The sub-alpine trails in the North Cascades become icy in midwinter, posing a challenging obstacle for hikers. I have experienced the treacherous icy conditions in many mountain boots, but none have given me the same confidence and grip as the Kahtoola MICROspikes. The sound of these spikes biting into the ice is not just music to my ears but also provides essential stability on slippery terrain.
Having a reliable traction device like the MICROspikes has transformed my winter hiking experience. These spikes have safely carried me across trails that would typically be too treacherous to attempt, including steep and icy paths, snow-covered parking lots, and frozen creek crossings.
Even if you don’t admit to the fear of slipping, the MICROspikes are a game-changer for year-round hikers who want to navigate icy trails more efficiently and with increased safety. I have found myself relying on these spikes for any winter hike, whether I expected icy conditions or not.
In summary: The Kahtoola MICROspikes are robust traction devices that provide a secure grip on icy surfaces, allowing you to move confidently on even the slickest winter trails. Their versatile design fits over both running shoes and hiking boots, offering durability and performance season after season.
Initial Thoughts on Kahtoola MICROspikes
When you envision microspikes, chances are you’re picturing the Kahtoola MICROspikes. These iconic winter tools boast 12 stainless steel spikes and a flexible plastic harness. Despite this basic description, the MICROspikes offer much more than meets the eye.
Notably, these 12 spikes are not mere stainless steel triangles; they are 3/8-inch shoe-daggers. Eight spikes are strategically placed at the forefront of the foot for essential grip, with four additional spikes at the heel for added stability.
The spikes come with sturdy chains and a stretchy thermoplastic elastomer harness that securely fastens to your boots. Featuring an integrated toe bail to prevent shifting and a raised heel tab for easy application, the design prioritizes durability and performance over unnecessary frills.
During multiple winter hikes, the straightforward spike design proved reliable on various terrains, offering stability and traction on slick surfaces.
Unleashing the Power of the MICROspikes
While my admiration for the MICROspikes is evident, let’s delve into their trail performance. These spikes accompanied me on various adventures this winter, from icy ski area parking lots to steep post-storm hikes in shadowy forests, and even unexpected ski packing trips.
Ice Traction
When it comes to navigating icy terrain, the MICROspikes shine. The stainless steel teeth effortlessly grip into frozen surfaces, providing reliable traction. The addition of two extra spikes at the heel enhances stability, particularly during challenging creek crossings or steep ascents and descents.
The front spikes are particularly effective on steep sections, boosting confidence on icy inclines. Whether I was ascending Mount Baker’s steep trails or crossing snow-covered parking lots, the MICROspikes provided firm footing and prevented potential slips.
Versatility on Diverse Terrain
While pure ice is a strength for the MICROspikes, they also handle mixed terrain effectively. From rocks and roots to creek beds and concrete, these spikes provide stability and traction on various surfaces.
During a ski-touring trip near Hidden Lakes Lookout, the MICROspikes proved invaluable, allowing me to navigate icy terrain efficiently with a heavy pack. However, in heavy slush and mud, their performance was less impressive as the spikes struggled to find purchase, hinting at a preference for slick surfaces for optimal functionality.
Comfortable Fit and Versatility
Fit plays a crucial role in traction devices, and the Kahtoola MICROspikes excel in this aspect. The new thermoplastic elastomer band in the harness ensures a lightweight and straightforward application process. The integrated toebail prevents the harness from slipping, while the ridged pull tab at the back eases the fitting process, even in chilly conditions.
With sizing options for regular hiking shoes or larger insulated boots, Kahtoola accommodates sizes ranging from small to extra-large, ensuring a snug fit for optimal performance and long-term durability.
