Review: Ice Cleats with 19 Stainless Steel Spikes – Reliable Winter Traction for Hikers & Walkers
If you’re hiking in snowy or icy conditions, good traction can make or break your experience. I’ve tested these Ice Cleats with 19 Stainless Steel Spikes on multiple 5-mile snow hikes—and they’ve performed flawlessly every time. No slips, no failures, and no discomfort.
Overview
These crampons are built for serious grip in slick winter terrain. Whether you’re hiking uphill through hardpack snow or walking icy trails in the woods, the 19-spike configuration grips securely without overcomplicating the design.
I’ve worn them in real winter conditions—snow-covered trails, slushy inclines, and frozen paths—and they’ve exceeded expectations.
Key Features
- 19 Stainless Steel Spikes
Aggressively placed for excellent traction on snow and ice, including inclines and uneven surfaces. - Heavy-Duty Chains
Solid underfoot support and even distribution of pressure for better stability. - Flexible Silicone Harness
Easy to stretch over hiking boots and stays in place without shifting or tearing in the cold. - Unisex Fit
Multiple sizes fit a variety of footwear types. I used mine with standard waterproof hiking boots. - Compact & Lightweight
Rolls up small enough to toss in your pack without adding bulk.
Real-World Use
I used these cleats on:
- Snow-covered forest trails
- Icy hills and switchbacks
- Slushy and refrozen terrain
Across all those conditions, they delivered stable footing and dependable grip. I never had to adjust them mid-hike, and they didn’t clog or shift.
Not for Trail Running
While they’re excellent for hiking, I wouldn’t recommend these for trail running. The aggressive metal spikes and heavier build are designed for walking pace—not the flex and foot strike of a runner. For running, a lower-profile traction device would be more appropriate.
Ideal For
- Winter hiking
- Ice fishing
- Walking on icy roads or sidewalks
- Light mountaineering (non-technical terrain)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent traction on ice and snow
- Easy to use and very secure
- Durable and cold-resistant
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Not for trail running or vertical ice climbing
Final Thoughts
These 19-spike crampons are an excellent budget-friendly option for winter hikers, dog walkers, and anyone needing extra traction on snowy or icy terrain. After several long hikes in winter conditions, I trust them fully for moderate winter adventures.
Where to Buy