Best Winter Traction For Shoes

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As mother nature is allowing winter to stick around a little longer for most of the US, good traction on your shoes is ever so important.  These days, there are a number of options for getting good traction and it doesn’t just mean shoes with a good tread. Below, we’ve provided the best winter traction for shoes to keep you on your own two feet.

Best Winter Traction For Shoes – Running

Kahtoola NanoSpikes

Kahtoola NanoSpikes are great for the runner that’s looking to get good winter traction when there’s not a lot of snow, but conditions are icy.  When there is thicker snow, the spikes get clogged up with snow and lose their traction. See our full review here

Yaktrax Run

The Yaktrax Run winter traction platform blends both small spikes for the front of the shoe and their patented metal coil system on the back of the shoe.  See our full review here

IceSpike

Do you like the idea of having something a little more permanent in your shoes while running?  IceSpike provides a set of screws and screwdriver that you can use to screw into the bottom of your shoes for great winter running and walking traction. By using Icespike, you’re able to cut weight significantly without sacrificing quality.  amazon.com/icespike

1/4in Hex Sheet Metal Screws

For the DIY people out there, 1/4in hex sheet metal screws work great for running in the snow.  You have to be careful where you place them in your shoe as you don’t want the screw going up through the midsole and into your foot, but when placed correctly, there is no issue.  We generally recommend using an older pair of running shoes that you don’t use much anymore if you only need them from time to time.  If you your shoes use air or gel in the midsole, keep in mind to try to stay away from these areas for screwing into your shoe.  Try to put the screws where you have most contact with the ground which is usually the rear and forefoot sections of the shoe.

 Salomon Spikecross 3 CS

If you’re looking to find a running shoe that does well on snow and ice without having to worry about the hassle of finding the right traction option, the Salomon Spikecross 3 CS is just what the doctor ordered. The Spikecross follows in the footsteps of the successful Salomon Speedcross 3 CS which means you’re running essentially in the Speedcross 3 CS but the SPIKECROSS 3 CS includes permanently placed spikes in the outsole.  In short, Speedcross 3 CS + Spikes in the outsole = Spikecross 3 CS.  Just remember to take off your shoes before you walk across your wood floors in your house.

Best Winter Traction For Shoes – Walking & Hiking

Kahtoola Microspikes

When the snow is a little heavier and the terrain is a little steeper, the Kahtoola Microspikes are the perfect option to stay on two feet.  These are great for activities from walking the dog to hiking up your local trail. See our Full Review

Yaktrax XTR Outdoor Traction

The XTR’s are Yaktrax’s most extreme version of winter traction for the everyday user.  This winter traction device is great for all daily winter activities and have good sized spikes to dig into snow and ice.

Do you have other winter traction options that you like to use?  Please leave a comment and share with the community!