Best Ice Cleats 2026: 4 Traction Picks to Keep You Upright on Icy Sidewalks, Trails, and Winter Runs

Winter gear isn't all heated blankets and space heaters. Sometimes the most valuable gadget of the season is a simple strap-on traction device that keeps you from wiping out on the way to the mailbox. After testing 19 traction devices on water-slicked ice, hard-packed snow, and slippery hills, Wirecutter just updated its ice cleat guide, and we've pulled out the highlights for ShopperWizz readers.

Why it matters: according to the CDC, slips and falls were the leading cause of non-fatal injuries for nearly every age group in the US as of 2022. A good traction aid can't eliminate the risk, but it can reduce it a lot. And since prices on outdoor gear tend to dip around Black Friday, now is a smart time to shop. Prices below are as listed in Wirecutter's guide and can change.

What to Look for in Ice Cleats

• Match the grip to your terrain. Rotating beads or short spikes suit pavement and city sidewalks. Longer steel spikes are better for trails and deep snow, but can be rough on asphalt.
• Harness fit. Most cleats use a stretchy rubber harness that slips over your shoe. Check that it fits bulky winter boots.
• Easy on, easy off. Pull tabs make cleats simpler to put on, and you'll wear them more often if they're not a hassle.
• Indoor-friendly. Plan to take them off at the door, since spikes and tile don't mix.

1. Best for City Walking: Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip

Wirecutter's top pick uses spiked, rotating beads that bite into ice and hard snow, shed softer snow before it builds up underfoot, and won't damage asphalt. They fit over almost any shoe and come off easily at the door. The trade-off: they struggle on the most polished ice. Listed around $54 at Amazon, $57 at Walmart, and $60 at REI. They're sometimes sold as simply the "Yaktrax Diamond Grip" (same product), so buy whichever is cheaper.

Shop Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip on Amazon

2. Upgrade Pick: Black Diamond Distance Spike

For longer distances and mixed terrain, these have real steel spikes, a nylon cloth upper that makes centering the cleat easier, and heel pull tabs. They handle ice, rocks, and some asphalt well, though the nylon doesn't stretch as much, so very bulky boots may not fit. They cost about twice as much as the top pick, and stock can be spotty.

Shop Black Diamond Distance Spike on Amazon

3. Best for Backcountry and Ice Fishing: Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra

With 18 stainless steel spikes at varied angles, this is the most hardcore option short of true crampons. It grips going uphill and downhill on deep snow or pure ice, but it isn't meant for pavement or dry, rocky trails. About $90 at Amazon.

Shop Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra on Amazon

4. Best for Winter Road Running: Kahtoola NANOspikes

Ten short tungsten-carbide spikes are lightweight, durable, and grip black ice and mixed snow on winter roads. Because they're short, you won't wreck them (or the ground) when you hit dry pavement. They're not great for rugged terrain. Around $70 at REI.

Shop Kahtoola NANOspikes on Amazon

Tips for Catching a Real Deal

• Compare retailers: the top pick varies by a few dollars between Amazon, Walmart, and REI.
• Don't overbuy. If you only face the occasional icy driveway, the city-walking pick beats a pricey backcountry set.
• Keep a pair by the door, and rinse and dry them after use to protect the spikes and harness.

Source: Wirecutter's "The Best Ice Cleats for Shoes," updated November 13, 2026.