Micro-Spikes

A Handy Addition to Your Backpack

Micro-spikes in your backpack can be a lifesaver! While many may think they are only useful in snowy conditions, you'll be surprised to learn that they can also come in handy on wet grass! So, let's invest in this important piece of gear that takes up little space and delve into the topic together!

What are micro-spikes?

Micro-spikes (or trail crampons) are "anti-slip" devices that differ from traditional crampons due to their lighter weight, smaller size, easier fitting, and, of course, their uses. It's important to keep in mind that they are not designed for steep climbs but rather to ensure safe walking in unstable situations. They can be used on snow, ice, mud, wet grass, etc., but always on moderate slopes (below 20°). Unlike crampons, which require appropriate boots (preferably crampon-compatible or semi-crampon-compatible), micro-spikes have no such preferences. It's essential not to use micro-spikes on paths with a high risk of excessive slipping, as they are unsuitable for preventing falls.

How are they generally constructed?

They have a bottom part that can be entirely metal or a combination of metal and plastic. This part is responsible for the contact between the sole of the footwear and the ground. The upper part is made of elastic material, which helps keep the micro-spikes in place. Regarding the bottom part, it may have spikes, chains, or other anti-slip mechanisms (which will be discussed further).

Unlike mountaineering crampons, micro-spikes lack anti-balling plates.

The weight ranges from 450g for hiking models, decreasing to 180g for trail and vertical running models. Typically, they come with a special case to prevent damage to materials, backpacks, and individuals from the spikes.

Why use crampons?

Because even along easy routes without particular challenges, on paths or mule tracks, or on mixed, flat, or slightly inclined trails, you may encounter residual snow, unstable terrain, or short icy sections that increase the risk of falling with unpleasant consequences. Even in winter, when walking with snowshoes, it's always useful to have a pair of crampons for icy patches where there's little snow.

How do you put them on?

Like any part of our equipment, before the hike, we must check that the micro-spikes are not damaged in any of their parts (metal, plastic, rubber, spikes, etc.); functionality must be ensured. Testing them on a part of the route or a similar one is advisable. For the product's maintenance and safe use, it's important to ensure that the micro-spikes are correctly positioned on the footwear: the elastic should never come into contact with the sole, and all components of the micro-spike should be under slight and even tension.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to wear them:

Identify the front and back (the latter is marked BACK). There's no difference between the right and left crampon.
Thread the elastic through the front of the shoe, making sure the spiked plates face outward, not toward the sole of the shoe. Be careful not to get the crampon tread caught in that of the shoe, aiming to align them as closely as possible.
Grab both hands on the back of the coloured elastomer and pull it towards the heel: the crampon should fit snugly and be under tension. Ensure there's no connection between the elastomer and the tread on the sole's edge (this could lead to crampon breakage).
Pull the upper part of the elastomer upwards, at least 1cm above the edge of the shoe. Again, the tread tension will indicate if the crampon is fitted correctly.
To remove the crampon, reverse the steps.

Some types of micro-spikes

Trail-running crampons

Their main feature is their similarity to snow chains for cars: they have spikes and chains that increase grip and provide stability to the foot by penetrating the surface of the terrain. This type is useful on mixed terrain of rock and soil, compact snow, icy trails, and wet grassy slopes. They usually have 10 to 20 spikes, with lengths ranging from 1 to 1.5cm (compared to ice crampons with spikes from 2 to 5cm).

Minimalist crampons

This is a subcategory of trail running crampons; they can be used on hard snow or asphalt covered with a light layer of ice. Instead of spikes, they have metal studs or simple chains. They are suitable for trail runners who switch between roads and trails, eliminating the need to stop and put on or take off crampons. Also, they lack spikes, which allows for a smoother run.