Tips from Icespike

Question: Why do my icespike rust? And how can I fix that?
Answer: Icespikes are made of cold rolled steel for strength and durability. If you have ice skates or skis, you know that if you don’t dry your blades or your ski edges, they will get superficial rust on them. The next time you use them, the rust will just come off. This is superficial rust and is what you have with Icespike. You can dry your Icespikes and spray them with WD40. That will help your rust problem but the rust will not damage the spikes.

Question: I sometimes lose a spike. How can I stop that?
Answer: Icespike is made to stay put and not loosen up or come out. The reverse washer on the underside of the spike has sharp edges that dig in and hold the spike in place. HOWEVER, there are usually two reasons that you might lose a spike. 1. Spikes that have been installed in old shoes with soft and porous soles is the most common cause of lost spikes. Don’t hesitate to install Icespike in your good shoes. They will not cause any damage to the soles. 2. Spikes that have been installed in soles that are very hard and dense may not hold well. In that case, we use a product called FLEX SEAL. Tip each spike before you install them with the Flex Seal. If you uninstall the spikes, they will come right out with no problem even with the FLEX SEAL.

Question: Does the included tool in the Deluxe set install both the 3/8" and ½ Spikes?
Answer: Yes, the tool included with the Deluxe set works on both the 3/8" and ½.

Question: Should I reinstall a new spike directly where the old one was?
Answer: No! Never put a new screw in an old stripped hole. Choose a spot close to the old spot.

Question: When I install the spikes, do they all have to face the same direction?
Answer: Absolutely not. It does not matter what direction the spikes are in; it all works the same.

Question: Can I drive a car or operate heavy equipment with Icespike installed in my boots or shoes?
Answer: Yes! Although we do not advocate driving with the spikes on, we have been told by many users that they do drive cars, trucks, heavy equipment and have no problem because, as they tell us, Icespike is very low profile and does not interfere. Icespike has no chains or straps or coils.

Question: Can I use a variable speed drill to install my Icespike?
Answer: Yes, you can! Use a drill that has a clutch feature. Clutch the drill down to 2 or 3 so the drill stops before the spike is over tightened and strips out the hole. Do the last few turns with the tool, so you can feel how tight the spike can be against the sole. After a couple of spikes, you will feel when to stop with the drill.

Question: Can I go into the grocery, hardware, post office and clothing store with my Icespike on?
Answer: Yes, you can! Usually stores and public places have either laminated tile floors, polished concrete or carpeting, all these floors are navigable with your spikes. The only flooring that you need to be concerned with and not wear your spikes on is soft wood floors. I would stay off of all wood floors whether they are soft or hardwood. Remember Icespike is made to destroy ice and snow and will do so to a wood floor.

Question: Can I use my ice spikes in mud as well as in snowy/icy conditions?
Answer: Yes, many of our customers tell us that they use Icespike for any activity that might have slippery conditions. We also have a great number of outdoor workers who swear by Icespike, including roofers, believe it or not.

Question: How many icespike should I install in each shoe or boot? And is there an ideal positioning?
Answer: Our recommendation on the website and from our research is that 12 per shoe gives the wearer the best traction and stability. Many customers however, depending on the activity that they are doing, have used more and sometimes less. As far as positioning, we again recommend that the spike be placed on the outer edge of the shoe or boot about ½ inch in from the edge. Usually, 6 spikes on the fore foot and 6 spikes on the heel.

Question: What kind of shoes or boots can I install Icespike in?
Answer: You can install Icespike in any shoe or boot with a good healthy sole. Remember, Icespike will not in any way damage your shoes or boots. If and when you uninstall the spikes, the small holes, after walking or running for a couple of minutes will almost completely disappear. One of the mistakes that some people make is trying the install the spikes in an old shoe or boot, where the sole is deteriorated and will not properly hold the spikes in place.

Question: What size spike do you recommend for running shoes and boots?
Answer: The normal recommendation is to use 3/8-inch spikes on all running shoes and regular walking shoes. The recommendation for boots is to use 1/2 Inch spike. The difference between the two spikes is very minute. The head of the spikes are both the same, the difference is 1/8 inch in length, which gives a touch more security in heavier, harder boot soles.

Question: Can I take the spikes in and out as needed?
Answer: You actually could if you wanted to, but most people leave the spikes in their shoes for the season. The idea with Icespike is always be ready and not get caught in a situation that becomes slippery after you have left the house with no spikes. Be Prepared.