Hiker Support

  • Home
  • Hiker Support

Hiker Support HIKING AND BACKPACKING GEAR REVIEWS, TUTORIALS TIPS & TRICKS. We aim to make traversing trails and backpacking trips more safe and mfun for everyone involved.

We hope you find inspiration in and provide additional wilderness conservation through our tutor

The 7 Best Places for Hiking in the Birmingham AreaBirmingham has a reputation for a good time and a great nightlife. Th...
01/10/2022

The 7 Best Places for Hiking in the Birmingham Area

Birmingham has a reputation for a good time and a great nightlife. The second thing people notice is its world-class restaurants and its culture. Birmingham has a great reputation for great weather, and it’s the perfect home base if you are a traveler looking to check out a large number of breweries and restaurants while discovering the wonders of the outdoors. Birmingham has a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to swimming to kayaking to sailing to wildlife watching. Here are the top places to visit in Birmingham for hiking, all of which have long and or narrow trails that will bring you through the countryside and city.
1. Chilhowee Park
Chilhowee Park is home to a number of trails, some short and some long, that vary in difficulty from beginner to advanced. The park’s great location is located in a historic area with an amazing view of the Birmingham skyline, and the trails range from easy to more difficult. The trails are surrounded by a variety of green spaces, allowing you to see all of the nature surrounding you. Walking through the park is an incredible experience, and there are also some scenic overlooks. Some of the trails are lined with towering live oaks, and there are also beautiful wildflowers and large blooming trees to enjoy.
2. Shades Mountain Park
Shades Mountain Park was established in 1973 and is an area of trails that make it a perfect hiking location for families or hikers. The park’s trails range from easy to moderate to advanced. You can go on the Mountain Trail, the Camel Trail, the Butterfly Trail, or the Griffin Trail. The Mountain Trail is the longest of the four, and it winds its way up through a beautiful area with waterfalls and forested areas. There are also two other trails here that will take you farther from the forest.
3. Vulcan Park and Museum
Vulcan, the symbol of Birmingham, is an incredible piece of work, and it can be easily seen from just about any point in the city. The original statue was erected in 1905, and it was recently restored and rededicated in 2007. You can’t miss the building, and it looks like a wedding cake. Even though the museum and the park have different functions, the combination makes for a perfect day trip. There are about 20,000 people that visit Vulcan’s head each year, and the building was constructed in 1935. There are exhibits on the history of Birmingham, including information about the many different cultures that have come to call the city home.
4. The Birmingham Zoo
The Birmingham Zoo is an attraction that attracts a large number of tourists to the city, and it is well worth the visit. In addition to the animals, there are also other things to do here, such as a number of playgrounds and several other spots for children to go to while their parents spend time at the zoo. There are several exhibit halls, the upper zoo is divided into different areas based on the animals that are housed there, and there are a number of animal shows throughout the day.
5. McWane Science Center
The McWane Science Center is a five-story building that has several exhibits on it. You can get tickets for exhibits on a monthly or yearly basis, but you can also get tickets to go to the main exhibit hall and see all of the different exhibits. The McWane Science Center is also an attraction for adults, and there is a bar on the third floor of the building. It is the only bar in the city that serves alcohol. The science center is a great place for children to go, and there are a number of activities for them to do while they are there. There are also many things to see, from the many exhibits on the first floor to the third floor, which is completely devoted to the news and technology.

Best Hiking Backpacks for Women in 2022The Hiking Backpack Market is expected to witness rapid growth at a CAGR of over ...
01/10/2022

Best Hiking Backpacks for Women in 2022

The Hiking Backpack Market is expected to witness rapid growth at a CAGR of over 11% during the forecast period. Rising travel and tourism expenditures by tourists across the globe have given rise to the need for engaging in outdoor activities. Rising personal disposable income is also influencing the growth of the market. With the emergence of advanced technology, outdoor equipment and apparel have become easily available at low costs. Demand for high-end backpacks with features such as large storage space, better weight management, and enhanced comfort has driven the global hiking backpacks market.

S*M Natural Light Women’s Adjustable Backpack
The S*M Natural Light Women’s Adjustable Backpack is a backpack that weighs 14 kg and has a large capacity of 16L. It has been designed with high-end comfort features such as a large comfortable padded back panel, well-padded front and ventilated back, wide side handles, and a hydration sleeve. The hydration sleeve is made of water-resistant fabric and has an adjustable hose for easy access to water.

It has a large reservoir that contains enough water to stay hydrated. Additionally, the hydration sleeve has a water bottle attachment on it which is integrated with the stretch side handle. It also has an integrated pocket to hold a mobile phone and a waterproof carrying pouch. It has an all-over fleece lining, zippered pocket, and an adjustable shoulder strap.

Key Features of the S*M Natural Light Women’s Adjustable Backpack
• The ergonomically designed adjustable shoulder strap with external bungee cord

• Well-padded back panel with the padded back panel and ventilation slits

• Integrated storage pocket

• Elasticized profile neck strap

• A long stretch opening at front and back

JanSport Destination Backpack
The JanSport Destination Backpack is a large backpack with a wide carrying capacity. It is specially designed with a padded back panel, back pad, front zipper pocket, adjustable waist belt, and a padded front with expandable padding. It has an integrated water bottle holder. It has a durable synthetic water-repellent fabric that is high in weather-resistant durability and abrasion resistance. It has a large front expandable padded sleeve which offers enough storage space to hold a laptop, personal items, and even a tent.

Additionally, there are many storage pockets on the back panel. The main strap is non-restrictive and easy to carry and transfer. It also has an easy-release buckle system. It has several features such as abrasion-resistant suede back panel, ½ inch gusseted exterior, rugged synthetic water-repellent fabric, splash-resistant nylon shell, and a hard-wearing polypropylene liner.

Sorel Women’s Dump-it Carry-On
The Sorel Women’s Dump-it Carry-On backpack has a relatively lightweight packing density and therefore is lighter than the average bag. The zipper pull design makes it easy to open and closed. It is also super lightweight and won’t affect your back. This makes it perfect for travelers and backpackers who are looking for a quick, convenient, and portable luggage solution. The Sorel Women’s Dump-it Carry-On is made of three durable polypropylene materials that are lightweight and eco-friendly. These materials are good at protecting the pack’s exterior from damage. The durable stretchy fabric and water-repellent lining offer maximum protection.

Its wide open and expandable front pocket can accommodate a tablet or a laptop. The backpack also has a slim integrated strap system which is easily adjustable for a comfortable, customized fit. There are two key features of the Sorel Women’s Dump-it Carry-On backpack that make it great for people who love the outdoors. The first is its expandable main compartment that has a space for the water bottle, snacks, and an umbrella. The second key feature is its internal expandable padding. It offers ample space for a tablet or laptop.

Key Features of the Sorel Women’s Dump-it Carry-On Backpack
• High-grade polypropylene fabric

• Secure stowage system with hardwearing synthetic water-repellent fabric

• ½-inch gusseted reinforced external enclosure with articulated flap and interior reflective strips

• Wide array of storage pockets: the water bottle and snack compartment, compartment for personal items, cash compartment, passport pocket, second internal pad pocket

• Stretchy inner padding with integrated internal adjustment strap

• Adjustable waist belt with a secure buckle system

The 19 Best Dog Friendly Hiking Trails i9 PortlandPortland is a walking city. If you’ve been to Portland, you know that....
01/10/2022

The 19 Best Dog Friendly Hiking Trails i9 Portland
Portland is a walking city. If you’ve been to Portland, you know that. But there are so many places you can and should explore around the city, and most of those spots are pretty dog friendly. There are a lot of public parks and trails within city limits that will accommodate dogs, although I wouldn’t count on them for dogs who don’t meet the proper leash protocol. I’m going to lay out some of my favorite places to get out with your pup, but do use your judgment when deciding where to go.

1. Thompson’s Landing
The Thompson’s Landing Scenic Trail is located on the Willamette River, south of the Smith Rock State Park Visitor Center. The trail starts just north of the park and runs for a way on the side of the Willamette River before hitting a section of flat trail, providing a great place to let your dog run and sniff. A great view of the Falls is accessible via the trail at the beginning, though I’ve never personally taken my dog for a visit there.

It’s a very scenic and friendly walk, and the Falls themselves are pretty cool. If you can only make it out there for a quick visit, try to limit the amount of time your dog spends around the Falls. A great hike for both dog and human, Thompson’s Landing is off the beaten path, making it an excellent spot to bring your dog and have a real bonding moment!

2. St. Johns
St. Johns is on the west side of the city and has a bunch of good parks and trails that will make your little beast very happy. Make a point to explore the area around St. Johns College, where the college is located, and you will probably spot several of the nicer colleges located nearby. The big open space to the north of the campus is a nice place to let your dog run off some energy.

Also, in the area, you will find many of the Japanese Gardens at David Douglas Park. One of the most beautiful parks I’ve visited, the Japanese Gardens are a real treat to explore. If your dog has a good sniffer, make sure you take your dog out there for a chance to take in the peace and get some of that good Pug air.

3. Stroudwater Canal
This trip on the Stroudwater Canal Trail is, hands down, the most beautiful place to take your dog on a hike. The trail itself runs along the southern shore of the Stroudwater River, providing a great view of the landscape and river. If you’re not a fan of the sun, a spot with some shade will be available. Be sure to bring a picnic, take the dog down to the water, and then have a nice leisurely walk back to your car. It’s a very peaceful trail and the surrounding area is usually quite peaceful and serene.

4. Peninsula Park
Peninsula Park is one of Portland’s largest parks, providing plenty of space for a walk and a lot of great amenities like the American Folk Art Museum and the Oregon Health & Science University Hospital. The best dog-friendly part of Peninsula Park, however, is its pet waste stations. The trees provide some good shade, which means that even on a hot day, there is a ton of shade available. With a few of these stations, your dog can be good as new and ready for more adventures.

5. Glenwood Cemetery
Portland’s oldest public cemetery, Glenwood Cemetery is over 150 years old and is located on the South Park Blocks. As you walk through the many acres, it’s easy to imagine that the people interred here once walked amongst this ground. A great place to walk with your dog and enjoy some natural air, with lots of shade, Glenwood Cemetery is a great park to take your pup to.

6. The Courtyard
The courtyard at Portland State University is a great spot for you and your dog to grab a little bit of fresh air. By the time you get to PSU, you’ll be hot, so grab some shade and get some fresh air. Grab a drink at the Old Spaghetti Factory and have a bite while your dog takes a drink. There are also a bunch of great spots to take your dog to in the courtyard, like the frog pond, which is perfect for a game of fetch.

Best Men’s Convertible Hiking Pants of 2022We decided to start reviewing hiking pants after we heard of an upcoming Kick...
01/10/2022

Best Men’s Convertible Hiking Pants of 2022
We decided to start reviewing hiking pants after we heard of an upcoming Kickstarter project for the super cool Climacoola Pro Pants. We were instantly captivated by the innovative new climbing pants and we immediately started thinking about how to put the best hiking pants on the market in 2021. After much deliberation, we were able to do so with the following list. We hope that you will find these hiking pants useful and fun to wear.
YakTrax Pro Series
We had two YakTrax hiking pants on this list. However, we decided to leave out the YakTrax EX2 Touring Pants and YakTrax Hiking Pants because they are designed for casual use and are not designed for any kind of strenuous hiking. We also did not feel that the YakTrax Pro Series was a great value for the price. The YakTrax Pro Series is designed with great attention to detail, excellent construction, and quality materials. For only $130, these hiking pants are excellent value. The pants are made with a combination of Gore-Tex fabric and breathable Dri-FIT material. They are made from a single piece of durable polyester fabric. The pants also feature an impact-rated belt with a hidden elasticated waistband that can be worn with the hip belt that is attached to the waist belt. The Pro Series hiking pants are made of mesh material to keep your knees from rubbing together on more rigorous hikes.
rice: $99.95

Pros:

Five reflective stripes for greater visibility on the trail
Huge range of colors to choose from
High-quality fabrics
Cons:

Entry-level hiking pants
On the bulkier side
Abalanta 45
The Abalanta 45 is a versatile hiking pant that is of great value. It is composed of a new generation fabric that Abalanta is calling “Storm Cell.” Storm Cell is a blend of a waterproof Neoprene and DryFiber, a polyester fabric that is not durable enough to be used on the trail. The Abalanta 45 is rated as being both comfortable and durable, so there is a good chance that you can wear these pants for long periods without sweating through your hiking ensemble. The material of the Abalanta 45 is also used in Abalanta’
Pros:

The Abalanta 45 is extremely versatile and also comes in a few different colors
Storm Cell is a new generation fabric that Abalanta calls “Ultra-Light DryFiber”
Rated as being both comfortable and durable
Cons:

Although the Abalanta 45 is a top-quality product, there may be some minor flaws in the material.

6 Best Shoes for River HikingBelow is a list of some of the most popular river hiking shoes for the River Hiking categor...
22/09/2022

6 Best Shoes for River Hiking

Below is a list of some of the most popular river hiking shoes for the River Hiking category. At one point in the future, they will become more common in the overall hiking shoe world because they are so versatile, long-lasting, and easy to wear. These will be the most popular river hiking shoes for the year 2022.

River Hiking Shoes for Your List
Considerably more than half of the lists in this category do not include an actual River Hiking Water Shoe, although there are several options available. This is because many of these shoes are not suitable for heavy-duty hiking in the mountains (and there are a couple of lightweight options available) but may be excellent options for what is essentially a short hike to a river gorge.

Keen River Hiking Shoes
These are designed specifically for hiking in the water but are both attractive and incredibly comfortable for someone who likes to wear tennis shoes. Keen is one of the most popular and trusted brands in the footwear industry and they make a wide range of well-designed trail shoes. They are both waterproof and durable and have been designed to keep your feet dry without compromising on comfort. The toe and heel also feature some of the most innovative designs and most comfortable materials, and all the while there is a rubber outsole that helps keep your feet firm and dry. The shoe is available in sizes from 7 to 13 with the smallest size is a good choice for those who find them to be a little bit.

They also offer an exclusive special edition of these shoes for American outdoorsmen and women. This special edition will be available for the entire year of 2022. They are available in ten different colorways, all of which look to blend nicely with their surroundings. The colors are classic but always interesting and they also come in several options for both men and women. Keen river hiking shoes are well-priced and come with a fantastic warranty that covers both manufacturing defects and inadequate customer service. They also offer a lifetime of warranty if you decide to buy the shoes second-hand.

Altra Falling Waters Water Hiking Shoe
If you prefer a lightweight, almost-silhouette shoe, then this is the shoe for you. The Altra Falling Waters Water Shoe is a well-made model for its weight, both in terms of the materials used as well as the overall fit of the shoe. This water shoe also comes in several different colors and all of the materials have been designed with water hiking in mind, from the robust rubber outsole to the footbed padding that sits around your foot and ankles. The shoe comes with a high level of protection, including a flexible mesh and EVA tongue that keep water from getting into the shoe.

Several solid lugs anchor your feet in the shoe so they don’t float away in the water, while a flexible “braided” webbing system keeps your feet steady on any surface of the water, even in rapids. This particular model is waterproof and highly breathable, making it ideal for walking or running through streams. The Altra Falling Waters Water Shoes are available in men’s and women’s versions and a wide range of sizes. They come with a 12-month limited warranty.

Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Merrell has been making quality water shoes for many years, and the Moab 2 is one of their most popular models, featuring an adjustable ankle strap that allows you to customize the fit to your foot. The water shoes are specifically designed to be used for hiking in the wilderness, without any impediments to your feet. The soles are built to bear some weight but still provide a good grip on uneven surfaces.

This shoe also has the greatest number of snug-fitting lugs available and a special high-modulus rubber compound that offers superior abrasion resistance. There are many different color options for this model, and in case you want to try them on before buying them, you can do so in the Merrell warehouse. The shoes are also well-padded and designed to be comfortable even on longer walks.

Saucony Ghost Whisperer Water Trails Hiking Shoe
This model from Saucony is designed to provide maximum water resistance with the ability to continue sweating throughout the day. It features a “max-resistance” outsole, which offers more traction than regular outsole compounds. This model also comes with a water-repellent full-grain leather upper with a padded insert that adds a little extra comfort to the shoe.

The shoe is a simple one with two lugs in the outsole for extra traction on slippery surfaces, while a strap on the inside holds the foot securely. There is also a single strap around the heel that provides extra durability and flexibility. The shoe also comes with a low heel that gives the wearer a slightly lower profile. This model is a casual hiking shoe but will provide adequate protection for those who want to hike through any weather conditions.

Saucony Chameleon Fit LX Waterproof Hiking Shoe
As with most of Saucony’s water shoes, the Chameleon Fit LX features a breathable and waterproof mesh upper. There are two removable and washable lugs, a platform around the ankle and the tongue that provides a solid grip on any surface of the water.

The outsole comes with excellent traction and there are numerous rubber overlays to protect the feet from cuts and abrasions. The shoe is available in two different sizes and a variety of colors, giving you a choice of styles and colors to match any outfit you may have. You can also get a two-year warranty on all purchases.

Merrell Atmos Hiking Water Shoes
Merrell has made several well-received water shoes that feature an insole that enables you to keep your feet in place no matter how slippery the terrain. The footbed of these shoes is also heavily padded with some interesting features, such as a rubber “Bulb Walker” that repositions your foot under your heel if it begins to move.

These also come with anti-skid uppers, a rubber lace guide, and a clip that secures the laces securely. The shoe has a special feature, called a Vibram outsole, which helps give the wearer traction and grip even on wet and slippery surfaces.

Adidas Ultra Boost Glide Running Shoes
For a slightly more traditional look, the Adidas Ultra Boost Glide is a stylish and versatile model that can be worn out on a hike or a run. The shoes feature a lightweight, breathable mesh upper with a leather and mesh sock liner. The sole is a waterproof rubber platform that is unique to the shoe and provides, even more, cushioning and support when you step on wet, slippery surfaces. The shoe has a fairly low profile and an elongated toe box that gives you plenty of room for all foot types.

Brooks Ravenna Running Shoes
The Brooks Ravenna is a versatile model that can be worn on a hike as well as on the trails or cross-country. These come with a classic silhouette and a cushioned insole, as well as a special cushioned tongue that can provide added protection for your feet on slippery surfaces. The shoe also has a distinctively supportive forefoot and a natural outsole.

Best Hiking LunchesA wonderful walk in the woods can boost both your body and your spirit. But what’s the best way to pr...
22/09/2022

Best Hiking Lunches
A wonderful walk in the woods can boost both your body and your spirit. But what’s the best way to prepare your body for a good workout? Walking can provide a quick boost of physical benefits and can provide mental refreshment, but some people find that the food they’re eating may also play a big role in increasing their fitness. Whether you’re driving to your favorite trailhead or just looking for inspiration for a home-cooked outdoor feast, you’ll want to keep these healthy and tasty high-protein hiking recipes handy. Here are 16 best hiking food ideas:

Sweet Berry Yogurt Muffins
These muffins have a simple but nutritious base. They have five simple ingredients and are incredibly filling. They can be easily veganized, as well. You can use unsweetened coconut or almond milk, depending on your favorite recipe. The fresh berries in this recipe add color and sweetness to the muffins, and the yogurt gives it an unusual and creamy texture.

All-American Stew
Combining autumn produce with beef and beans, this recipe combines deep flavors in a simple, nutritious dish. If you’re trying to live a healthy lifestyle while on the go, this dish will give you the hearty nutrition and protein boost that you need.

Cilantro Green Smoothie
If you’ve never heard of Cilantro Green Smoothies, you’re missing out on a delicious way to give your workout a shot of healthy juice. This recipe takes only five minutes to put together, and you can make it in the morning to wake you up. It includes fresh ginger and cilantro, which add a wonderful herbal flavor to the blender. The green mixture will make you feel full while the cilantro and ginger add vitamins and minerals. The only catch? The recipe only works with bananas.

Healthy Frozen Breakfast Sandwich
If you need a quick energy boost, but don’t want to give up your favorite foods, try this nutritious breakfast sandwich. It combines two of the most popular breakfast foods on the planet: cheese and bread. You can cut the recipe in half and eat it for dinner, or you can add a little extra something to the top for a crunchy and sweet breakfast treat.

Maple Roasted Root Vegetables
This roasted root vegetable recipe takes the ordinary and transforms it into something amazing. All you need to do is drizzle maple syrup over these vegetables, and you have a delicious meal on your hands. They’re fresh, sweet, and filled with nutrients, so you can make the dish even more nutritious by adding things like flax meal and walnuts.

Chipotle Chicken Sliders
You can make these chips from scratch or you can use a premade mix, but this recipe is an incredible spin on chicken tacos. Sliders are super portable and require very little effort to make. They’re loaded with protein and a lot of flavors, and they’re perfect for a long, healthy hike. They’re also surprisingly easy to make, so you can have these delicious snacks ready when you need them.

Pumpkin-Cheesecake Brownie Bites
If you love pumpkin, but aren’t a fan of other flavors, you’ll be hooked by these pumpkin- and cheesecake-filled brownie bites. The natural sweetness of pumpkin is balanced out by the rich sweetness of cheesecake, and the nuts in the brownie mixture provide plenty of fiber. This recipe is incredibly healthy, and you can easily customize it to your personal taste. The brownies are also gluten-free, and you can whip them up in a jiffy.

Pineapple-Chia Muffins
These muffins are packed with healthy ingredients, including flax seed, chia seeds, and avocado. They’re also full of antioxidants, and chia seeds are amazing for aiding in digestion. If you’re planning a hike, this is the perfect recipe for you. They’re not only healthy, but also sweet, and they’re packed with nutrition.

Coconut-Soy Chia Pudding
Chia seeds are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. You can add them to food, or you can simply sprinkle them on top of your yogurt or oatmeal. With this recipe, you can make a healthier pudding out of chia seeds, and it’ll be awesome. These puddings are also super healthy. For example, you can customize the flavor with lemon juice or a little vanilla extract, and if you want to add a touch of sweetness, you can add a little honey or maple syrup.

Best Microspikes for Hiking in Snow & Ice (2022)If you’re a dedicated hiker and have found the best microspikes for trek...
22/09/2022

Best Microspikes for Hiking in Snow & Ice (2022)

If you’re a dedicated hiker and have found the best microspikes for trekking in snow, ice, or blizzard conditions, you’ve come to the right place. This post covers all you need to know about the best snow microspikes to choose from. When choosing your new microspikes for your favorite winter conditions, there are many factors to consider. Here are some important points to look for before buying a microspike.

The first factor is that you need traction in snow. For hiking, you’ll need traction for walking on snow or ice. In summer, microspikes are not useful in slippery conditions due to sand particles on the sand spikes. But winter is a different matter.
With your microspikes, you want to get the grip. If you walk on slippery paths in winter with your microspikes, they will feel like sandpaper against your foot, and this will put you off walking in slippery conditions.
For trekking in snow, try to find a micro spike that offers optimal traction in all conditions. Look for something with a wide, flat top for walking on snow, a large V-shape for driving through snow with the spikes, a sharp spike tip for better traction, or spikes in different lengths.
Here are a few Best Microspikes for Hiking in Snow & Ice:
1. Nightfjord’s Nomad Microspikes
For trekking in snow, Nightfjord’s Nomad Microspikes are best. They offer superior snow traction. If you walk a lot in the snow, this is your choice. The V-shape on the Nomad Microspikes is perfect for walking through slippery conditions. The spikes are long, and so they provide more traction with every step. On the rear, the spike’s tip is stiff, so it digs in on ice. The sharp, curved spike tip on the front of the spikes creates traction in very slippery conditions. The raised middle of the tip should be sharpened, so it cuts through the snow. This microspike weighs 8.7 ounces (240g), so if you’re over 5’8″ (178cm) tall, you might struggle to walk in them.

But they are light, durable, and well built. The Nomad Microspikes are a mix of ordinary trekking spikes with snow spikes to provide extra traction. In addition, Nightfjord added a really useful finger loop so you can hold onto the spire. This gives you extra security when walking through snow. The Nomad Microspikes are available in four sizes. The rubber pads on the V-shape are designed to make the microspike slip into your shoes. In addition, the four tips are also curved. If you need to turn your feet in, it is easier to do that on a micro spike that has a wider V.

2. Osita Trailing Snow
The Osita Trailking Snow is a well-made, lightweight, rugged microspike. Its smooth V-shape makes it a really good option for trekking in snow. The high-performance spikes are marketed as 10mm but they are 8mm spikes. The solid steel spikes are of high-quality construction, but they may not be as good as the rubber on the nightfjords microspikes. The ridge on the side of the shaft and top of the V-shape help make the V-shape useful in slippery conditions, while the spine on the bottom of the shaft provides additional traction.

The spikes are long, so you can get traction down your feet. The big rubber pads on the underside of the V-shape help grip the snow. The O.T.S.Snow is a hefty 8.7 ounces (240g) so it’s a little heavier than the nightfjords microspikes. The two grippy rubber pads on the bottom of the shaft should be replaced as they can get covered in dust. The one downside is that the metal spike tips aren’t as sharp, so they don’t cut through ice. The O.T.S.Snow is made of solid steel, so it’s an expensive option. But it’s a good choice if you want a rugged, long-lasting microspike that you can use in all sorts of conditions.

3. Mountain Hardware’s Colorado Microspikes
The Mountain Hardware Colorado Microspikes are the lighter option in the microspike list. The rubber pads on the V-shape are a lot better than the ones on the O.T.S.Snow microspikes. The Colorado Microspikes weigh 8.3 ounces (240g) and they’re only 7.4 inches (190cm) long. The middle knuckle on the tip is kind of a cross between the blade and the spur.

The end of the spike is also sharp, but the spike is wide and so it is easier to grip. The Colorado Microspikes are made of heavy-duty steel and they are 9.6 ounces (250g) so they are reasonably rugged. But they are still quite lightweight and lightweight compared to the nightfjords microspikes. The Colorado Microspikes are also good for people who have smaller feet or want a little extra flexibility.

4. Black Diamond Spikergrip Snow Microspikes

The Black Diamond Spikergrip Snow Microspikes have a very short, steep V-shape that feels like you’re walking on a stiletto heel. The tip is a good distance from your foot so you can easily press the sole of your boot into the snow. The back of the spike is also rounded, so you get a better grip.

The Spikergrip Microspikes are only 6.9 ounces (190g) so they are super lightweight and very portable. They weigh almost nothing, which is perfect for hiking in the snow. They also don’t seem to get covered in snow. The only downside is that they are not very long, so you will have to worry about getting stuck in snow drifts.

5. Mountain Hardware’s Composite Snow Microspikes
The Mountain Hardware Composite Snow Microspikes have a chunky V-shape that makes them slightly wider than the other microspikes listed here. The result is a slightly more stable spike that has a smaller footprint than the Black Diamond Spikergrip Snow Microspikes. The spine of the spike is tapered, which is a bit different than the blade-spike pattern on other microspikes. The top of the spike is tapered in, which is great for a better grip on snowy surfaces.

The Common Thread Technology on the top of the spike gives it a little more “give” than a traditional microspike, but it’s not quite as flexible as the O.T.S.Snow. The Mountain Hardware Composite Snow Microspikes weighs 10.3 ounces (280g) and they are only 5.8 inches (140cm) long. The Spikergrip has a 5-way shank mechanism, so you get more flex with a bit more torsional energy. But that’s not enough to justify the extra cost, so they don’t get a very high rating.

Address


Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Hiker Support posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

  • Address
  • Alerts
  • Claim ownership or report listing
  • Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Share