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Frequently Asked Questions
Not at the moment. For packed snow and ice around the resorts and on winter walks, slip-on ice grips like the XTM Ice Gripper do the job and fit in a jacket pocket. For deep, soft snow off the track you need a snowshoe with a wide frame, which we don't currently stock.
Match the size to your shoe. M fits US 5 to 8 (EU 36 to 40), L fits US 8 to 11 (EU 39 to 42) and XL fits US 11 to 14 (EU 43 to 46). Between sizes, go up for a bulky winter boot and down for a slim walking shoe.
No. Ice grips are a walking aid for packed snow, icy paths and frozen tracks on flat or gentle ground. For steep alpine slopes, ice climbing or mountaineering you need proper crampons fitted to suitable boots. Treat the Ice Gripper as extra traction for everyday winter walking.
They stretch over most hiking boots, winter boots and walking shoes, as long as you pick the right size for your shoe. The TPR and nylon frame grips the sole, and the stainless steel spikes sit underneath. Take them off before walking on tiles, timber or concrete, which wear the spikes and can be slippery.
How to choose ice grips
The Ice Gripper is made from TPR and nylon with stainless steel spikes, and it stretches over the sole of your boot. Pick the size that matches your shoe:How to choose ice grips
The Ice Gripper is made from TPR and nylon with stainless steel spikes, and it stretches over the sole of your boot. Pick the size that matches your shoe:
• M: US 5–8, EU 36–40
• L: US 8–11, EU 39–42
• XL: US 11–14, EU 43–46
If your boot sits between two sizes, choose the larger one for a chunky winter boot and the smaller one for a slim walking shoe. Slip them on before you step onto the ice and take them off again on bare ground. They are light enough to live in your pack or jacket pocket all winter.
Ice grips, crampons or snowshoes?
These three do different jobs. Ice grips are for packed snow and ice on flat or gently sloping ground: car parks, village paths, walking tracks and steps. Crampons are for steep alpine slopes and climbing. Snowshoes spread your weight on deep, soft snow so you don't sink. We don't stock snowshoes or crampons at the moment, so this page is about ice grips only.
Icy mornings in the Australian Alps
Ice grips earn their place on the frozen walk from the lodge to the lifts at Thredbo, a frosty morning around Falls Creek village, or a winter walk in Tasmania's highlands. Travellers heading to Japan, Canada or Europe in winter pack a pair for frozen footpaths. Take them off before walking on tiles, timber or concrete, which wear the spikes and can be slippery. Rinse off salt and grit, and dry them before packing away. Pair them with winter poles and a snow backpack, and keep your toes warm with heated socks.
Why buy from Oz Backcountry
Free shipping Australia-wide over $150 (T&Cs apply), sent from our Helensvale warehouse on the Gold Coast.
Related: Winter Poles · Snow · Snow Backpacks · Heated Socks & Gloves · Avalanche Equipment