10 Best Snow Spikes 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The Kahtoola K-10 Hiking Crampons are designed for winter hiking and backpacking, offering a versatile and customizable fit. They are made from durable stainless steel, ensuring longevity and reliability. Each foot is equipped with 10 spikes, each 3/4-inch in length, which provide excellent stability on icy and snowy terrains. This makes them suitable for all-day hiking and various non-technical mountaineering activities, particularly with hiking shoes and boots.

The crampons feature a two-buckle Quick-Fit-Binding system that maintains consistent tension for added stability, and the patented Leafspring Flex Bar allows for flexibility when used with softer footwear, enhancing mobility over diverse terrains. Weighing 1.2 pounds, these crampons are relatively lightweight and easy to carry, making them a practical choice for long treks. They also come with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, underscoring the brand’s commitment to quality.

However, they are best suited for non-technical terrain, so those engaging in more extreme mountaineering might need a more specialized option. Additionally, the need to carefully check the sizing chart before purchase indicates that fit could be an issue for some users. They are ideal for unisex adult users looking for reliable traction in winter conditions.