Review of Kahtoola Microspike Ultra

Rating: Good

List Price: $69.95

Purchase: Purchase at Kahtoola Web Site - Also available at most hiking stores

Spikes: (12) stainless steel triangular spikes
Spike Size: 1/3"
Chain: Welded stainless steel
Warranty: 2 years Limited (no information on their web site on how it is limited)
Durability: Waterproof and Tear Resistant

Summary:
For many years Kahtoola ruled the microspike world. But, with the introduction of the Hillsound Microspike Ultra, Hillsound is now he best microspikes on the market. Hillsounds are not better by much, so don't discount them. Kahtoola microspikes are still the most popular microspikes out on the trail. Mainly because they have more retailers, and the Hillsounds are difficult to find. Many hikers prefer the red color. We would like to see larger spikes and more of them placed properly on the bottom. In the future, we do expect Hillsound and Kahtoola to continue to make their products better, and compete for the hiker's dollars. Kahtoola also makes some of the best hiking crampon's on the market.

Things we DIDN'T like:
Spike placement - When hiking down steep icy hills, these microspikes can slip out. There should be at least one more spike on the center of the heel. This would prevent slip-outs. The Hillsound microspikes have (18) spikes, Kahtoola only have (12)

Number of Spikes - The Hillsound microspikes have (18) spikes, Kahtoola only have (12)

Spike Size - The spike size is smaller then the Hillsound Microspikes, and have less grip. And, it is quite noticeably when hiking steeper trails. No Rigid Cross-Strap - Thise microspikes do not have a rigid cross-strap like the Hillsound microspikes. And, they do shift around more, and can fall off. Kahtoola did move the cross band further up on the laces, which did help. But, it is not enough.

Things we DID like:
Retailers - The number of retails in the United States is excellent. You can buy them almost everywhere.

Construction of the Chain - The chain has welded links which prevents them from pulling apart. The chains are also stainless steel, and we have never seen one develop rust.

Elastic Bands - The Elastic Bands worked well at any temperature. Even below zero F. The tab at the back was larger and better then the Hillsounds. This makes it much easier to put on and take off the microspikes.

Layout on Bottom of shoe

Spikes on the front of shoe

Spkes on the back of shoe

Side View of the microspikes

Links and References:

Kahtoola

Amazon

Ebay

S E C T I O N S

W E A T H E R

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