Quick Answer
Crampons or insulated, waterproof hiking boots with aggressive treads provide the best traction on icy snow.
Choosing the Right Footwear
When still hunting in snowy conditions, footwear is a crucial component of your gear. Boots with a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex or eVent, will keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Look for boots with a rugged outsole and a deep tread pattern, which will provide better traction on ice and snow. For example, The La Sportiva Raptor GTX has a Vibram outsole with a 4mm lug depth, ideal for snowy terrain.
Traction Techniques
In addition to choosing the right footwear, it’s essential to use traction techniques to maintain stability on icy snow. When walking, keep your weight centered over your feet, with your knees slightly bent. Take small steps, about 12-18 inches in length, to maintain balance and prevent slipping. When climbing or descending steep terrain, use trekking poles to help with stability and to distribute your weight evenly. This will help you maintain traction and prevent falls.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.