Advanced footwear technology spikes versus traditional track spikes in track athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of running economy and performance

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated whether advanced footwear technology (AFT) spikes improve running economy and event-relevant performance compared with traditional track spikes, and summarised associated biomechanical, loading, perceptual, and physiological outcomes. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus were searched from inception to 7 July 2026. Eligible studies directly compared AFT and traditional spikes in trained track athletes. Paired effects were aggregated within participant cohorts using shared-control covariances, followed by task-specific restricted maximum likelihood (REML) random-effects models with Wald confidence intervals. Standard Hartung–Knapp–Sidik–Jonkman (HKSJ) intervals were examined in sensitivity analyses using identical inputs. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and certainty using GRADE. Eight reports were included; seven provided calculable effect estimates and four contributed to at least one meta-analysis. AFT spikes were associated with lower fixed-speed metabolic power (mean difference − 0.52 W·kg⁻¹, Wald 95% CI − 0.85 to − 0.19), 1.93% higher self-paced 200-m speed (0.55% to 3.32%), and 1.52% lower fixed-speed cadence (0.30% to 2.73% lower). HKSJ intervals included no difference for metabolic power and cadence, but not for self-paced 200-m speed. Thirty-metre acceleration and flying-sprint results were reported separately. Evidence for 3000-m and 50-m performance remained inconclusive. Certainty ranged from moderate to very low across the seven task-specific outcomes. AFT spikes may offer a modest metabolic advantage, with inference for metabolic power and cadence depending on the interval method. Evidence for self-paced 200-m speed is very uncertain and does not establish improved 800-m or 1500-m race performance. Sprint findings should be interpreted by task, and stronger event-specific evidence is needed before competitive benefits can be generalised. PROSPERO, CRD420261445511 registered 8 July 2026.