Footwear sizing is based on the inside fit of the shoe or boot to our feet. As Yaktrax® fit on the outside of the footwear, it is the actual footprint or circumference that is relevant when you choose the correct size.

At a glance, there appears to be little difference between Yaktrax and MICROspikes ®, but if we take a deeper dive, some significant differences will impact your choice. Activity Use and Terrain It can be a little confusing when we talk about traction devices. Some people use the MICROspikes ® name interchangeably with any traction device that has moderately length spikes or cleats. However, MICROspikes ® is a trademarked name by Kahtoola for that specific model. So you’ll see many traction devices listed for sale as ice cleats. Are MICROspikes ® and Crampons the Same Thing? Unfortunately, many people compare the cheapest Yaktrax with the heavy-duty Kahtoola MICROspikes®. That’s comparing apples to bananas.

FAQs about Selecting a Traction Device

The Kahtoola MICROspikes ® uses a rubber frame called the elastomer harness that you slip over your boot’s toe and then pull up over your heel. This design is familiar in many traction devices and is effective for a versatile fit. The toe bail, the rubber over the top of your boots, is wide enough to provide a snug fit. The best hiking microspikes benefit from an easy slip-on design. You pull the harness around the hiking shoes you're wearing and snap it into place. Some models come with an additional velcro strap for a more precise fit. There are also some heavier models like the Hillsound Trail Crampon that are tougher to slip on. However, microspikes also have limits. Even the most aggressive microspikes will have trouble holding onto slopes steeper than about 25 degrees. The layout of the spikes is different between the two winter traction devices, with the spikes providing somewhat different advantages. Winner: Yaktrax Summit – coming in at 1/4 pound lighter is a pretty significant difference. The Spike Material

Between the Yaktrax Summit and the Kahtoola Microspikes, we recommend the MICROspikes ®. In this case, it is a pretty tough call; you have two very high-quality products that are proven to work in moderately difficult winter environments.Generally speaking, microspikes are best for generating additional traction on ice and snow. They slip on easily and offer a way to grip trails and road surfaces with gentle pitches. As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, many people compare apples to bananas when looking at traction devices. Yaktrax and Kahtoola both have a wide selection of styles, each meant for a different purpose. The base Yaktrax, Walk or Pro, and Kahtoola MICROspikes ® are two different traction devices that offer many differences for people who need to walk on snow or ice. The price, weight, durability, grip, and longevity differ considerably between the two products. Think about what type of terrain you're going to put your microspikes through. An aggressive design is best for challenging trail conditions and winter hikes. A lighter setup for running shoes is best for city streets and crossing small sections of icy surfaces. Durability The difference comes in how you personally use your traction devices and what you want in fit and durability. So, let’s take a look at those features. Weight of the Traction Spikes