Whether for golf, track or another sport, shoes with spikes on the bottom are considered essential for optimum performance. Spikes in shoes are usually removable and require periodic changing. If you have been so busy playing your sport that you have neglected a routine change, your spikes may have become so worn or stripped that the spike tool that came with your shoes is no longer able to remove the spikes. Worn spikes that are stuck in your athletic shoes can be removed, though, through lubrication and careful loosening.

Spray around the perimeter of the spike with a silicone lubricant.

Set the shoe upside-down and allow the lubricant to seep into the screw threads of the spikes for two to four minutes. The lubricant will help coat the screw threads and make for easier release of the spikes.

Use the side of a wrench or a small hammer to tap the side of what is left of the exposed part of the stuck spike to further loosen it.

Grip the tip of the spike tightly with needle-nose pliers. Because of their narrow tips, needle nose pliers are effective for grabbing hold of nubbin spikes.

Gradually turn the spike counterclockwise while pulling up slightly at the same time.