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Best Slip-On Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots
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Best Ice Cleats for Steep Sidewalks

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Tel. 610-670-2549 email: customerservice@slipresistant.net
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Ice cleats for steep, icy sidewalks

Steep Sidewalks Bring Out the Worst in Recreational Ice Cleats

No ice cleat can guarantee you won't slip, even on flat ice. On a steep sidewalk or driveway you're also working against gravity, and the instant you lose traction, you're usually going down.

Every year I get calls from people who can't find ice cleats that work on their steep sidewalk or driveway. The ones sold in hardware, sporting goods, and department stores are recreational ice cleats, designed first to keep costs down. Many promise traction only on ice and packed snow. But what about deeper snow, slush, black ice, or snow on top of ice?

Instead of a "top 10" list, I recommend only the three ice cleats I trust most on steep, icy ground.

What Matters Most on a Steep, Icy Slope

FeatureWhy It Matters on a Hill
Well-distributed studsOn bumpy ice, studs bunched in one area or around the edges can miss the ice entirely, and once you start sliding on a slope, it's very hard to regain traction.
Sharp tungsten carbide studsA small, sharp point penetrates ice best. On a slope you may depend on a single stud to catch you, and sharpness matters most on black ice and cold, dense ice, where coil-style and gritted ice cleats lose much of their grip.
2mm stud lengthLonger is better up to 2mm, which helps studs reach the ice through a thin layer of snow. Anything longer becomes a tripping hazard.
A Heel SpikeGoing downhill, your heel lands first. Without a stud at the base of the heel, your foot can slide out in front of you, and there's no other stud to stop it.
An aggressive, self-cleaning treadGrips deeper snow and sheds the snow that would hold the studs off the ice.
A secure fitWalking, shoveling, or running a snowblower on a slope puts extra force on your ice cleats. They have to stay on and in position.
Steep driveway covered with ice and fresh snow

Ice on a steep slope, with snow on top: the conditions where recreational ice cleats fail.

Patented Heel Spike on a HIGH-PRO ice cleat

All three ice cleats below have long-lasting, molded-in 2mm tungsten carbide studs, studs at the heel, aggressive self-cleaning treads, and tough, chemical-resistant straps.

Best Stretch-On Ice Cleats for Steep Sidewalks

Winter Walking HIGH-PRO® Ice Cleats JD6625

Choose HIGH-PRO if you:

  • walk steep, icy sidewalks or driveways
  • want ice cleats you can put on and take off in seconds
  • need strong traction on ice, black ice, packed snow, and slush
  • wear shoes, work boots, or winter boots, but not bulky, insulated pack boots

Why it works on steep ice:

  • 26 molded-in 2mm tungsten carbide studs spread across the sole and heel
  • Patented Heel Spike grips the moment your heel lands
  • Self-cleaning tread sheds snow so the studs keep reaching the ice
  • Dimpled foot bed and strong straps keep it aligned, even on a slope
Full HIGH-PRO features, demo video & reviews →
Buy HIGH-PRO
Ice Cleats JD6625
$46.95 /pr.
HIGH-PRO size chart

Fits Shoe Sizes
Based on Steel-Toe Shoes
Men's Women's Footwear Length Range
in Inches*
Size
13½+ --- 14" - 14½" XXL
11½ - 13 --- 13¼" ‹ 14" XL
9½ - 11 12+ 12¾" ‹ 13¼" L
7 - 9 9 - 11 11¾" ‹ 12¾" M
5 - 6½ 7 - 8½ 10¾" ‹ 11¾" S
*Measured on the bottom of your shoe or boot from the tip of the sole to the base of the heel.
If you have bulky or oversized boots, consider
Winter Walking
ICE BEAST HIGH-PRO
Ice Cleats
.
Want extra security on a slope? Add ankle straps
Optional add-on: Ankle Strap Kit JD3800
Fits all sizes  · 
$4.47 /pr.

Ankle straps add a second point of hold. Most people don't need them, but they help on bulky boots and in deep snow.

Not included in volume discounts.

Winter Walking ICE BEAST™ HIGH-PRO Ice Cleats JD7725

Choose ICE BEAST™ HIGH-PRO if you:

  • wear large, bulky boots or unusually shaped footwear
  • have balance concerns
  • want the most studs of any stretch-on ice cleat
  • aren't going in and out of doors often. If you are, see ICE BEAST™ LOW-PRO.

Why it works on steep ice:

  • 28 well-distributed 2mm tungsten carbide studs, the most of any ice cleat on this page
  • Patented Heel Spike and an aggressive, self-cleaning tread
  • Patented wing-tip chain mounting with grommets keeps the chains off abrasive surfaces

ICE BEAST™ ice cleats run large. Check the size chart and sizing tips before you order.

Full ICE BEAST™ HIGH-PRO features, demo video & reviews →
Buy ICE BEAST™ HIGH-PRO
Ice Cleats JD7725
$60.95 /pr.
ICE BEAST™ HIGH-PRO size chart
ICE BEAST™ HIGH-PRO Size Chart
Men's Women's Size
14+ --- XXL
12 - 13½ --- XL
10 - 11½ 12+ L
7½ - 9½ 9½ - 11½ M
5 - 7 7 - 9 S

Best Strap-On Ice Cleats for Steep Sidewalks

Winter Walking ICEGRIPS™ Ice Cleats JD4472

Choose ICEGRIPS™ if you:

  • spend long stretches outdoors on steep ground and want to leave your ice cleats on
  • walk through deep snow, where industrial-grade straps won't let them get pulled off
  • want the most durable ice cleat for harsh conditions and rough surfaces
  • wear large, bulky boots (with the optional Bulky Boot Straps)

Why it works on steep ice:

  • 22 aggressive tungsten carbide studs molded into an ultra-tough sandal base
  • Patented Angle Tread™ grips in deep snow and resists the build-up that keeps studs off the ice
  • Heavy-duty straps keep them aligned, and they're replaceable for a longer service life
Full ICEGRIPS™ features, demo video & reviews →
ICEGRIPS™ Ice Cleats
JD4472
Includes Standard Straps
$52.95 /pr.
Size


Quantity:
ICEGRIPS™ size chart
ICEGRIPS™ Sizing Chart
Men's Women's Footwear Length in Inches Size
13½ + --- 13.75" to 14.25" XXL
11½ - 13 --- 13.25" to 13.5" XL
9½ - 11 11.5+ 12.5" to 13" L
7 - 9 9 - 11 11.75" to 12.25" M
5 - 6½ 7 - 8½ <= 11.5" S
Wearing bulky boots? Add Bulky Boot Straps
ICEGRIPS™ Bulky Boot Straps
$10.95 /pr.
Straps are Size Specific
ICEGRIPS™ replacement straps
ICEGRIPS™ Replacement Straps
$10.95 /pr.
Straps are Size Specific

Questions About Ice Cleats for Steep Sidewalks

Are professional ice cleats worth the price?

They can cost twice as much as cheap brands, but they're designed to keep you safer and they last several times longer. Compare that with today's deductibles and copays after a fall. Many of my customers come to me after a serious, life-changing injury, and they'll tell you that paying a little more was the best investment they could have made.

What if I'm in and out of doors or driving?

All three ice cleats on this page have 2mm studs and must come off indoors. If you're constantly in and out, LOW-PRO® can be worn on most indoor floors and while driving, but its 1mm studs don't grip steep ice as well. Some people keep a pair of each.

Can you guarantee I won't fall?

No one can, especially on steep, icy hills. What I can promise is that these ice cleats will reduce your risk more than any others I know of, and if you're not completely satisfied, you can return them for a full refund.

See also my guides for icy steps and stairs, driveways, shoveling snow, and black ice.

Questions about ice cleats for your hill?
Call me at 610-670-2549, every day 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM ET.

Ice Cleats and Shoe Attachment Volume Discounts

Your discounts are

Winter Walking Ice Cleats Low Price Guaranty

No one is more dedicated to helping you find the best Ice Cleats and keeping you safe. I work very hard to bring you the most informative online store that's fast, easy-to-use, and mobile friendly. I don't want to lose a single sale based upon price alone.

Therefore, if you find a lower DELIVERED PRICE from a legitimate online store (not auction sites) selling authentic, new Winter Walking Ice Cleats, I'll match or better that price.

Crucial Ice Cleats Sizing Advice

  1. You can go by the shoe sizes. However, the shoe or boot size can vary significantly for the same foot size. Option two below is a better way to select the correct size.
    (OR)
  2. Measure the length of your shoe or boot. Measure the bottom from the tip of the sole to the base of the heel. Measure on "the flat", don't wrap around. We want the length. Then, find the size on the sizing chart with the Footwear Length Range, which spans the length of your footwear. Measure carefully. Measure twice. Our goal is to get you the right size on the first try to make you as safe as possible as soon as possible.
Ice cleats sizes are unisex and fit men's and women's shoes and boots according to the sizing charts.
Always try your ice cleats on when you receive them for two reasons.
  1. You want to be ready for the bad weather. Be sure to find out you need a size exchange before the ice is on the ground.
  2. I can't do free size exchanges for ice cleats that you have used because I can't resell them.
FAQs

What should I do if the length of my shoe or boot is extremely close to the breakpoint of a size range? Should I choose the next larger size? For example, assume the length of your boot or shoe is just under 12½". You look at the specific size chart for ice cleats you're buying. Assume for this example the Medium has a size range of 11½" to < 12½" and a Large is 12½" to < 13" For regular shoes and work shoes, stick with the smaller of the two sizes you're considering. Choose the bigger size if you plan to use your ice cleats on heavier winter boots.

I plan to use the ice cleats on my shoes and boots. But they're different lengths. What should I do?

If the difference in length is small, order the size for the larger boots. Purchase the optional Ankle Strap to use when you use the ice cleats on your shoes. The ankle strap will make sure they stay on. If the difference in length is significant, you may need two sizes of ice cleats. That's because you want the ice cleats to be snug so they stay on your footwear and aligned.

I have a large company. There's no way I can measure everyone's footwear.

I understand. Go by shoe sizes. I'll be happy to exchange sizes later on. However, please make sure you haven't used the ice cleats outdoors.

Is the measuring technique 100% accurate?

Nope. It's accurate most of the time. Measuring is far superior to go by shoe size.
 

ICE BEAST Ice Cleats Sizing Tips

ICE BEAST Ice Cleats run large. Therefore, if you have a normal winter boot and your shoe size is close to the minimum of a size range, choose the next smaller size. If you have a large, bulky boot, stick with the size chart.
Ice cleats sizes are unisex and fit men's and women's shoes and boots according to the sizing charts.
Always try your ice cleats on as soon as you receive them for two reasons.
  1. You want to be ready for the bad weather. Don't wait until the ice is on the ground to find out you need a size exchange.
  2. I can't do free size exchanges for ice cleats that have been used because I can't resell them.
FAQs


I have a large company. There's no way I can measure everyone's footwear.
I understand. Go by shoe sizes. I'll be happy to exchange sizes later on. However, please make sure you haven't used the ice cleats outdoors.
Ice Cleat Ankle Straps
Winter Walking Ice Cleats fit securely on most shoes and boots. Most people do not need or use the Ankle Strap. However, Ankle Straps add an additional level of comfort, knowing your ice cleats will stay on your footwear. It's more critical to consider Ankle Straps if you

What Free Ice Cleats Size Exchanges Means

No store works harder than we do to get ice cleats sizing right on the first try. If you measure your footwear as I advise you to do in my Sizing Tips, Size Exchanges are rare. However, when Size Exchanges are necessary

This policy is consistent with and exceeds competing stores Free Exchanges policies. If you have questions, please call me at 610-670-2549.

The last thing I want is for you to be disappointed in your purchase or feel that I mislead you or treated you unfairly. So, in the unlikely event you're not totally satisfied with your ice cleats or shoe traction devices purchased from me, I'll refund your money and pay for the return freight. Call me at 610-670-2549.

My satisfaction guarantee is unconditional. However, I'll ask you why you're not satisfied because I want to know if

You Won't Find a Better, Safer Place to Buy Ice Cleats!
Here's why buying ice cleats from us gives you peace of mind.
  • Family-Owned and Run
    When you buy from us, you're supporting a small, independent, U.S.-based family business, not a large, impersonal conglomerate.
    • No Sales Gimmicks including no fake sales and no inflated retail prices with overstated discounts.
    • No Unsolicited Emails or Pop-Up Ads so you can surf the Internet without being harassed by our ice cleat ads.
  • Informed, Useful Content and Personalized, Expert Advice You Can Trust
    • We're ice cleat and shoe traction device experts. We don't sell every ice cleat brand. We only sell the best because, although no ice cleat can guarantee you won't slip on the ice, the slightest difference in the design of an ice cleat can make a big difference in reducing your risk. Furthermore, you don't have to guess about which ice cleats or shoe attachments are best for you. The expert, free advice you need is a phone call away at 610-670-2549.
    • Help is available when you need it, every day from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM ET.
  • Volume Discounts (Request a Quote)
  • Fast PayPal Express Checkout or Call Us at 610-670-2549 to Place Your Order by Phone
  • Same-Day Order Processing
  • Unmatched After-the-Sale Customer Service and Support
  • Authorized Yaktrax and Winter Walking Ice Cleats Dealer
    We sell new, authentic Yaktrax and Winter Walking Ice Cleats and shoe traction attachments purchased directly from Implus and Winter Walking.
  • We Stock What We Sell
    If we need to bring in additional stock, we can usually get it within 24 hours.
  • Immediate Size Exchanges
    We don't wait until the incorrect size is returned before sending out the correct size. That's important because the sooner you're wearing ice cleats or shoe traction devices, the safer you are.
  • Risk-Free, No-Hassle, Full Cash-Back Satisfaction Guarantee
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    No one works harder to protect your privacy because our entire website is secure, not just our cart. We use SiteLock, one of the highest-rated professional firewalls that also scans every line of code daily to detect malware.

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ICEGRIPS™ Ice Cleats Sizing Advice

Here's my recommended approach to choosing the correct size.

  • First, find the ICEGRIPS™ size that corresponds to your shoe or boot size.
  • Second, measure the length of your footwear in inches and add ¼ inch. Then compare that length to the "Footwear Length in Inches" column in the size chart corresponding to the size you found in the first step.
    • If the length exceeds that size range, even by as little as ¼, select the next larger size.
    • If the length falls below that size range, again, even by as little as ¼, select the next smaller size.

Questions:

What if the measurement I get in the second step above is more than 14.25"?
I would not buy ICEGRIPS™.
Will ICEGRIPS™ fit large, bulky boots?
Yes. A "Bulky Boot" Strap Kit is available at an additional cost.