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For hikers tackling winter terrain who value portability and versatility, the Kahtoola KTS crampons balance performance and convenience—a reliable companion for icy trails and snowy adventures.
Kahtoola says:
Our most capable and packable crampon. One-inch-long spikes postiontioned along the edge of the foot, tear into ice and snow with ease and provide an extremely stable platform while a folding heel support collapses flat, allowing the entire untit to pack down smaller than any other hiking crampon. KTS features our patented LeasfSpring Flex Bar technology which moves naturally with the foot and adjusts to fit a wide variety of flexible footwear. Ideal for use in the alpine and on robust flexible footwear such as hiking boots.
Our Verdict
The Kahtoola KTS Hiking Crampons are a lightweight, versatile solution for non-technical winter trails, offering excellent grip on icy paths while packing down impressively small.
With ten 2.5cm spikes crafted from durable chromoly steel, the KTS crampons provide reliable traction without adding excessive bulk. Their flexibility stands out, adapting comfortably to a range of footwear, from hiking boots to trail runners. The LeafSpring Flex Bar ensures natural movement with each step, while the independent front and rear bindings create a secure fit as your ankle flexes. I particularly appreciated the folding heel bail, which allows the crampons to collapse to a compact 20cm by 9cm—perfect for tucking into a pack when not in use.
These crampons are light enough for multi-day use at just 328g for the M/L pair. However, it’s worth noting that their design is best suited to moderate snow and icy trails rather than steeper, more technical alpine routes. For serious mountaineering, you’ll likely need a more robust option.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Ten 1-Inch, optimally spaced spikes grab ice and snow providing stability
- Highly customizable with adjustable straps to dial-in fit
- Folding heel bail allows for ultimate packability
- LeafSpring Flex Bar ensures wide range of motion when used with flexible footwear
- Independent front and rear binding closures maintain a secure fit as the ankle naturally flexes
- Lightweight, replaceable snow release skins prevent snow and ice buildup
- Hiking crampon tote sack available
Specifications
- S/M pair weighs: 316g
- M/L pair weighs: 328g
- S/M Fits: EU 36-43 / UK 3-9
- M/L pair weighs: EU 43-48 / UK 9-13
- Packed Size: 8in x 3.5in x 3.5in / 20cm x 9cm x 9cm
- Spikes: 1in / 2.5cm
- Number of spikes per foot: 10
Material & Construction
- Spikes: 4130 chromoly steel
- LeafSpring Flex Bar: Patented dual-layer stainless steel
- Binding: Cold-resistant nylon hardware, polyester webbing
- Snow release skins: Reinforced neoprene
