microspike
Traction device underfoot
Microspikes are traction devices that strap onto boots for walking on ice or packed snow.
They feature small metal spikes or chains on a rubber harness, providing grip without the bulk of full crampons.
Popular with winter hikers and runners: I put on my microspikes for the icy trail section.
The term often appears as a plural even when referring to a single pair.
Water's solid form
- snowFrozen crystalline precipitation
- glacierSlow-moving ice mass
- icefallSteep, crevassed glacier section
- snowfieldPermanent snow accumulation area
slush · frost · frozen · hardpack · verglas · crust · rime · snowpack
Toothed traction device
- cleatShoe spike for grip
- gripSecure manual hold
- studUpright wall framing
- treadSurface that grips ground
friction · bite · purchase · stability · secure · foothold · anchor · ice-axe
Path through wilderness
- summitPeak or diplomatic gathering
- backpackingSelf-supported wilderness travel
- trekkingLong-distance foot travel
- scramblingMoving clumsily in haste
ascent · descent · approach · ridge · traverse · switchback · alpine · backcountry
Garments for feet
- bootHigh shoe or startup
- strapNarrow flexible binding material
- harnessStraps controlling an animal
- rubberElastic polymer from trees
elastomer · binding · attachment · lightweight · packable · removable · adjustable · durable
ice
Water's solid form
- snowFrozen crystalline precipitation
- glacierSlow-moving ice mass
- icefallSteep, crevassed glacier section
snowfield · slush · frost · frozen · hardpack · verglas · crust · rime · snowpack · icecap
crampon
Toothed traction device
tread · friction · bite · purchase · stability · secure · foothold · anchor · ice-axe · self-arrest
trail
Path through wilderness
- summitPeak or diplomatic gathering
- backpackingSelf-supported wilderness travel
- trekkingLong-distance foot travel
scrambling · ascent · descent · approach · ridge · traverse · switchback · alpine · backcountry · peak
footwear
Garments for feet
rubber · elastomer · binding · attachment · lightweight · packable · removable · adjustable · durable · portable