Microspikes Alternative?

I don't know about in the USA, but in Japan and Europe you have almost completely identical microspikes from Montbell and from Camp (and perhaps some other makers).

I personally like the Camp ones because they have an extra Velcro band over the forefoot which makes them a bit more secure on steep down hills. Might be worth checking for some of these online.

Hope you find what you need. Enjoy the trail

Hi John,

I bet if you put a wanted advert on Gear swap you will find a pair very quick.

Best of luck on the Pct.

Hillsound Trail Crampon.

Veriga sold at Amazon

I'd probably go for these http://www.rutalocura.com/crampon.html

I carried microspikes when I went through. However I would probably take the sides step crampons if I went again. They are half the weight too.

Amazon has microspikes available through Prime… free 2-day delivery.

if it is just for one or two passes, you can screw some sheet metal screws into your shoes (short ones) or get the special screws that runners use in their shoes to run on icy surfaces (check local running stores etc). This is lighter but the downside is screwing them in and out is a pain. They do make a special tool that makes it easier though.

I was in a similar position (couldn't find MICROspikes in my size) and then found these copycats on Amazon:

Glacier Chains GSC-XL Shoe Chains
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HXGT4C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Size XL fits "Men's size 11-13." I'm a 13 and they felt snug. By all outward appearances they are just like MICROspikes. I can't comment on durability (yet).

Bonus: They're $20 not $60.

Call REI in Plano or Dallas. I would call the number on REI's website and ask for them to see if any stores carry the Kahtoola microspikes that you could order. I've done this with them several times when I've seen an item no longer listed. They simply found the store that had them and then they gave me the local number to call. I know for a fact that the Dallas and Plano TX REI's had the Kahtoolas in Large. I hope this helps!

The Vargo Pocket Cleats might be of interest. They are 2oz each (so 4oz for the pair) and while I bought a set recently I haven't had the chance to use them yet. Other BPL'ers have put them to the test and have reported good results – if they are put on correctly.

http://www.vargooutdoors.com/titanium-pocket-cleats.html#.VWZmdc9Viko