Open main menu

Yaktrax Chains

rated 4.0 of 5 stars
photo: Yaktrax Chains traction device
Version reviewed: ICEtrekkers Chains

Great ice traction devices that does not cost too much. Best used for icy streets or light snow.

Pros

  • Easy to put on
  • Lighweight
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Slips on hard ice
  • Lacks spikes

I recently purchased a pair of Kako IceTrekker Chains to use for my backpacking trip last weekend.  I was able to fully test the chains due to the varying snow conditions I encountered on my trip.  

I have to say that these chains were very easy to put on and it remained nice and snug through out the day.  Once it was on, it didn't require any adjustments.  

Some of the features are...

  • Case-hardened steel links bite into snow for exceptional grip in all directions; suitable for all snow conditions including packed and crusty surfaces
  • Rubber shoe harness secures easily and ensures a snug, responsive fit even in frigid conditions; rubber remains flexible in subzero temps
  • Weighs only 12 oz. for the pair and is a great addition to your gear.

Some of the conditions during my trip were...

  • Crusty surface - the chains worked great on this terrain, my shoes gripped the ice very well with the chains on.
  • Hard packed snow - the chains crunched through the snow providing ample support.
  • Solid ice - this is where microspikes would've been nice.  Since the chains did not have spikes, you had to walk very snow because there wasn't enough bite.

Here is a visual example of the type of snowy/icy terrain these chains work best on.

IMG_7011.jpg

I would recommend this product for use on light snow and crusty ice surfaces.  For solid ice trails, I would recommend traction devices that have spikes for maximum grip.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $20

Version reviewed: ICEtrekkers Chains

We have had four pairs of Ice Trekkers for three years now. This season the rear ring on five individual chains has broken. Anyone else have this problem? Are replacement rings available?

Pros

  • Ease of use — they go on effortlessly.

Cons

  • Haven't found any until the rear rings started breaking.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $40/pair at REI

Your Review

Where to Buy

Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support Trailspace's independent gear reviews.

You May Like

The Chains traction device was previously sold under the ICEtrekkers brand, prior to its acquisition by Yaktrax.

Specs

Price Current Retail: $29.99-$39.99
Historic Range: $9.93-$39.99
Reviewers Paid: $20.00-$40.00
Product Details from Yaktrax »

Recently on Trailspace

Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth Ultralite HDPE Bottle Review