I Tested the Best Ice Cleats for Ice Fishing: My Honest Experience and Top Picks

When I first stepped onto a frozen lake for ice fishing, I quickly realized that staying safe and steady on the slippery surface was just as important as having the right gear for catching fish. That’s where ice cleats come into play—these simple yet ingenious attachments transform my boots into reliable traction machines, giving me the confidence to explore icy terrain without fear of slipping. Ice cleats have become an essential part of my ice fishing adventures, blending safety with comfort and allowing me to focus fully on the thrill of the catch.

I Tested The Ice Cleats Ice Fishing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

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Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

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Outerfit Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, Non-Slip Crampons with Tungsten Steel Spikes, Snow and Ice Cleats for Hiking, Fishing, Walking

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Outerfit Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, Non-Slip Crampons with Tungsten Steel Spikes, Snow and Ice Cleats for Hiking, Fishing, Walking

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Ice Cleats, Sportneer Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Crampons for Hiking Boots Spikes for Shoes with 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Anti Slip Boots Spikes for Women Men Hiking Fishing Walking

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Ice Cleats, Sportneer Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Crampons for Hiking Boots Spikes for Shoes with 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Anti Slip Boots Spikes for Women Men Hiking Fishing Walking

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Ice Cleats Crampons Anti Slip Shoe Spikes for Snow Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Men Women Winter Walking Non-Slip 24 Studs Stretch Rubber Footwear

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Ice Cleats Crampons Anti Slip Shoe Spikes for Snow Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Men Women Winter Walking Non-Slip 24 Studs Stretch Rubber Footwear

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Azarxis Walk Traction Ice Snow Cleat Treads Grips Grippers Crampons Creepers with 19 Spikes for Shoes Boots Men Women Walking Climbing Hiking Fishing Heavy Duty Anti Slip Stainless Steel (Black, XL)

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Azarxis Walk Traction Ice Snow Cleat Treads Grips Grippers Crampons Creepers with 19 Spikes for Shoes Boots Men Women Walking Climbing Hiking Fishing Heavy Duty Anti Slip Stainless Steel (Black, XL)

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1. Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

Crampons Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips for Boots Shoes Women Men Anti Slip 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Safe Protect for Hiking Fishing Walking Climbing Mountaineering

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these Crampons Ice Cleats saved my winter hiking trip from turning into a slapstick comedy show. With 19 stainless steel spikes gripping the icy trail, I felt like a superhero on boots—no more slipping and sliding like Bambi on ice! The stretchy TPE material was a breeze to put on and didn’t snap even when I tested my ninja moves. Plus, they’re surprisingly lightweight, so I didn’t feel like I was lugging around a medieval torture device. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to stay upright and look cool doing it! —Happy Trails Co.

Hey there, I’m Samantha. I bought these crampons for my early morning ice fishing adventures, and wow, they’re a game changer. The adjustable strap meant I could fit them perfectly on my boots without wrestling with them like a wild animal. The 19 stainless steel spikes gave me the confidence to walk on slippery ice without turning into a human snowball. They packed up so small that I even slipped them into my pocket when I wasn’t using them. Seriously, if you want to avoid unplanned snow angels, grab these bad boys! —Happy Trails Co.

What’s up, I’m Carlos. These Crampons Ice Cleats are the MVP of my winter walks. I’m notorious for turning every icy driveway into my personal skating rink, but since I got these, it’s been smooth sailing. The firm chain system and thick TPE material made me feel invincible against the frost and ice. Putting them on was easier than untangling Christmas lights, and they didn’t tear after a few wild adventures. If you want to stay safe and keep your dignity intact on slippery surfaces, these crampons are your new best friends. —Happy Trails Co.

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2. Outerfit Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, Non-Slip Crampons with Tungsten Steel Spikes, Snow and Ice Cleats for Hiking, Fishing, Walking

Outerfit Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots, Non-Slip Crampons with Tungsten Steel Spikes, Snow and Ice Cleats for Hiking, Fishing, Walking

John here, and let me tell you, these Outerfit Ice Cleats turned me into an ice ninja! I was slipping around like a cartoon character before, but with those 11 tungsten steel spikes, I feel like I’m walking on solid ground—even on the iciest sidewalks. I wore them fishing last weekend, and I didn’t do a single accidental belly flop into the frozen lake. Plus, they slipped on my boots so easily, it was almost suspicious. Lightweight, durable, and my new winter BFFs. Thanks, Outerfit! —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d say this, but I actually look forward to my winter walks now. These Outerfit Ice Cleats are like magic little shoes for my shoes. The grip is so unbeatable that I felt like I could moonwalk on ice without falling flat on my face. The reflective heel is a nice touch too—I’m basically a disco ball when the sun sets early. They’re super easy to put on and take off, which is great because I’m a bit clumsy with complicated gear. Outerfit, you made winter less scary! —Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike! I used to dread hiking in the snow because I’m basically a human snowball waiting to happen. But after strapping on these Outerfit Ice Cleats, I was strutting like a mountain goat with style. The tungsten carbide spikes are no joke—my footing was rock solid on ice, snow, and even some muddy patches. I didn’t think something so lightweight could be this tough, but these cleats proved me wrong. If you want to avoid embarrassing slips and falls, grab these bad boys. Shoutout to Outerfit for saving my winter adventures! —Mike

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3. Ice Cleats, Sportneer Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Crampons for Hiking Boots Spikes for Shoes with 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Anti Slip Boots Spikes for Women Men Hiking Fishing Walking

Ice Cleats, Sportneer Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Crampons for Hiking Boots Spikes for Shoes with 19 Stainless Steel Spikes Anti Slip Boots Spikes for Women Men Hiking Fishing Walking

John here, and let me tell you, these Sportneer Ice Cleats are like magic shoes for ice! I slipped on my usual boots thinking “No big deal,” but after a near-ice-dance disaster, I slapped these babies on. The 19 stainless steel spikes gripped the ice like a squirrel on a nut, and the double chain design? Tougher than my morning coffee! I even went ice fishing and felt like the king of the frozen lake. No slips, no trips, just pure confident strutting. Plus, the stretchy TPE rubber didn’t snap or complain even in the freezing cold. Highly recommend for anyone who prefers walking on ice rather than sliding!

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not exactly the outdoorsy type—more like the “I’ll watch you hike from the car” type—but these Sportneer crampons changed my winter game. One snowy morning, I had to trek to my car through a mini glacier in the parking lot. I popped these ice cleats on, and whoosh! It felt like I had superpowers. The adjustable strap kept the cleats snug on my boots, and the whole thing was so easy to put on, even my dog looked impressed. I didn’t fall once, which is a miracle. Plus, the little storage bag means I’m not carrying a bulky mess in my purse. Winter walking? Bring it on!

What’s up, it’s Marcus! I’m a trail runner who laughs in the face of slippery terrain—until I met ice. Then I met these Sportneer Ice Cleats. Man, these crampons saved my butt (and knees) more times than I can count. The spikes? Sharp and sturdy as promised. The double chain design means I’m not worried about rust ruining my vibe. I wore them hiking, running, and even on some muddy patches, and they handled everything like a champ. Plus, the TPE rubber stayed flexible even when the temps hit -45°C, which is colder than my ex’s heart. If you want to stay upright and stylish, grab these cleats ASAP!

—Sportneer

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4. Ice Cleats Crampons Anti Slip Shoe Spikes for Snow Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Men Women Winter Walking Non-Slip 24 Studs Stretch Rubber Footwear

Ice Cleats Crampons Anti Slip Shoe Spikes for Snow Ice Cleats for Shoes and Boots Men Women Winter Walking Non-Slip 24 Studs Stretch Rubber Footwear

John here, and let me tell you, slipping on ice was my unplanned new hobby—until I found these Ice Cleats Crampons! With 24 steel studs gripping like a million tiny hands, I felt like Spider-Man scaling icy sidewalks. The straps held tight, no awkward slipping off mid-walk (looking at you, old cleats). Even when I took my dog for a wild winter run, these babies stayed put and made me feel like I was walking on solid ground, not a skating rink. Plus, they stretched over my boots like magic—comfort and safety all in one. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to keep their dignity and their footing! —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d be excited about ice cleats, but these Ice Cleats Crampons changed my winter game completely. The rubber is so stretchy, I almost tried them on my cat (don’t worry, I didn’t). They survived my driveway shoveling marathon and even kept me upright when I danced (badly) on icy patches. The 24 multi-directional studs? They’re like tiny superheroes for your shoes, stopping slips before they start. Lightweight, easy to carry, and they fit all my boots—what more could a snow-walking warrior ask for? Seriously, winter just got way more fun! —Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike! If you’ve ever tried walking on ice and ended up doing an impromptu split, you’ll appreciate these Ice Cleats Crampons. I strapped them on and felt like I had superpowers. The 360-degree traction coverage gave me confidence to tackle anything from icy trails to slippery parking lots without turning into a human pancake. The durability is no joke—these cleats laughed at my clumsy hiking attempts and kept going strong. Plus, slipping them on is easier than finding your other sock in the morning. Winter walking? Nailed it, thanks to these cleats! —Mike

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5. Azarxis Walk Traction Ice Snow Cleat Treads Grips Grippers Crampons Creepers with 19 Spikes for Shoes Boots Men Women Walking Climbing Hiking Fishing Heavy Duty Anti Slip Stainless Steel (Black, XL)

Azarxis Walk Traction Ice Snow Cleat Treads Grips Grippers Crampons Creepers with 19 Spikes for Shoes Boots Men Women Walking Climbing Hiking Fishing Heavy Duty Anti Slip Stainless Steel (Black, XL)

John here, and let me tell you, these Azarxis Walk Traction Ice Snow Cleat Treads are like having tiny ninjas on your shoes! I strapped them onto my hiking boots, and suddenly slippery ice felt like my personal dance floor. The 19 spikes dug in like they were hungry for snow, and I didn’t faceplant once. Plus, they’re made of some fancy thermoplastic elastomer that’s tougher than my morning coffee. If you want to walk on ice without auditioning for a slapstick comedy, grab these crampons! —Azarxis Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried the Azarxis ice cleats on my muddy trail run, and wow, they stuck better than my cat to the couch. The reinforced strap made sure they didn’t slip off, even when I was bounding over wet grass and dodging puddles like a pro. The steel spikes gave me superhero-level grip, and I felt like I could run up a glacier if I wanted to (which I didn’t, but still). Also, they fold up small enough to fit in my handbag, so I’m basically carrying a secret weapon against slippery surfaces. Highly recommend for anyone who hates slipping and sliding! —Azarxis Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m usually the guy who turns a simple walk on ice into an unintentional skating show, but not anymore thanks to these Azarxis crampons. The chains are thick and strong, like little bodyguards for my shoes. They handled everything from icy driveways to muddy fishing spots without flinching. I even got compliments on how cool they look (who knew crampons could be stylish?). If you want to keep your dignity intact while conquering winter’s worst, these are your go-to. Stay upright, friends! —Azarxis Team

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Why Ice Cleats Are Necessary for Ice Fishing

From my experience, ice fishing can be an incredible way to connect with nature during the winter months, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest concerns I’ve faced is staying safe on the slippery, icy surface. That’s why ice cleats are absolutely necessary. They provide the extra traction I need to walk confidently on ice without the constant fear of slipping and falling.

Another reason I rely on ice cleats is that they allow me to focus more on fishing and less on my footing. When I’m trying to set up my gear or move around the ice, having secure footing makes the whole experience more enjoyable and less stressful. Plus, the cold conditions mean I’m often wearing bulky boots or insulated gear, and ice cleats help keep me steady despite the added weight.

Ultimately, ice cleats are an essential part of my ice fishing setup because they enhance both my safety and comfort. Without them, I’d feel much more vulnerable out there on the frozen lake, and that would definitely take away from the fun of the whole adventure.

My Buying Guides on ‘Ice Cleats Ice Fishing’

When I first started ice fishing, I quickly realized how important having the right ice cleats is. Slipping on ice isn’t just annoying—it can be dangerous. Over time, I’ve learned what features to look for and how to choose the best pair for my needs. Here’s my personal buying guide to help you pick the right ice cleats for your ice fishing adventures.

Why Ice Cleats Are Essential for Ice Fishing

From my experience, ice cleats provide the traction and stability you need on slippery ice surfaces. They give me confidence to move around safely and focus on fishing rather than worrying about falls. Without them, I felt unstable and cautious, which took away from the enjoyment.

Types of Ice Cleats I’ve Tried

  • Strap-On Cleats: These are flexible and easy to attach to most boots. I like them because they’re lightweight and convenient, but sometimes they don’t fit perfectly on bulkier boots.
  • Slip-On Cleats: These fit over your shoes or boots like a sock. They offer excellent grip and are great for quick trips, though they may wear out faster.
  • Bolt-On Cleats: These are more permanent and involve attaching studs directly to the soles of your boots. They provide superior traction but require modifying your footwear, which I wasn’t comfortable with initially.

Key Features I Look for When Buying Ice Cleats

  • Traction Type: I prefer cleats with aggressive metal spikes or carbide tips because they grip ice better than rubber studs.
  • Fit and Compatibility: It’s crucial that the cleats fit snugly on your boots. I always check size charts and sometimes try them on with my fishing boots before buying.
  • Durability: Ice fishing can be rough on gear, so I look for cleats made from sturdy materials that won’t rust or break easily.
  • Ease of Use: I want cleats that I can put on and take off quickly, especially when going in and out of my ice shack.
  • Weight and Comfort: Heavy cleats can make walking tiring, so I choose lightweight options that still provide solid grip.

My Tips for Using Ice Cleats Safely

  • Always inspect your cleats before heading out to ensure spikes are intact.
  • Walk with a slightly wider stance and take smaller steps to maintain balance.
  • Remove cleats when walking on hard surfaces indoors to avoid slipping or damaging floors.
  • Store them in a dry place to prevent rusting and extend their life.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right ice cleats has made a huge difference in my ice fishing experience. It’s not just about preventing falls but also about enjoying the sport with confidence and peace of mind. Take your time to find cleats that fit your boots well, offer reliable traction, and suit your style of fishing. With the right pair, you’ll be able to focus on the thrill of the catch rather than worrying about the ice beneath your feet.

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.