Best Ice Grippers & Cleats for Shoes

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
STABILicers MAXX 2
Test Winner: STABILicers MAXX 2
Amazon Link
Ice cleats, traction aids and crampons are all fantastic ice grippers when walking or jogging in snow and ice. Providing the perfect balance of traction and stability, ice grippers can easily be attached to your shoes, allowing you to safely navigate through snow and ice without slipping and getting hurt. 

Ice grippers can range in design, size, and price, and when it comes to picking the correct ones for you, it may seem like a minefield.

That is why we have reviewed and selected some of the best ice cleats on the market so you can be sure to stay firmly on your feet!  

Standout Picks

STABILicers MAXX 2
These sturdy ice gripping sole cleats provide unsurpassed traction on snow, ice, or even mud. Some terrains can be tough to go through, but with the STABILicers MAXX 2, it’s literally a walk in the park. The 34 casehardened cleats bite into the slickest snow or ice, giving serious traction.
Amazon Link
Kahtoola MICROspikes
These award-winning (backpackers editor’s choice 2012 award) crampons have a grippy, durable, easy to slip-on traction system. Ever since the brand won the prize, little has changed from the strategically laced stainless steel spikes to the tough elastomer shoe harness connecting the dynamic flex chain. With all that’s going for it, you can get a pair and walk comfortably over any slippery, snowy, or icy terrain.
Amazon Link
Yaktrax Traction Chains-Best-Ice-Grippers-for-Shoes-Reviewed
These grippers are widely used by runners, hikers, walkers, and winter athletes to reduce the chances of falling. The ten gripping points ensure you have a natural stride. The abrasion-resistant stainless steel spikes, fill the bottom of your shoe to bite the ice. Multiple coil angles on the carbide-steel spikes combine to offer all-around traction on snow and ice surfaces.
Amazon Link
ICETrekkers
These tire chains have individually welded case hardened square steel links. The TIG-welded chains are arranged in unique ladder patterns under the ball of the foot and triangular on the heel to ensure a stable footing, comfortable for extended wear. You get this and much more at an affordable price too.
Amazon Link
Unigear Traction Cleats
These snow spikes are worth every penny, managing to overcome most shortcomings by their competitors. Some options aren’t large enough, making them useless in the snow, while others are just too expensive for nothing. Unigear manages to suit most people by having an excellent design and premium materials.
Amazon Link
Limm Crampons
This unique pair of ice cleats will prevent you from slipping and hurting yourself in the snow. Another stand out feature is how they have many fixed-size options, rather than having adjustability in general. You first outfit the front part of the shoe and adjust the back end. Tightening straps are also included for and even more secure fit.
Amazon Link
EnergeticSky Ice Cleat
These pair of ice cleats from EnergeticSky are suitable for ice fishing, winter trail hiking, and even traditional fishing. The 19-multi directional spikes provide excellent traction on icy surfaces. The strategic placements of the spikes ensure uniform distribution, providing durability, comfort, and balance.
Amazon Link
Due North Everyday G3 Ice and Snow Traction Aid
Designed to be worn with lightweight casual, athletic, or dressy shoes, the Due North Everyday G3 will provide you with the support and stability you need when walking or running in icy and snowy conditions. Unique in comparison to a lot of the other cleats in our collection, these traction aids have been designs to be minimalistic, you could even say practically invisible.
Amazon Link
ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Winter Ice Grips for Shoes and Boots 
These ICETRAX V3 Tungsten ice grips have been designed to wear in extreme snow and icy weather conditions. Whether you are shoveling snow, walking, or even running, you will feel safe and fully supported. This option features a snow tread traction system and 9 strategically placed ice cleats creating the ultimate level of traction.
Amazon Link
ODIER Shoe Ice Cleats  
The ODIER shoe ice cleats are a fantastic way of preventing you from slipping as soon as you step outside your front door. These are made from an elastic silicone material that wraps around your shoes. The ice cleats fit tightly around your shoes, so you don’t need to worry about them coming loose. They also fit different shoe sizes so you may only require one pair per household.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Use

Even though ice grippers for shoes serve more or less the same purpose, there are different models, one better suited to a particular environment than another is.

Cleats with long spikes are better suited to surfaces that are drenched in thick snow. Models with chains are better suited for people who would love to take a stroll on the snow or ice.

When winter comes, you should seek out something that will improve your footing, rather than adding to your troubles. It is advisable to know the different types, so you don’t waste your hard-earned money, buying cleats you cannot use. By choosing one of the different variations of cleats (chain or spikes) in this review, you will have a better platform to continue having a near-natural stride in wintertime.

Your selection of cleats primarily depends on your particular needs. Consider the frequency and location of usage. If you were to use the crampons more frequently, then durability should be your primary concern. Considering such factors will enable you to make a worthwhile investment. There is no need to buy equipment that will soak up dust on the shelves at a high price.

Some manufacturers in this list offer two options, a lighter version, and a tougher one that’s sturdier. How you integrate your chosen gadget into your regimen and environment are the most important factors to consider.

Spiked cleats aggressively penetrate the ice, to provide reliable traction. Cleats with carbide spikes are more durable compared to those made of steel but cost much more. When it comes to versatility, some options featured here have removable spikes. You can tread on an ice-free surface much better without the spines.

Some models featured here also have studs or screws in the bottom for grip. Even though the initial cost is higher, in the end, it is much cheaper. The reason for this is that you can replace the studs, rather than discard the cleats in their totality after the usual degradation over time.

Traction

Evaluate the best grip for you, based on the activities you are engaging in.

When looking for the best ice grippers for shoes, it is imperative that you know what you are looking for. Numerous metal spikes provide enhanced grip on slippery surfaces, improving your stride. Chains let you move around the neighborhood or workplace with ease, without necessarily having to remove them in a communal scene.

For that reason, it is not advisable to invest in heavy-duty brands, best suited for hiking or mountain climbing, unless you're in such situations.

Most athletes who probably look forward to taking their regular runs, regardless of the climate, or say individuals who are passive hikers, probably don’t need some heavy-duty artillery. Comfort and versatility of where the chains are used should come first to such people since they won’t be undertaking a painstaking trip to the peak of a mountain.

For the average Joe, seek out a pair that will fit most of your winter shoes. The upper structure of the cleats should be easy to install on the protrusions of your shoes while securing them rigidly.

A suitable pair should have good composition, enabling you to walk on inclined, flat, and slippery surfaces effortlessly. Ice cleats feature either micro-spikes or Nano-spikes. The larger and more numerous the spikes, the more traction you get.

Models designed for walking or running in the snow are different from those meant for hiking or climbing. The latter usually has traction on not only the bottom, but on the front, back, and sides.

Durability

Seasons come and go, but you need cleats that are dependable when you need them.

Worthy ice grippers for shoes should be able to take the wear and tear for many years. This characteristic should be obvious, but lately, there is a surge of low-quality manufacturers flooding the market.

In this review, we separated the wheat from the chaff, so you don’t have such complaints, more so when considering your safety on slippery surfaces.

Replacing your cleats should come after repeated use of them, rather than after a few cycles. The products in this list are literally able to carry you through several winters, without yielding to the stresses.

If purchasing cleats for hiking or mountaineering, ensure to check the durability of the spikes. Stainless steel is usually good enough, but some of the brands in this list go further than that. By the simple fact that suitable spikes will pierce into hard ice, sometimes similar in hardness to rock, and the points should be able to endure such forces.

Other long-lasting materials are carbide steel and aluminum. These materials are usually durable and sturdy enough to take on tough terrains. Additionally, they are lighter than the norm, so your pace won’t be limited as much.

Ease of Use

Winter is hard; try to make it easier on yourself.

In the past, lacing your shoes with chains use to take eons. This norm would make the user dread the moment they fell off, in the middle of a cold, unforgiving trek. Luckily, with new designs and technology, this time is significantly short nowadays. Nevertheless, the levels of ease in wearing grippers still vary from one model, material, and brand.

Look at the webbing holding the traction elements. The parts could be cables, spikes, coils, etc. Consider what they are made of and how workable they are. Rubber, found in most of the crampons reviewed here is flexible to make it easy to lace over your shoe, yet solid enough to prevent the ice grippers from slipping.

When it comes to the design, you will find some with straps going over the top of your shoes, to keep the grippers in place. With straps on top, you will definitely have a secure clamp; however, it takes longer to lace them up.

On the other hand, those not featuring straps are easy to remove and put on. However, such options are less secure. Nevertheless, all options in this list are easy to put on, and it all boils down to how secure you need the crampons to be and your personal preferences.

Portability

Ensure you can move the ice grippers with ease.

Many often overlook this criterion. However, the same people end up ruing their obliviousness to the aspect. Good quality designs are usually easy to take on and off when required. Your chosen pair should fold easily to allow you to store them in your backpack.

Looking a little deeper, you will see that most of the brands featured here, provide an additional storage bag. This accessory makes it a little easier for you to store the products, which might also be hazardous if not stored correctly.

The extra carry bag also prevents the spikes from sticking out piercing your backpack. On a trail, it’s probably a good idea to move light, without unwarranted weights.

Top 10 Ice Grippers

1. STABILicers MAXX 2

Where to buy
Amazon Link
STABILicers MAXX 2
STABILicers MAXX 2
STABILicers MAXX 2
Amazon Link

These sturdy ice gripping sole cleats provide unsurpassed traction on snow, ice, or even mud. Some terrains can be tough to go through, but with the STABILicers MAXX 2, it’s literally a walk in the park. The 34 casehardened cleats bite into the slickest snow or ice, giving serious traction.

You can find these ice cleats for shoes used by the military, police, rescue professionals, and many others. Understandably, they are applicable in many types of terrains to find them applied so diversely. When braving harsh winter conditions is part of the job, the MAXX 2 makes it a little easier to navigate.

Thanks to the Velcro fasteners, you can attach them to your favorite winter boots or shoes fast and easy. When one of the cleats deteriorates, rather than throwing the ice grippers as a whole, you can replace them by ordering new ones from the manufacturer. They also offer an option of brass cleats, which are softer and non-sparking.

The sole is made of rubber, which is flexible. This property makes it easy to apply these crampons to many sorts of shoes without sliding. The rubber is also foldable, and you can fold it to fit a small bag. Instead of chains supporting most grippers, the straps are made of rubber, making the MAXX 2 supper light.

Amazon Link

2. Kahtoola MICROspikes

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Kahtoola MICROspikes-Best-Ice-Grippers-for-Shoes-Reviewed 3
Kahtoola MICROspikes-Best-Ice-Grippers-for-Shoes-Reviewed 3
Amazon Link

These award-winning (backpackers editor’s choice 2012 award) crampons have a grippy, durable, easy to slip-on traction system. Ever since the brand won the prize, little has changed from the strategically laced stainless steel spikes to the tough elastomer shoe harness connecting the dynamic flex chain. With all that’s going for it, you can get a pair and walk comfortably over any slippery, snowy, or icy terrain.

The Kahtoola also stand out by how easy and seamlessly they fit over shoes or boots designed for their size. They don’t require straps or buckles seen in most of their competitors. Their reputation precedes them, as seen from the multiple positive reviews. You can take advantage of the two-year warranty if in doubt.

These grippers are durable and lightweight, featuring ten tungsten carbide spikes on either side. The 3/8 inches long spikes, bite into icy surfaces, giving you optimum levels of balance.

With such minuscule lengths, you won’t lose your balance, as seen in those with longer spikes variations. The chains don’t jangle, and you can maintain a natural stride over multiple terrains.

Amazon Link

3. Yaktrax

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Yaktrax Traction Chains-Best-Ice-Grippers-for-Shoes-Reviewed
Yaktrax Traction Chains-Best-Ice-Grippers-for-Shoes-Reviewed 2
Yaktrax Traction Chains-Best-Ice-Grippers-for-Shoes-Reviewed 3
Amazon Link

These grippers are widely used by runners, hikers, walkers, and winter athletes to reduce the chances of falling. The ten gripping points ensure you have a natural stride. The abrasion-resistant stainless steel spikes, fill the bottom of your shoe to bite the ice. Multiple coil angles on the carbide-steel spikes combine to offer all-around traction on snow and ice surfaces.

Natural rubber, which is stronger and more durable than alternative materials, holds the device together. The square-shaped welded links bite into the ice while being resilient in abusive conditions.

It also has impact nubs, strategically located in high-wear areas, to add to its durability. These grippers are so easy to place, by directly hooking the straps over your shoe toe area, and stretching it over the sole, locking them in place.

The ladder pattern design on the chains ensures heel to toe traction, maintaining a low profile to ensure user comfort and balance.

Amazon Link

4. ICETrekkers

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ICETrekkers
ICETrekkers
Amazon Link

These tire chains have individually welded case hardened square steel links. The TIG-welded chains are arranged in unique ladder patterns under the ball of the foot and triangular on the heel to ensure a stable footing, comfortable for extended wear. You get this and much more at an affordable price too.

The ladder pattern design also gives you more stability because of the low profile, as the square-shaped links aggressively bite into the ice.

The black rubber sling is flexible, even in subzero temperatures, to clamp the gripper onto your shoe and for easy storage.

The designers of these grippers for shoes borrow from high-end tire chains found in cars. With their expertise, every detail of the chain, cables, and studs are carefully scrutinized, to ensure you are primed to take on slippery terrains, just like a monster truck. By using said principles, you can comfortably tackle different conditions adequately.

Amazon Link

5. Unigear

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Unigear Traction Cleats
Unigear Traction Cleats
Unigear Traction Cleats
Amazon Link

These snow spikes are worth every penny, managing to overcome most shortcomings by their competitors. Some options aren’t large enough, making them useless in the snow, while others are just too expensive for nothing. Unigear manages to suit most people by having an excellent design and premium materials.

The chances of slipping and falling over in the snow are significantly reduced because of the 18 or 13 spikes on either cleat, measuring ½ inch long. These hardened stainless steel spikes dig deep into icy terrain, offering maximum traction. The double reinforced eyelets also add on to the overall durability.

The elastomer harnesses, made of TPE, stay supple and flexible in frigid temperatures. Additionally, the elastomer bands are anti-abrasive, and the edges are thickened so that they don’t tear easily. The hook and loop mechanism makes it easy to get them on or off your shoes.

You can choose a pair of either orange or black. These crampons are also conspicuous because of how they are held in place with chains. The only issue is that the spikes are so long and sharp, so you have to remove them in most pathways. Nevertheless, hiking a steep snowy mountain or weaving through an icy driveway couldn’t be easier with the Unigear traction cleats.

Amazon Link

6. Limm

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Limm Crampons
Limm Crampons
Limm Crampons
Amazon Link

This unique pair of ice cleats will prevent you from slipping and hurting yourself in the snow. Another stand out feature is how they have many fixed-size options, rather than having adjustability in general. You first outfit the front part of the shoe and adjust the back end. Tightening straps are also included for and even more secure fit.

You have the option of big spikes, excellent for the thickest snow and standard: suitable for most terrains.

The design ensures full foot coverage, as you slip the Limm cleats over your footwear in seconds. Either option rolls up into a super small size, to put in the convenient carry bag included or in your pockets.

The ten heavy-duty steel studs offer excellent traction on very slippery surfaces. The multiple size options make it perfect for professionals, pedestrians, the young and elderly as well. These high-quality cleats keep you out of harm’s way in winter terrain.

Amazon Link

7. EnergeticSky

Where to buy
Amazon Link
EnergeticSky Ice Cleat
EnergeticSky Ice Cleat
EnergeticSky Ice Cleat
Amazon Link

These pair of ice cleats from EnergeticSky are suitable for ice fishing, winter trail hiking, and even traditional fishing. The 19-multi directional spikes provide excellent traction on icy surfaces. The strategic placements of the spikes ensure uniform distribution, providing durability, comfort, and balance.

The robust spikes are abrasion resistant and held together by a sturdy stainless steel welding chain. You can confidently walk on wet, icy paths because the materials used are also rust-resistant. The treads in conjunction with cleats prevent slipping on smooth terrains.

Rather than the usual TPR rubber found in most ice grippers for shoes, EnergeticSky uses silicone, which won’t tear easily when compared. Additionally, the silicone fabric is lighter and still maintains its plasticity in up to -60 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s not all; you can mold the crampon better thanks to the silicone, making it fit most shoes and easy to store by folding it more.

With these crampons on, you can go about your day-to-day activities confidently with the snow or ice under your feet. You can get a pair in three different sizes and in black or orange.

Amazon Link

8. Due North Everyday G3

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Due North Everyday G3 Ice and Snow Traction Aid
Due North Everyday G3 Ice and Snow Traction Aid
Due North Everyday G3 Ice and Snow Traction Aid
Amazon Link

Designed to be worn with lightweight casual, athletic, or dressy shoes, the Due North Everyday G3 will provide you with the support and stability you need when walking or running in icy and snowy conditions. Unique in comparison to a lot of the other cleats in our collection, these traction aids have been designs to be minimalistic, you could even say practically invisible.

The webbed sole design allows the tractions aids to adapt to the shape of your shoe, whatever style they may be. When not in use, the traction aids are small enough so they can be placed in your coat pocket or bag. 

The Due North Traction Aids feature traction pads that stop ice and snow from building up between your shoes and the traction aids. They have been made from a special rubber compound that is strong and retains an elasticity, particularly in cold temperatures. The traction aids have also been cleverly molded to be more comfortable and feature a support hole on the heel strap, allowing you to easily adjust the tension and make them quick and easy to put on/ take off.

A textured lining prevents you from slipping on the sole of your shoes and ensures a secure fit. They have a 360-degree spike pattern that improves the level of grip. These also have 6 tungsten carbide diamond spikes placed along with the rubber tread, providing a great level of traction.

Amazon Link

9. ICETRAX V3

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Winter Ice Grips for Shoes and Boots 
ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Winter Ice Grips for Shoes and Boots 
ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Winter Ice Grips for Shoes and Boots 
Amazon Link

These ICETRAX V3 Tungsten ice grips have been designed to wear in extreme snow and icy weather conditions. Whether you are shoveling snow, walking, or even running, you will feel safe and fully supported. This option features a snow tread traction system and 9 strategically placed ice cleats creating the ultimate level of traction.

The ice grips have StayOn toe caps that guarantee a snug and secure fit. The design feature also prevents the ice grips from moving around when you are on the move, providing brilliant stability as well as safety. The lightweight ice grips are extremely easy to put on and take off. They are also portable so can easily be stored in your bag when on the move.

These have a built-in reflective heel, providing you with great visibility when walking at night or early hours of the morning. The ice grips are extremely durable, featuring reinforced joints. The surface material has also been made from a special rubber compound that retains its strength and elastically when exposed to extremely cold weather conditions.

The ICETRAX V3 comes in two sizes including Small/Medium and Large/X-Large. Sold for a high price, this is one of the more expensive options on our list. However, if you are looking for a quality pair of ice grippers and have the extra money to spend, these are an amazing buy! 

Amazon Link

10. Odier

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ODIER Shoe Ice Cleats  
ODIER Shoe Ice Cleats  
ODIER Shoe Ice Cleats  
Amazon Link

The ODIER shoe ice cleats are a fantastic way of preventing you from slipping as soon as you step outside your front door. These are made from an elastic silicone material that wraps around your shoes. The ice cleats fit tightly around your shoes, so you don’t need to worry about them coming loose. They also fit different shoe sizes so you may only require one pair per household.

As well as ice, you can wear these ODIER ice cleats on heavy snow, freezing mud, and even along an icy river. They are extremely durable, having been tested in exceptionally low temperatures and harsh snow and ice weather conditions. 

Whether you are wearing sneakers, boots, or shoes, the ice cleats fit easily around them with no difficulty at all. They come in different sizes including Small, Large, and X-Large.

You can also choose between a 10 teeth ice cleat or a 24 teeth ice cleat. These lightweight cleats weigh 100g per pair for 10 teeth and between 330g – 380g per pair for 24 teeth. They are being sold for a low price, making them extremely affordable. 

Amazon Link