 (some colours $105) |
| adidas Adizero Prime SP 3 | Elite spike for less | Advanced | Stiff plate + Lightstrike Pro foam | $89.95 (was $180) |
| Nike Zoom Ja Fly 4 | Best value | All levels | Rigid plastic plate | $120 |
| Nike Zoom Rival Sprint | Beginners | Beginner–club | 3/4 Pebax | $75 |
The best 400m spikes, reviewed
1. Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 — best overall
The Maxfly 2 combines a carbon Flyplate and forefoot Air Zoom units with ZoomX foam in the heel. That extra foam, plus a slightly wider toe box than the original, makes it more comfortable over a full lap than most sprint spikes without losing speed.
- Great for: experienced 200m/400m athletes.
- Watch out for: the $200 price and limited lifespan.
2. New Balance FuelCell MD-X — best cushioned, and best for 400m hurdles
The MD-X pairs a full-length carbon plate with FuelCell foam. It sits between a sprint spike and a middle-distance spike, which makes it a popular choice for the 400m and 400m hurdles, where comfort late in the race matters as much as raw speed.
- Great for: 400m and 400m hurdles athletes, and 400/800m doublers.
- Watch out for: it’s less aggressive than a pure sprint spike for the first 100m.
3. Nike Zoom Superfly Elite 2 — best lightweight
No midsole, a rigid plate and a snug knit upper. It’s very fast for athletes with strong mechanics, but offers no cushioning for the final 100m.
- Great for: strong, efficient 400m runners who want the lightest spike.
- Watch out for: younger athletes and anyone prone to calf or Achilles issues.
4. adidas Adizero Prime SP 3 — best deal on an elite spike
A stiff plate with Lightstrike Pro foam, now about half price after the launch of the Prime SP 4. The foam makes it more forgiving over 400m than most short-sprint spikes.
- Great for: 200m/400m athletes on a budget.
- Watch out for: limited sale sizes.
5. Nike Zoom Ja Fly 4 — best value
Light, stiff and $120, with seven removable pins. A proper race spike for high-school and club athletes.
- Great for: club 400m runners.
- Watch out for: a very narrow upper and no cushioning.
6. Nike Zoom Rival Sprint — best for beginners
A flexible 3/4 Pebax plate and a comfortable, breathable upper. Forgiving enough for beginners to train in, fast enough to race in.
- Great for: new 400m runners, juniors and relay athletes.
- Watch out for: it’s heavier than a racing spike.
How to choose 400m spikes
Think about the last 100m. If your stride shortens and your form breaks down late in the race, choose a spike with some foam (Maxfly 2, MD-X, Prime SP 3). If you hold form well, a minimal spike like the Superfly Elite 2 will feel faster.
Plate stiffness. Stiffer plates are faster but tire the calves over 400m. Train in your race spike a few times before competing, and build up gradually.
Fit. Snug with no heel slip, especially for the two bends. Try spikes on with your racing socks.
Pins. Most outdoor tracks allow 6–7mm pyramid pins; many indoor venues require shorter pins.
FAQs
Should I wear sprint spikes or middle-distance spikes for the 400m?
Most 400m runners wear sprint spikes. Athletes who also race the 800m, or who want more comfort, often choose a hybrid like the New Balance MD-X.
What are the best spikes for the 400m hurdles?
The New Balance FuelCell MD-X and Nike Air Zoom Maxfly 2 are both excellent. See our full best spikes for hurdles guide.
Can I use my 400m spikes for the 100m?
Yes. Every spike on this list also works for the 100m and 200m.
Keep reading
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