Hello! I’m an avid hiker used to warm, rocky conditions, but I’m considering winter hiking as my new school program is near some stunning mountain trails. I already have good boots (Salewa) and am weighing whether crampons are necessary or if I could make do with microspikes. While I have ambitions for more technical mountaineering in the future, my current focus is handling trails with potential snow and ice. Given that funds are tight with school, I’m leaning towards the more affordable microspikes. Any advice on whether to invest in crampons now, or would microspikes suffice for less steep trails?
Before getting crampons, it’s crucial to understand their specific use cases compared to microspikes and ensure your boots are compatible. Crampons are ideal for steep, icy inclines, whereas microspikes usually suffice for less challenging trails. Depending on your hiking area, the right equipment is essential, and sometimes carrying both is advisable based on conditions reported by other hikers. In regions like the PNW, the correct choice can be crucial for safety.
@Jamie
I’ll be hiking in high desert areas with varied elevation. The trails near me range from easy to Class 3 with significant elevation gain and variable snow and ice conditions. My boots are crampon-compatible, so I’m considering starting with microspikes and evaluating if I need to upgrade to crampons based on the trails I tackle.
Check if your school offers resources for outdoor activities; colleges often provide ways to safely explore new outdoor hobbies. For basic icy trails, microspikes should be adequate. Crampons are better suited for more extreme conditions like glacier travel or ice climbing, and can often be rented or bought secondhand if needed.
@Val
Great tip, I’ll see what the school offers. Thanks!
For general winter trail use, microspikes should be sufficient and are a cost-effective solution.
I’ve used yak traks from Amazon successfully for two seasons in Colorado. Combined with trekking poles, they provide good traction. Even if not needed for the entire hike, it’s safer to have them than risk slipping and injury.