Episode 118 | Traction Spikes

[Backpacking Light]

Companion forum thread to: Episode 118 | Traction Spikes

In episode 118 of the Backpacking Light podcast we’re going to learn about traction systems for snow travel.

[Ryan Jordan]

Wondering if there is a market for a really light spike optimized for glacier trekking, where the spike is just a little bit on the longer side but not “crampon-long” (15 mm?), light and flexible enough for trail running shoes, and sharp enough (carbon steel) for steep pass climbs. Think early season high route alpine travel in the N Cascades, Wind Rivers, etc.

[Jerry Adams]

kahtoola microspikes are 10mm?

those work pretty good

[Todd T]

Kahtoola’s K-10 hiking crampons have 3/4-in (19mm) spikes and weigh about 24 oz (680 g) per pair.  How close/far is that from what you’re thinking?

[jscott]

Do you really want to be in technical glacier/ice conditions in trail running shoes?

maybe!! Not me, but my feet are weird.

I’m a huge fan of Kahtoola microspikes, that I wear with very light Keen boots. those Kahtoolah K10 crampons look very good indeed.

[Ryan Jordan]

I’ve used the K10s and the Hillsound Trail Crampons for glaciers, both with trail running shoes, both are excellent for this purpose.

The Hillsounds are about 7 oz lighter than the K10s, and the harness does work better on trail running shoes.

I still think there is weight to be saved, though. The new Kahtoola Ghost harness with these types of spikes would be the bomb for glacier travel w/trail runners and weigh less than 12 oz…

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