Winter hiking transforms familiar trails into breathtaking, frosty landscapes, but it also introduces the significant challenge of slippery, unstable terrain. Having the right traction underfoot is not just about comfort; it’s a critical safety measure that allows you to confidently navigate ice, hard-packed snow, and steep inclines. This roundup focuses on eight of the best crampons and traction devices, from aggressive technical tools for climbers to lightweight cleats for hikers, ensuring you find the perfect match for your cold-weather adventures.
The ideal choice depends heavily on your specific activity, boot type, and the conditions you expect to face. Technical mountaineering crampons offer maximum security on vertical ice, while flexible traction systems provide sufficient grip for most winter trails without the weight or complexity. We’ve selected a range of products to cover these varied needs, highlighting key features like spike material, harness design, and intended use to help you make an informed decision.
Our Recommended Winter Traction Devices
- PETZL Lynx Crampons for Ice and Mixed Terrain
- Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction
- Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats
- Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra I Ice Cleat
- Hillsound FlexSteps Crampon, Lightweight Ice Cleat
- Black Diamond Contact Crampons
- PETZL Leopard FL Crampons
- Grivel G12 Crampons
PETZL Lynx Crampons for Ice and Mixed Terrain
Designed for the most demanding ice and mixed terrain climbs, the PETZL Lynx crampons are built for maximum performance and security. Their modular front section allows for quick adaptation between mono-point and dual-point configurations, giving climbers versatility for different styles. Made from durable steel, they provide an extremely strong hold and are built to withstand the rigors of technical mountaineering.
The 14-point design, including aggressive front points, ensures reliable penetration on vertical ice and frozen surfaces. These crampons are compatible with automatic boots and feature a secure, tool-free binding system for efficient adjustments in the field. For climbers tackling steep waterfalls, alpine ice, or challenging mixed routes, the Lynx offers the tenacious grip and robust construction required for safety and confidence in extreme conditions.
Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction
The Kahtoola MICROspikes are a favorite among winter hikers and trail runners for their simplicity and effective traction on icy trails. They are designed for all-around use on mountain trails, making them ideal for winter hiking, backpacking, and even ice fishing. Their flexible harness fits securely over a wide range of hiking shoes and boots, providing a reliable solution without the bulk of full crampons.
Each foot features 12 heat-treated stainless steel spikes that aggressively bite into icy terrain. The patented elastomer harness is reinforced with tough TPU inserts at key stress points, creating a system that is both strong and lightweight. This harness remains flexible and stretchy in extremely cold temperatures, down to -22°F, ensuring a secure fit throughout your winter adventure.
Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats
For everyday winter walking on snow and ice, the Yaktrax Diamond Grip offers a balanced combination of traction, comfort, and ease of use. Their design features patented diamond beads made from case-hardened steel alloy, which provide reliable grip on various slippery surfaces. These cleats are an excellent choice for cleared sidewalks, packed snow trails, and other urban or light trail conditions.
The upper band is made from cold-resistant natural rubber that stays flexible in sub-zero temperatures, preventing cracking and making them easy to put on and take off. The traction elements are strung on aircraft-grade steel cables with riveted attachments for long-lasting durability. If your primary need is secure footing during winter walks, commutes, or light hiking, the Diamond Grip is a dependable and accessible option.
Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra I Ice Cleat
Bridging the gap between light traction and full crampons, the Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra I is built for aggressive hiking and trail running on icy terrain. It features 18 heat-treated stainless steel spikes, including three particularly aggressive 2/3-inch spikes on the heel for confident descents and climbs. This design provides a significant bite that surpasses simpler cleats, making it suitable for steeper, icier trails.
The double-link side chains and a reinforced steel toe bail enhance durability and security on variable, uneven terrain. The high-quality elastomer harness stretches for a secure fit over trail runners, hiking boots, and insulated winter boots while maintaining resilience in very cold conditions. For hikers who encounter consistent ice and need more traction than MICROspikes offer, this model is a robust step up.
Hillsound FlexSteps Crampon
The Hillsound FlexSteps are designed as a lightweight and packable traction solution for snow and light trail hiking. Weighing just over 12 ounces and including a carry bag, they are easy to stow in a backpack when conditions are uncertain. Their versatility allows them to fit running shoes, flexible hiking boots, and insulated winter boots comfortably.
They utilize 18 flexible stainless steel spikes, each 1/4 inch long, dispersed evenly from heel to toe. This configuration promotes even weight distribution and stable, comfortable tracking across icy patches. If your winter activities involve mostly flat or gently rolling terrain with intermittent ice, the FlexSteps provide essential grip without unnecessary weight or rigidity.
Black Diamond Contact Crampons
Black Diamond Contact Crampons are a popular choice for general mountaineering and glacier travel. They are engineered to offer a reliable blend of performance, durability, and value for climbers and serious alpine hikers. Their design typically features 10 or 12 steel points, providing secure traction on snow, ice, and mixed alpine terrain without the specialization of vertical ice tools.
They often come with a hybrid or strap binding system, making them compatible with a wide range of boot types, from stiff mountaineering boots to more flexible hiking boots. The frame is built to be robust yet relatively lightweight, suitable for long approaches and varied conditions. For those involved in alpine climbing, glacier traverses, or steep snowfield ascents, the Contact series represents a trusted and versatile workhorse.
PETZL Leopard FL Crampons
The PETZL Leopard FL Crampons are designed as a lightweight, flexible solution for technical alpine climbing and mountain running where conditions can vary rapidly. Their defining characteristic is a flexible linkage between the toe and heel sections, allowing them to conform closely to agile footwear like approach shoes or lightweight mountain boots. This design prioritizes freedom of movement and reduced weight.
Despite their flexible nature, they incorporate sharp, aggressive points for confident traction on ice and hard snow. They are an excellent option for fast-and-light alpinists, ski mountaineers needing traction for boot packs, or anyone who values a crampon that moves naturally with their foot over technical, mixed terrain. The Leopard FL is for the athlete who needs serious bite without the rigidity of a traditional crampon.
Grivel G12 Crampons
A classic in the mountaineering world, the Grivel G12 Crampons are renowned for their durability and all-around capability. They have been a standard choice for decades for everything from glacier travel and alpine climbing to steep ice. Their robust steel construction and versatile 12-point design provide secure footing across a broad spectrum of winter and alpine conditions.
Many models feature a modular design with interchangeable front sections, allowing them to be configured as a monopoint or traditional dual-point crampon. This adaptability, combined with a reputation for nearly indestructible build quality, makes the G12 a long-term investment for mountaineers. They are suited for climbers who want a single, dependable pair of crampons that can handle most objectives they might encounter.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Winter Hiking Crampons
Choosing the right pair of crampons can feel overwhelming, but it boils down to matching the gear to your boots and the terrain. I’ve learned the hard way that getting this wrong is more than just inconvenient; it can be unsafe. Let’s break down what you need to know before picking from any list of the best crampons for winter hiking.
First, and this is non-negotiable, you must check the boot compatibility. Crampons are designed for specific boot stiffness. Flexible, soft hiking boots typically only work with strap-on models (C1). Stiffer backpacking or mountaineering boots (C2) can handle hybrid strap-and-heel-bail models. For the stiffest plastic or full-shank mountaineering boots (C3), you’ll need a fully rigid, step-in crampon. Your boot’s heel and toe welts must be compatible with the binding system. If you’re unsure, take your boots to a reputable shop.
Next, consider the terrain. Are you mostly on packed snow trails with occasional icy patches, or are you venturing onto steep, hard ice? For general winter hiking and moderate slopes, a 10-point or 12-point crampon with horizontal front points is perfect. They’re lighter, easier to walk in, and provide plenty of grip. If your adventures include technical ice climbing or very steep alpine terrain, you’ll need a 12-point model with vertical front points and more aggressive frame rigidity. For most hikers, a semi-rigid or flexible model is the sweet spot.
The binding system is key to a secure fit. Full strap bindings are versatile and fit the widest range of boots, which is why they’re common on the best crampons for winter hiking. They can be a bit fussier to put on with gloves. Hybrid systems (strap front, heel bail/wire) are more secure and faster on/off for compatible boots. Full step-in systems are the most secure and fastest, but require very specific, stiff boots.
Finally, think about materials and weight. Steel crampons are durable and can handle rock contact, but are heavier. Aluminum models are light, great for long approaches on snow, but wear down quickly on rock or hard ice. For most winter hikers, a steel model offers the best balance of durability and performance. Don’t forget anti-balling plates—those little rubber or plastic pads that prevent snow from clumping underfoot. They are a small, essential feature.
FAQ
Can I use crampons with my regular waterproof hiking boots?
It depends entirely on the stiffness of your boot. Most flexible hiking boots are only compatible with specific strap-on crampon models. The boot needs to be rigid enough to support the crampon frame without flexing too much, which can cause the bindings to come loose or the frame to break. Always check the manufacturer’s boot compatibility chart for the specific crampon model. Using a crampon on an incompatible boot is a major safety risk.
How do I know if my crampons fit correctly?
A proper fit means the crampon frame matches the length and width of your boot without significant overhang. The front points should extend just beyond the toe of your boot, and the heel should sit snugly in the rear binding. When everything is fastened, the crampon should feel like a solid extension of your boot—no shifting or wobbling. It’s a good idea to walk around on flat, safe ground (like a carpet) to check the fit before heading out.
What’s the difference between 10-point and 12-point crampons?
The points refer to the number of downward-facing spikes. A 10-point crampon typically has two front points and four points under each foot. They are lighter and designed for walking on snow and moderate ice. A 12-point crampon adds two secondary front points, providing more aggressive traction for steeper terrain. For general winter hiking, a 10-point model is often sufficient, but a 12-point offers more versatility if you encounter varied or steeper conditions.
How do I walk in crampons without hurting myself?
It takes a little practice! The key is to walk with a slightly wider stance to avoid catching the crampon points on your pant legs or the opposite ankle. Take flat, deliberate steps and try to plant all points evenly. On slopes, use a kick-step technique to embed the front points. Avoid crossing your feet. I always recommend practicing in a safe, flat area first to get the feel for them. This is one skill where reviewing a list of the best crampons for winter hiking is less important than learning the proper technique.
How should I care for and store my crampons?
After every use, dry them thoroughly to prevent rust, even if they are stainless steel. I wipe mine down and leave them in a warm, dry place. Check the points for dulling and the straps/bindings for wear. Store them in a protective bag to keep the points from damaging other gear and to protect yourself when reaching into your pack. Many models come with a storage bag. A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring they’re safe and ready for your next hike.