Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction Device - Best Lightweight Hybrid for Trail Running and Hiking
A brilliantly designed, lightweight traction device that excels for trail runners and hikers who encounter variable conditions and value easy on/off and packability.
- +Innovative neoprene toe cover simplifies donning, adds slight waterproofing, and allows the cleats to pack down very small.
- +Lightweight construction at approximately 8 ounces for a size large balances performance and packability for runners.
- +Fourteen 8mm stainless steel spikes provide excellent traction on mixed terrain including ice, hardpack snow, and some pavement.
- -The fabric toe cover has limited stretch, potentially making fit over very bulky winter boots challenging.
- -Shorter spikes are not ideal for deep, loose snow or for providing security on steep, hard ice climbs.
- -Higher price point compared to many basic chain-style traction devices on the market.
The Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction Device represents a thoughtful evolution in lightweight winter traction, particularly appealing to trail runners and fast-moving hikers. Its defining feature is a thin neoprene cover that slips over the toe of the shoe. This design eliminates confusion about orientation during donning and provides a small layer of insulation and weather protection. More importantly, it allows the entire device to be rolled into a compact, secure bundle for stashing in a pocket or pack, a significant advantage during variable-condition outings. Weighing in at around 8 ounces for a large size, it strikes a near-perfect balance between substantial traction and minimal carried weight. The traction comes from fourteen heat-treated stainless steel spikes, each 8mm (5/16-inch) long. This spike length is a strategic sweet spot: it is long enough to bite effectively into ice and hardpack snow, yet short enough that users can still drive a car or pedal a bike without excessive discomfort or damage, offering more versatility than longer-spiked models.
The elastomer harness, combined with the neoprene toe, creates a secure and centered fit on most low-to-mid-volume shoes and boots. Performance is robust across a wide spectrum of common winter trail conditions, including frozen mud, icy patches, and shallow snow. Where it reaches its limit is in specialized scenarios. The shorter spikes do not penetrate deep, soft snow as effectively as larger crampon-style devices like the Kahtoola MICROspikes, and they may not inspire the same level of confidence on sustained, steep ice. The fit system, while innovative, may not accommodate the very tallest or widest winter boots as easily as a full elastomer harness. For the athlete or hiker who traverses terrain that mixes ice, snow, dirt, and even pavement, the Distance Spike offers a superior blend of grip, comfort, and convenience, making it a preferred choice for dynamic winter adventures over purely urban or purely alpine options.