The Best Ice Cleats for Wintry Conditions

Slipping and falling on snow or ice can be very painful. If you want to walk comfortably without worrying about injuring yourself, then you need traction to beat the water-slicked ice and the hard-packed snow. With ice cleats, you now have an elastic yet durable device that can fit around any shoe, regardless if you are wearing tennis shoes, dress shoes, or boots. The design of ice cleats not only helps reduce injury but provides aggressive traction for all winter walking conditions. So whether you are shoveling snow or working in wintry conditions, you know you are safe with a pair of cleats. Here are some fantastic ice cleats we recommend.

What to Look for in Ice Cleats

When searching for the ideal set of ice cleats, consider these factors:

• Durability: Durable ice cleats all come down to aggressive traction that is made possible with stainless steel spikes and flexible silicone material. If you are searching for a pair of ice cleats that will help during wintry walks, then something lightweight will suffice. For something more durable, consider cleats with robust spikes that won’t easily rust.
• Traction: Depending on what you are using your ice cleats for, you should consider traction a major factor in deciding which cleats will work best for you. Walking on sidewalks and working at wintry job sites both require different traction levels.
• Versatility: In terms of versatility, be sure to find ice cleats that will fit any type of shoe, regardless if you are male or female. It’s also ideal if your ice cleats are suitable for any type of environment or terrain.

Best Overall: ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip Traction Cleats

These shoe grips are available in different sizes to fit any shoe size and style, both male or female variations. It’s made of case-hardened steel alloy and strung on steel aircraft cable. This pair offers great stability while being comfortable to walk in, which can be a problem for most ice cleats. The diamond grip is designed to provide quality traction in winter walking conditions, as its self-clearing construction prevents snow and ice buildup.

Most Lightweight: Kahtoola NANOspikes Footwear Traction

If you are looking for something lightweight that’s perfect for tamed wintry activities, then these ice cleats from Kahtoola come highly recommended. Its evolved spike design bites into icy sidewalks and roads with its low-profile winter traction device. Although light, it’s still durable with its 10 TPU cleats which add a level of shock absorption. The nano spikes are especially perfect for transitioning between dry and slippery pavement without affecting the natural running motion, so if you are looking for a wintry jog, then these ice cleats are ideal for you.

Best Bang for Your Buck: Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats

When shopping around for the right ice cleats, one of the best value options are these traction cleats from Yaktrax. They are super affordable and come in a variety of sizes. Its lightweight design reduces the risk of falls when walking on snow or ice and is kept secure with a durable polyelastomer outer band. The straps are highly elastic, so it’s easy to strap on and off, making it an ideal option for pedestrians, professionals, and the elderly.

Most Durable: EnergeticSky Ice Cleats

EnergeticSky provides one of the more robust and durable pairs of ice cleats. The link of this crampon uses a welding chain that is stronger than other cleats because of its equal distribution of weight and durability. Its silicone material is highly elastic and won’t tear or snap, so it’s perfect if you are constantly around wintry weather. They also fit easily and securely over your own shoes or boots and fold small enough to be kept in the car.

Most Versatile: Cimkiz Crampons Ice Cleats

Another quality option is Cimkiz’s ice cleats. With 19 high-quality stainless steel spikes per foot, this firm chain system comes with improved joints, a reinforced chain system, and a stretchy thermoplastic elastomer to make sure you can use these crampons for many winters to come. It’s also versatile because it can be used for various kinds of sports, hiking, and mountaineering. They are also easy to put on, lightweight, and come with a bag so you can carry them with you anywhere.