The best cross-country shoes by Nike
Buying guide
Rain or shine, these sneakers will help you go the distance.
To gear up for cross-country season, you need top-notch XC running shoes. The only issue: you're running up against indecision. You're not sure which type of sneaker to choose, debating between cross-country spikes or flats and road-running shoes. To help you narrow down the playing field, consider these top Nike picks for the best cross-country shoes.
What are cross-country shoes?
Cross-country shoes are designed for long-distance outdoor racing. The best cross-country shoes can withstand the elements, are durable and offer superior traction on grass, dirt, mud and even snow. When it comes to comfort and support, they offer some cushioning—but not so much that they bog you down. Instead, these shoes are lightweight, thin and snug to assist with speed and provide a sense of grounding.
What are the two main types of cross-country shoes?
Cross-country shoes with spikes are ideal for wet, soft or muddy surfaces, rather than dry or paved courses. Although popular with competitive cross-country runners, they're not permitted at all meets. If you've decided on spikes, seek out "cross-country" rather than "track" spikes, since shoes designed for cross country should feature longer spikes, more cushioning and heel support, and thicker, ideally waterproof, uppers.
For paved or dry surfaces, cross-country flats (also called spike-less or Waffle) are your best bet. With rubber nubs rather than spikes for traction, these shoes provide a more grounded feel. Anyone newer to cross country might prefer this class of shoes, since they're more like running shoes.
What are the best Nike running shoes for cross-country?
Opt for a pair of cross-country spikes or flats. Or, if you're not yet ready to invest in dedicated cross-country shoes, go with road-running shoes. Although they're not as light or rugged as cross-country sneakers, they'll provide more support and stability. They'll also fit the bill for track or treadmill runs.
Advanced cross-country spikes for men and women: Nike ZoomX Dragonfly XC Cross-Country Spikes
Nike's fastest spikes for distance runs, these shoes feature responsive ZoomX foam plus a full-length plate. The partial Vaporweave uppers keep them lightweight, while the extra-wide bases assist with stability. They include soft, engineered-mesh toe boxes and arch bands for support.
Starter cross-country spikes for men and women: Nike Rival XC 6 Cross-Country Spikes
These lightweight, durable and responsive shoes are ideal for newer runners. To help with traction, they feature a full-length Waffle outsole pattern plus lugs around the outsole. The soft, slightly stretchy mesh in the uppers boosts comfort.
Road and cross-country racing shoes for men and women: Nike Rival Waffle 6 Road and Cross-Country Racing Shoes
This versatile pair of flats doubles as a training and racing shoe. A full-length Waffle traction pattern helps with grip, while the soft, stretchy mesh uppers supply comfort.
Women's road-running shoes: Nike Pegasus 41 Women's Road Running Shoes
Road-running shoes offer more cushioning than cross-country shoes—and this lightweight pair boasts dual Air Zoom units plus a ReactX foam midsole. The uppers include engineered mesh for breathability, while the rubber soles feature a waffle-inspired pattern for traction.
Men's road-running shoes: Nike Invincible 3 Men's Road Running Shoes
Plush and comfortable, these shoes feature ZoomX foam in the midsole plus cushioning around the heel and tongue. Waffle-patterned outsoles support traction, while breathable Flyknit uppers keep them lightweight.
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Words by Dina Cheney