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Explained

Ice Cleats, Explained

After reading, you'll understand how spike type, length, material and harness design decide whether ice cleats keep you upright.

Updated September 25, 2026 · Companion to our Outdoors & Fitness review

Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction - our top pick
In this guide

Ice cleats look similar in photos, but the traction system underneath varies a lot. Coils and spikes suit different surfaces, spike length changes how they feel on rock, and the harness decides whether they stay on in the cold. Sizing is by the boot, not your foot. Here is what to look for.

The 30-second version

  • Spikes grip hard ice, while coils suit packed snow.
  • Spike length is a trade-off, between bite on ice and stability on rock.
  • Stainless steel resists rust, and carbon steel needs drying.
  • Harness material matters in the cold, because stiff rubber is hard to put on.
  • Size for your boots, not your street shoes.

The products this guide is about

Our verdict on each, with the full reasoning on the companion review.

What actually matters

  • Traction system - spikes on chains, coils on a frame or plates with spikes. Each suits different ground.
  • Spike count and length - more spikes spread grip, and longer spikes bite deeper. Short spikes are steadier on rock.
  • Material - stainless steel resists rust. Carbon steel is hard but needs drying.
  • Harness - TPE and TPR elastomers stay stretchy in the cold. Straps add security.
  • Weight - lighter cleats are easier to carry and run in. Heavier systems usually bite harder.
  • Sizing - brands size by footwear. Bulky boots may need the next size up.
  • Warranty - a long warranty signals durable chains and harnesses.

The specs, in plain English

MicrospikesShort steel spikes on chains, held on by a stretchy harness. The name is a Kahtoola trademark but used loosely for the style.
Coil cleatSteel wire coiled around a rubber frame. It grips packed snow but has no points for hard ice.
Trail cramponA hybrid with longer spikes, sometimes on plates, for steep icy trails. Lighter than mountaineering crampons.
TPE / TPRThermoplastic elastomer and thermoplastic rubber, stretchy materials used for harnesses that stay flexible in the cold.
Toe bailA reinforced section at the front of the harness that stops your toe pushing through on descents.
Heat-treated steelSteel hardened by heating and cooling, which makes spikes last longer.
400-series stainlessA hard, corrosion-resistant stainless steel grade used by Kahtoola for its spikes.
Front pointA spike placed near the toe to grip when you push off, as on the Black Diamond Access Spike.

Green flags vs red flags

Green flags

  • Published spike count, length and material.
  • A cold rating for the harness.
  • Weights and sizes by footwear.
  • A warranty of two years or more.
  • Clear guidance on intended terrain.

Red flags

  • No weight or warranty on the product page.
  • Coils sold for steep trails.
  • No sizing guide.
  • Unnamed steel or harness materials.
  • No care advice for carbon steel.

Who's who: the brands

  • Kahtoola - The maker of MICROspikes, known for pull-on traction for hiking and running.
  • Black Diamond - A climbing and mountain brand whose traction line includes the Access and Distance Spike.
  • Hillsound - An outdoor brand known for its Trail Crampon and plate-based spike systems.
  • Yaktrax - Known for coil-based ice cleats and a range of spiked traction devices.

How to read a listing without getting fooled

Start with the traction system and look for spike count, spike length and material. Then check the harness material and any cold rating, and the extras such as toe bails, heel loops or straps. Look up the size chart against the footwear you will wear. Finally, check the weight and the warranty.

How much should you spend?

Budget cleats are usually coil designs for town walking, fine on flat packed snow. Mid-range spike systems add stainless steel spikes, better harnesses and warranties, and they are the right choice for most trail users. Premium and technical options add longer spikes, plates or crampon-style frames for steep, icy terrain.

Questions, answered

Can I drive with ice cleats on?

No. Spikes and coils can catch on pedals and reduce control. Take them off before driving and store them in a bag.

Are ice cleats good for running?

Yes, lighter spike systems with shorter spikes are popular for winter trail running. Make sure the harness fits snugly so they do not shift. Coils are less secure at speed on hard ice.

Do I need ice cleats or crampons?

Ice cleats and microspikes cover sidewalks, winter trails and moderate slopes. Crampons are for steep snow and ice in the mountains, with rigid boots and an ice axe. If you are unsure, you probably need microspikes.

Will ice cleats fit over running shoes?

Most will, if you choose the right size. Soft shoes let the harness squash them a little, so check the fit. Kahtoola and Black Diamond both size by footwear.

Ready to choose? See our top pick, the alternatives, and the one we'd skip See the Ice Cleats verdicts

Or jump to the head-to-head: Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction vs Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

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