WTB or Rent : Microspikes or Black Diamond Contact Straps

[Manwich]

Need by 2nd week of February, my first real 2-day winter-hike requiring crampons of sorts.

I kinda want to rent crampons or microspikes, in case I don't like the winter-hiking thing. I'll pay for actual shipping (to and fro) and give you $10 for your troubles...

But if you've got some neglected crampons or microspikes (even dull ones, I might attempt to sharpen them with a dremel) send me an offer.

[mtbmatty]

you may checkout EMS i know they rent gear. or maybe you could score a deal on e-bay what about yak-trax they are fairly reasonably priced and may come in handy for winter day hikes

[Manwich]

you may checkout EMS i know they rent gear. or maybe you could score a deal on e-bay what about yak-trax they are fairly reasonably priced and may come in handy for winter day hikes


everybody in my AMC chapter says yaktrax are a horrific nightmare

[mtbmatty]

never used them, do they not stay on properly?

[buckwheat]

No, they'll break if you try to hike in them.

Kahtoola Microspikes are what you want. They're not crampons. So, if you need crampons (i.e, if you are going to be climbing ice falls or climbing ice water protruding from rocks) then take crampons.

If what you need is trail traction on packed snow not requiring snowshoes, then Kahtoola Microspikes are just the ticket. Only $60. Hardly worth renting. I use them around the house too (such as when shovelling a slick driveway, etc.)

I did a complete review of the Kahtoola Microspikes here:

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=45137

Cheers,
Buckwheat

[mtbmatty]

that's hilarious!! is'nt the entire purpose so you can walk/hike in them:-?
good tip though

[Manwich]

yes, i am aware of what they do. i need both for separate trips.

[buckwheat]

that's hilarious!! is'nt the entire purpose so you can walk/hike in them:-?
good tip though

Take a look at these two images:

YakTrax

http://www.campbound.com/ProductImages/brand/yaktrax/YakTraxPro.jpg

See how thin those black staps are (look at the grey instep). These are designed for when you need something to keep you from slipping on the driveway when you're taking the garbage out for the missus. These have no business near a hiking trail, since they can't stand the torque.

Those straps suck hindtit.

Also take a look at the coils. That's coil is a small slinky. Imagine the punishment you will dish out on that slinky on a bush trail.

But don't take my word for it: Google "yaktrax review" and listen to the bemoaning of owners who had these on a trail for 10 seconds before they blew out.

On the other hand, here are the :

Kahtoola Microspikes

http://www.kahtoola.com/images/spikes_prod.jpg

Much sturdier, designed to take high torque loading as you put pressure on the sides of your feet. These can break ... but it would take a much higher load. I've hiked a lot in these. They're like freaking bear claws.

Each design has its uses. Only one is trail ready.

Cheers,
Buckwheat

[mudhead]

Yo Buckwheat. Go easy, they'll think you have stock in Kathoola.

I've only found three Yaktrax so far this year. And only one glove. It is early.

I think you could walk into the grocery in Yaktrax, or drive a vehicle, so they do have their pluses.

[buckwheat]

Yo Buckwheat. Go easy, they'll think you have stock in Kathoola.

I've only found three Yaktrax so far this year. And only one glove. It is early.

I think you could walk into the grocery in Yaktrax, or drive a vehicle, so they do have their pluses.

Heh. :D

Like I said in my review, I have no interest in the company or anyone who sells them ... just psyched because it's a great product that really fit a need that I had ... plus I hate to see people spend hard-earned bucks on a lesser product, especially in these economic times.

I agree both products have their uses.

[mbanja]

I put on the yaktrax coming off of Clingman's dome. There was tons of ice and about 6 inches of snow/ice sheet mix in places. My hiking buddy was sliding all over the place and after about an hour the straps burst and I was sliding too. Great for getting the mail or going out to the car - crap for the AT. Doesn't REI still rent gear?

[canoehead]

Check out this site NE ice. it's an Ice climbing forum.
I've found some deals here it's kind of hit or miss. good luck

http://neice.com/classifieds/showcat.php?cat=20 or the Kahtoola Microspikes work good to and your walking stride won't change like wearing crampons. If it's steeeeeep I'd go with the Crampon & Ice axe but if your just looking for some trackion go with the Kahtoolas they work well for moderate stuff.

[gregor]

Don't know if it's all EMS's, but i just picked up a pair of the microspikes for 40 bucks. That elastomer part is seriously stretchy and seems very heavy duty. Plan on taking them out here in about 30 minutes for a day hike to see how they handle.

[TwoForty]

Just an FYI, don't use power tools to sharpen crampons. The high speed creates friction/heat which can change the temper of the steel. Hand file only!