Best all around traction device for hiking and running - Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System

I've tried many traction devices over many years. Kahtoola is the best for all around use. They offer aggressive grip on packed snow and ice. The biggest problem most have is not staying in place or falling off. The Kahtoola MICROspikes stay put even in deep, wet snow or when breaking in and pulling up through crusty overlayers (if you know snow you know what I mean). They work well worn over running shoes and hiking boots. The elastic uppers remain pliable at low temps and can be taken on and off relatively easily with gloves or mittens on.

The sharp spikes will grip into bare rock but I advise avoiding dry dirt and bare rock as much as possible to avoid wearing down the teeth.

The only issue I've experienced is a tendency to clog and accumulate snow plugs when temps hover just above freezing. This is most likely due to the bare metal chains being cold enough to freeze water and then attract clumps of snow. The same thing has happened with several other similar devices I've used. The Kahtoolas can be cleared by dragging your foot a few times.