|
Post by georgeofthej on Jul 24, 2023 15:13:08 GMT -8
I bought a set of Yaktrax to use while shoveling snow on the driveway and sidewalk when I lived in Reno, but I moved before I got a chance to try them, and don't get snow where I live now.
Has anyone tried Yaktrax on the trail? I'm planning to hike next week in an area that may have some snow, and I'm wondering if these would have any value.
Thanks for any help.
|
|
zeke
Trail Wise!
Peekaboo slot 2023
Posts: 9,886
|
Post by zeke on Jul 24, 2023 15:55:02 GMT -8
I know several hikers that use micro spikes on hard packed snow or ice on the trail.
|
|
ErnieW
Trail Wise!
I want to backpack
Posts: 9,935
|
Post by ErnieW on Jul 24, 2023 16:20:34 GMT -8
I went to their website. They have a range of models. The top end models are like mini crampons for lighter weight hiking shoe. They look like they should be good on snow and ice.
|
|
BigLoad
Trail Wise!
Pancakes!
Posts: 12,937
|
Post by BigLoad on Jul 24, 2023 18:54:08 GMT -8
Performance of the base-model Yaktrax varies with conditions. They're not incredibly durable, but they do OK if you're on all-snow/ice as opposed to mixed terrain (i.e. roots and rocks) and they haven't accumulated too many miles.
|
|
|
Post by High Sierra Fan on Jul 24, 2023 20:21:51 GMT -8
Flat trail traction is okay with the basic models. So they’d give some added security over flexible soled trail shoes on compacted-to-ice snow.
|
|
|
Post by oldbill on Jul 25, 2023 3:18:08 GMT -8
Yaktrax Pro seem to have ok reviews for traction but often break. Not a problem shoveling the driveway but not something I'd want to happen on a steep snow-covered slope. I'd invest in a pair of Kahtoola's or at least carry a spare.
|
|
walkswithblackflies
Trail Wise!
Resident terrorist-supporting eco-freak bootlicker
Posts: 6,934
|
Post by walkswithblackflies on Jul 25, 2023 6:28:41 GMT -8
They provide better traction than a bare boot/shoe, but are not a substitute for crampons. I use them for running on snowmobile trails.
|
|
|
Post by georgeofthej on Jul 25, 2023 9:11:22 GMT -8
Thanks for the responses, everyone. I should have mentioned that mine are Yaktrax Pro, with the metal spirals. The rubber framework does look a little flimsy, and I sure wouldn't trust it to traverse a steep slope with. I might see if there are patches of snow at the trailhead to test them on before making a decision on carrying them in my backpack.
|
|
texasbb
Trail Wise!
Hates chicken
Posts: 1,223
|
Post by texasbb on Jul 25, 2023 13:57:25 GMT -8
...Yaktrax Pro, with the metal spirals. I've never owned or used them, but I've heard testimony that a bit of gravel and/or sharp rock can readily slip between the metal spirals and nick or cut the rubber. How could it not?
|
|