YakTrax Walker Traction Device

Product Information

Over time, those traction devices have been adapted with smaller spikes for a variety of winter terrain. And the Kahtoola MICROspikes ® are a subset of crampons, with smaller spikes for challenging hiking or work conditions. Which is the best crampon for Traction When Trail Running Yaktrax Run and the really grippy Kahtoola NANOspikes are perfect for running on snow and ice-covered trails. The Summit and the MICROspikes ® are not the best for running as the longer spikes are more likely to snag in the ice.

Firstly, I should make clear that MICROspikes is actually a trademark owned by Kahtoola. We often refer to all traction devices, ice cleats, etc. as Microspikes, due to the popularity of Kahtoola's MICROspikes, similar to how plasters are referred to as BAND-AIDs. In the guide below, we’ll take you through the 9 best hiking microspikes available today. Armed with one of these options, you’ll be able to grip snowy and icy trails while appreciating the understated beauty of winter hiking. My Review ProcessYou’ll also notice that the MICROspikes ® have a generous pull tab at the heel to make it easy to stretch the spike frame over your foot. The proprietary eyelet design where tough TPU inserts strengthen critical stress points allows the elastomer harness to be lighter and more durable.

That means you could find yourself propelled headfirst onto your running trail if you are moving along at a fast pace. You’ll notice the Run and the NANOspikes have a different traction system that doesn’t use spikes, making them better for running without snagging. Which traction devices are Best for Deep Snow? However, if you are ice fishing or hiking into your hunting spot where you’ll be sitting most of the day, a little extra weight is not a big deal. Footwear sizing is based on the inside fit of the shoe or boot to our feet. As Yaktrax® fit on the outside of the footwear, it is the actual footprint or circumference that is relevant when you choose the correct size. As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, many people compare apples to bananas when looking at traction devices. Yaktrax and Kahtoola both have a wide selection of styles, each meant for a different purpose. Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats are lightweight, affordable, and easy to put on and take off, making them a simple solution for winter walks. They are also comfortable enough to wear on hard surfaces like asphalt roads. Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats provide confidence on ice, snow and water with its non-slip traction material that grips with each step. Read ReviewThe layout behind the heel provides even stability when your heel strikes the ground, which is very helpful for walking on ice or for winter hiking. In this comparison, the heel doesn’t seem to make much difference in overall traction. While we do not factor price into our testing process or scores, it is absolutely a factor in the decision-making process. We consider a high-value product to be one that expertly balances an excellent performance with a fair price. Gear that lasts and also doesn't break the bank is a win all around. However, as we’ve shown, the comparison between Yaktrax Summit and Kahtoola MICROspikes ® is worth looking at for moderately challenging winter activities. Although we prefer the Kahtoola MICROspikes ®, both are excellent products to keep you safe during winter.

Winner: Kahtoola MICROspikes ® – While I love the custom fit of the Summit, especially if you have wider or narrower feet than the average, there are quite a few complaints that the cables break under heavy use. The thought of being in the middle of a long hike and losing your spikes seems risky. Yaktrax® Walk ice grips are the most popular ice grips from Yaktrax®. Lightweight and comfortable to wear. Let’s start with the ball of the foot. Both have 8 spikes, 3/8 inch spikes located on the ball. However, the Yaktrax Summit has spikes laid out in a triangle shape that provides aggressive traction when hiking a hill. They will dig in and keep your hiking boots steady with your forward motion. Too large and there is a risk of the Yaktrax® falling off and being lost or acting as a trip hazard. If the Yaktrax® are too small, they could become over-stretched and develop weak points which snap. If the size of Yaktrax® is too large for the footwear, the coils could extend beyond of the shoe or boot.The fit systems of the Yaktrax Summit and Kahtoola MICROspikes ® are very different. When you are looking at the fit of a traction device, you need 3 things: Easy to put on and take off when entering buildings or vehicles, Yaktax® Walk are ideal for commuters, shoppers and other pedestrians who have no choice other than to walk on icy pavements.