Q. Re question above. So, can one wear in our days spiked shoes or crampons on Shabbos where there is no Eruv?
A. As mentioned on the prior question, boots with spikes, since they are dissimilar to the sandal hamesumar that was originally prohibited and are also an item of clothing are permitted on Shabbos even where there is no Eruv.
A crampon is a traction device that is attached to footwear to improve mobility on snow and ice specially during ice climbing. They are foot frames with medium or large spikes on the bottom, that are tied or secured over the shoes or boots.
There are basically three different types of footwear traction devices for icy or snowy conditions, each appropriate for specific situations:, crampons, microspikes and snowshoes.
The picture that was sent with this shaila, likely corresponds more to microspikes than crampons.
Microspikes (as described in ReserveAmerica) are; ‘comprised of chains and small spikes that are slipped over your footwear for added traction. The design of microspikes is much like that of chains placed over tires to enhance vehicular traction. The spikes themselves are about ¼ to ½ inch long, giving the wearer the ability to dig into icy surfaces and packed snow. Since the spikes are relatively short and usually placed at the inner portion of the sole, microspikes are preferred for flat terrain or low-angle slopes. The best use case for microspikes is hiking or running in packed snow or icy conditions on relatively even surfaces.’
The article adds that: ‘Wearing microspikes does add weight to your feet, potentially tiring you out sooner. Fortunately, microspikes are small and easily fit into a bag. Microspikes are also low maintenance, requiring a quick wiping down and then drying for a short period of time.’
Because of the above nature and conditions of this added foot gear, Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that it should only be worn when tied and secured to the shoes before Shabbos and kept locked to the shoes during the complete day, thus avoiding the removal outside and carrying them where there is no eruv.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit’a
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