Updated November 2025

Best Ice & Snow Traction for Shoes: Ice Cleats Tested

Don't risk a fall on icy sidewalks. We tested 25+ ice cleats and traction devices to find the safest, most effective options for winter walking in 2025.

Real ice traction tested

Safety certified options

Durability tested

Quick Comparison

Model	Traction Type	Weight	Terrain
Yaktrax Walker Traction Cleats	Coil steel	4.9 oz	Ice, packed snow, sidewalks
Yaktrax Spikes (Low-Profile)	Tungsten carbide spikes	5.2 oz	Ice, hard-packed snow, trails
Yaktrax Chains	Diamond beads + spikes	6.1 oz	Deep snow, ice, trails
STABILicers Walk	Multi-directional cleats	7.3 oz	Ice, packed snow, all surfaces
STABILicers Heel Traction	Heel-only cleats	2.1 oz	Ice, light snow, sidewalks
STABILicers Maxx 2 (Work-Grade)	Heavy-duty cleats	12.4 oz	Extreme ice, industrial use
Ergodyne TREX 6315 Heel Cleats	Heel cleats	3.4 oz	Ice, packed snow
Due North Heel Traction Aids	Heel spikes	2.8 oz	Ice, light snow

Yaktrax Walker Traction Cleats

Coil steel

Best For:

Everyday urban winter walking and commuting

Traction Type:Coil steel

Weight:4.9 oz

Best Terrain:Ice, packed snow, sidewalks

Durability:Excellent

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The Yaktrax Walker represents the gold standard for urban ice traction. Its patented coil design wraps under your entire foot, providing consistent grip on icy sidewalks without the aggressive spikes that damage indoor floors. The natural rubber harness stretches over any shoe style, from sneakers to boots, making it the most versatile option for city dwellers.

Key Features

Patented Steel Coil design
Natural rubber sling band
Removable performance strap
Remains flexible in sub-zero temps

Pros

360-degree traction from wraparound coil design
Easy on/off with stretchy rubber frame
Low profile won't interfere with walking gait
Durable steel coils last multiple winters
Perfect for urban sidewalks and parking lots

Cons

Not aggressive enough for steep icy trails
Can pick up small stones in coils
Rubber harness may stretch over time

Yaktrax Spikes (Low-Profile)

Tungsten carbide spikes

Best For:

Mixed terrain including trails and steep urban hills

Traction Type:Tungsten carbide spikes

Weight:5.2 oz

Best Terrain:Ice, hard-packed snow, trails

Durability:Very Good

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Yaktrax Spikes deliver serious traction with 12 strategically placed tungsten carbide spikes. Unlike full-size mountaineering crampons, these low-profile cleats work for everyday winter activities while providing confidence on icy trails and hills. The spike placement prevents the awkward gait some cleats cause.

Key Features

12 tungsten carbide spikes
Rust-proof construction
BOA-like strap system
Wide forefoot spread for stability

Pros

12 tungsten carbide spikes for aggressive grip
Low-profile design more discreet than traditional cleats
Excellent on steep icy slopes
Reinforced eyelets prevent tearing
Works well on varied terrain

Cons

Spikes click loudly on pavement
Not safe for indoor floors
Slightly more expensive than coil models

Yaktrax Chains

Diamond beads + spikes

Best For:

Serious winter hikers and deep snow conditions

Traction Type:Diamond beads + spikes

Weight:6.1 oz

Best Terrain:Deep snow, ice, trails

Durability:Excellent

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Yaktrax Chains bring mountaineering-level traction to everyday winter activities. The hybrid design combines diamond-shaped beads with carbide spikes for grip in both icy and snowy conditions. While overbuilt for casual urban use, these excel when you need absolute confidence on challenging winter terrain.

Key Features

Diamond bead chain pattern
Carbide spike integration
Heavy-duty buckle system
Case-hardened steel chains

Pros

Combines diamond beads and spikes for maximum grip
Exceptionally durable construction
Great for deep snow conditions
Reinforced buckle system
Aggressive traction on steep terrain

Cons

Heavier than simpler designs
Overkill for flat urban sidewalks
Higher price point

STABILicers Walk

Multi-directional cleats

Best For:

Users prioritizing maximum durability and stability

Traction Type:Multi-directional cleats

Weight:7.3 oz

Best Terrain:Ice, packed snow, all surfaces

Durability:Excellent

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STABILicers Walk brings professional-grade traction to consumer use. Originally designed for postal workers and utility crews, these feature heat-treated steel cleats that outlast competitors. The trade-off is additional weight and bulk, but for users facing daily winter hazards, the investment in quality pays dividends.

Key Features

Heat-treated steel cleats
Replaceable traction components
TPE rubber binding
Designed for professional use

Pros

Aggressive multi-directional tread cleats
Incredibly durable heat-treated steel
Made in USA with quality materials
Replaceable cleats extend lifespan
Superior lateral stability

Cons

Heavier and bulkier than competitors
Higher price point
Takes practice to put on correctly

STABILicers Heel Traction

Heel-only cleats

Best For:

Minimalists wanting lightweight backup traction

Traction Type:Heel-only cleats

Weight:2.1 oz

Best Terrain:Ice, light snow, sidewalks

Durability:Good

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STABILicers Heel Traction takes a minimalist approach, providing strategic traction only at the heel where most slips occur. At just 2.1 ounces, these disappear in a pocket or purse, making them perfect for keeping as backup insurance during unexpected icy conditions.

Key Features

Heel-only compact design
Multi-directional cleats
TPE rubber construction
Ultra-packable

Pros

Ultra-lightweight heel-only design
Doesn't affect natural walking stride
Easy to slip in pocket or bag
Affordable entry-level traction
Works with any shoe style

Cons

Limited traction compared to full-foot designs
Not suitable for steep terrain
Can slip forward on some shoe shapes

STABILicers Maxx 2 (Work-Grade)

Heavy-duty cleats

Best For:

Professional outdoor workers in extreme winter conditions

Traction Type:Heavy-duty cleats

Weight:12.4 oz

Best Terrain:Extreme ice, industrial use

Durability:Outstanding

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The STABILicers Maxx 2 represents the pinnacle of ice traction technology, originally designed for utility workers, delivery drivers, and emergency responders. With 34 traction points and heavy-duty construction, these are overbuilt for casual use but essential for professionals working in hazardous winter conditions daily.

Key Features

34 tungsten carbide cleats
Heat-treated steel frame
Full toe and heel coverage
Meets ASTM F2892-19 standards

Pros

Industrial-grade construction built to last
Maximum possible traction on ice
34 traction points per foot
Replaceable components
ASTM slip-resistance certified

Cons

Heavy and bulky for casual use
Premium pricing
Overkill for typical urban conditions

Ergodyne TREX 6315 Heel Cleats

Heel cleats

Best For:

Budget-conscious users wanting simple heel traction

Traction Type:Heel cleats

Weight:3.4 oz

Best Terrain:Ice, packed snow

Durability:Good

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Ergodyne's TREX 6315 offers practical heel traction at an accessible price point. While not as sophisticated as full-foot options, the carbon steel studs provide reliable grip for level walking on ice. The compact heel-only design makes these easy to carry as emergency backup traction.

Key Features

One-piece construction
Carbon steel studs
Stretchable rubber binding
Reflective accents

Pros

Affordable heel-only traction solution
Carbon steel cleats provide good grip
Stretchable rubber fits multiple shoe sizes
Compact and portable
One-piece design prevents loss

Cons

Heel-only limits traction vs full designs
Straps can be difficult to get over bulky boots
Cleats wear faster than carbide alternatives

Due North Heel Traction Aids

Heel spikes

Best For:

Occasional users wanting affordable backup traction

Traction Type:Heel spikes

Weight:2.8 oz

Best Terrain:Ice, light snow

Durability:Fair

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Due North Heel Traction Aids provide basic ice traction at the lowest price point. While not built for daily heavy use, these work fine for occasional icy conditions. The tungsten carbide tips are replaceable, extending usability. Perfect for keeping in your car for unexpected icy parking lots.

Key Features

5 tungsten carbide spikes per foot
Replaceable spike cassette
Lightweight rubber construction
Fits over most footwear

Pros

Very affordable entry-level option
Lightweight and packable
Five replaceable tungsten carbide tips
Easy to slip on and off
Works with dress shoes and casual footwear

Cons

Less durable than premium brands
Rubber can crack in extreme cold
Heel-only limits effectiveness on slopes

Choosing the Right Ice Traction

Coils vs Spikes

Coil designs like Yaktrax Walker provide all-around traction and won't scratch indoor floors. Spike designs offer more aggressive grip on steep ice but can't be worn indoors. For urban use, coils are more versatile. For trails, choose spikes.

Full-Foot vs Heel-Only

Full-foot designs provide maximum stability and are essential for slopes or uneven terrain. Heel-only options are lighter and more packable but offer limited traction. Get full-foot for primary use, heel-only as backup.

Material Quality

Tungsten carbide spikes outlast carbon steel. Heat-treated steel frames last longer than basic metal. Quality rubber stays flexible in extreme cold while cheap rubber cracks. Expect to pay $25-40 for durable options that last multiple winters.

Fit and Sizing

Ice cleats should fit snugly over your winter footwear without excessive stretching. Too loose and they'll slip off; too tight and rubber will tear. Check manufacturer size charts carefully. Many brands offer small/medium/large sizing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear ice cleats indoors?

Coil-style cleats like Yaktrax Walker are generally safe on indoor floors, though it's best to remove them when possible. Spike-style cleats will damage flooring and should always be removed before entering buildings. Most users keep cleats in a bag or pocket for easy on/off.

How long do ice cleats last?

Quality brands like Yaktrax and STABILicers typically last 2-3 winters with regular use. Budget options may only survive one season. Factors affecting lifespan include frequency of use, terrain roughness, and storage conditions. Avoid leaving them stretched over shoes when not in use.

Do ice cleats work on all shoe types?

Most ice cleats fit over sneakers, boots, and casual shoes. They work best with shoes that have defined heels and standard outsoles. Very flat shoes or sandals may not provide enough structure. Bulky winter boots may require larger sizes. Always check the manufacturer's compatibility notes.

Are ice cleats worth it for occasional use?

Absolutely. Even one prevented fall justifies the $20-30 investment. Falls on ice can result in serious injuries, medical bills, and lost work time. Keep a pair in your car or bag during winter months. Heel-only designs like STABILicers Heel are perfect for occasional use due to their compact size.

What Our Readers Say

Colleen Rutherford

Milwaukee, WI

Yaktrax Walker Traction Cleats

These have been absolute lifesavers this winter. I'm in my 60s and was terrified of falling on ice after my neighbor broke her hip last year. The Yaktrax Walkers give me total confidence on my morning walks and grocery store trips. They slip on easily over my winter boots and stay secure all day. I can walk right into stores without worrying about marking floors because the coils don't scratch. After three months of daily use, they're still performing perfectly. I bought a second pair to keep in my car for peace of mind.

December 2024

Desmond Callahan

Anchorage, AK

STABILicers Walk

I work outdoors year-round in Alaska, and these are the real deal. I've tried cheaper cleats that broke within weeks, but STABILicers are built like tanks. The multi-directional cleats grip on ice better than anything else I've tested, including on steep driveways and loading docks. Yes, they're heavier and more expensive than Yaktrax, but the durability makes them worth it for professional use. I'm on my second winter with the same pair, wearing them 5+ days a week. The replaceable cleats mean I'll likely get another 2-3 winters out of them.

January 2025

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Our reviews are based on extensive testing and research. We only recommend products our team has personally evaluated and would use themselves. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date published but may change over time.