Best Shoes for Cross Country & Track Meets Reviewed

The patented Sensifit technology provides a snug fit, which adapts to the shape of the foot. This also combines with the QuickLace system to tailor the fit and allow the shoes to slide on and off the foot easily.

The outsole utilizes Contagrip rubber for excellent traction, even if surfaces are slippery or wet. The lug pattern has been optimized on this 4th generation shoe for superior grip across all types of terrain. This is one of the more expensive choices of shoe given in this list. However, it does have a high level of durability, performs exceptionally well and provides fantastic grip across varied terrains. Altogether this shoe is well worth the investment.

The bottom of the Mach 18 uses a Pebax RNW spike plate, combining it with an aggressive lug pattern for the best possible traction you can wish for (especially on harder surfaces). In terms of shock absorption, you’ll benefit from an EVA foam midsole that thins towards the toes for a more responsive ride.

The biggest update to this version is the upper which is now made with a seamless construction for the ultimate fit. The mesh used is highly breathable and stretches in key areas (allowing all foot shapes to feel comfy in the shoe), while printed overlays ensure stability and lock in that work even with fast direction changes. The heel even features a bit of padding for a shoe you can easily wear barefoot without sacrificing comfort. In terms of price, this model isn’t exactly cheap, but it ranks around average, so it’s a good investment for most runners looking for something a bit more professional.

The upper of the Kilkenny XC7 is very breathable and lightweight, wrapping the foot without putting too much pressure on any part of it. The mesh allows fresh air in and moisture out, and the printed overlays eliminate bulk and weight, but still provide excellent support over the entire foot. A classic lace closure and lightly padded collar maximize the in-shoe experience.

The midsole of the Kilkenny is the best thing about the shoe, being made with EVA foam that wraps around the arch and heel, ensuring ample cushioning. The Pebax spike plate is embedded in the midsole, making this a slightly stiffer shoe than other models by Saucony, it’s still a highly comfortable performer. The carbon rubber used in the outsole ensures not just sticky traction but also great durability, making this a great choice in more than one way.

In true ASICS fashion, the GEL-Fujitrabuco 7 includes a rearfoot GEL cushioning system that absorbs shock (especially for heel landers) protecting muscles and joints from the force generated on impact. A FlyteFoam Lyte midsole provides comfort and energy return without packing weight, and a DuoMax support system supports the arch, correcting mild over and underpronation.

The outsole uses AsicsGrip technology which is a highly grippy rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for great performance on multiple surfaces. The upper uses synthetic overlays for stability, and a Lace Garage pocket for safely storing your laces while running. As for price, this model ranks slightly above average compared to the other models listed, and is best chosen by those who need a great outsole for varied surfaces.

The midsole is made up of compression-molded EVA. This provides the wearer with fantastic cushioning to ensure a comfortable experience. The EVA makes the midsole fairly firm, which is preferred by some runners as it provides a more supportive feel underfoot.

The outsole of the Shay XC4 has been transformed from previous models of the shoe to create better traction during runs. The use of XT-600 rubber, a rubber with outstanding abrasion, optimizes traction, whilst ensuring the outsole remains lightweight and durable. The Shay XC4 sports a very reasonable price tag. Considering the desirable features that the shoe offers to the wearer, including the clever use of materials to keep it very lightweight, this represents good value for money.

The best part about the Fastwitch 9 is the upper with is made with engineered mesh to combine breathability with the support provided by the printed overlays. The collar is generously padded for maximum comfort, especially at the back of the heel, while an SSL EVA midsole protects the foot from shock, offering a ride that’s both responsive and cushioned.

The Fastwitch 9 is more flexible than its predecessors, mainly thanks to a triangular midfoot post, but also the flex grooves in the PWRTRAC outsole which is one of the grippiest compounds you will find. As for cost, this is another averagely priced model that works well for those in need of a higher level of stability.

The high level of cushioning provided by the New Balance 1400 comes in the form of the REVlite midsole. This is a very lightweight midsole, which in addition to fantastic cushioning, also provides great responsivity to increase performance.

The New Balance 1400 has been designed to fit like a sock in order to give optimal comfort to the wearer. The overlay is made to be seamless, to ensure that there is no discomfort from rubbing. The cost of the shoe is about average for a shoe of this standard. The enhanced comfort and support offered by the shoe means that it is worth spending the money to ensure a comfortable running experience.

The midsole of the New Balance 840 is built to provide all-day comfort to the runner. As well as providing cushioning underfoot, this EVA material also makes the midsole both lightweight and durable.

Despite being a flat shoe, without spikes, the New Balance 840 has a blown rubber outsole which provides excellent traction, making the shoe suitable for cross-country running.

The New Balance 840 is a fairly high priced running shoe. However, it provides a great deal of additional support and comfort to those who need it. For this reason, if you have any foot or knee problems that require extra support, it is well worth the money.

The outsole of the Adidas Supernova Riot M is highly rated by its reviewers. It is constructed using a Continental rubber which provides superior grip on off-road trails. The outsole also contains deep lugs to further enhance grip. This tough rubber outsole also ensures that the shoe is highly durable.

This technology is used within the midsole of the shoe. This innovative Boost foam compound ensures excellent energy return with every stride taken. This feature definitely helps to boost the performance of the shoe. This shoe is moderately priced for this category, but given the extra features that it provides, it is well worth the investment.

You want a cross-country shoe that is lightweight but doesn’t lack in strength. The trusstic system is a specialized system that reduces the sole unit weight but keeps the structural integrity. No surprised movements that can reduce your performance or even possibly hurt your feet as the stability remains strongly in place.

Spikes are paramount in cross-country as they provide much better grip in all the different kinds of terrains. Having a five spike system gives you control that is sure-footed in terrains such as hills, tight corners, and hills. It will also leave your run balanced and strong. Higher priced but they are targeted for hardcore cross-country. If you are serious about championship running and need a pair that will take you to the winning finish line, these are the ones to choose.