Your Complete Guide to Ice Cleats (Micro Spikes) for Winter Hiking Safety: Baby Wearing in the Winter and Kids Ice Cleats Gear Recommendations
- Adrianna Skori
- 8 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Winter hiking in the Canadian Rockies is magic, we know this but the trails are all ice covered. It is critical to have ice cleats/ micro spikes/ crampons in your hiking parent gear locker. This is an item you never want to forget on the trial even though I have a time or two for sure. We love to explore the frozen waterfalls and canyons each winter. Yet with all of that beauty comes something every adventuring family must take seriously. Ice. Those frozen layers can turn even the most familiar trail into a slipping hazard. When we want to explore safely with babies, toddlers, and older kids, ice cleats become non negotiable. You can see my entire list of hiking mom essentials on my storefront. They protect our steps, our confidence, and the entire experience. This guide blends everything you need to know about choosing the right cleats with my own lived experience adventuring year round in the Rockies.
I have affiliate links in my blogs that all go towards Kids Who Explore to help get more kids outdoors. I really appreciate you supporting my links. There is no extra cost to you. I hope my recommendations help you get outside too.
My Personal Experience with Ice Cleats in the Canadian RockiesIn the Canadian Rockies, cleats are not just for deep winter. I personally start using them as early as September when those first cold nights create icy patches on popular trails. Some years it is October, but it always arrives earlier than most people think. From that moment on, cleats stay in my pack or on my boots through the entire season and often straight into spring. Melting snow on muddy trails can create slick surfaces that catch families off guard. Even higher alpine missions or glacier approaches can require steady traction long before summer arrives. For me, ice cleats have become a year round essential because I never want to be caught on a slippery surface when I am babywearing or guiding my children on trail.
What Ice Cleats Are and Why They Matter
Ice cleats are a simple but powerful add on that slip over your winter boots. They grip into ice and packed snow so each step feels secure instead of uncertain. This matters even more when you are babywearing because one slip can become dangerous quickly. Good traction gives adults the confidence to carry babies close to their chest, hold tiny hands, guide toddlers around roots and rocks, and move safely on mixed winter terrain. For older kids who love to run ahead or explore off trail edges, ice cleats help prevent the falls that can turn a beautiful outing into an emergency.
When You Should Use Ice Cleats
Any time the trail has frozen sections, packed snow, or hidden ice beneath a dusting of powder, ice cleats shift a risky trail into a safe one. Early winter brings freeze and thaw cycles. Mid winter builds compact layers that become glassy underfoot. Spring holds those persistent slick patches in shaded areas. And if you hike as much as we do, you will find that icy pockets can appear in every season. As a rule, if I am questioning whether conditions might be slippery, I put cleats on immediately. It is always better to prepare early than to try catching your balance with a baby in your arms or a toddler at your side.
Types of Ice Cleats for Winter Hiking
There are several styles of ice cleats and each one works for different trail conditions and comfort levels.
Microspike style cleats
These have small stainless steel spikes attached to chains and a stretchy rubber harness that slides over your boot. They offer strong traction and feel stable on both ice and packed snow. They are the most popular option for winter hiking in the Rockies and the type I reach for most often.
Coil cleats
These use metal coils that wrap under the foot. They provide light traction and help on icy sidewalks or gentle trails. They are not recommended for steeper terrain or anything technical.
Plate style cleats
These use small plates or studs under the forefoot and heel. They offer moderate grip and work well on mixed surfaces. They are not as secure as microspikes on steeper icy trails.
My Top Ice Cleat Picks for Adults
Below are the exact spots to add your two favourite adult cleat options with links for both Canada and the United States.
Adult Option One
(My cleats)
Adult Option Two
(A budget-friendly option)
My Top Ice Cleat Picks for Kids
Once toddlers start actually hiking and moving independently on winter trails, cleats are a must for them as well. Kids slip easily and winter falls can be quite nasty. Proper traction allows them to explore with confidence while taking pressure off you to constantly stabilize their footing. Add your two favourite kids options here with both country links.
Kids Option One
Kids Option Two
How to Choose the Right Ice Cleats
The right cleats depend on your terrain, your footwear, and your family needs. If you are hiking in the mountains, choose microspike style cleats for maximum security. Ensure the sizing chart matches your boots for a snug fit. If you are baby wearing or guiding toddlers, always choose the strongest traction available so you feel steady on every step.
How to Put On Ice Cleats Properly
Place the front of the cleats over the toe of your boot first. Stretch the harness back over the heel until it locks in place. Make sure the spikes or traction plates are evenly centred underneath. Tap your foot on the ground a few times to confirm everything feels secure. Reposition if anything shifts.
Winter Safety Tips When Using Ice Cleats
Ice cleats help tremendously but make sure to keep your steps shorter and deliberate and
pay attention to surfaces since powder can hide ice underneath. I always use hiking poles for extra stability when carrying my kids along. Make sure to bring the cleat carrying bag that comes with your order to ensure kids don't get hurt touching the cleats as they can be sharp. Always pack warm layers, a small first aid kit, and food and water for everyone.
Remove your cleats before stepping into your vehicle after a hike or indoors to protect your floors! Speaking from experience LOL!!
Family Hiking Confidence in Winter
Winter hiking does not have to be intimidating. With the right traction, even icy trails become accessible and enjoyable. Ice cleats give families confidence to keep exploring all season long. They let us focus on the magic around us rather than worrying about slipping under a carrier or catching a toddler mid fall. Whether it is September frost, deep winter cold, or the muddy spring melt, cleats allow us to move freely and safely. When safety is covered, the adventure becomes about laughter, fresh air, rosy cheeks, and memories that shape a childhood spent outdoors. I wish you the magical kind of winter hiking memories where the trails are sparkly and peaceful.
Comments