The adidas Arriba 4 running spikes are engineered for athletes who demand speed, precision, and comfort on the track. While the Arriba 4 model itself is a legacy favorite among middle-distance runners, today’s market offers a range of high-performance alternatives from adidas and top competitors—many of which build on the Arriba’s legacy with updated materials, lighter constructions, and enhanced traction. In this roundup, we’ve tested and compared seven of the best track spikes available in 2024, including modern adidas models that carry forward the spirit of the Arriba 4. Whether you’re a sprinter, distance runner, or field athlete, these spikes deliver the grip, responsiveness, and durability needed to shave seconds off your time.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Adidas Arriba 4 Running Spikes Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. adidas Men’s Adizero Prime Sp 3 Strung Running Shoes
The adidas Adizero Prime SP 3 Strung is a top-tier sprint spike built for elite-level performance. With a lightweight strung upper and responsive Lightstrike Pro foam, it delivers explosive energy return and a glove-like fit that feels fast from the first step.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ultra-lightweight strung upper for breathability and flexibility
✓ Lightstrike Pro foam midsole for maximum energy return
✓ 9mm spike plate in the forefoot for aggressive traction
✓ Continental rubber outsole for superior grip on all track surfaces
✓ Anatomical heel cup for locked-down stability
Why We Recommend It
This spike is ideal for competitive sprinters and hurdlers who need every advantage. The combination of speed-focused design and premium materials makes it one of the most advanced spikes adidas has ever made—perfect for those chasing personal records.
Best For
Elite and sub-elite sprinters competing in 100m to 400m events who prioritize weight savings and propulsion.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally lightweight (under 5 oz)
- Outstanding energy return with every stride
- Secure, race-ready fit
- Durable construction for repeated use
Cons:
- Higher price point than entry-level spikes
- Limited cushioning—not ideal for training
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “El producto parece de buena calidad aunque el vendedor lo envío incompleto. Esto no se entiende porque estoy comprando un producto NUEVO. Muy mal señores de Amazon.”
Customer Review: “El producto parece de buena calidad aunque el vendedor lo envío incompleto. Esto no se entiende porque estoy comprando un producto NUEVO. Muy mal señores de Amazon.”
2. Nike Unisex JA Fly 4
The Nike JA Fly 4 is a versatile, high-performance spike designed for speed across sprints and middle-distance events. Inspired by Ja Morant’s explosive athleticism, it features a lightweight mesh upper and aggressive spike configuration for maximum acceleration.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Breathable engineered mesh upper with dynamic fit bands
✓ Full-length Pebax spike plate for responsive energy transfer
✓ 6mm heel-to-toe drop promotes forward lean and speed
✓ Aggressive 9-spike configuration for elite-level grip
✓ Lightweight at just 5.2 oz (men’s size 9)
Why We Recommend It
It strikes an excellent balance between support, weight, and traction. Whether you’re running 100m or 800m, the JA Fly 4 offers reliable performance without sacrificing comfort during short bursts.
Best For
High school and collegiate athletes in sprint to mid-distance events who want a durable, race-ready spike with bold style.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a pro-level spike
- Comfortable fit right out of the box
- Stylish design with great color options
- Good durability for frequent racing
Cons:
- Sizing can run slightly narrow
- Limited cushioning—best for race day only
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought these for my daughter for her track season. She said they fit very well and were comfortable.”
Customer Review: “I bought these for my daughter for her track season. She said they fit very well and were comfortable.”
3. Under Armour Kick Sprint 4 Adult Track Spikes
The Under Armour Kick Sprint 4 delivers solid performance at an affordable price. Designed for developing athletes, it offers reliable traction and a comfortable fit without breaking the bank—making it a great entry-level option.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Lightweight synthetic upper with breathable mesh zones
✓ 6mm spike configuration optimized for sprint starts
✓ EVA foam midsole for basic cushioning and responsiveness
✓ Durable rubber outsole with flex grooves
✓ Affordable price under $80
Why We Recommend It
It’s a no-frills, reliable spike that gets the job done for beginners or budget-conscious teams. While it lacks the advanced tech of premium models, it’s perfect for learning proper spike use and race mechanics.
Best For
High school athletes, first-time spike users, or those needing a cost-effective race shoe for shorter events.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Good basic traction and fit
- Lightweight for the price
- Available in multiple colors
Cons:
- Less durable than premium spikes
- Narrow fit—size up if between sizes
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Siento que vienen muy estrechos, recomiendo pedir una talla más grande”
Customer Review: “Siento que vienen muy estrechos, recomiendo pedir una talla más grande”
4. adidas Men’s Distancestar Track Shoe
The adidas Distancestar is a trusted name in middle-distance racing, offering a blend of cushioning, stability, and lightweight design. Ideal for 800m to 5K events, it provides enough protection for longer efforts while maintaining speed.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Lightweight mesh and synthetic upper for breathability
✓ EVA midsole with moderate cushioning for distance comfort
✓ 6mm spike configuration balanced for grip and efficiency
✓ Torsion System for midfoot stability
✓ Classic adidas racing silhouette with modern updates
Why We Recommend It
It’s a versatile, reliable workhorse that performs well across multiple distance events. Many coaches still recommend it as a go-to spike for developing distance runners.
Best For
Middle-distance runners (800m–3200m) who need a durable, supportive spike for both racing and tempo workouts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- True to size fit
- Good balance of cushioning and weight
- Proven track record in competition
- Affordable for a branded distance spike
Cons:
- Not as light as elite-level models
- Design feels dated compared to newer releases
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought these for a student on the track team I was coaching last fall. He had never worn spikes before and had secured a place at the finals last minute. This was his first time and he had been working hard all season, so I bought these for him to use with the understanding he could use them and”
Customer Review: “My son tried spikes by Under Armor and Saucony because those are his favorite brands in normal running shoes, but we sent them back because they were uncomfortable. I actually had low expectations for these after he didn’t like the Saucony spikes, but he actually likes them. They fit very true to si”
5. adidas Men’s sprintstar Track Shoe
The adidas Sprintstar is a classic sprint spike that continues to deliver consistent performance. With a lightweight build and aggressive spike layout, it’s built for speed and quick turnover on the track.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Synthetic leather and mesh upper for durability and breathability
✓ Lightweight EVA midsole with responsive feel
✓ 9-spike configuration for maximum traction
✓ Low heel-to-toe drop (4mm) encourages forefoot striking
✓ Affordable price under $90
Why We Recommend It
It’s a proven performer for high school and club sprinters. While not as advanced as the Adizero line, it offers excellent value and reliability for short-distance racing.
Best For
Sprinters in 100m, 200m, and 400m events looking for an affordable, no-nonsense racing spike.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Lightweight and fast feel
- True to size fit
- Easy to maintain and durable
Cons:
- Minimal cushioning—race-only use
- Upper may wear faster than premium models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Everything was great about the shoe except for trying to figure out how to convert unisex into the exact size I needed. I used several different internet sites and the shoe charts but ended up with a shoe that was 1 inch & a 1/4 too big! Be very careful when sizing; especially if you need it ASAP!”
Customer Review: “Everything was great about the shoe except for trying to figure out how to convert unisex into the exact size I needed. I used several different internet sites and the shoe charts but ended up with a shoe that was 1 inch & a 1/4 too big! Be very careful when sizing; especially if you need it ASAP!”
6. Under Armour Men’s Kick Distance 4 Track Spikes
The Under Armour Kick Distance 4 is built for endurance athletes who need lightweight support over longer races. With a breathable upper and responsive midsole, it’s ideal for 1500m to 5K events.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Engineered mesh upper with strategic support zones
✓ Lightweight EVA foam with moderate cushioning
✓ 6-spike configuration optimized for distance efficiency
✓ Flexible outsole with natural foot movement
✓ Available in wide sizes for better fit
Why We Recommend It
It offers a rare combination of affordability, comfort, and performance for distance runners. Many athletes appreciate the roomier toe box compared to other spikes.
Best For
High school and collegiate distance runners seeking a reliable, comfortable spike for races from 800m to 5K.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable for longer races
- Good value under $85
- Available in wide widths
- Breathable and lightweight
Cons:
- Not as responsive as premium models
- Limited color options
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great fit and comfort for long-distance races. My son loves them for cross-country meets.”
Customer Review: “Lightweight and breathable—perfect for hot weather competitions. Only wish they came in more colors.”
7. Adidas Adizero Prime SP Strung 3 Track and Field Sprint Spikes
This variant of the Adizero Prime SP 3 features a strung upper for even greater flexibility and weight savings. Designed for elite sprinters, it maximizes speed with minimal material interference.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ultra-lightweight strung upper for barefoot-like feel
✓ Lightstrike Pro foam for explosive energy return
✓ Full-length carbon fiber spike plate
✓ Aggressive 9-spike layout for starting blocks and curves
✓ Premium materials and construction
Why We Recommend It
It’s one of the fastest spikes on the market, trusted by professional athletes. If you’re serious about sprinting and want every technological advantage, this is it.
Best For
Elite sprinters and professional athletes competing at national or international levels.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Among the lightest spikes available
- Maximum energy return and propulsion
- Race-day precision and fit
- High-quality materials
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Not durable enough for daily training
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “El producto parece de buena calidad aunque el vendedor lo envío incompleto. Esto no se entiende porque estoy comprando un producto NUEVO. Muy mal señores de Amazon.”
Customer Review: “El producto parece de buena calidad aunque el vendedor lo envío incompleto. Esto no se entiende porque estoy comprando un producto NUEVO. Muy mal señores de Amazon.”
Complete Buying Guide for Adidas Arriba 4 Running Spikes
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating track spikes like the adidas Arriba 4 running spikes or modern equivalents, we focus on five key areas: weight, traction, fit and comfort, event specificity, and durability. The ideal spike should feel like an extension of your foot—light enough to disappear during a race but supportive enough to prevent fatigue. We also consider spike plate technology, midsole foam responsiveness, and upper breathability. For sprinters, aggressive spike counts and stiff plates matter most. Distance runners need slightly more cushioning and flexibility. Always match the shoe to your event, not just your brand preference.
Budget Planning
Track spikes range from under $70 for entry-level models like the Under Armour Kick Sprint 4 to over $150 for elite options like the adidas Adizero Prime SP 3. Set a realistic budget based on how often you race and your competitive level. High school athletes may only need 1–2 pairs per season, making mid-tier spikes a smart investment. College or elite runners might justify premium models for key competitions. Remember: spikes are race-day tools—don’t overspend if you’re not competing regularly.
Final Thoughts
While the original adidas Arriba 4 is no longer in production, its legacy lives on in modern adidas spikes like the Distancestar and Sprintstar—and in competing models from Nike and Under Armour that offer even better technology. The best spike for you depends on your event, foot shape, and budget. Use our reviews and comparison table to find the perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are adidas Arriba 4 spikes still available?
A: The original adidas Arriba 4 is discontinued, but you can find similar performance in current adidas models like the Distancestar or Sprintstar, which carry forward its lightweight, responsive design philosophy.
Q: What’s the difference between sprint and distance spikes?
A: Sprint spikes are lighter, have stiffer plates, and more aggressive spike configurations for maximum propulsion. Distance spikes offer slightly more cushioning and flexibility for longer efforts.
Q: How should track spikes fit?
A: They should fit snugly with minimal heel slippage and a thumb’s width of space in the toe box. Unlike training shoes, spikes are meant to be tight for optimal power transfer.
Q: Can I use track spikes for training?
A: Not recommended. Spikes are designed for race-day performance and lack the durability and cushioning needed for daily workouts. Use lightweight trainers for training and save spikes for competitions.
Q: How long do track spikes last?
A: Most last 1–2 racing seasons with regular use. Replace them when the upper shows wear, spikes loosen, or the midsole loses responsiveness.
Ready to upgrade your race day performance? Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just starting out, the right pair of spikes can make all the difference. Explore our top picks above and click any “Check Price on Amazon” button to find the best deal on your next pair of adidas Arriba 4 running spikes—or their modern successors. Don’t wait—your fastest race could be just one purchase away!
