Kahtoola EXOspikes are stretch on traction for running shoes and hiking boots, with 12 tungsten carbide spikes per foot set in a flexible TPU frame. They are made to go from snowy trails to icy roads and pavement.

What it's for

Winter hiking, running, and walking on mixed ground: packed snow, ice, and stretches of bare pavement or rock. For steep, icy mountain trails, Kahtoola makes the longer MICROspikes. For flat icy roads only, the lower NANOspikes.

How it works

Tungsten carbide spikes: Kahtoola says tungsten carbide is up to 100 times more abrasion resistant than steel, so the tips hold up on pavement and rock. The tips are concave to bite on glare ice.

Traction matrix: The spikes sit in aluminum and TPU lugs joined by a flexible TPU web. It flexes with your shoe so the spikes stay in contact on uneven ground, and the lugs add grip in snow.

Elastomer harness: A stretchy band pulls over the toe and heel of your shoe. Kahtoola rates it to stay elastic down to -22°F (-30°C).

Toe bail: A bar at the front keeps your toe from pushing through the harness on descents.

Features

• Spikes: 12 per foot, 7.4 mm (0.29 in) long
• Eyelets: Reinforced where the harness meets the traction
• Heel tab: Raised for pulling on and off with gloves
• Tote sack: Included

Sizing and fit

• XS: US men 5 to 6.5, US women 6 to 7.5, EU 36 to 38
• S: US men 6.5 to 8, US women 7.5 to 9, EU 38 to 40
• M: US men 8 to 10, US women 9 to 11, EU 40 to 43
• L: US men 10 to 12, US women 11 to 13, EU 43 to 45
• XL: US men 12 to 14, US women 13 and up, EU 45 to 48
• Note: Sizes are approximate. Bulky or narrow footwear may need a size up or down. Bring your shoes in to test fit.
• Sizes offered here: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large in Blue

Setup and installation

• Putting them on: Hook the toe bail over the front of your shoe, then pull the heel tab up and over the heel. The harness should sit snug all the way around.

Care and service

• Washing: Rinse with lukewarm water and let them air dry. Do not dry with heat.
• Storage: Make sure they are clean and dry before you put them away.
• Inspection: Look them over before each use.
• Between uses: Take them off your footwear rather than leaving them stretched on.

Specs

• Weight per pair, S: 196 g (6.9 oz)
• Weight per pair, M: 208 g (7.3 oz)
• Weight per pair, L: 220 g (7.8 oz)
• Weight per pair, XL: 230 g (8.1 oz)
• Spike material: Tungsten carbide in aluminum and TPU lugs
• Matrix: TPU
• Harness: Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)
• Eyelets and toe bail: Thermoplastic rubber (TPR)
• Warranty: 4 year limited warranty for the original owner on purchases from August 1, 2025 on; 2 years for purchases before that date

In the box

• 1 pair EXOspikes
• Tote sack