ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip Traction Cleats

Brand: ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip

Diamond Grips solve ice differently. Instead of points, case hardened steel alloy beads are strung on steel aircraft cable and riveted to a rubber sling, so hundreds of small edges rotate under the foot and grab in whatever direction the shoe is loaded. The beads also shed snow and grit as they turn, which is why these keep working when a path alternates ice, gravel, mud and slush. The sling stays elastic in subzero temperatures.

A sensible choice for people who cross mixed surfaces all day rather than one clean stretch of ice: parking lots, salted crossings, unshovelled alleys. They walk flatter than spikes and feel stable sideways. Downsides are honest ones: the beads make a soft rattling sound, they wear smooth over seasons of concrete, and the whole unit is heavier than a coil cleat.