Winter can mean the end of hiking season for many people. But, honestly, you don’t have to stop hiking when the ground is covered in snow and ice, you just need the right gear. Snowshoes are fine when the powder is deep, but what about when it hasn’t snowed in a while? That’s when you need MICROspikes from Kahtoola. MICROspikes are stainless steel spikes and chains that you put underneath your boots for good traction in icy conditions. Think studded snow tires for your feet. I’ve been winter hiking with a pair this year and now I never walk into the mountains without them in my pack.
Kahtoola MICROspikes feature:
- Heat treated 400 series stainless steel spikes
- 3/8 inch spike length
- 12 spikes per foot
- 2 year warranty
- Tote sack
So why have a pair of MICROspikes instead of just using snowshoes? Here is a scenario that happens often in Utah: no snow has fallen in weeks, and the old snow on your favorite trails get packed down and very slippery. Snowshoes are overkill if you’re not sinking into the snow, but the packed trails collect sections of glazed ice, especially under evergreen trees that have been dripping water. Some examples of this can be found in Mill Creek Canyon like the Desolation Trail, Thaynes Canyon Trail, and Elbow Fork. Having spikes under your boots allows you to safely negotiate any icy spots without worrying about slipping and falling.
This year saw the release of a new iteration of MICROspikes, featuring a lower-profile elastomer harness, with eyelet reinforcements and integrated toe bale. They also now have welded chains, and complete stainless steel construction for all metal components. The new harness now has a 50% lower profile, and a 13% total weight reduction over the previous MICROspikes.
Putting on the spikes is super easy. An Elastomer (a sister material to rubber, but one that’s much stronger and more durable) harness attached to the chains slips on over boots with zero fuss, and the elasticity allows the spikes to fit different styles of boot from low profile to bulky winter stompers. Hiking in them I felt hardly any difference in added weight. In fact, I barely knew I was wearing them (aside from the fact that my boots would make a satisfying crunch sound with every step into hardpack snow.)
Hiking on winter trails is absolutely game-changing with MICROspikes. In the past I would have to be very careful walking on icy spots (or walk off-trail to go around). But with the spikes on, I could cruise through any hazardous conditions without missing a step. Hell, I could even run on ice! The spikes are totally confidence-boosting. Plus, they can be stored in a small tote sack. Simply toss them in your pack and whip them out when you need them on your hike. Just because the trail is dry at the trailhead, doesn’t mean you won’t encounter icy spots at high elevations.
Ice fishing is another ideal use for MICROspikes, especially during early ice season when the surface is ultra-slick before snow piles up on the lake.
The Good: Provides unparalleled traction, durable materials, easy storage with tote sack
The Bad: I can find nothing to complain about!
Final Word: Kahtoola MICROspikes are a must-have for anyone looking to hit the trail in fall, winter or spring. There’s no reason not to have a pair along. They are easy to get on and off, and will provide ultimate security on slippery trails.