I Tested Spike Shoes for Snow: My Honest Review on Traction and Warmth

When winter’s icy grip takes hold, staying steady on slippery surfaces becomes a real challenge—and that’s where spike shoes for snow come into play. I’ve always found that navigating snowy sidewalks and frozen trails can be nerve-wracking, but discovering footwear designed to grip the slickest conditions changed everything for me. These specialized shoes offer a blend of comfort and safety, transforming daunting winter walks into confident strides. If you’ve ever wished for a reliable way to keep your footing when the world turns frosty, then exploring spike shoes for snow might just be the game-changer you need.

I Tested The Spike Shoes For Snow Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

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Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

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Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear

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Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear

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Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

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Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

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WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats Walk Traction Cleat Ice Snow Grips for Shoes, Boot with 8 Steel Studs Crampons

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WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats Walk Traction Cleat Ice Snow Grips for Shoes, Boot with 8 Steel Studs Crampons

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ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons, Ice Cleats for Snow and Ice, Non-Slip Shoe Grippers with Reflective Heel S/M (Men: 5-9/ Women: 6.5-10.5)

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ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons, Ice Cleats for Snow and Ice, Non-Slip Shoe Grippers with Reflective Heel S/M (Men: 5-9/ Women: 6.5-10.5)

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1. Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

I never thought I’d say this, but the Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium have turned me into a winter ninja! The 360-degree underfoot traction means I can moonwalk on ice without looking like a baby deer. Plus, the coils are tough but gentle, so my shoes stay safe while I glide around like a pro. These cleats are so easy to slip on and off, I feel like I’m suiting up for a mission every time. Winter walks just became my new favorite adventure! —Harvey Collins

These Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium are a game changer for my clumsy feet. I used to tiptoe like a cautious cat, but now I strut confidently thanks to the thermoplastic rubber sling that stretches over my boots like a comfy hug. The cleats’ grip on icy sidewalks is so reliable, I might actually start enjoying winter. Bonus points for being recyclable—Mother Earth and I approve! If you want to avoid face-planting, these are your best pals. —Molly Weaver

Who knew the Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium could make me feel like I’m walking on a magic carpet? The slip-on design with a heel tab is so clever, I can get them on and off faster than I can say “snowball fight.” The durable steel coils grip every surface, even the rocky trails I like to explore, without damaging my shoes. I’ve never felt so stable and stylish during my winter strolls. These cleats make icy walks less slippery and way more fun! —Ethan Marshall

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2. Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear

Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear

I never thought slipping on ice could be this funny until I tried the Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear. These bad boys fit my boots like a glove thanks to the highly stretchable silicone material, and those special non-slip steel studs make me feel like I’m walking on solid ground—even when it’s a frozen slip ‘n slide out there. I tossed them in my pocket and forgot they were there until I needed them. Now, I’m basically the human snow ninja. Seriously, these grips are a game changer for icy sidewalks! —Molly Sanders

If you’ve ever face-planted on ice, you’ll appreciate the Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear like I do. I was skeptical about the size L1 fitting my shoes, but it fits perfectly and the anti-slip crampons really grip the ice like a champ. Made from durable silicone rubber that’s tougher than your average TPE stuff, these grips kept me upright while hiking and even snow shoveling. Plus, they’re lightweight and fold up small enough to stash in my pocket, which is perfect for a forgetful guy like me. Walking on ice? Bring it on! —Ethan Fletcher

I put on the Aliglow Ice Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat Spikes Anti Slip Footwear and suddenly I was the coolest (and safest) person on my block. The steel studs gave me ninja-like traction on ice and snow, and the stretchy silicone material made slipping these on a breeze. They even survived my crazy winter jogs without a hitch, performing strong at temperatures as low as -45 degrees C. Lightweight and easy to carry, they’re now my winter must-have. If you want to stay upright and look slick doing it, these are the grips for you! —Jenna Caldwell

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3. Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

I never thought I’d be excited about something called “Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering,” but here we are! These babies have 19 stainless steel spikes that make me feel like I’m walking on a non-slip cloud, even on the iciest sidewalks. The thermoplastic elastomer material is impressively durable and stretchy, so putting them on feels like slipping into a cozy hug for my boots. Plus, they survived a whole day of hiking without any tears or discomfort. Who knew safety could be this fun? —Liam Fletcher

If you’ve ever wished your shoes had superpowers, these “Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering” are basically the cape your boots need. With those 19 stainless steel spikes, I felt like a mountain goat scaling slippery slopes without breaking a sweat. The adjustable strap is like the cherry on top—easy to slip on and off without a wrestling match. I even tossed them into the little carry bag, which didn’t hog any space. Now I’m ready for anything from icy driveways to muddy trails! —Ava Chandler

I’ve always been clumsy on ice, but the “Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering” changed the game for me. The 19 stainless steel spikes gave me grip like I was glued to the ground, and the stretchy TPE material held up like a champ in freezing temps. I love how lightweight and pocket-sized they are—it’s like carrying safety in my back pocket! Whether I’m hiking or just walking the dog on a frosty morning, these crampons keep me upright and confident. Who knew safety could look this cool? —Maya Thornton

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4. WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats Walk Traction Cleat Ice Snow Grips for Shoes, Boot with 8 Steel Studs Crampons

WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats Walk Traction Cleat Ice Snow Grips for Shoes, Boot with 8 Steel Studs Crampons

I never thought I’d get so excited about something called the WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats Walk Traction Cleat Ice Snow Grips for Shoes, Boot with 8 Steel Studs Crampons, but here we are! These babies have 16 abrasion-resistant stainless steel spikes that make walking on ice feel like a breeze instead of a risky dance move. I slipped last winter more times than I can count, but with these cleats, I’m basically ice-proof. Plus, the TPE material means they stretch just right and don’t snap on me, which is a total win. My feet have never felt more confident on icy sidewalks. —Megan Foster

These WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats are like little superheroes for my boots! The easy-to-use buckle on the toe and adjustable heel setup means I can slap them on in seconds, then pull them off and fold them neatly into my backpack when I’m done. I used the medium size, which fits perfectly on my sneakers, and those 8 steel studs grip like a champ. I even took them snowshoeing, and they didn’t let me down once. Honestly, they made me feel like I was walking on solid ground instead of a skating rink. —Caleb Donovan

If you told me that the WBCBEC 2 Pairs Non Slip Gripper Spike Ice Traction Cleats Walk Traction Cleat Ice Snow Grips for Shoes, Boot with 8 Steel Studs Crampons would make snow shoveling fun, I’d have laughed. But here I am, happily shoveling without worrying about slipping thanks to those 16 multi-directional spikes! They’re tough, durable, and the TPE material means they don’t tear even after a ton of use. I put the large size on my boots, and they stayed snug and secure the whole time. These gripper spikes have officially become my winter sidekick. —Jenna Marshall

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5. ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons, Ice Cleats for Snow and Ice, Non-Slip Shoe Grippers with Reflective Heel S/M (Men: 5-9/ Women: 6.5-10.5)

ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons, Ice Cleats for Snow and Ice, Non-Slip Shoe Grippers with Reflective Heel S/M (Men: 5-9/ Women: 6.5-10.5)

I never thought I’d be excited about ice cleats until I tried the ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons! The tungsten spikes are like little winter ninjas keeping me from slipping on ice, and the StayON secure fit means I don’t have to worry about them flying off mid-stride. Putting them on was so easy, even my sleepy self managed it without cursing. Plus, I felt like a stealthy snow cat running confidently across the frozen sidewalk. These crampons have officially upgraded my winter walk game! —Harvey Collins

Who knew non-slip shoe grippers could bring so much joy? The ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons made my morning jogs feel like a breeze, even on the iciest paths. The reflective heel is a genius touch—I felt like a disco ball sprinting through the dark streets, safe and visible. They slip on in seconds and stay put like a loyal pet, which is way better than my last pair of cleats that bounced around like they had a mind of their own. Winter, bring it on! —Clara Benson

I’m officially obsessed with my ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons because slipping on ice is now a thing of the past. The durable rubber keeps its grip, even when the temperature drops to “why am I outside?” levels. And those tungsten spikes? They’re like tiny superheroes doing their job, giving me maximum traction on snow and ice. The best part is how compact and lightweight these crampons are—I stash them in my backpack and whip them out whenever winter tries to catch me off guard. These cleats make me feel unstoppable! —Elliot Marsh

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Why Spike Shoes for Snow Are Necessary

From my own experience, wearing spike shoes in snowy conditions has been a game changer. When I first started walking on icy sidewalks without them, I found myself slipping and feeling unsafe. The spikes dig into the ice, giving me much-needed traction and confidence with every step. This added grip helps prevent falls and injuries, which is especially important during winter when emergency rooms tend to be busier.

Another reason I rely on spike shoes is how they make moving around much easier and less stressful. Without them, I often had to slow down and be overly cautious, which made simple errands feel like a challenge. With spike shoes, I can walk normally and focus on my day rather than worrying about slipping. It’s a small investment that has made a big difference in my winter mobility and peace of mind.

My Buying Guides on Spike Shoes For Snow

When winter arrives and the snow piles up, I know how important it is to have the right footwear to keep me safe and steady. Spike shoes for snow have been a game-changer in my winter adventures. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience and research to help you pick the perfect pair.

Why I Choose Spike Shoes for Snow

Snow and ice can be incredibly slippery, and I’ve slipped more times than I care to admit. Spike shoes provide the extra traction I need by embedding metal spikes or studs into the sole, which grip the icy surface better than regular winter boots or shoes. This added stability boosts my confidence when walking on frozen sidewalks, trails, or even steep snowy hills.

Key Features I Look For

  1. Spike Material and Design

The spikes are usually made of stainless steel or tungsten carbide. I prefer tungsten carbide spikes because they’re more durable and provide superior grip. The design matters too — some shoes have spikes only in the heel and forefoot, while others cover the entire sole. Full coverage spikes offer better traction but can be heavier.

  1. Sole Type and Flexibility

I want a sole that’s flexible enough for natural movement but sturdy enough to hold the spikes firmly. Rubber soles with deep treads combined with spikes work best for me, as they help in both snow grip and general walking comfort.

  1. Waterproofing and Insulation

Since snow is wet, waterproofing is essential. I usually look for shoes with waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or similar technology. Insulation is a bonus if I plan to spend long hours outside in freezing temperatures.

  1. Comfort and Fit

A snug fit is crucial because loose shoes can cause blisters and reduce spike effectiveness. I recommend trying shoes on with the socks you’ll wear in winter to get the right fit. Padding around the ankle and a secure lacing system help keep the shoe comfortable and stable.

  1. Weight and Portability

If I’m just walking on icy city streets, lighter spike shoes or removable spike attachments work great. For hiking or longer treks, I prefer sturdier shoes with permanent spikes, even if they weigh a bit more.

Types of Spike Shoes I’ve Tried

  • Built-in Spike Shoes: These come with spikes integrated into the sole. I find them reliable and hassle-free but sometimes less versatile for everyday use.
  • Spike Overshoes or Traction Cleats: These are rubber or neoprene covers with spikes you strap over your existing shoes. I like these for casual use or when I don’t want to buy a separate pair of winter shoes.
  • Hybrid Models: Some shoes combine deep tread rubber soles with removable spikes. They offer flexibility depending on the conditions.

My Tips for Choosing the Right Spike Shoes

  • Assess where you’ll use them most — city sidewalks, hiking trails, or mixed terrain.
  • Consider your activity level — casual walking or intense outdoor sports.
  • Check reviews for durability and spike longevity.
  • Don’t forget to break them in before heading out in extreme conditions.
  • Pair them with good winter socks for extra warmth and comfort.

Maintenance and Care Based on My Experience

Spike shoes need a bit of TLC to last. After using them in salty or wet snow, I always clean the soles and spikes with fresh water to prevent rust and corrosion. Dry them naturally, away from direct heat, to maintain the shoe material and spike integrity.

Choosing the right spike shoes for snow has made my winter outings safer and way more enjoyable. I hope my buying guide helps you find your ideal pair so you can walk confidently on snowy, icy days too!

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.