One-of-a-kind zip-up upper
By tightening the zip, it holds firmly over the laces, creating a sense of unity between the foot and the spike. Additionally, by closing the belt over it, it provides the best hold among the same category spikes from the four major companies, including Field Geo LJ-B and Long Jump PRO, as well as Adizero LJ. There is a large multi-layer mesh on the toe area and the sides of the spike, ensuring breathability while preventing sand intrusion. Furthermore, long jump spikes tend to have a larger forefoot and thicker reinforcements for stability during takeoff, making them wider. However, this Zoom LJ4 has a relatively stylish appearance, possibly due to the zip closure.
Upper made to fit snugly to the foot
In terms of width, it is relatively narrow among long jump spikes. It is made about the same width as the Long Jump PRO/ASICS. If anything, this Zoom LJ4 is slightly wider, just a little bit. The heel and toe are made sufficiently sturdy, so wobble during takeoff is not felt too much. However, as I will detail below, it can be said to be a long jump spike specialized for the approach run, so when actually trying out, wobble is felt more than with the Field Geo LJ-B/MIZUNO.
Sole focused primarily on the approach run
While the ratio of the forefoot to heel is similar to that of the Long Jump PRO/ASICS, the Zoom LJ4/NIKE has 7 pins, which is 2 less. This difference of two pins reduces stability during takeoff, but conversely lowers the friction that can act as resistance during the approach run, making it easier to gain speed. Additionally, compared to other brands, the number of pins under the base of the toes (such as the ball of the big toe) is overwhelmingly low at only 2. Focusing on the acceleration phase of the approach (forward-leaning phase), the pins are concentrated more on the forefoot than on the ball of the big toe, indicating a design that prioritizes approach speed over takeoff stability. The hardness of the sole, comparable to the Field Geo LJ-B/MIZUNO, means that while it significantly lacks in sole flex compared to the Long Jump PRO, it does not collapse during use, and rather gives a sensation of being pushed up at the heel like a short-distance spike.
Surprisingly flat sole
As mentioned above, among the same category spikes from the four major companies, including Field Geo LJ-B/MIZUNO, Long Jump PRO/ASICS, and Adizero LJ/ADIDAS, the incline is significantly smaller. When actually worn and tested, the small incline angle is not felt much due to the hardness of the sole, but compared to others, it does not flex nearly as much as other long jump spikes. (In other words, it is flat.)
