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Kahtoola NANOspikes

rated 4.0 of 5 stars
photo: Kahtoola NANOspikes traction device

Good design does not yield good performance for running. The image on the front of the box shows a running shoe, though buyers should understand the product's limitations. This product is best used for walking in crunchy winter conditions.

Pros

  • Good performance on thin snow and rough ice
  • Good strap and shoe fit
  • True to size
  • Durable construction
  • Simple design

Cons

  • Poor grip on black ice
  • Only contact points for flat surfaces are the studs

I purchased NANOspikes to run/jog on pavement in mixed winter conditions. The clickety-clack produced every step was bearable, though the performance was not. The two studs at the topmost of each strap-on are ineffective at gripping ice, which means the lift-off portion of the step requires caution.

The remainder of the studs can be effective in some ice conditions; but hard, black ice is not managed by this product. I also tested this product on flat metal and flat concrete at freezing temps without ice, and performance is worse than a rubber sole. 

In summary, this product is effective for some winter conditions or for winter walking, but in my experience it falls short for urban winter jogging. NANOspikes are most effective for walking over distances with a small amount of evenly distributed crunchy ice. 

When encountering heavier snow/ice, though, MICROspikes would be more appropriate; MICROspikes is a fantastic product for various winter conditions, though the aggressive spike is a bit much for urban settings. 

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $50 in Vermont

Nanospikes are a super versatile traction device that work on snow, ice, rocks, and pavement.

Pros

  • Ultra versatile
  • Works on snow and ice
  • Works on rocks and pavement
  • Small spikes can't bend or break
  • Work for running

Cons

  • Not as effective as Microspikes in deep snow/steep icy slopes
  • Front plate slides forward slightly

I purchased these for hiking in Colorado in the winter. I wanted a traction device that would allow me to go back and forth between snow/ice and rocks/dirt. Nanospikes fit the bill perfectly. I never slip, even on solid ice (though I do make sure my foot is firmly planted with each step, to set the spikes.)

My traction on rocks and pavement is unaffected, and I also appreciate that these tiny tungsten carbide studs can't bend or break on rocks like every other traction device out there. In fact, these studs break the rocks instead.

Another benefit is that you can run with these on, and I've done so very successfully. Last of all, Nanospikes stay firmly wrapped around your shoe, and they can't fall off like Yaktrax.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $35

Like them very much. Fit very snug. I can place them in my backpack and don't have to worry about damaging anything. Has kept me safe on ice and snow. Thanks again.

Pros

  • Light and easy to pack

Cons

  • None

Love em.

Pros

  • Versatile

Cons

  • Shift to the side

I've worn these both hiking and running and they worked great. They are comfortable and the spikes are hardly noticeable. The only downside is they shift to the side, so be prepared to adjust them occasionally.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $40

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Specs

Price MSRP: $49.95
Current Retail: $22.49-$54.95
Historic Range: $14.83-$54.95
Reviewers Paid: $35.00-$50.00
Best Use Road running, walking
Terrain City streets and sidewalks
Conditions Ice, hard-packed snow
Footwear Road running shoes
Spikes per foot 10
Spike length 0.21 in
Spike material tungsten carbide
Pack size 6 x 4 x 2.25 in
Product Details from Kahtoola »

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