{"id":516,"date":"2017-10-22T01:30:50","date_gmt":"2017-10-22T01:30:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bestsnowshoesreview.com\/?p=516"},"modified":"2023-11-19T20:00:36","modified_gmt":"2023-11-19T20:00:36","slug":"best-microspikes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bestsnowshoesreview.com\/best-microspikes\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Microspikes 2023 | Top Crampons for Icy Surface"},"content":{"rendered":"

Having cold and wet feet when hiking in winter is a very unpleasant experience, but slipping and falling down on your butt is just as bad. Although winter boots<\/a> have outsoles with a specially designed tread that grips on slick wet snow, it’s often not enough when the ground is covered with slippery ice, turning it into a glass-like smooth surface. You’re going to need a traction device for that.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"best<\/p>\n

And, don’t think that snow cleats are only needed by those who aim to blaze their ways through winter trails. Freezing rain that pours down at night often\u2013if not always\u2013leaves some black ice that turns sidewalks into a slippery nightmare for an urban pedestrian. You don’t want to run hastily to catch your bus, only to tumble down like a silly cartoon character, do you? More than just an embarrassment, falls and slips can also lead to injury, though not likely to be fatal. Below are the best microspikes that can give your boots extra traction, whether you’re on the trail or on your way to Starbucks.<\/p>\n

Best Microspikes for Various Applications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
Winter Traction Device<\/th>Weight for a Pair<\/th>Best For<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Stabilicers Walk Traction Ice Cleats<\/a><\/td>10.75 oz<\/td>Casual use around town, flat terrain<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
YakTrax Pro<\/a><\/td>8 oz<\/td>Casual use around town, flat terrain<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kahtoola Microspikes<\/a><\/td>11 oz<\/td>Hiking below treeline, urban sidewalks<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
IceTrekkers Diamond Grip Cleats<\/a><\/td>12 oz<\/td>City sidewalks, moderate terrain<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Hillsound Trail Crampon<\/a><\/td>15.7 oz<\/td>Moderate terrain, winter backpacking<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Stabilicers Maxx<\/a><\/td>16 oz<\/td>Working outdoor, ice fishing<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
YakTrax Run<\/a><\/td>10.4 oz<\/td>Running on snow and ice<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kahtoola Nanospikes<\/a><\/td>8 oz<\/td>Running on snow and ice<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra<\/a><\/td>14.2 oz<\/td>Challenging terrain, fast ascend<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
YakTrax XTR Extreme<\/a><\/td>16 oz<\/td>Deep snow, hiking above treeline<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n

Traction device is designed to be different from one to another. Depending on its designated use, some snow cleats may look like a simple rubber band with steel coil all over them. Such minimalist design is intended for use around city streets where you may walk into icy sidewalks. Other microspikes incorporate chain combined with real small spikes that bite into ice to make sure the boots grip the ground firmly. These are more ideal for hiking where you might need to cover patches of ice or perhaps even a frozen lake. There are also those created for runners. They’re more lightweight and flexible but not less grippy than other traction devices. We’ll talk more about it in the buyer’s guide at the lower portion of this article.<\/p>\n

Stabilicers Walk Traction Ice Cleats<\/h3>\n

\"Stabilicers<\/p>\n

A lightweight solution for those who want to go about their daily activities safely no matter how iced-slippery the ground is, Stabilicers Walk Traction Ice Cleats<\/a> feature a plastic platform that flexes to adhere to your boots outsoles. There\u2019s a set of tiny steel teeth coming out of the said plastic platform to provide extra grip on hardpack. They\u2019re concentrated on the heel and right under your forefoot. Also, they\u2019re set at various angles to maximize the traction. Interestingly, the whole platform is flexible enough to be folded in two, in case you want to take it on a travel with you. Just be sure to cover the cleats, because no matter how small they are, they can still rip a hole in your bag.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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YakTrax Pro Traction Cleats<\/h3>\n

\"YakTrax<\/p>\n

Taking a different approach, YakTrax designs its snow cleats with stainless steel coils, instead of the usual small spikes or protruding studs. Some of you may wonder if it\u2019s safe enough because coils don\u2019t seem to grip too securely on the icy surface. Well, nothing is what it seems, so they say. YakTrax Pro snow cleats<\/a> may not look as aggressive as other models, but the coils do provide great traction even on a glassy surface after a night of frigid temperature. The rubber frame has been tested to remain freeze-resistant up to -41F. To attach it more securely on your boots, there\u2019s a removable strap that goes over your front foot. As for durability, expect it to last five winters or more, as long as you refrain from using it on bare hard pavement.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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Kahtoola Microspikes<\/h3>\n

\"kahtoola<\/p>\n

Kahtoola Microspikes<\/a> has all it takes to be the best winter traction device, not only for hikers but also for year-round runners and those simply wanting to have a safe walk in the suburb. For one thing, it\u2019s very durable. All of its parts are made of quality materials. The spikes are strong enough to withstand impacts on concrete, which is unbelievable given their small size (each spike is 3\/8-inch stainless steel). There are 12 spikes on each pair, and they\u2019re connected to each other using a chain. At the top, it utilizes a flexible rubber harness with no strap. This is a big plus since it\u2019s very easy to put on. Just put in your boots or shoes through its opening, and pull the harness up. It can\u2019t be any simpler than that.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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IceTrekkers Diamond Grip Cleats<\/h3>\n

\"IceTrekkers<\/p>\n

The traction grippers on IceTrekkers Diamond<\/a> looks like an ornate necklace, but instead of sparkling beads, it’s made of hardened steel alloy, and instead of usual thread, it uses steel aircraft cable. It\u2019s then connected to an elastic freeze-proof rubber band with chains. It has no strap to secure the rubber band on your boot, so make sure you choose the right size so it can hug your boot firmly. As far as traction is concerned, IceTrekkers Diamond meets any expectation you have from a microspike. It grips nicely on snow and ice and doesn\u2019t destabilize your feet, which the more aggressive traction device often does. Sadly, since it\u2019s not stainless steel, it\u2019s more prone to rust, though it doesn\u2019t seem to affect its performance on the ice.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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Hillsound Trail Crampon<\/h3>\n

\"Hillsound<\/p>\n

Hillsound is a respectable brand that manufactures various hiking accessories. The one that elevates its name, however, is its microspikes. Many like to compare its trail crampon with the one made by Kahtoola. Well, both microspikes are great company to have when hiking or backpacking in winter \u2013 they\u2019re both robust, well-built, and stable under heavy load \u2013 though Hillsound Trail Crampon<\/a> offers better traction, thanks to the larger spikes. If you often find yourself on thickly ice-covered trail with its upper surface having softened a little, Hillsound Trail Crampon works the best. Still, it\u2019s not without flaws. First, the spikes are not stainless steel, so take more care after using it if you hate to see it rust. Next, larger spikes means heavier weight, which you should give a second thought if you plan for long-distance trek.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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Stabilicers Maxx<\/h3>\n

\"Stabilicers<\/p>\n

As you can tell from its name, Stabilicers Maxx<\/a> brings more traction than the company\u2019s regular snow cleats above. It\u2019s more suited for those who work outdoor in winter like ice fisher, rescue teams, police, and many others. The added grip is provided by 16 steal cleats (on each pair) that look more like a set of screws, instead of spikes. So, you can bet that it\u2019ll be more stable under loaded weight and allows for faster pace. It\u2019s replaceable too, in case yours got all rusty because you forget to clean it after use. Is it good enough for hiking? Well, if you don\u2019t mind strapping the polyester webbing, then yes, it\u2019s good enough. Polyester binding straps may last longer than rubber harness, but it\u2019s just too much a hassle for real treks where you won\u2019t be needing \u00a0the extra traction throughout the entire length of the trail.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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YakTrax Run<\/h3>\n

\"YakTrax<\/p>\n

YakTrax Run<\/a> looks so much like its Pro cousin, with a little modification on the forefoot area. Instead of covering the entire soles with stainless steel coils, this model has them stretched from mid-soles to the heels only. The traction under your front foot is handled by a few carbide-steel studs. This allows for better movement on snow without reducing the grip, which is perfect for winter runners. Like YakTrax Pro, it still features an elastic rubber frame that won\u2019t turn stiff when the temperature drops even below freezing. Also, it provides an additional strap that runs over your foot to better secure the attachment. Anyway, since it\u2019s made for runners, you can\u2019t expect it to fit your winter \/ snow boots.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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Kahtoola Nanospikes<\/h3>\n

\"Kahtoola<\/p>\n

An alternative to the previous YakTrax Run is Kahtoola Nanospikes<\/a>. Optimized for runners, this traction device is so light you won\u2019t realize that it\u2019s attached to your shoes. You won\u2019t find any of those chains equipped on its Microspikes counterpart. Instead, it\u2019s dominated with rubber platform on which ten Tungsten carbide steel studs are fixed \u2013 six under your forefoot and four under your heel. The studs are big enough to grip on slippery ice, but they\u2019re also small enough to avoid biting the ice too deeply. As such, you can keep your running pace high. You will neither slide nor find your feet planted too firmly on ice and snow. Better yet, it comes with a zipped pouch for safer storage.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra<\/h3>\n

\"Hillsound<\/p>\n

Sporting more spikes underneath, Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra<\/a> is geared toward more serious hiking on higher elevation. Its traction still falls short against full-fledged mountaineering crampons, but with 18 stainless steel spikes of approximately the same size as the original model, you should be able to tackle some moderate slopes. The hinge flex plate on the original version is replaced by double-link chains, making it less obtrusive as you move forward. The three spikes under the heel will act as a brake as you go downhill. Above, you\u2019ll still find the same combination of rubber harness and rip-and-stick strap. Interestingly, despite more spikes and the inclusion of chains, Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra is lighter than the original model.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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YakTrax XTR Extreme<\/h3>\n

\"Yaktrax<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t be fooled by its name. YakTrax XTR Extreme<\/a> is not as extreme as it sounds. Well, the spikes are sharp indeed and relatively bigger than any other traction device on this list, but they\u2019re not built for serious mountaineering and ice climbing. Still, any slope above the treeline should pose no real issue for this microspike. In terms of user-friendliness, it rates high \u2013 thanks to the snug fit elastic rubber outer that does away with straps. All of the spikes on the underside are attached to a flexible plate. Such flexibility is important to prevent snow buildup, which can reduce its grip. Last but not least, it comes with a nice nylon travel bag to keep it from wreaking a havoc inside your backpack.<\/p>\n<\/i> Shop now at Amazon.com<\/span><\/a>\n

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What Makes the Best Microspikes<\/h2>\n