Slips and falls may not seem like a big deal, but the injury from such an accident can be deadly. This is why if you love to spend time outside during the winter months, you want to make sure that you stay safe while walking on ice and snow. A great way to do so is by using ice grippers on your shoes. These handy wearables maximize the traction you get when walking on ice. You can now walk confidently without having to worry about slippery ice running your day.
This feature makes them perfect for casual use or even for workers who have to work on the ice. Finding high-quality ice grippers from the tons of options available online isn't easy. To help make the buying process easier for you, here is our guide to buying the finest ice grippers of 2024. This guide will be detailing all you need about these handy wearables to ensure a good purchase.
For the first spot, we have this ICETRAX Ice Gripper, which is the perfect solution for staying safe and secure on surfaces. It features nine tungsten carbide spikes to provide superior traction on ice and snow. This feature helps ensure that you can run and work confidently without worrying about slips and falls. Its unique cap design also prevents it from slipping off your shoe or moving around when in use. This design provides extra stability and safety for the user, so you don’t have to constantly check to see if the apparatus is still in place.
Putting on this pick is fast and easy, too, since it only takes a few seconds to slip it around most types of footwear. You can quickly get ready to hit the trails or streets at a moment’s notice. A unique thing about it is the high visibility it provides in dark conditions, thanks to the reflective panels on the heel. The easily wearable design, durable tungsten spikes, and high visibility of this product have earned it the first spot on this list.
The runner-up on our list are these EONPOW Ice Grippers, made using highly durable TPE rubber for an extended usage life. It can handle very low temperatures without worry, so you can wear it no matter how cold it gets. For extra security, the grips feature 10 steel studs that grip onto the ground for good traction on icy terrain. It also comes in various shoe sizes, allowing users to pick the size that’s perfect for them. It easily slips on or off, saving you time and effort in the long run.
One of the top features of this pick is that it is very lightweight, so you won’t have any trouble when walking. It is also incredibly comfortable, allowing you to take long walks without tiring or experiencing any pain. The customers loved the extra studs included in the package. They also liked the traction this product provides.
Next, we have this Carryown Ice Gripper that comes in two stud count variations to pick from. It is also available in various size options to fit your shoe size. It features a thermoplastic elastomer build, making it highly durable, so it can survive rough environments with ease. The studs used are non-slip to provide superior grip and traction on snow and ice. You even get extra replacement studs included to act as a replacement if the previous ones wear out.
This pick is easy to attach and detach from any standard boot or shoe. All you need to do is pull the front strap over the toe of your shoe and then pull the backstrap over the heel. It is also lightweight and portable, so you can easily slip them in your pockets or bag with no additional weight or bulkiness. It can be used on angled terrain safely, which is a great plus. Customers were impressed by the secure fit of this product.
These HoFire Ice Grippers grip onto your boots very securely, so you don’t have to worry about them slipping off while you walk or run. This is thanks to its overshoe design and flexible build, as it can stretch to fit over the boots and remain securely on your feet throughout your activities. It also features a lightweight construction making it very comfortable to wear for long periods.
You also get to pick between five size options to find the perfect match for your feet. The durable construction and excellent traction of this pick make it stand out. The stand-out feature is bound to be the budget-friendly price point making it highly affordable without compromising on quality.
This Yaktrax Ice Gripper is made from steel alloy in chain-like forms to provide optimal traction no matter how slippery the ice gets. It also looks very good on your shoes. Also, it comes in multiple size options allowing you to pick the right size for your needs. The diamond beads don’t get any ice buildup either, as they swivel independently. This makes it ideal for smoothly transitioning between different types of surfaces, such as gravel, dirt, and concrete, without experiencing any instability.
The natural rubber sling of this pick remains elastic even at sub-zero temperatures, making it comfortable for prolonged use. This feature also makes it easy to put on and take off, even in very cold temperatures. Customers loved the ease of use and stability of this product. They also adored its high durability and sturdiness.
Sprains, cuts, bruises, and fractures are common results of a bad slip and fall due to ice. If the fall was too bad, you could even end up with a head injury. Choosing the right ice grippers can mean the difference between a safe, comfortable winter walk and an unpleasant slip on the ice.
Without further ado, here is our guide to buying ice grippers outlining the most important features to consider when making your purchase.
Durability is key when selecting ice grippers, as they need to hold up against extreme temperatures and all sorts of winter weather. Look for ice grippers made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel, reinforced plastics, and rubber compounds that won’t degrade over time with regular use. This way, the ice grippers will last a long time, giving you better value for your money.
Selecting the right size is essential for proper fit and performance when choosing an ice gripper set. Too small of a size, and the ice grippers may not provide adequate grip. If the size is too large, the ice grippers will be uncomfortable to wear. Be sure to check manufacturer specifications for size ranges in the product description before making your purchase.
When it comes to traction, you want to ensure the ice grippers provide maximum grip on icy surfaces. Look for options with metal spikes, cleats, or other design elements designed to give you a good grip on slippery surfaces. You should also consider tread patterns and rubber compounds designed for optimal gripping in cold weather conditions. Metal chains are also great at improving the traction you get when walking.
Consider how easy it would be to get the ice grippers on and off your shoes when making your purchase. If the ice grippers are too difficult to put on or take off, it will take more time out of your day when wearing them. A difficult fastening type also means a higher probability of the fastening apparatus breaking. Make sure that the ice grippers you pick are easy to put on by going through the product reviews.
While good traction is crucial, comfort should not be neglected either. This is why we only chose the ice grippers that didn’t make it uncomfortable to wear your shoes while having them on. It is a good idea to choose a pair of ice grippers that fit securely on your shoes without getting in the way or restricting your foot. Also, pay attention to cushioning if you plan on wearing them for long periods or on rough terrain.
You will want to choose a pair of lightweight ice grippers if you plan on wearing them for long periods or while hiking. This is because heavier ice grippers will tire you out quickly. We only picked the ice grippers for our list that were lightweight and portable.
Low-quality ice grippers are often made with materials that suffer when they come in contact with water. The metal components may rust, and the rubber parts may become cracked. This is why you should only go for options that can withstand long-term exposure to water. Be sure to check the product description of the ice grippers you chose to ensure that they can survive being submerged in water for long durations.
It is incredibly easy to lose ice grippers when taking a walk or working outdoors. The ice gripper could get caught on something and break loose from the shoe. Then you will have to spend a good chunk of your time looking for it. Keep spares on hand in case you lose one.
Ice grippers are made of many material types. The most common option is a combination of metal and rubbers. Rubber is used for its durability and stretchiness, while steel provides great traction on slippery ice as it can dig in more easily. Good ice grippers are made from high-quality rubber with abrasives. This way, they can provide optimal durability and traction. You can also find options made using metal chains that are designed to provide even better traction as more metal is getting dug into the ice as you walk.
Ice grippers work by providing traction on slippery surfaces. They can be fitted onto footwear with adjustable straps or a pull-on design. Since the ice gripper goes over your boot, it encloses it securely, so there is no wiggle room for the shoe to slip out. The spikes along the edges of the ice gripper create traction with the icy surface so that you can walk on it more easily.
Yes, when used correctly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ice grippers are generally safe to use. Just be sure not to walk indoors when wearing ice grippers. Going indoors while wearing them won't damage the ice grippers, but it will most likely leave some unpleasant scratches on the floor. This is especially true if your house has a wooden floor, as wood can get permanently damaged by ice grippers. Avoid stepping on someone's feet when wearing ice grippers since the metal parts could cause an injury. It is also recommended to walk slowly and deliberately when using ice grippers to maintain good balance and prevent slips and falls.
Typically, ice grippers last for several seasons, depending on their usage and care. It is recommended that you replace your ice grippers if they become cracked or worn down after a single season of heavy usage. Using degraded ice grippers could result in injury as they won't be able to provide enough traction.
Yes, it is crucial to ensure that the straps are securely fastened around your shoes before venturing out on slippery surfaces to ensure stability and reduce the risk of falls or injuries. It is also critical to take extra caution when walking near icy ledges or drops to prevent slipping or sliding off the edge of surfaces. Clean the ice from the ice grippers before storing them to prevent water damage over time.
SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.
To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact aimperiapt@gmail.com