| Hiking up a slippery mountain trail in winter not only | | | | too. Retail: $49.99 |
| takes physical effort, but a certain amount of mental | | | | Kahtoola Microspikes |
| commitment as well. Having faith in your gear is | | | | Kahtoola means "directly" in Tibetan. These |
| critical to success, whether success is measured by | | | | mini-crampons are the most aggressive of any I have |
| competing in an uphill race or just safely walking up | | | | used to date. They have 3/8" stainless steel spikes |
| the hill with the dog. | | | | with a steel flex chain anchored by tough elastomer |
| I know that choosing the right mini-crampon for your | | | | webbing. A toe bar keeps footwear securely in place. |
| needs can be a little confusing; it was for me! Here | | | | This product is comfortable and works well in all |
| are some facts about three major brands, and my | | | | conditions, but I would not want to walk around |
| humble recommendation. | | | | town with them. Retail: $59.99 |
| STABILicers Original | | | | Yaktrax Pro |
| This was my first pair of mini-crampons. They have a | | | | This product is made of 1.4 mm steel coils and heavy |
| full Vibram sole with replaceable steel cleats. These | | | | duty rubber. The Yaktrax are quite flexible and |
| perform best in icy, hard conditions because of the | | | | conform well to your boot or shoe. They also utilize a |
| full sole. The Velcro hook and loop strap system | | | | Velcro strap system and are the lightest of the three |
| works well but seems to fray after serious use. | | | | discussed here. These work well in packed powder |
| They work well on slippery rocks when fly fishing | | | | conditions and around town. Retail: $30. |