This is my second year on my Hillsounds and I have had no problems. I hike 2-3 times a week, often on Mt Monadnock, where there has been a lot of exposed rock and ice above 3/4 mark the last couple years. A real test, in my opinion. All my hiking friends have also switched over and no one has had any problem. I used microspikes for several years before and although I knew many who broke straps I never had any problems with breakage, just dulling quickly and lacking enough gripping power. One thing I notice a lot is people don't ensure that the microspike or hillsound is placed on the foot correctly. I make sure unit is centered on the foot, all the chains are tight and symmetrical on the boot. If the toe of the traction devise begins to drift off center I take the time to readjust it before the elastomeric bands begin to stretch too the extreme. What broke on yours and where are the problem areas you have heard of? I'd like to keep any eye out. I do always carry a spare pair or crampons, just in case.
