Maybe the difference between the non Vibram soles used on the Salomon boots....not used a pair of Salomon walking boots myself. The two types of Scarpa boots, manta and active, that I use both have Vibram soles. No guarantee of staying upright on icy paths. Walking poles and probably one of the several micro spike aids, would I guess, as has been said be helpful. I have not used any of the micro grips so can't really comment on these.