11 Best Microspikes for Hiking in the Winter and Snow [2023]
Are you looking for some of the best microspikes for hiking to make getting out on the trail in the winter months?
Snow, ice, and cold can make getting outside tough and can make accessing hiking trails even tougher!
But with a few pieces of essential safety equipment, you can get out there much easier and still maintain your safety.
I live in Minnesota and spend a lot of time hiking. With the cold and snow that we have here, I’ve used microspikes hundreds of times for foot traction.
In this post, we’ll go over the best hiking microspikes that will increase your ability to spend time on the hiking trail this winter, as well as how to choose the best pair for you.
Best Microspikes for Hiking: Top Picks
⭐ Best Overall: Kahtoola Microspikes
⭐ Best Budget-Friendly: Hikenture Ice Cleats
⭐ Best Lightweight: Black Diamond Distance
⭐ Best for Trail Running: Kahtoola NANOspikes
Best Microspikes for Winter Hiking
1. Kahtoola Microspikes
It’s no secret that Kahtoola offers some of the best traction devices on the market for winter hiking.
In fact, the name “microspikes” originated from their product, so we can see just how great of a product they must be.
These microspikes feature 12 spikes on the bottom of the device which are made of stainless steel and provide great traction on ice and snow.
They’ve also got reinforced eyelets where the chains connect to the rubber to help prevent tearing in those stress points.
One of my favorite features is the raised heel tab which helps make getting them on and off super easy, even when your fingers are cold.
They also have an included toe bail on the front which helps to prevent your foot from sliding through when you’re walking on a downward slope.
Some customers have noted that the rubber has torn or snapped, but with Kahtoola’s 2-year warranty, you can buy them with confidence.
✔️ Check pricing for the Kahtoola Microspikes here!
2. Yaktrax Diamond Grip
Yaktrax is another highly raved about brand that sells a variety of different microspikes, each with its own purpose.
The Diamond Grips are a fantastic option for hiking and are much more affordable than some other options.
These are made a bit differently, with diamond-shaped beads with aggressive edges on the bottom that swivel to grip the snow.
Although they’re different, they still perform great and the twisting beads help to prevent snow from building up underneath your feet.
The Yaktrax Diamond Grips are very lightweight, weighing in at under 12 ounces for the pair, so they’re great for backpacking.
They also pack up very easily and can be stored in a small bag when they aren’t being used.
Because they’re not as intense as other microspikes, they can slip off easier, but you can prevent this by looping a piece of velcro through the edges, over your foot.
✔️ See prices for the Yaktrax Diamond Grips here!
3. Hikenture Ice Cleats
If you’re someone who’s trying to hike on a budget, don’t worry, because the Hikenture Ice Cleats will be perfect for you.
These microspikes come in at a price of under $30, so they’re a good choice for those who don’t want to drop a lot of money (aka… ME!).
I’ve worn these spikes multiple times and vouch for how great they are for being such a budget price!
Each one has 19 spikes, facing all different directions, on the bottom that help with maintaining traction.
With a double-chain system, they’re going to stay durable for many, many uses.
I even climbed Mount St. Helens using these microspikes for hiking and they worked out great!
Although sometimes budget microspikes can slip off easier, these ones come with velcro straps to help keep them on your feet.
They even come with a small bag to store them in so you can easily keep them with the rest of your gear.
✔️ Check prices for the Hikenture Ice Cleats here!
4. Kahtoola NANOspikes
As I mentioned before, Kahtoola makes some pretty great traction devices, so no surprise that I’ve got another one here!
The NANO spikes are a different variety of microspikes for hiking with just small stud-like spikes on the bottom.
These are great for trail running or just taking a hike around your city trail that has just a thin layer of snow or ice.
Because of their small size and sleek design, you’ll hardly even notice that you’re wearing them and won’t have to change the way you walk or run.
The traction plates flex with your feet to allow for an ultra comfortable day on the trail!
Plus, they have the other added benefits of all Kahtoola spikes including a raised heel tab, toe bail, and 2-year warranty.
✔️ See prices for the Kahtoola NANOspikes here!
5. Black Diamond Distance
Black Diamond is well-known in the hiking community for producing some really great high-quality gear!
Their Distance microspikes have a brand new design to it with a hybrid attachment system, being made of half rubber and half softshell.
This creates a more comfortable fit as well as protection from snow and better packability in your hiking pack.
It also makes them super lightweight, weighing in at around 10 ounces per set!
All 14 spikes on these work together to create the excellent traction that you’ll find in the Black Diamond Distances.
I personally love that they have a strap on the heel to help make putting them on and taking them off super easy.
✔️ See prices for the Black Diamond Distance spikes here!
6. Yaktrax Run
If you’re a trail runner or someone who spends a lot of time on well-packed trails in the winter, the Yaktrax Run cleats are for you.
These unique microspikes are different than others, being that instead of spikes, they use a coil to gain traction.
While these were designed with runners in mind, hikers can definitely still benefit from them, being that they’re so lightweight!
The coils provide traction in all directions and ensure that while you’re out hiking, you aren’t going to be slipping around.
Because of the velcro strap that weaves over your foot, the Yaktrax Run cleats stay on your feet and you don’t have to worry about readjustment.
I used these when I first started hiking, as well as for running in the winter, and can say that they sure do their job!
Although I wouldn’t recommend using them on any type of slope or hill, because they just don’t have enough grip.
✔️ See prices for the Yaktrax Run Cleats here!
7. Hillsound Trail Ultra
Another of the best microspikes for hiking is the Hillsound Trail Ultras which are great for whatever kind of hiking you’re doing this winter.
They’re great for use with almost any type of shoe or boot that you’ll be wearing on the hiking trail.
A velcro strap is included to help secure the device to your feet so that they aren’t slipping off of your feet on the hike.
I also love that they feature longer spikes on the backs for added traction when going downhill.
The chains on the side help make these microspikes durable and fit your feet securely.
Hillsound makes great quality products that are durable and meant to last, but they also come with a 2-year limited warranty.
✔️ Check prices for the Hillsound Trail Ultra here!
8. Yaktrax Ascent
Here’s another set of the best microspikes for hiking, also by the Yaktrax brand that feature 16 spikes which makes for excellent traction.
One of the best parts of these is the 3 point heel that helps prevent snow from balling up underneath your feet when you hike.
I also love that these are even good for climbing inclines as they have spikes in the front that are designed for hills.
These microspikes are made to last out of a durable stainless steel and will help you have successful winter hiking seasons over and over again.
They also come in multiple sizes, so you’ll be able to use their sizing chart to choose the best size for you.
✔️ See pricing for the Yaktrax Ascent microspikes here!
9. Black Diamond Access
The Black Diamond Access microspikes have similar attributes to the Distance, but these are a full rubber harness, rather than a hybrid.
With 14 spikes, all heat treated for maximum durability, these are a great pair to wear on your next hike.
I really love that they have a loop on the heel to help make putting them on and taking them off easy.
And at under 5 ounces per piece, these microspikes are ultra-lightweight, not adding a ton of weight to your already heavy bag.
Black Diamond also claims that these are great for any activity that you may participate in, including trail running and hiking.
✔️ Check prices for the Black Diamond Access here!
10. Kahtoola Exospikes
Another pair of microspikes made by the reputable Kahtoola brand, the Exospikes are similar to the original model, but with cleats instead of long spikes.
If you’re a trail runner or someone who enjoys hiking on city paths, these are going to be great for you.
With their 12 short tungsten carbide tips, you’ll be able to grip hard-packed snow to prevent slipping around.
They have a unique design, with an open middle, that allows the spikes to work together with your boot to provide great traction on snow and ice.
Because they’re made with tips that are shorter, there’s less of a chance of catching your pant legs on or tripping over the long spikes.
I love that the elastomer harness is stretchy up to -30 degrees F because being from Minnesota, we need that ultimate stretch in the winter!
✔️ Check prices for the Kahtoola Exospikes here!
11. Sportneer Ice Cleats
The Sportneer Ice Cleats are another great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly pair of microspikes for hiking.
Coming in at under $20, these are a great set if you’re just getting started out on the trail or are just looking to save some extra cash!
Made of stainless steel and 19 individual spikes, these still provide the great traction that many of the other more expensive options do.
I also love that they come with a velcro adjustable strap to put over the top of your foot to tighten them if needed.
The spikes will also stay securely on your foot with the front bar, which aligns with your boot to prevent your toes from slipping through.
Although these aren’t as durable as others, customers have mentioned Sportneer’s great customer service if things do go wrong.
✔️ See pricing for the Sportneer Ice Cleats!
Microspikes Comparison Chart
| Name | Traction Type | Weight (pair) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kahtoola Microspikes | 12 spikes | 11 ounces | See Price |
| Yaktrax Diamond Grip | Diamond beads | 12 ounces | See Price |
| Hikenture Ice Cleats | 19 spikes | 16 ounces | See Price |
| Kahtoola NANOspikes | 10 short cleats | 8 ounces | See Price |
| Black Diamond Distance | 14 spikes | 10 ounces | See Price |
| Yaktrax Run | Coil | 5 ounces | See Price |
| Hillsound Trail Ulta | 12 spikes | 15 ounces | See Price |
| Yaktrax Ascent | 16 spikes | 17 ounces | See Price |
| Black Diamond Access | 14 spikes | 9 ounces | See Price |
| Kahtoola Exospikes | 12 short cleats | 8 ounces | See Price |
| Sportneer Ice Cleats | 19 spikes | 17 ounces | See Price |
What Are Microspikes?
Microspikes are traction devices that hikers use to help prevent them from slipping when hiking on snow or ice.
They’re typically made of a thick, flexible rubber that stretches to fit over your hiking boots.
Attached to the rubber are chains and small spikes that are typically between 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
These spikes and chains grip the snow, helping to protect you from falling when you’re on slippery surfaces.
Microspikes are great because they can easily be folded up and placed in a small bag to store in your hiking backpack.
They’re also super user-friendly and don’t require much teaching to learn to use them.
Different Types of Microspikes
While most microspikes follow the same general pattern of design, there are some that differ, but work in the same way.
The most common design is where you have a stretchy piece of rubber that is attached to a set of chains with small spikes.
Another design is when there is a rubber pad on the bottom with small, short metal studs are used to grip the snow.
Lastly, some microspikes, such as some Yaktrax, use coils for traction. These are just metal poles wrapped around the rubber.
When Should I Use Microspikes?
Microspikes are an excellent form of traction that can be added to your hiking boots when you encounter snow or ice.
They should be strapped on when you feel as if you need a bit more support or if you’re slipping on the snow.
They can be very helpful in preventing you from slipping!
Microspikes are best used on flatter terrain with semi-packed snow and ice.
If you encounter ice on a steep incline, it’ll be better to grab yourself a pair of crampons instead.
What to Look for When Choosing Microspikes
When you’re looking for a pair of microspikes, there are a few things that you should consider.
Below you’ll find those considerations to make sure that you pick the best set for yourself.
Durability
Of course one of the main things that you want to look for in a pair of microspikes is durability because you want them to last for a long time.
Because you’ll be wearing them in the cold weather, you want them to be able to withstand those temperatures.
Many manufacturers of microspikes for hiking provide a breaking point temperature that the product will be able to withstand.
You’ll also want to ensure that the materials that it’s made of are strong enough to stretch over your shoe and be walked on for many miles.
Many of the materials on microspikes are heat treated which helps them last and most are made of steel or aluminum.
Type
As I mentioned above, there are a few different types of microspikes to choose from, depending on what you’re going to use them for.
Most commonly, they have chains and spikes, which typically provide the best and most traction.
Another type has coils, which are common with the Yaktrax brand, such as the Yaktrax Run. These don’t provide as much traction.
Lastly, the other common type is studs, which are just small metal points that stick out of the bottom and grip the snow.
Harness
The harness is what securely straps the microspikes to your boots to ensure they don’t slip off.
Most just slip over your shoe and are tight enough that they just stay over your boot.
Some have velcro straps that hook to the rubber of the microspike and help secure them to your feet, such as the Hillsound Trail Ultra.
Fit
Most microspikes for hiking are sold on a small, medium, and large scale, so they’re fairly easy to fit to your feet.
When purchasing yours, be sure to check the manufacturer’s sizing chart to choose the right size.
Weight
The weight of the spikes might not be important for everyone, but if you’re backpacking or traveling light, you might care.
Most microspikes are pretty lightweight, but others are definitely lighter than others.
In this list, the best pair for those looking to go lightweight are the Black Diamond Distances.
Price
Of course, as with anything, it’s important to consider the price when you’re purchasing your traction device.
All of the options on this list are under $100, but that can still be pretty expensive for many people.
You can typically plan to spend anywhere from $30 to $100 for a pair of microspikes.
For the most budget-friendly option, check out the Hikenture Ice Cleats.
Are Microspikes Worth Using?
Yes, microspikes are absolutely worth using.
Not only are they worth using to make your hike more comfortable, but they are also part of making sure that you’re safe.
I highly recommend getting yourself a good pair and carrying them with you anytime you’re hiking in the winter.
They can prevent you from slipping and getting hurt, as well as getting all wet by falling in the snow or ice.
Pros and Cons of Using Microspikes
Microspikes are a necessary piece of equipment for your hiking back to ensure that you stay safe when hiking in the winter.
There are definitely a few pros and cons of using them though, which I’ve listed below.
Pros
- Prevents you from slipping
- Makes a winter hike more comfortable
- Lightweight and easy to pack
- Can be used with most closed-toed shoes
- Easy to use
Cons
- Extra weight in the bag
- Snow might ball up underneath your feet
FAQs
Are Microspikes Necessary?
Microspikes are a necessary piece of safety equipment when hiking on snow or ice.
Without them, your boots might not be able to grip in a way that will prevent you from slipping.
I highly recommend having them with you when you know you’ll be encountering snow on the trail!
When Should I Use Microspikes?
Microspikes should be used when there is snow or ice on the trail that you are hiking on.
They’re best used when the snow is at least somewhat packed.
Are Microspikes the Same Thing as Crampons?
No, crampons and microspikes are two different traction devices that do similar things.
Crampons are more aggressive and are often used for ice climbing or hiking on steep inclines.
Microspikes are best for flat surfaces with packed snow.
You can read my entire post here about the differences between the two.
Can You Walk on Rocks With Microspikes?
You can walk on rocks with microspikes, but it’s not recommended to walk on rocks that aren’t covered in snow.
Walking on just rocks can damage the spikes and lower the life of the microspikes.
Are Microspikes Better Than Crampons?
Since microspikes and crampons are different and are used for different things, there isn’t one that is better.
What Size Microspikes Do I Need?
The size of the microspikes that you purchase will depend on the size of your foot and the brand that you buy.
All brands have different sizing charts that should be looked at before buying.
Are Microspikes Good for Wearing on Ice?
Yes, microspikes are good for hiking on ice.
But if the ice is on an incline, they may not do as well and crampons may perform better.
Conclusion: Best Microspikes for Hiking
Not only do microspikes keep you safe on the trail, but they make for a much more comfortable hike.
Whether you choose a pair with coils, studs, or spikes, all types will provide you with great traction and help you out on your hike.
I hope that this list of the best microspikes for hiking provided you with some insight into which you should choose for yourself.
