Hillsound FreeSteps6
Hillsound is a small Vancouver company that has been making traction gear since 2008, close enough to real slush to test it daily. FreeSteps6 carries six stainless spikes per foot on a plate under the forefoot and heel, joined by an elastomer harness with a reinforced velcro strap. Fewer spikes than a chain system means less noise and less bulk in a bag, and the strap keeps the device from creeping sideways on a rounded boot sole. Price sits near forty five dollars.
The gap in the arch is deliberate: it sheds snow instead of packing it. That same gap means nothing to grab on the edge of a curb or an icy step tread, where a full chain layout wins. Warranty and service run through the Vancouver office, spikes are not user replaceable, and heavy walkers on gravel will wear the points down in a couple of seasons.
Pros
- Six stainless spikes plus velcro strap
- Open arch sheds snow instead of packing it
- Compact and light in a bag
- Quieter than a chain system
- Direct service from the Vancouver office
Cons
- Nothing under the arch on curbs and steps
- Spikes are not user replaceable
- Points wear fast on gravel
- Small spike count on steep ice
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