10 Best Ice Cleats 2025 in the United States

The Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats are designed to provide solid grip on snow, ice, and various other terrains. The cleats feature 360-degree traction thanks to their innovative coil technology. This ensures stability whether you're moving forward, backward, or sideways. Made from synthetic material, these cleats use a thermoplastic rubber sling that remains durable and crack-free even in very cold conditions. This material is also fully recyclable, which is a nice eco-friendly touch.

The zinc-coated steel coils are resistant to rust and abrasion, providing long-lasting performance without sharp edges that could damage shoes or surfaces. They are designed to be easy to put on and take off, with a stretchy fit that accommodates different footwear shapes and sizes. Weighing just 3.2 ounces, these cleats are lightweight and won't add much extra bulk to your steps. However, since they are sized small, they might not fit larger footwear properly.

These cleats are a unisex product suitable for adults and women, making them versatile. Some users may find the fit varies depending on their shoe style, and the lightweight design may be more suited to casual walks rather than intense activities. These cleats are a great choice for anyone needing reliable, easy-to-use traction on icy or snowy ground, but they might not be the best option for larger shoes or more rigorous use.

The Yaktrax Walk Plus ice-cleats are designed to offer reliable multi-directional traction on icy and snowy surfaces thanks to their durable steel coil grips. This all-around grip helps reduce slipping, making them a good choice for anyone walking in winter conditions. Their steel coils also provide a springy feel, which means they are more comfortable underfoot compared to other types of cleats that can create pressure points. The flexible thermoplastic rubber upper stays stretchy even in very cold weather, making them easy to put on and take off. The built-in heel tab further simplifies this process. Weighing only about 0.18 kilograms, these cleats are lightweight and come with a convenient carry bag and carabiner, so you can easily transport and store them when not in use.

The fit is important since they come in sizes; the small size mentioned here should fit snugly for most feet in that range, but checking the right size for your shoe is key to avoid slipping or discomfort. In terms of durability, the combination of stainless steel coils and strong rubber materials promises solid performance over time, backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty. One minor downside is that sizing must be chosen carefully, and while they’re easy to put on, some users might find the coils less effective on very uneven or gravelly terrain. These cleats are well suited for people needing dependable traction on ice and snow without sacrificing comfort and portability.

The Kahtoola EXOspikes are designed for winter hiking, backpacking, and trail-running, providing excellent traction with their 12 spikes per foot. The combination of tungsten carbide tips, aluminum steps, and TPU lugs ensures a solid grip on icy and rocky terrains, making them highly effective in a variety of winter conditions, including frozen mountain trails and icy roads. The materials used, including aluminum and tungsten carbide, promise durability, while the TPU adds flexibility and abrasion resistance, even more so than steel.

The elastomer harness, made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), is lightweight and maintains its stretchiness in very cold temperatures, down to -22°F (-30°C). This ensures a secure fit that can adapt to different types of footwear, although it is important to check the sizing chart carefully to ensure the correct fit, especially since this model is in X-Small size. The open design helps shed snow quickly, which adds to the ease of use. The spikes are also quite lightweight, at only 8 ounces, making them easy to carry around without adding significant weight to your gear.

The small size may limit its use to those with smaller feet, and it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your specific footwear. The Kahtoola EXOspikes come with a 2-year limited warranty, adding reassurance about the product's longevity. These ice cleats are a strong option for anyone needing reliable and durable traction in winter conditions, particularly for those who engage in various outdoor activities like hiking and running.