Spikes are designed to help you run faster in short sprints as well as for middle- and long-distance races and cross-country running. Spikes are lightweight, with pins on the bottom of the forefoot to grip a track or uneven terrain. Sprint spikes are shaped to put you on your toes so you can spring forward. Of the different kinds of track shoes, spikes made for sprinting have the least cushioning and the most rigid soles, while those designed for distance and cross-country running have the most cushioning.