Hunting Washington Forum

Equipment & Gear => All Other Gear => Topic started by: actionshooter on September 30, 2008, 09:15:30 PM

Title: Anyone try these yaktraks??
Post by: actionshooter on September 30, 2008, 09:15:30 PM: www.yaktracks.com Has anyone tried these "chains for your feet" :)
How do they work? Have you seen anything better?
I'm gonna be in some STEEP hills with snow in November, looking for a little traction on the hills.
Title: Re: Anyone try these yaktraks??
Post by: jackelope on September 30, 2008, 09:50:25 PM: my dad has these for winter hikes in the mountains of upstate NY and speaks pretty highly of them....i think sisu has a source for something too. you might pm him, unless he sees this.
Title: Re: Anyone try these yaktraks??
Post by: Bean Counter on September 30, 2008, 09:55:19 PM: I own 'em.

I do like them, but you have to guard your expectations carefully. I think there's a scientific statement about how form follows function. Seen those crampons with the deep, triangular spikes? Well, obviously those are going to give you a whole lot better traction in serious snow on the side of a hill than these will. I bought the Yaktrax for running on snowy or icy side walks. They do great for that. I do take them backpacking when I know I'm going to traverse a glacier, but they don't take the place of crampons. The combo of Yaktrax and trekking poles has gotten me over a simple glacier or two, but if I knew I was going to be in serious snow, especially when hauling elk quarters, no way would I trust my life to 'em.

I like how much lighter and less bulky they are in the backpack. Not to mention how little I'd like idea of crampons tearing up my bag or back.
Title: Re: Anyone try these yaktraks??
Post by: Bean Counter on September 30, 2008, 09:56:00 PM: Get the upscale "Pro" model or whatever if you buy 'em. I think that one has the velcro strap that goes over the top, whereas the basic model does not.