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10 Best Snow Spikes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,237
Type of Spikes
Size and Fit
Material

Most important from
11693 reviews

Type of Spikes
These spikes deliver fantastic grip on ice and rough terrain, providing confidence to walk safely without slipping or falling.
Size and Fit
The cleats fit securely over various footwear, including large boots and tennis shoes, and are easy to slip on and off.
Material
The durable stainless steel spikes and firm chain system make these cleats feel heavy-duty and trustworthy in harsh winter conditions.
Weight
These spikes are lightweight and compact, easily carried in the included storage bag when not in use.
Attachment System
Velcro straps are included but their purpose is unclear; however, the spikes stay securely in place without additional fastening.

These Cimkiz snow spikes feature 19 stainless steel spikes per foot, providing excellent grip on icy and slippery surfaces. This makes them a good choice for activities like hiking, walking, fishing, and mountaineering where solid traction is crucial. The spikes are mounted on a firm chain system, adding to their reliability in tough conditions. Made from thick thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), the material is stretchy yet durable, able to withstand cold temperatures down to -45°C without tearing easily, which is better than many ordinary rubber alternatives.

The adjustable strap helps them fit securely on various types of footwear, including boots and shoes, and the unisex design suits a wide range of users from teenagers to elders. They are lightweight and compact, so you can easily carry them in the included bag when not in use. One minor point to note is the size labeling, where 'L' stands for large rather than left foot, which might cause initial confusion, but the spikes are designed symmetrically to fit either foot. Weighing under 10 ounces per pair, they won’t add much bulk or weight to your gear.

These crampons excel in providing strong grip and durability; however, users looking for a model with more spikes or specialized attachment systems might want to explore other options. For most casual to serious winter outdoor activities, these crampons deliver a solid balance of safety, comfort, and convenience.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,237
Type of Spikes
Size and Fit
Material

Most important from
11693 reviews

Type of Spikes
These spikes deliver fantastic grip on ice and rough terrain, providing confidence to walk safely without slipping or falling.
Size and Fit
The cleats fit securely over various footwear, including large boots and tennis shoes, and are easy to slip on and off.
Material
The durable stainless steel spikes and firm chain system make these cleats feel heavy-duty and trustworthy in harsh winter conditions.
Weight
These spikes are lightweight and compact, easily carried in the included storage bag when not in use.
Attachment System
Velcro straps are included but their purpose is unclear; however, the spikes stay securely in place without additional fastening.
#2

Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

Rating
8.8
Attachment System
Type of Spikes
Weight

Most important from
26016 reviews

Attachment System
Easy to put on and take off, fitting securely over boots or shoes with a simple slide-off design.
Type of Spikes
Provides reliable basic traction suitable for casual snow fields and glacier walking, but not for serious climbing or steep icy slopes.
Weight
Lightweight and comfortable for walking on icy sidewalks and snow-packed terrain without feeling bulky.
Material
Durability is a concern; the cleats tend to fall apart within a few weeks, making replacement a frequent and costly necessity.

The Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats are designed for improving traction on icy and snowy surfaces, making them a solid choice for casual winter walking or light outdoor activities. Instead of traditional spikes, they use a coil system made of corrosion-resistant alloy steel that provides grip all around the foot, including forward, backward, and sideways. This 360-degree traction helps with stability on uneven, snow-packed, or rocky terrain without damaging your shoes or surfaces.

The cleats are easy to put on and take off thanks to a stretchy thermoplastic rubber sling with a heel tab that fits over many shoe types comfortably and securely. They are lightweight at just over 3 ounces per pair, which makes them convenient to carry or wear without feeling bulky. The materials used are durable and designed to hold up well in cold weather without cracking or breaking, and the thermoplastic rubber is recyclable.

These cleats come in specific sizes; the medium fits a range of shoe sizes but may not be perfect for everyone, so proper fitting is important. Because they rely on coil traction rather than traditional sharp spikes, they might not perform as well on very steep or extremely icy slopes where more aggressive spikes could be better. If you want reliable, easy-to-use traction for walking on icy sidewalks, hiking paths, or around town in winter, Yaktrax Walk offers a practical and comfortable solution.

Rating
8.8
Attachment System
Type of Spikes
Weight

Most important from
26016 reviews

Attachment System
Easy to put on and take off, fitting securely over boots or shoes with a simple slide-off design.
Type of Spikes
Provides reliable basic traction suitable for casual snow fields and glacier walking, but not for serious climbing or steep icy slopes.
Weight
Lightweight and comfortable for walking on icy sidewalks and snow-packed terrain without feeling bulky.
Material
Durability is a concern; the cleats tend to fall apart within a few weeks, making replacement a frequent and costly necessity.
#3

Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction for Winter Trail Hiking & Ice Mountaineering - Red - Medium

Rating
8.2
Type of Spikes
Material
Attachment System

Most important from
3386 reviews

Type of Spikes
These microspikes provide incredible traction on ice and packed snow, making hikes significantly safer and easier.
Material
The rubber part of the harness may feel snug initially but loosens up after a few hours of wear, ensuring a secure yet comfortable fit.
Attachment System
Putting the spikes on and taking them off is remarkably easy, adding to the overall convenience.
Size and Fit
The size guide on the Kahtoola website is accurate, helping users find the perfect fit for their boots.

The Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction is designed for winter activities such as hiking, ice-trekking, and trail-running, making it a versatile option for those who enjoy outdoor adventures in icy conditions. One of the key strengths of these spikes is the use of 12 heat-treated, stainless-steel spikes per foot, ensuring excellent traction with 8 spikes at the forefoot and 4 at the heel. This setup is effective for gripping icy and snowy terrains, greatly enhancing stability.

The elastomer harness, reinforced with TPU inserts, is another highlight. It provides a secure fit while staying flexible in temperatures as low as -22°F (-30°C), which is crucial for maintaining comfort in extreme cold. Additionally, the welded stainless steel chains help prevent snow buildup and remain flexible, adding to the durability and functionality of the product.

Packability is also a plus, with a compact size of 5 x 3 x 2 inches and a weight of 400 grams, making it easy to carry in a backpack when not in use. The Kahtoola MICROspikes excel in providing reliable traction and durability for winter activities.

Rating
8.2
Type of Spikes
Material
Attachment System

Most important from
3386 reviews

Type of Spikes
These microspikes provide incredible traction on ice and packed snow, making hikes significantly safer and easier.
Material
The rubber part of the harness may feel snug initially but loosens up after a few hours of wear, ensuring a secure yet comfortable fit.
Attachment System
Putting the spikes on and taking them off is remarkably easy, adding to the overall convenience.
Size and Fit
The size guide on the Kahtoola website is accurate, helping users find the perfect fit for their boots.

Buying Guide for the Best Snow Spikes

When it comes to buying snow spikes, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure you get the right product for your needs. Snow spikes, also known as ice cleats or crampons, are designed to provide traction on icy and snowy surfaces, making them crucial for safety during winter activities. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing snow spikes and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
Type of SpikesThe type of spikes refers to the design and material of the spikes themselves. This is important because different types of spikes offer varying levels of traction and durability. Generally, there are microspikes, which are small and lightweight, suitable for light hiking and running; crampons, which are more robust and designed for mountaineering and ice climbing; and hybrid spikes, which offer a balance between the two. Choose microspikes for casual use, crampons for extreme conditions, and hybrids for versatile use.
MaterialThe material of the snow spikes affects their durability and performance. Common materials include stainless steel, aluminum, and rubber. Stainless steel spikes are highly durable and resistant to rust, making them ideal for frequent use in harsh conditions. Aluminum spikes are lighter but less durable, suitable for occasional use. Rubber components provide flexibility and comfort. Consider stainless steel for heavy-duty use, aluminum for lightweight needs, and rubber for comfort.
Attachment SystemThe attachment system refers to how the snow spikes secure to your footwear. This is crucial for ensuring a snug fit and preventing the spikes from slipping off. Common systems include strap-on, step-in, and hybrid. Strap-on systems are versatile and fit most footwear, step-in systems offer quick and secure attachment but require compatible boots, and hybrid systems combine features of both. Choose strap-on for versatility, step-in for convenience with compatible boots, and hybrid for a balance of both.
Number of SpikesThe number of spikes determines the level of traction provided. More spikes generally mean better grip on icy surfaces. Light-duty spikes may have around 6-10 spikes, suitable for casual walking and running. Medium-duty spikes have 10-14 spikes, ideal for hiking and moderate trails. Heavy-duty spikes with 14 or more spikes are designed for mountaineering and extreme conditions. Choose the number of spikes based on the intensity of your activities.
WeightThe weight of the snow spikes can affect your comfort and mobility. Lighter spikes are easier to carry and less tiring to wear, making them suitable for running and light hiking. Heavier spikes provide more stability and durability, ideal for mountaineering and extended use. Consider lighter spikes for activities requiring agility and heavier spikes for stability in challenging conditions.
Size and FitSize and fit are crucial for comfort and effectiveness. Snow spikes come in various sizes to fit different footwear. It's important to choose a size that matches your shoe size and type. Some models offer adjustable features to ensure a secure fit. Ensure the spikes fit snugly without being too tight or loose to prevent discomfort and ensure safety. Measure your footwear and check the manufacturer's sizing guide to find the right fit.

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