We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated programs. Yaktrax and Microspikes are similar because they are both traction devices that attach to your hiking boots and allow you to navigate icy terrain with relative ease. Once on, they stay in place securely and don't slide around or feel like they will come off. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. They are very reasonably priced. Both are lightweight, over-the-boot traction devices with metal spikes attached for winter hiking and work. Lets get into it. That said, the Unigear Traction Cleats provide excellent traction for a lower price than the MICROspikes. The Kahtoola MICROspikes are fan favorites of many because they are some of the best microspikes for hiking! The most famous traction device is the Crampon, which is used mainly for ice climbing. The Black Diamond Equipment product is called the Access Spike Traction Device. Our only gripe is that they are uncomfortable for winter running, but that's a niche use that won't apply to everyone. This frame stretches the 12 spikes across the sole of your foot for stability in packed snow and ice. Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip Traction Ascent Universal Crampons for ascending snowfields in Colorado and love them. They also come with a storage bag, so you can easily store them. All of the crampon-style grips look like this when put on correctly. Once the storm is over, and the streets dry out, or when you enter a building and don't want to damage the floor, it's important that your traction devices pack into a small and light package that you can easily stash in a pocket or a compartment in a vehicle. Products that differentiate themselves from the pack are extremely easy to put on and snap into place right where you want them. These snow grips feature 18 large crampon-style points that dig into soft material with ease, making them a great choice for users who spend a lot of time in deep snow, on dirt trails, or who work outside. Microspikes with teeth use a small number of points to provide traction. Microspikes and micro-cleats are lower profile, providing more traction than rubber soles, and are ideal for walking around an ice-covered town or jogging in the snow. Okay, so now you know the best option for most hikers. Amazon Most Versatile: Kahtoola EXOspikes Traction System The Exospikes fall in between Microspikes and Nanospikes. Yaktrax vs. Microspikes Other options in this category (that we have not tested but are popular on our site): Hillsound Trail Crampons Similar to MICROspikes but with a top strap. These trail running spikes are organized from lightest to heaviest. Consumer Reports These are different than the microspikes listed above because they have aluminum step NANOspikes instead of the traditional spikes. Yaktrax Of all my hiking gear purchases, I have squeezed the most value out of my microspikes. Microspikes Traction: 12 stainless steel spikes (0.38 in.) Microspikes And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. The plate system is ergonomic to provide traction while reducting muscle fatigue, which is much needed when winter hiking. Best Microspikes and Snow Grips Microspikes v Yaktrax Reviewed It features zinc-plated steel coils wrapped around rubber under the foot, and the coils dig into snow, ice, and even dirt and rock. The Hillsound Trail Crampons are also heavy-duty snow grips with 11 points that protrude an incredible two-thirds of an inch from the bottom of your foot. Microspikes v Yaktrax Reviewed The price, weight, durability, grip, and longevity differ considerably between the two products. First is if you are carrying the spikes in your backpack, a lighter traction device is always better. But, the win goes to Kahtoola for adventuring out in snow and ice. Traction devices are generally called crampons when they have spikes instead of chains or coils in the sole. Microspikes The number one question: Which is better for snow and ice: Yaktrax or MICROspikes? Microspikes The other case where weight is important is if you are on the move all day, that extra weight each time you lift your foot can be tiring. This grip features 12 studs on platforms, giving them extra height for use in relatively deep snow while retaining their comfortable feel on firm surfaces and their performance on ice. Winter conditions can be hazardous, but don't let that keep you from getting out to enjoy the snow. We wouldnt use them on pavements, but theyre so easy to take on and off that this may not be a big issue for many. Crampons We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Theres a few obvious features to each product that might make it preferable to the other. Like other crampon-style snow cleats, these grips aren't comfortable to wear on hard surfaces, like sidewalks with a dusting of snow or a thin veneer of ice. The ICETRAX V3 is fast and easy to put on. The base of your foot sits on two rings of diamond-shaped beads that have hundreds of biting edges. In this case, it is a pretty tough call; you have two very high-quality products that are proven to work in moderately difficult winter environments. Without delay, I will reveal the best microspikes for hiking, running, and backpacking. Right now, lets focus on moderate winter conditions, the perfect use of microspikes! Whether you want to travel across the world or explore whats in your backyard, I hope this blog inspires you to get outside and find your adventure! A minor difference is the Summits spikes are closer to the edge of the heel, while the MICROspikes are closer to the center. The Kahtoola MICROspikes are reinforced with eyelets to help increase durability and have stainless steel chains to prevent snowballing. We take a look at Yaktrax vs Microspikes to help you decide which is the best option for traction when youre in action. Best Winter Traction Devices of Microspikes are a must if you want to hike in the winter. Yaktrax We made notes and recorded our findings every step of the way, getting to know each product intimately. Yaktrax Diamond Grip attaches to all kinds of trail runners, boots, and street shoes with an elastic rubber harness that stays flexible enough for easy on and off even in cold temperatures. These are best used in deep snow, on thick ice, and where the surface underneath the snow or ice is soft, like hiking trails and dirt roads. Yaktrax vs MICROspikes: Which The Yaktrax Walk is an incredible deal for folks that don't need the burliest spikes. MICROspikes vs YakTrax Both devices offer good traction in snow and ice, but there are distinct differences between the two. When it comes to keeping your hiney off the ground in packed snow and icy conditions, there are many choices. We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices, Today's best Yaktrax Run Ice Traction Device deals, Today's best Yaktrax Summit Traction Device deals, Today's best Kahtoola Microspikes Footwear Traction deals, Today's best Kahtoola Exospikes Footwear Traction deals, Today's best Kahtoola Nanospikes Footwear Traction deals, With snow and ice on the way to our trails and running routes, you might be looking for extra traction so the cold weather doesnt slow you down, Yaktrax and Microspikes are both brands of traction footwear that slip on over your footwear to help keep you upright and moving fast on icy surfaces and to dig in to power you forward on snowy uphills, If youre walking, hiking or running on thinner packed snow, slush, or variable terrain where you might be crossing sections of pavement, then Yaktrax are the way to go, 4 science-backed benefits of evening exercise. The toe bail, the rubber over the top of your boots, is wide enough to provide a snug fit. Yaktrax will also help you with these activities, but they are intended for traveling on flat roads and trails.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'hikingsoul_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_6',147,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hikingsoul_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Are Microspikes a better investment than Yaktrax? Best Microspikes and Snow Grips However, as weve shown, the comparison between Yaktrax Summit and Kahtoola MICROspikes is worth looking at for moderately challenging winter activities. They provide enough traction to keep you moving on the slippery sections but you wont have to pause and take them off each time you encounter tarmac. We like the traction it provides with its 8-millimeter spikes, which are small enough to be convenient for various conditions but sharp enough to provide bite on loose surfaces. On top of an excellent design with great traction, these microspikes are lightweight at 7.4 ounces and pack easily into their storage bag. Non-Technical Best Winter Traction Devices (Microspikes Theyre best for walking on cleared pavement where you may occasionally encounter slick surfaces. I agree that the diamond grips do work well though. Grips Windbreaker vs rain jacket: which is best for hiking and running? Micro-spikes recommendations They are easy to put on and stay securely placed, adding up to a great option for anyone who can't fathom not running, even in the winter months. Durability Microspikes are also seen as more durable than Yaktrax are. Yaktrax Traverse Heavy-Duty Traction Spikes for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair) Visit the Yaktrax Store 86 ratings -29% $3580 Was: $50.70 FREE Returns Style: Large Large Medium X-large Xx-large About this item Pair of heavy-duty, yet lightweight, traction Cleats fit over shoes and boots for everyday safety on ice and snow Snow grips are most useful during the worst winter weather when temperatures plummet and the snow piles up. None of the companies above make microspikes for kids. WebMicrospikes are more expensive than Yaktrax, and many people feel that they are of higher quality as well. Comparison. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Both of these options are lightweight, they will grip against snow and ice keeping you upright and moving and they are both pretty easy to slip on over your boots. The front and back are obvious, the material stretches easily, and there is a cup where the toe of the boot or shoe fits to line up the rest of the grip. Heres a quick chart to help you see which model from each brand is best used under different winter conditions. We wouldnt use them on pavements, but theyre so easy to take on and off that this may not be a big issue for many. However, the Yaktrax Summit has spikes laid out in a triangle shape that provides aggressive traction when hiking a hill. For example, Yaktrax are much more affordable and work better for road running in slushy conditions whereas Microspikes would dig into the tarmac and slow you down. The Hillsound Trail Crampons have a secure fit and huge crampon points for the deepest snow. They are so much fun to wear. For this review, our test team was led by IFMGA mountain guide and Jackson Hole resident Jeff Dobronyi. The stainless steel points are strong and will easily last multiple winters. Every material becomes more brittle in these conditions, and manufacturers have to make sure their elastics won't break when being manipulated. Microspikes are intended to be used for hiking and climbing in icy conditions. Comparison. Read on to find out how the products fared in our assessment categories of traction, ease of use, secure fit, versatility, durability, and packability. The Hillsound Trail Crampons take the cake in this metric. Yaktrax and Kahtoola both have a wide selection of styles, each meant for a different purpose. To compile this review, we looked at the top options on the market, recording key specifications about each model. The coils also aren't very comfortable when running because they protrude from the bottom of the shoe, creating an uneven landing surface. For grip in the back, these spikes have steel coils that allow your shoe to flex nicely. After all this testing was complete, we scored each product on how well it performed across a wide range of activities, and we searched for signs of wear and tear. Yes. And the Kahtoola MICROspikes are a subset of crampons, with smaller spikes for challenging hiking or work conditions. The question really comes down to what you plan to do in them, and where. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. We consider a high-value product to be one that expertly balances an excellent performance with a fair price. Crampons The Yaktrax Diamond Grip didnt grip as well as the others but still provided improved traction. Cleat grips feature a handful of small metal studs that add the least amount of traction out of the three styles, but they are also the easiest to walk with and are great for thinly covered firm surfaces, like a thin layer of snow over pavement. See the packaging for details, or check out this sizing chart if you buy Kahtoola microspikes. He has also seen the injuries that can come from just living in cold, wintery climates. Check out our complete guide to What to Wear When Hiking in Cold Weather to learn the art of layering your clothes for winter backpacking. WebMicrospikes are more expensive than Yaktrax, and many people feel that they are of higher quality as well. However, as we look deeper into the differences we see that they are some big differences. Among outdoor enthusiasts, the most talked-about brands are Yaktrax and Kahtoola MICROspikes. Overkill for most hikes. This many spikes might be too many. Even relatively small mountain systems, such as the White Mountains of New Hampshire, are infamous for their inhospitable conditions.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'hikingsoul_com-leader-2','ezslot_7',150,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hikingsoul_com-leader-2-0'); Both the Microspikes and Yaktrax have their place among hikers, it just depends on the terrain and intensity that youll be using them! GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. These are the best option for use on dirt roads or during high-consequence activities like chopping wood. For the past five years, I have used the same pair. Manage Settings For most hikers, microspikes and ice cleats are sufficient. That depends on what youre planning to do with them, and on what your level of physical activity is. The Yaktrax Walk are a simple and affordable option. The crampon-style models all have a relatively secure fit but can be a bit of a pain to put on in the first place. I agree that the diamond grips do work well though. It has 14 total spikes at 8mm in length. Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, WebYaktrax Pro offers 10 times the gripping points as any spike-based traction device Natural rubber is used to hold the devices together, giving them durability and strength Removable performance straps cross over insteps to help keep them in place during use Winner: Kahtoola MICROspikes since $20 bucks is worth saving! These long points provide excellent traction in deep, soft snow, and they aren't too far off from true mountaineering crampons. The Black Diamond Distance Spikes stand out from the rest with their soft-shell toe cover and heel retention elastomer, which provide excellent fit, stability, and snow protection. Stainless steel is considered to be stronger than steel alloy. Yaktrax vs Microspikes: which is better? Both of these devices are constructed with thick rubber bands, lightweight chains, and steel spikes on the bottom. If you tend to navigate many different surfaces and conditions, owning more than one pair of snow grips is recommended. Yaktrax Traverse Heavy-Duty Traction Spikes for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair) Visit the Yaktrax Store 86 ratings -29% $3580 Was: $50.70 FREE Returns Style: Large Large Medium X-large Xx-large About this item Pair of heavy-duty, yet lightweight, traction Cleats fit over shoes and boots for everyday safety on ice and snow Microspikes are a great investment for serious hikers and climbers and are much more helpful when it comes to hiking hills and mountains in wintery conditions. Features Case-hardened steel alloy "beads" are strung on steel aircraft cable to offer hundreds of biting edges for exceptional grip in all directions underfoot WebThe ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip traction system easily attaches to a variety of footwear for enhanced, aggressive traction on winter outings, hikes and snow shoveling adventures. We are crazy about getting outdoors at every possible moment and have decades of experience exploring nature. Instead of spikes, Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip has steel aircraft cables with case-hardened steel alloy beads that provide excellent grip on icy trails. You can get microspikes that attach to winter boots, hiking boots, and hiking shoes. The Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip minimizes the amount of snow buildup with their self-clearing design, which enhances traction as you hike. MICROspikes vs YakTrax Both devices offer good traction in snow and ice, but there are distinct differences between the two. The Black Diamond Access Spikes are some of the best microspikes on the market! Comparison. Microspikes are much more sturdy and durable, they stay on your feet better and the spikes definitely cut deeper into the ice to provide better traction, but they come with a heftier price tag and arent suitable for running in. Specs: Type of grip: Coil Spike material: Stainless steel Studs per foot: 12 coil sections Weight: 6.4 oz (181 g) for a size medium Construction: Natural rubber Ideal surface: Light/packed snow, ice The Yaktrax Pro is an upgraded version of the original Yaktrax Walk, the snow grips that first popularized the metal coil design now found in They simply dig down deeper into snow and ice which prevents you from sliding and gives you the traction you need to push off and keep your momentum on the uphill. Quick note, neither of these are designed for technical mountaineering or ice climbing; instead, they are for hiking challenging icy trails. For walking on hard thick ice surfaces, as youd find on a frozen lake, the Yaktrax Diamond Grip is a pretty amazing and unique version of crampons. WebThe Microspikes give better overall, almost crampon-like grip, but theyre heavier and more expensive plus less stable feeling on rocky sections. Non-Technical So youd think that was a clear winner. The traction devices attach to most footwear options you normally wear in the Winter. Yaktrax Other options in this category (that we have not tested but are popular on our site): Hillsound Trail Crampons Similar to MICROspikes but with a top strap. They are constructed of stretchy rubber harnesses, lightweight chains, and steel spikes on the bottom that provide mind-blowing traction. New York, Most brands will note the breaking-point temperature for the elastics on the microspikes, which is helpful to know. The front of the microspikes divides into two sections, which helps with mobility while hiking. They weigh 7.8 ounces. Technical vs. They are very effective on steep icy inclines or declines. Consumer Reports For durability and strength, they are made of case-hardened steel alloy and strung on steel aircraft-grade cable. They are also lightweight, making them almost unnoticeable. Jeff lives, works, and plays in brutal winter climates worldwide and has spent years of his life in skiing, climbing, and winter boots. HikingSoul.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'hikingsoul_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_8',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hikingsoul_com-large-leaderboard-1-0');report this ad. Yaktrax Micro-spikes recommendations Yaktrax Ascent has 17 total spikes. This concludes our guide to the best microspikes and winter traction devices for hiking, running, and backpacking. In this comparison, the heel doesnt seem to make much difference in overall traction. Yaktrax vs. Microspikes (Whats the Best They also have integrated toe bales that help keep the microspikes in place, so you dont have to fix them while hiking. Microspikes and micro-cleats are lower profile, providing more traction than rubber soles, and are ideal for walking around an ice-covered town or jogging in the snow. The Yaktrax Summit runs about $20 more than the Kahtoola MICROspikes . Kahtoola MICROspikes ($75) Category: Hiking/running Weight per pair: 11.9 oz. The other crampon-stye grips we reviewed also have excellent traction but place teeth directly below the toe of the boot, creating a tripping hazard. Grips Best Winter Traction Devices (Microspikes The Black Diamond Distance Spikes are great for running in shallow snow and loose dirt, with small crampon points. They have a longer 3/4 inch spike and are designed to flex with your movement over rough trails. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. Microspikes are made of stainless steel spikes and Yaktrax have steel alloy coils. Yaktrax vs MICROspikes: Which Join us hiking and camping our way through all 63 of the US National Parks. If you do a lot of non-technical mountain hiking where you are going up and down inclines, we choose the, If you play or work primarily on flatter surfaces, like hiking forest trails, crossing lakes, or even construction sites, the, Adjustable to different size hiking boots and shoes. I like the brand, and these spikes look okay. Find a comfortable and stable spot to sit down. A bench, rock, or log is a good place to put on your microspikes. They're also relatively expensive, especially considering their limited versatility. They will work in temperatures as cold as -22F. The Kahtoola product has been much more durable and effective in recent years compared to the competition. There are not many options when it comes to getting kids microspikes. Like a tree. I suspect the most significant factor in that cost difference is the Boa Closure System because there arent many other significant variances. But aside from these niche uses, the Walk are great for most everyday winter uses on slippery urban surfaces. As the cables tighten, they adjust the pull on both the front and side of the Summits. The difference comes in how you personally use your traction devices and what you want in fit and durability. Trail Running Shoes vs Hiking Shoes: How To Choose? Advnture is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Durability Microspikes are also seen as more durable than Yaktrax are. The microspikes come with a bag to store them in to keep them safe when you are not using them. They are light, packable, and ideal for thin ice and dustings of snow. How can we improve GearLab? Crampons The most versatile snow grip in our test is the Kahtoola EXOspike. So, lets take a look at those features. If you want to hike in the winter, microspikes are a must! The Yaktrax spikes for trail running have six spikes up front that are 3mm in length. Our experts have tested everything from cold-weather essentials like the top winter boots for men and the best women's winter boots to all the gear you need for your favorite snow sports, like snowshoeing. For snowy and icy foot pursuits, there are two main contenders when it comes to traction under foot: Yaktrax and Microspikes. All of the options in our review feature some kind of rubbery, elastic body that is stretched over the sole of the user's shoe or boot. Youll find tips for your adventures, for camping and for hiking to help you. The Kahtoola EXOspikes are designed with durable thermoplastic polyurethane Traction Matrix to provide stability, wear resistance, and shed snow.