Microspike Magic
There are no product reviews on this site. Until now. It is not the intention of the author to review and recommend products. Unless something special comes along.
In a previous life as a mountaineer, I brought my crampons to cross glaciers and climb peaks, but they were awkward to get on and off, awkward to store in your pack, totally unsuitable for hiking, and just not practical for everyday hiking.
We saw the advent of yaktrax and similar products over the last few years, but now we have a superior product, microspikes:
Here is what they say:
"Grippy, durable, slip-on traction systems, with strategically placed stainless steel spikes connected to a dynamic flex-chain with tough elastomer shoe harnesses. The spike design is excellent for walking, hiking, or running on packed snow, and provides excellent traction on ice."
We bought ours through Mountain Equipment Coop, but they are probably available elsewhere too. They cost $55, but they are well-made, easy to roll up and take along with you, easy to put on and take off, and traction is incredible.
Now I have no excuse to not shovel off the driveway.