The Best Microspikes for Hiking: A Complete Guide

We can state with confidence that these are the best spikes for hiking, because we own and love them. The award-winning Kahtoola microspikes traction system assures the wearer of great grip, and they come in a choice of four sizes.

Kahtoola microspikes sizing is simplified by the handy chart they provide, and they come with a two-year warranty. You can also check the Kahtoola microspikes weight according to the size you order.

Don’t just take out word for it – you can click the link below to read all the great product reviews. They are also recommended for running. 

Pros: 

• Corrosion-resistant stainless steel 
• Built-in toe bail ensures security 
• Award-winning traction

• Cons:  

• Higher price tag

This set of Yaktrax microspikes also comes very highly recommended. They are designed for even the most challenging terrains, including glaciers as well as regular snow and ice.

There are 16 spikes to each foot, held together by a tough stainless-steel base and strong chains. A stretch  binding also gets over the boot or shoe, ensuring that these hiking boot spikes stay firmly in place.

A carry bag is included, and there are four sizes to choose from.

Pros:

• Suitable even for glaciers 
• Strong stainless steel construction 
• Carry bag supplied

Cons: 

• Not ideal for running

If you’re looking for Grivel microspikes, then check out their G20 Plus crampon.

If your hiking routes are very demanding, this might well be the best crampon for you. These lightweight crampons connect to your footwear via toe and heel bails, plus an ankle strap adds extra security. A down-turn on the front point even helps to reduce fatigue in the calf muscles.

These impressive crampons for winter hiking are suitable even for the most perilous descents.

Pros: 

• Ideal for steep, slippery descents 
• Secure fit via bails and ankle strap 
• Front downturn reduces fatigue

Cons: 

• Most expensive option

Designed for a variety of terrain, these microspikes for boots are made for walking on icy and snowy surfaces.

There are 19 durable stainless steel spikes for each foot, and these have been placed for even weight distribution. A strong, stretchy silicone cover ensures they fit firmly to your hiking boots.

Three sizes are available, and these lightweight winter hiking crampons come complete with a pouch for carrying.

Pros: 

• Carry pouch included 
• Equal weight distribution 
• Thick silicone cove

Cons: 

• Fewer choice of sizes

Another option from Yaktrax is offered here in the form of the Yaktrax Traverse. This is also a highly rated contender as best hiking spikes.

These are heavy duty microspikes, designed for use on the street as well as hiking trails. Each of the 13 stainless steel spikes is 1/4 of an inch long. They attach to your hiking boots by means of the tough elastomer binding.

There are three sizes to choose from and each pair comes with a carry bag.

Pros: 

• Multi-purpose microspikes 
• Weight just 0.62 lbs 
• Carry bag

Cons: 

• Not as strong as some

This very affordable pair of hiking boot crampons offer good grip and include an 18 month warranty for your peace of mind.

They can be used on wet, slippery mud or grass as well as snow and ice – ideal for the elderly at risk of falls. Highly elastic rubber bindings are thicker than those found on other products, and these can also cope with temperatures as low as -45℉.

This product is perhaps the ideal budget pair of microspikes for snow, ice and slippery ground.

Pros: 

• Great value for money 
• 18-month warranty 
• Strong, stretchy bindings

Cons: 

• Build quality

With 18 spikes, these Unigear microspikes are tailor made for wintry terrain. Among all the best ice spikes for hiking, these are also one of the more lightweight options.

The stainless steel has been heat treated to add strength and anti-corrosive properties, and there are 18 spikes to each foot. These vary in length to ensure great grip.

This product has also been designed to encourage a natural gait whilst maintaining good traction.

Pros: 

• Heat-treated stainless-steel build 
• Welded, double link chains 
• Encourages natural stride

Cons: 

• Snow buildup can occur

Along with Kahtoola and Yaktrax, Hillsound are one of the best winter hiking spikes brands out there.

The Trail is a hugely popular product, attracting far more than its fair share of top ratings and reviews. With double links to the side chains and tough elastomer bindings, these are a solid choice than come in four size options.

The complete package is offered here, as these crampons for boots come with a carry bag and a two-year warranty.

Pros: 

• 4 size options 
• 2-year warranty 
• Leading brand 

Cons: 

• Not the cheapest choice

James Ian has traveled to 82 countries and all 7 continents.  He has visited all of the main national parks in the United States, as well as many national monuments and state parks.

He has rafted through the Grand Canyon; rappelled down slot canyons near Zion and Arches; hiked among the hoodoos in Bryce and the enormous trees in Sequoia; admired the waterfalls in Yosemite and the colored hot springs in Yellowstone; seen moose in Grand Tetons and seals in the Channel Islands, and much more.

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