There are two basic types of Cross Country Running Shoes

Spiked Shoes

Gain the high-mileage advantage

Spikes are incorporated in the stiff rubber sole of cross country running shoe to give you best possible grip on grassy, muddy and unequal surfaces. Usually, the length of this spike varies between 6 mm to 15 mm (or) 0.25 and 0.5 inches based on conditions. You can use spiked shoe on Asphalt surfaces. Cross country spikes are otherwise known as distance spikes and appropriate for distances from 400 m to 10,000 m.

Cross-country spikes Vs Other Spikes

Spikes used in the cross country shoes are almost similar to track spikes. Usually, track shoes possess extremely curved last and low heel. Spikes are removable and work gently on tracks, but traction is not good on some other surfaces. And also these shoes are incredibly light and not durable. So, cross country spikes have emerged, they have a stiff rubber "waffle" outsole over the spike shield, to ensure optimal traction on several surfaces. Apart from these, spikes on cross country shoes are sturdier than track spikes.

Spike-less Shoes

Distance runners love this!

While you are running on pave surfaces and harsh areas opt for spike-less shoes.

Without spikes how shoes can give traction?

Outsole of Spike-less shoes are designed with cleats /studs or lugs / tread pattern (like an off-road vehicle tire) to do the function of spikes, that is it provides optimum grip. In some spike-less shoes, drainage holes are present at the bottom that prevents the entry of water, liquids inside the shoes. Non-spike shoes are also works quite gentle on muddy and grass areas. The picture shown here is a cross country running shoe with tenacious lug pattern and without spikes.

Types of "Footbed-Last" construction.

There are three types:

Board Lasted Construction (over pronators)

In Board Lasted type, a piece of stiff board is attached to the upper area and then to mid-sole and exterior sole. This construction helps to provide great stability and foot mobility control. The duty of board lasted construction is to yield full-length support.

Slip-lasted type shoes are engineered without an insole plate. The shoe upper is dragged over the last and then bonded to the medial sole. This unique design gives contoured underfoot stability, lightweight and suppleness.

Blend - board and slip-lasted construction

Combination lasted - a most typical construction employed in these shoes

Combination Lasted shoe constitutes a rubbery, stabilizing board, which is stick on to the rear portion for motion control and grip. In the front portion slip-lasted construction is designed for cushioning, flexibility and versatility.

Function

Role of Combination lasted is to ensure support in the mid-foot and better stability in the heel.