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Best Ice Cleats for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: April 16th, 2024

❄️Winter's slippery sidewalks and icy trails can be a real hazard, but the right ice cleats can keep you on your feet. We've put together a list of the best ice cleats for 2024 after some serious testing. Whether you're a casual walker, a passionate hiker, or love running through the winter, we've found options that will help you stay safe and confident out there.

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Overall Best: Kahtoola MICROspikes

Kahtoola MICROspikes

The Kahtoola MICROspikes are our top pick for overall performance. These crampon-style cleats offer superior traction with their 12 stainless steel spikes per foot. They excel in snowy and icy conditions, perfect for hiking, running, or even shoveling your driveway.

The spikes are strategically placed to maximize grip and stability, while the durable rubber body ensures a secure fit on your shoes or boots. Easy to put on and take off, these cleats are highly versatile for various winter activities.

According to our research, users praise their durability and effectiveness, making them a reliable choice for harsh winter conditions.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$74.95 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Kahtoola MICROspikes Medium? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How well do the Kahtoola MICROspikes grip on ice and snow?

If you're planning to tackle icy and snowy paths, Kahtoola MICROspikes can really come in handy. They're like a safety net for your hiking boots, adding much-needed traction when things get slippery. According to our research, both experts and others who have used them love how well these MICROspikes stick to icy trails, making you feel more stable and confident out there. One of their standout features is the twelve stainless-steel spikes on each foot, specifically placed to grip well on ice. They do a great job across all kinds of slippery surfaces—from snow-covered trails to icy rocks—helping prevent those inevitable slips that can make winter hiking tricky. People often mention that the MICROspikes stay put, which is super reassuring when the ground's a bit iffy. Ensuring they don't wiggle around adds a safety layer and an extra boost of confidence while navigating challenging parts of a trail. On the flip side, getting the right size can be a bit of a headache. Our research highlights that some folks have trouble with the fit, especially if the spikes are either too tight or too loose on their boots. The manufacturer does provide a sizing guide, so it's worth taking a good look at it to get that perfect fit. And if you're in-between sizes, possibly leaning towards the larger option might be better—especially if you're wearing bulkier or insulated hiking boots. Bottom line: if you nail the sizing, Kahtoola MICROspikes are a solid choice to keep you upright on icy trails. Whether you're just out for a winter stroll or tackling steeper icy terrain, they'll help you keep your footing without too much worry.

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How durable are the Kahtoola MICROspikes?

If you're hitting icy trails or snowy paths, Kahtoola MICROspikes are generally seen as a solid bet for durability and reliability. They are specifically built for activities like winter hiking and ice mountaineering. Each foot comes with 12 spikes—8 at the front and 4 at the heel—to help you get a good grip on slippery surfaces. The manufacturer describes these spikes as being made from heat-treated, corrosion-resistant stainless steel, which really adds to their strength and lifespan. This means they're pretty effective at keeping you steady on icy ground, which is super important for safe winter outings. When it comes to sizing, the MICROspikes come in a range of sizes. To give you an idea, the Medium size fits men's shoes sized 8-11 and women's 9-12 in hiking boots. Some folks have mentioned in our research that they can feel a bit tight, especially if you're near the top of a size bracket. So, you might want to consider sizing up if you're on the larger end to avoid them pinching or putting extra pressure on your shoes. Overall, from what we've found, people have loads of good things to say about the grip and durability of these MICROspikes. Many also appreciate how easy they are to slip on and off—a huge plus when the weather shifts on a trail. There have been a few mentions about the rubber harness feeling a little thinner in newer models, which might impact their durability over time. But the company has apparently reinforced the eyelets to keep them light while improving toughness. To wrap it up, Kahtoola MICROspikes are pretty well-loved for anyone who needs to keep their footing on tough winter paths. Whether you're trekking through the snowy backcountry or just navigating icy sidewalks, they offer reliable traction and durability that many winter adventurers count on. Just make sure you check the latest sizing details to get the right fit for comfort and performance out there.

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Are the Kahtoola MICROspikes easy to put on and take off?

Hey! If you're thinking about the Kahtoola MICROspikes for winter hikes, I can share some insights on how easy they are to use. Based on our research, putting them on and taking them off is straightforward for most folks. The MICROspikes have an elastomer harness that easily stretches over different types of shoes, which is super handy if you need to switch between surfaces quickly. This design makes it pretty painless to attach and remove them. According to the manufacturer, they have 12 stainless-steel spikes on each foot, which are well-placed for good grip on icy paths. Plus, with their sturdy construction, you won't have much trouble fitting them onto your boots. A key highlight is the elastomer harness. It's durable and bendy even in really cold weather—down to -22°F (-30°C)—so it won't get brittle when the temperature drops. There were earlier concerns about the rubber thickness, but with the updated model featuring TPU reinforcement, this issue seems resolved. Our research indicates that durability is holding up over time, and there's also a two-year warranty for manufacturing defects to give you some extra peace of mind. So, if you're looking to add some safety and grip to your winter escapades, Kahtoola MICROspikes are worth considering. They're not just effective on snow and ice, but also user-friendly, making them a great addition to your hiking gear.

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Runner-up: Black Diamond Distance Spike

Black Diamond Distance Spike

The Black Diamond Distance Spike is an excellent runner-up for overall ice cleats. Designed for both urban and rugged terrains, these cleats feature stainless steel spikes that provide outstanding traction.

They are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and ideal for running and hiking. While slightly more expensive, their versatility and performance make them a worthwhile investment for serious winter adventurers.

Our research highlights their comfort and ease of use, further cementing their place as a top pick for serious adventurers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$96.65 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Yaktrax Walk

Yaktrax Walk

For those looking for an economical option without compromising on safety, the Yaktrax Walk is our top budget pick. These cleats use zinc-plated steel coils that wrap around your foot, providing sufficient traction on thin ice and shallow snow.

They are lightweight, easy to put on, and compact enough to carry around. Perfect for everyday use in urban environments, they offer excellent value for their price.

Users appreciate their simplicity and effectiveness, noting them as a great option for casual winter walking.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$15.00 at Amazon

Best for Winter Running: Kahtoola NANOspikes

Kahtoola NANOspikes

The Kahtoola NANOspikes are perfect for runners who need traction on icy roads and snowy sidewalks. Featuring ten small tungsten carbide spikes per foot, these cleats provide reliable grip without the bulk.

They are designed specifically for running and are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. The NANOspikes are easy to put on and stay secure during your runs, making them an excellent choice for winter athletes.

According to user feedback, they excel in providing stability and enhancing performance, making them an excellent choice for winter athletes looking to maintain their training regimen.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$54.95 at Amazon

Best for Compact Snow: Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra

Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra

The Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra is the go-to choice for those tackling steep, compact snow. Equipped with longer and more numerous spikes than other options, these cleats provide unparalleled traction on icy and hard-packed snow.

They are robust and durable, ideal for backcountry hiking and ice fishing. Their bulkier design means they are not suitable for pavement, but they are unmatched in rough, icy conditions.

Our research indicates that users highly value their durability and ability to tackle challenging winter conditions, making them a must-have for serious adventurers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$89.95 at Amazon

Best for Urban Use: Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip

Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats for Walking on Ice and Snow (1 Pair), Large

Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip

The Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip cleats are ideal for city walkers. Their unique diamond-shaped spikes offer excellent traction without damaging asphalt, making them perfect for mixed surfaces.

These cleats are easy to use and provide reliable grip on ice and snow. However, they may struggle on extremely polished ice but remain an excellent choice for everyday urban use.

According to our findings, users appreciate their convenience and effectiveness, solidifying their position as a top pick for city dwellers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$47.30 at Amazon

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