When winter transforms hiking trails into icy wonderlands, having the right gear becomes essential for safety and comfort. One item you can’t overlook is snow chains for boots. These handy accessories are designed to provide unmatched traction on slippery surfaces, which can mean the difference between a confident stride and a dangerous slip. Whether you’re planning a snowy mountain trek or navigating icy trails closer to home, snow chains for boots ensure you stay grounded and safe. In this article, the National Park Shops team will explore top options and tips to help you choose the perfect pair for your winter adventures.
Contents
- 1 What is the function of snow chains for hiking boots?
- 2 Best Overall: Kahtoola MICROspikes ($74.95 on Amazon)
- 3 Best Value: Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction Device ($97.85 on Amazon)
- 4 Best Budget: Yaktrax Walk ($14.99 – $24.95 on Amazon)
- 5 Best for Running: Kahtoola NANOspikes ($30 – $42.99 on Amazon)
- 6 Best for Alpine Use: Hillsound Trail Crampon Pro ($82.14 – $84.95 on Amazon)
- 7 Korkers Ice Walker ($59.99 on Amazon)
- 8 Stabilicers Maxx 2 ($59.99 on Amazon)
- 9 How we tested
- 10 Conclusion
What is the function of snow chains for hiking boots?
Snow chains for boots, commonly referred to as microspikes or traction devices, serve a crucial function in enhancing grip and stability on icy or snowy trails. These devices consist of a flexible rubber frame with metal chains or spikes that attach securely to the soles of hiking boots. Their primary purpose is to provide additional traction on slippery surfaces, allowing hikers to navigate challenging terrain safely.
When worn, the chains and spikes dig into ice and packed snow, significantly reducing the risk of slipping and falling. This added grip is particularly beneficial when traversing steep inclines or uneven ground, where traditional hiking boots may struggle to maintain traction. Microspikes are versatile and can be used in various conditions, making them an essential piece of gear for winter hiking. They are easy to put on and take off, allowing hikers to adapt quickly to changing trail conditions.
In summary, snow chains for boots enhance safety and confidence by providing reliable traction on icy and snowy surfaces, enabling hikers to enjoy their outdoor adventures more fully without the fear of slipping.
Best Overall: Kahtoola MICROspikes ($74.95 on Amazon)
- Number of Points: 12
- Measured Weight (per pair): 11.0 oz
- Grip Style: Crampon
- Spike Material: Stainless Steel
The Kahtoola MICROspikes are crampon-style traction cleats designed for exceptional performance on thick ice and deep snow. With 12 spikes per foot, each measuring ⅜” in length, these snow chains for boots excel in winter hiking, chopping wood, and working on soft surfaces like dirt. The cleats are easy to put on, requiring users to stretch the durable rubber frame over their boots or shoes. Once secured, they stay firmly in place without sliding or feeling loose. Built with stainless steel spikes, these cleats are durable enough to withstand multiple winters.
While they offer unmatched traction, the MICROspikes are bulkier and heavier than some alternatives. The large spikes can feel awkward and uncomfortable on firm surfaces like concrete with only a light dusting of snow. These snow chains for boots are best suited for deep snow, thick ice, and softer terrains such as hiking trails or dirt roads. For those living in harsh winter climates, the MICROspikes are the top choice for reliable snow traction.
Best Value: Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction Device ($97.85 on Amazon)
- Weight per pair: 7.8 oz (220 g) size M
- Number of spikes: 14 spikes per foot (on all sizes)
- Length of spikes: 0.3 inch spike length (8 mm)
- Spike material: Hardened stainless steel
The Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction Device stands out with its innovative neoprene toe cover, which snugly fits over the shoe’s front. This thoughtful design eliminates any confusion about orientation, making it straightforward to put on. The cover also adds a touch of waterproofing and warmth – perfect for those cold, wet trail days. Additionally, these snow chains for boots aid in packing by allowing the spikes to be rolled neatly into the cover and contribute to the device’s lightweight construction.
Initially, I was skeptical about the Distance Spike’s lightweight design, the seemingly small spikes, and the delicate feel of the neoprene cover. However, after nearly daily use through a tough winter, I came to appreciate these features. The lightweight build made them easy to wear, the spikes provided dependable traction, and the neoprene cover simplified handling while offering the added benefit of keeping my toes drier and slightly warmer.
Best Budget: Yaktrax Walk ($14.99 – $24.95 on Amazon)
- Category: Daily use
- Weight per pair: 4.5 oz.
- Traction: 1.2mm steel coils
- Harness: Polyelastometer
Instead of spikes, Yaktrax Walk features low-profile steel coils that stretch across the soles of your shoes or boots. Weighing just 4.5 ounces per pair, these snow chains for boots are lightweight, easy to slip on and off thanks to a stretchy poly elastomer harness, and affordably priced. For casual winter use, the Walk snow grips offer excellent value, even if you only need them a couple of times a year.
However, these budget-friendly snow chains for boots do come with limitations. The steel coils provide decent traction on ice and packed snow and are less likely to clog than spike-based designs, but they’re not suited for steep slopes or technical terrain. Durability is another concern, as some users have reported the rubber netting underfoot wearing out prematurely – a potential drawback for anything beyond light, everyday use.
Best for Running: Kahtoola NANOspikes ($30 – $42.99 on Amazon)
- Number of Points: 10
- Measured Weight (per pair): 9.0 oz
- Grip Style: Cleat
- Spike Material: Tungsten Carbide
The Kahtoola NANOspikes are sleek and lightweight cleats designed with ten small metal points, each extending less than ¼ inch. This low-profile design provides reliable traction on packed snow and lightly iced surfaces without adding bulk. The points are strategically positioned to ensure stability and grip with every step, making the NANOspikes an excellent choice for dedicated winter runners who refuse to let cold weather disrupt their training. They’re also easy to slip on and stay firmly in place throughout your run.
While the NANOspikes perform well on packed snow, they don’t match the effectiveness of crampon-style cleats in deeper snow or on soft, unfrozen terrain like dirt trails. The short points can lose grip if the ground shifts, limiting their utility in those conditions. Additionally, they are relatively pricey, especially given their specialized use.
Best for Alpine Use: Hillsound Trail Crampon Pro ($82.14 – $84.95 on Amazon)
- Category: Hiking
- Weight per pair: 1 lb. 7.5 oz.
- Traction: 10 carbon steel spikes (0.75-1-in.)
- Harness: Plastic ratcheting system
Hillsound may not be as widely recognized as brands, but they produce some of the most well-crafted and high-performing traction devices available. Leading their range is the Trail Crampon Pro, a specialized tool designed for demanding winter backcountry activities such as high-alpine trekking. The design combines elements of traditional crampons with microspikes, featuring a user-friendly ratcheting system that fits most boots and 10 long (0.75–1 inch) carbon steel spikes, including two at the front, which provide excellent grip on thick ice and packed snow. If your winter adventures include traversing icy surfaces, low-angle snow fields, or slippery boulder terrain, these snow chains for boots are a reliable choice.
That said, it’s important not to confuse the Trail Crampon Pro with a full-fledged mountaineering crampon. While it’s a great option for situations where microspikes fall short, it’s not intended for technical climbs or ice climbing. The plastic adjustment system isn’t as durable as the metal ones found in true crampons, and it’s not designed for mountaineering boots, which require automatic crampons with toe bails and heel clips for a secure fit. For more casual backcountry hiking or moderate ascents, however, these snow chains for boots offer a lighter and more versatile alternative.
Korkers Ice Walker ($59.99 on Amazon)
- Category: Daily use
- Weight per pair: 11 oz.
- Traction: 11 steel studs
- Harness: Boa L6 lacing system
At first glance, the Korkers Ice Walker stands out from the other snow chains for boots mentioned above. Its most noticeable feature is the thick rubber upper, which incorporates a Boa cinch system at the top. This allows you to easily adjust the tightness with a simple twist of the knob, ensuring a snug, custom fit. The Ice Walker’s underfoot design is similar to Kahtoola’s Nanospikes, featuring 11 steel studs arranged across a broad rubber platform. While it’s primarily designed for walking and everyday use rather than running, its grip on flat, icy surfaces is nonetheless impressive.
However, the Ice Walker has a couple of downsides. One of the most significant issues is that the steel studs can pop out, even though Korkers offers replacement tips. The push-through design makes it easy for the studs to get lost, which can be frustrating. Lastly, like the Nanospikes, the full-coverage platform of the Ice Walker struggles in fresh snow. Despite these flaws, if you’ve had trouble finding a good fit with standard elastomer and rubber models, these snow chains for boots might be worth a try for their customizable fit and solid grip.
Stabilicers Maxx 2 ($59.99 on Amazon)
- Category: Daily use
- Traction: 15 stainless steel studs
- Harness: Velcro straps
The Stabilicers Maxx 2 is designed specifically for individuals who work outdoors during the winter. Its primary focus is on durability and a secure fit, featuring thick stainless steel studs for reliable traction and multiple Velcro straps to secure the device across the toe, forefoot, and ankle. Unlike many other models, these snow chains for boots cover the entire sole of the boot to ensure maximum surface contact, with extra tread in the center to complement the cleats around the edges.
While the Stabilicers Maxx 2 is highly effective for professional use, it may not be ideal for casual outdoor enthusiasts. The rigid, full-coverage sole is not particularly flexible, making it less suitable for activities like hiking, where flexibility is needed for uneven terrain. Additionally, the platform design requires precise sizing, which can cause issues if you plan to switch between different types of footwear, such as trail runners and winter boots.
How we tested
For this review, we carefully researched the best snow chains for boots options available on the market, gathering detailed specifications for each model. From there, we selected the top contenders for hands-on testing, which involved a variety of activities such as trail running, wood splitting, shoveling, and walking on sheet ice. Throughout our testing process, we meticulously recorded our findings and observed each product’s performance, paying attention to the smallest details.
Additionally, we tested how securely the devices fit once they were on, pulling and pushing them around our shoes to see if they stayed in place. After all testing was completed, we rated each product based on its performance across a range of activities, while also inspecting for signs of wear and tear.
Our snow chains for boot testing were divided into six key metrics, with the following weightings:
- Traction (30% of overall score)
- Ease of Use (20% weighting)
- Secure Fit (15% weighting)
- Versatility (15% weighting)
- Durability (10% weighting)
- Packability (10% weighting)
Conclusion
Snow chains for boots are a must-have accessory for anyone venturing into icy or snowy conditions. They provide the traction and stability needed to confidently navigate challenging terrain, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience. Don’t let the cold or ice slow you down, get the right snow chains and enjoy your snowy treks with peace of mind.
