Ice fishing is one of the exciting activities that you can take part in during the winter. Nothing beats walking on a frozen lake looking for ice holes where you could locate your ideal catch.
However, all the excitement carries its risks; one of them is sliding on a slippery surface and breaking your ankle, teeth, or ribs.
Therefore, it would be wise that you get ice cleats for the occasion to be on the safe side.
Unfortunately, there are many models of ice fishing cleats in the market, including bogus ones that only end up frustrating you and ruining your experience.
This article aims to give you tips on how you can find the best ice cleats for ice fishing. For instance, we shall mention some of the factors that you should consider to boost your chances of finding the ideal product.
These aspects include:
- The construction
- Grip
- Durability
- Price, among others
We also hope the following reviews will be of great help for you to narrow down your search.
Great Ice Cleats: Comparison Table
Your search for good ice grippers ends here. We have just what you need – a table comprising 10 highly rated cleats.
| Ranking | Name | Size | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Unigear Ice Traction Cleats | Medium | 1 pounds |
| 2 | STABILicers Walk Traction Cleat | X-Small | 0.45 pounds |
| 3 | STABILicers Maxx 2 Heavy-Duty Traction Cleats | Medium | 1.3 pounds |
| 4 | OuterStar Ice & Snow Grips Over Shoe | Small | 0.55 pounds |
| 5 | Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction | Men’s Size 8-11 | – |
| 6 | ICETrekkers Diamond Grip Traction Cleats | Medium | 0.71 pounds |
| 7 | Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats for Walking | Small | 0.36 pounds |
| 8 | EnergeticSky Upgraded Version of Walk Cleat | Large | – |
| 9 | Wirezoll Crampons, Stainless Steel Ice Traction Cleats | Large | 1 pounds |
| 10 | Fnova Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Cleats | Large | 1 pounds |
1. Unigear Traction Cleats Ice Snow Grips
For a multipurpose pair of the cleat, this is what our team of review experts recommends. Indeed, these grippers are designed with 18 spike grip good for walking, jogging over ice surfaces.
By design, these slip-ons are lighter and tough for unrivaled traction over icy winter trails.
In addition, its main body is made of elastomer band with stretchy thermoplastic elastomer.
Due to this, they are flexibility, anti-abrasion, and anti-tearing for longevity and quick secure fitting.
Additionally, these cleats give you convenient cleats on heel and forefoot.
Pros
- Tough and light
- 18 spikes for enhanced balance
- Heavy-duty crampons
- Flexible anti thermoplastic elastomer
- Full-length sole coverage
Cons
- Ice clumps on the spikes
2. STABILicers Walk Traction Cleat for Walking on Snow and Ice
This gripper will treat you to aggressive cleats and offer you positive and unbeatable traction day in day out.The cleat has a multidirectional heated steel design meant to properly bite into ice and snow.
In addition, it has traction aid which can be of help when walking fast and carrying heavy items. Plus, it also comes with walk stabilizers for enhanced stability.
Over and above this, these cleats are compact and easy to store.
Pros
- Multidirectional
- Industrial strength material
- Easy to use
- Easy to get on and off
Cons
- Does not stretch enough
Also read: 12 Best Ice Fishing Rods – Reviews & 22 Best Fishing Shoes – Reviews
3. STABILicers Maxx 2 Heavy-Duty Traction Cleats for Job Safety in Ice and Snow
This is a nice pair of cleats that fits well especially on small-sized shoes. Advantageously, compared to other cleats, this cleat gives you replaceable threated traction cleats compatible with anti-spark brass cleats.
On top of that, it is fitted with adjustable sure fit binding systems with hook and loop straps aid for withstanding hard use.
Built for flexible in frigid temperatures up to -45 degrees Fahrenheit, the cleat gives you excellent traction stability.
Pros
- Features industrial traction
- Flexible in frigid temperatures
- Features 16 heat-treated cleats
- Adjustable sure fit binding systems
- Fits well over small shoe sizes
Cons
- Weighs more than the slip-on grippers.
4. OuterStar Ice & Snow Grips Over Shoe/Boot Traction Cleat
Our review team of experts strongly recommends these cleats as a great anti-slip over different kinds of shoes.
With these cleats, you get a high-quality rustproof spike under the ball and heel of your foot. This cleat is designed with a contraction that folds to fit into your pocket.
Moreover, special ground griping steel studs will give you excellent traction over ice fishing boots, sneakers, or casual shoes.
Pros
- Fits both men and women shoe sizes
- Lightweight
- Special ground griping steel studs
- Easily fits on and off
Cons
- Plastic spike holders may come out
5. Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
This is a very durable pair of cleats that attach securely to your footwear.
The design of these cleats does not need special straps or buckles to fastened on your shoes.
In comparison to other slip-ons, this one does well over all types of terrains; packed snow, ice, scree, concrete or wet rocks
Additionally, the grippers are designed for pocked sized traction systems for safe use by anyone of any age during winter.
Pros
- Tough elastomer shoe harness
- 3/8’’ spikes made of hardened stainless steel
- Sized for running shoes/hiking boots
- Good for insulated boots
Cons
- Links fail easily
6. ICETrekkers Diamond Grip Traction Cleats
This ice tracker comes with a diamond grip traction that offers you aggressive traction over different winter conditions.
For example, they are made of case-hardened steel alloy strung on steel aircraft cable.
You will find these trackers effective over all kinds of winter terrain. That’s because they’re made of hardened steel alloy and strung on steel aircraft cable to give you aggressive traction.
Over and above this, the cleats feature a durable designed of hardened steel alloy stung on steel aircraft cable.
Pros
- Self-cleaning design
- Elastic sling under subzero temperatures
- Grip design gives aggressive traction
- Riveted for tough rubber sling
- Hardened steel alloy and strung on steel aircraft cable
Cons
- Stress wears off the plastic clearing
7. Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats
These cleats will give you better traction, safety, and confidence over snow and ice-packed surfaces.
First, the traction cleats fit over shoes well and are secured with a durable rubber strap for an excellent fit.
Again, with these cleats you get 360 degrees of all direction traction on cold surfaces.
Over and above this, the cleats come in different sizes; S, M, L, and XL sizes to fit all shoes.
Pros
- Fit overall shoes
- Sizes for all shoes
- Durable rubber straps
- High strength bad abrasion
Cons
- Rubber snaps underneath of the springs
8. EnergeticSky Upgraded Version of Walk Traction Ice Cleat Spikes Crampons
According to our review team of experts, this is the only slip ons that provides you with a 19 multi-directional spike grip.
Due to this, these cleats will give you excellent traction over different icy surfaces.Again, the cover is made from silicone and so unlike other brands made of TPR rubber.
As a result, these cleats are highly elastic and won’t tear or snap.
Pros
- Made for men and women of any age
- Great for inter trail fishing
- Highly safe and durable
- Durable and firm
- Easy to wear and carry
Cons
- Sharp metal edges
9. Wirezoll Crampons, Stainless Steel Ice Traction Cleats
One thing we like about this gripper is that it’s designed to help you keep a natural stride under all winter conditions.
Additionally, it comes with a pull tab for easy putting on and taking off; secure fitting. Also, it has a Lastly, their Full sole coverage with heel and forefoot give you a good grip.
Pros
- Upgrade pair of 24stainless spikes
- Easy fitting and securing of shoes
- Remain flexible up to -70 degrees
- Aggressive cleats
Cons
- Do not stretch enough
Also checkout: The 12 Best Fishing Headlamps: Reviews
10. Crampons Ice Snow Grips Traction Cleats Shoes Grips
These slip ons come with over foot adjustable straps for securing on footwear.As a result, these cleats provide you with excellent grip over slick surfaces.
In addition, the trekkers have a patented diamond bead with many biting edges from the multidirectional grip.
Last but not least, the cleat is made from TPE rubber thicker than ordinary rubber.
Pros
- Heavy-duty and sturdy material
- TPE rubber
- Easy to wear and carry
- Easy to put on/off
- Elastic material
Cons
- Not easy to put on as intended
The Buying Guide
As we stated earlier, there are some factors that you need to focus on if you want to boost your chances of getting some good ice fishing cleats.
We have discussed them below.
Durability
Nobody would want a product that would fall apart after only a few times of use. Therefore, you should go for something that would give you full and proper support on the ice.
Weight
Ideal cleats should not add excessive weight to your ice fishing kit. We recommend that you go for cleats made of aluminum as these would assure you of durable items that are lightweight at the same time.
Usage
We also recommend that you get cleats that you could use for other activities besides ice fishing. For instance, they should be well-built for snowy mountain hikes and walking on hard surfaces as well.
The Price
Your ideal item should lie within a specific price range so that you do not mess up your financial plan. You should be pleased to know that there are high-quality and affordable options available out there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Check out the following queries and their responses to boost your understanding of ice cleats.
Can I wear my ice cleats indoors?
We advise you not to do so since ice cleats are designed to penetrate snow. Therefore, if you use them on flooring materials such as marble or tiles, they may end up being a slipping hazard.
How long should I expect my ice cleats to serve me?
Well, the lifespan of your ice cleats largely depends on the materials they are made from. The materials that are likely to assure you of durability include aluminum and stainless steel.
Our Best Pick
After a thorough and in-depth review by our team of experts, The Unigear Traction Cleats Ice Snow Grips gives the best value for your money.This pair of cleats comes with 18 spikes for balance and is light and tough. On top of that, it has heavy-duty crampons that are the best in the class.
Final Thoughts
Since ice fishing typically happens on a slippery surface, you need to put your safety first to ensure you come out in one piece.
Ice cleats would go a long way in boosting your safety in such an environment.
So, go ahead and read our article, and by the end of it all, you should be better placed to make an informed decision.