Like the guys before said, they only benefit on ice. I like using them on frozen ponds and lakes at the local mtb trails. But when it's just snow/slush/pavement they aren't that much help. Mine where homemade so not as good as the nokians, but better than nothing and fun to make!
Live in Hamilton eh Pinerider? I grew up there (18 or so years). How is old steel town doing?