Prevent Slipping and Sliding With The Best Ice Cleats
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STABILicers Walk Traction and Tread for Snow & Ice Cleats -
Kahtoola MICROSpikes Pocket Ice Cleats -
Hillsound Trail Ice Traction System Ice Cleats -
Yaktrax Pro Traction Ice Cleats -
Buyer's Guide
When it comes to finding the best ice cleats, the choice depends largely on your unique needs and circumstances. Factors such as where you plan on using your ice cleats and how often you plan to use them will largely dictate which is best for you. If you require cleats to maneuver everyday snow and elements, durability and longevity are important to ensure top performance and cost effectiveness
Frequency of use and level of involvement can also dictate whether a lighter duty ice cleat will suffice versus a more durable, heavier duty cleat with replaceable spikes; for example, the difference between using cleats for a trip to the store vs. backpacking through an alpine wilderness area. Just remember replacing lower quality cleats over and over again may end up being more expensive than a single purchase of a superior, higher cost ice cleat.
This list of best ice cleats in 2022 aims to filter the wide array of ice cleats down to the top 5 best options, keeping varied degrees of use in mind. These top picks were selected based on their superior performance and traction, ease of use and reliability in icy conditions, and outstanding consumer reviews.
Compare The Best Ice Cleats Of 2022
STABILicers Walk Traction and Tread for Snow & Ice Cleats - Best Ice Cleats Overall
STABILicers MAXX ice cleats top this list based on their stellar performance in even the most unforgiving ice and snow. They are extremely durable and may in fact be the last pair you’ll ever have to buy. The underside is filled with 34 steel cleats, providing insane traction and confidently anchoring you in slick conditions. These cleats are replaceable and available in steel and non-sparking bronze options making the MAXX an affordable, long-term ice cleat option. Don't worry about adjusting your shoe collection to fit your ice cleats; the hook-and-loop straps on these cleats will fit nice and snug on practically any piece of footwear you already own.
Kahtoola MICROSpikes Pocket Ice Cleats - Runner Up
The MICROspikes Pocket Traction System earns top marks for versatility, practicality and downright handiness. For starters, this system is incredibly compact and lightweight so you can stuff it practically anywhere and have on hand in any time of need. These cleats aren't as hardcore as some other options in the realm of ice traction gear, but they aren't intended to be. This system was designed for routine activity to provide additional traction when you need it most. The spikes slip right over your shoes and are easy to tug on and pull off. This traction system can also be a great asset during hiking and backpacking adventures where you may cross paths with snow, or wet and slippery rocks.
Hillsound Trail Ice Traction System Ice Cleats - Honorable Mention
Hillsound ice traction systems have a reputation for easily being among the best on the market. The Hillsound Trail Crampon is an extremely reliable resource to individuals who spend a lot of time outside where snow, ice and otherwise slick conditions prevail. For starters, this beast of an ice traction system features a carbon alloy spike plate system rather than individual spikes, providing increased stability, insane durability, and improved ergonomics resulting in less muscle fatigue. Even the heel has a fairly menacing spike plate, so don’t be afraid of a snowy, icy downhill when you are wearing this system. The elastic harness provides a snug fit against your shoe while the velcro straps make sure the crampon doesn’t budge.
Yaktrax Pro Traction Ice Cleats - Consider
The Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats are an excellent choice for anyone looking for ultra-lightweight, multi-purpose ice cleats. These bad boys are spikeless and feature an ingenious coil system which makes treading on ice and snow seem like a walk in a sunny park. These coils are also surprisingly durable and hold up well against intermittent dry patches of cement and pavement which could appear during your winter walks. The bendy rubber blend frame is easy to pull on and off while the optional strap helps ensure the cleat fits snug against your shoe.
Buyer's Guide
Winter is a time of very little activity. During those cold months, it is natural to want to stay inside and hibernate. As a result, you may have had a great exercise regime. For instance, you could have been one of those people who enjoy jogging and doing yoga in the park. However, a strict exercise routine can fade away as quickly as the summer sun unless you make amendments and allow for changes in the weather.
Ice cleats are contraptions that attach to a shoe or boot that allows you to walk in the ice or snow without slipping. For those who do not engage in moderate exercise, you may still need to walk through snow or ice to complete daily tasks.
Ice cleats are helpful to anyone who lives in an area that gets snow and ice at times. There are several things you should consider to get the best ice cleats for you.
Read our recommendations below.
Things to consider before buying ice cleats
To find the best ice cleats for your needs, you will need to consider a few features. Different types of ice cleats are suitable for other shoes and different terrains. You will also want to ensure your ice cleats are high-quality and good value for money.
Grip
To ensure you get the correct ice cleats for your needs, you should buy a pair that can handle various terrains, or at least the kind of terrain you will be using them on. For example, some ice cleats perform well in thick snow but cannot transition to less severe conditions on the sidewalk.
Size of spikes
A good judge of how well an ice cleat will grip the snow is how large the spikes are. The larger the spike, the more capable the cleats will be able to handle icy mountainous terrain. However, these are usually not suitable for dry surfaces. The number of spikes in the ice cleat will also be a good signal of its capability to handle extreme snow and ice. For hiking ice cleats, look for 12 spikes or more. Larger spikes are for hiking and highly icy conditions, and smaller cleats are for a small layer of ice or snow.
The layout of spikes (point layout)
The layout of the spikes on ice cleats can affect the comfort you feel when using them and use them for certain activities. For instance, ice cleats that contain points under the toe will sometimes get caught on root systems or steps, so they cannot be used for hiking.
Fit
Good fitting ice cleats will lie flat against your footwear. There should be no space between your boots and the grippers. Otherwise, your foot will slip around inside the ice cleat, even if the spikes are set in the ice solidly. If possible, order your ice cleats a long time before you need to use them so you can return them if they do not fit. Wearing the wrong size ice cleats can cause injury. If you have the option to do so, try them on in the store.
Weight
Consider the weight of your ice cleat when buying it. Walking around during the winter is difficult enough without the added excess weight an ice cleat can bring. However, you don’t want to be put off going for a stroll because your ice cleats feel too heavy for you.
During the winter months, you may find yourself becoming a little more depressed than usual. There is something called SAD - a condition many people suffer from due to a lack of sunlight. It makes people feel temporarily depressed.
It is also common for most people to gain weight during the winter months, which may contribute to low self-esteem. Pushing yourself to exercise despite the weather conditions will make your body release endorphins and improve your mood. If you want to keep active during the winter, a pair of lightweight ice cleats are the best option for you, although most of the time, these possess fewer spikes and should only be used on thin layers of ice and snow.
Added height
Although having added height won’t matter to most people, it may matter to you. This is because ice cleats add a certain height to your shoe, depending on the design. This is something you may wish to take into account when choosing your ice cleats.
Ease of use
One of the most important things about your ice cleats is that you are able to fit them over your shoe. Suppose you have arthritis or any kind of physical disability that may affect your ability to attach a snow cleat. In that case, you should pay particular attention to the customer service reviews online. For most products, if it is difficult to use, someone will have reviewed it as such.
If you have the option to try the ice cleats on in the store, insist that you fit them yourself after the store person has fitted them once for you. Attempt to take them off too. This is just as important because leaving them on may ruin the carpets or flooring in your home.
Durability
Search customer reviews online to see how long the ice cleats last. A reputable manufacturer will clearly answer how long it will be before you need to replace your ice cleats. This will be based on how often you use the cleats and why you are using them in the first place.
Ice cleats price range
Avoid any ice cleats that are $10 or less. For a decent pair of ice cleats, you should budget between $30 and $110.
FAQs
Can I run in ice cleats?
Yes, you can run in ice cleats if you choose your ice cleats wisely. Look for lightweight ice cleats specifically made for running. Yaktrax is a brand you should look up as it has produced many running cleats.
Can you drive while wearing ice cleats?
You can drive in ice cleats. However, it is recommended that you only drive in heel-only ice cleats. If you wear full ice cleats while driving, you could place yourself and others in danger.
