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Micro Spikes / Crampons
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[quote quote=4671]
Now that the differences between crampons and micro-spikes have mainly been addressed, I would like to expand on the question for everyone if that’s ok?
What micro-spikes do you recommend, or not recommend? I’m looking to purchase some for my wife and I. User experience from here would be highly appreciated! Thank you!
Tyler, as for microspikes, I’m a big fan of the Kahtoola microspikes. Both my wife and I have them and swear by them.[/quote]
Thanks Jeff! Those are the ones I was looking at. I wear a size 14 lowa renegade. It looks like I’m on the middle line between sizes L and XL (unfortunately that seems to be the case with almost anything for me)
Large fits Men’s shoe sizes 10.5 – 14
X-Large fits Men’s shoe sizes 14 – 16
Is it better to have a tighter fit at the end of the size? Or a looser fit at the beginning? I probably wouldn’t know until I was on the trail even if I tried them on first. -
Personal experience: Hiked Cucamonga today. Most north facing trails had 2-3” of snow after last Monday’s storm, particularly the section beyond the Saddle. I had gotten the Hillsound Free Steps 6 Traction Device For the occasion (size large for my Merrill size 11 hiking shoes stayed on perfectly). I loved it; combined with my trekking poles it gave me more stability and I felt more secure. You really don’t want to slip down those slopes. Hardly noticed them, even on patches without snow. Glad I got them.
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I too, just finished Cucamonga on an overnight…used micro-spikes and poles on the north face for the Friday (2/16) ascent and the Saturday (2/17) decent…2-3 inch combination snow and ice…
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Get Kahtoola. They’ve never failed me and I can walk on gravel etc without the spikes bending. I would echo what Jeff and others have said, if it’s sketchy and you aren’t absolutely sure of yourself, turn around. I’ve done it and didn’t feel bad about it. That being said, don’t be afraid to push yourself either. Basically know your limits but if you think you can push safely…do it. I’ve never regretting pushing either. With regards to hiking in snow, my buddy and I made a deal to do as many of these peaks in the snow as possible. It has been an absolute blast and one of the greatest experiences of my life in recent memory. There is nothing like it. However, you should be prepared. Know how to walk with spikes. Have trekking poles for stability. And most importantly, keep your wits about you. Hiking in the snow is fun but pay attention and again, don’t be afraid to turn back if you realize you bit off more than you can chew.
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