Have you ever climbed a slippery icy slope and thought, wouldn’t it be great to have more traction? Thankfully, with crampons, there is a way. These accessories increase traction on ice and packed snow thanks to their built-in spikes. Hiking crampons require compatible hiking or climbing boots. Otherwise, they’ll do more harm than good. That’s why choosing them takes quite some time.
Table of contents
What are crampons?
Crampons are an essential piece of gear for anyone planning on doing ice climbing or winter hiking. Of course, you might not use them throughout the entire day if your snow slopes are more ski than climb. But you’ll be grateful for having a pair with you once the time comes.
They will increase grip and provide a secure foundation for you to walk on. We can’t stress how crucial this is, especially if you’re carrying mountaineering gear essentials, such as ice axes, a winter backpacking tent, winter sleeping bag, all in your durable mountaineering pack. You can’t change that your crampons won’t grip on steep terrain.
Crampon Anatomy
These are made of several components, each one playing a crucial role. You will need to know the difficulty of your climbing grades and whether its rating is based on American or International scores.
Let’s divide the crampons into two: The base and the binding system.
Base Components:
- Teeth or spikes: Also known as points, their responsibility is to increase traction
- Anti-balling plates: These two plates prevent snow from sticking into the crampon. You get one at the heel and the other for the toes.
- Flex bar: It is the link between the front and rear plates. The flex bar dictates how stiff the crampon is.
Binding System Components:
- Heel clip or heel lever: As the name suggests, it is what wraps the heel for a secure hold.
- Toe cage: It is at the other end of the heel clip/ heel lever and encloses the toes.
- Binding Straps: You use them to secure the crampon. Some models come with a lever to make things easier if you are using gloves. Others may have velcro straps or buckles.
The combination of the above secures the toe and heel of your mountaineering boots to the crampons.
Crampons Vs Microspikes: What’s the Difference?
Although the ultimate goal is the same, crampons and microspikes are two different traction devices. For instance, microspikes are chains or small spikes that you can slip over your hiking types of boots. Think of them like the set of chains you wrap around the tires during winter.
Microspikes rest in the inner sole. Thus, they are not suitable for climbing. But they have no match when it comes to hiking on flat terrains and low-angle hills.
And, just like crampons, they have a stainless-steel frame. Nevertheless, they are lighter and more flexible.
Crampons, on the other hand, come in several binding styles. They have bigger and more spikes as well. That’s why they are the top choice when it comes to ice climbing.
How Do Crampons Work?
Think of crampons like a set of football cleats. The only difference is that this time, the cleats don’t come attached to the boot. Instead, it is an accessory that you put on once the time comes.
So, naturally, you can’t bring them to the football field. But the goal is the same: Increase traction on slippery terrains.
The serrated spikes help to cut through the snow and ice, virtually anchoring yourself. This way, you can move up an icy hill without falling.
Types of Crampon Binding
Ok, we already know that crampons are traction devices that you attach to the boot’s exterior. But how can I bind them together?
There are four known binding styles:
- Strap-on
- Step-in
- Bolt-on or Screw-On
- Hybrid
Let’s take some time to talk about each one briefly.
Strap-on Crampons
These are, by far, the simplest in design. Strap-ons are compatible with a wide range of boots or shoes. Just make sure that the central bar matches the flex of your footwear. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use it.
However, strap-on crampons, like the Kahtoola KTS Steel or HillSound Trail Pro don’t wrap tightly around the boot. Thus, it is not the best option for dangerous steps.
 Kahtoola KTS |  HillSound Trail Pro |
Step-in Crampons
These are more specialized than the last type. Step-in bindings have a thick bail wire that fixes your toes in place. The heel cable passes through a lever that you can use to secure them tightly to your boot.
These are the best ice climbing and mountaineering crampon since there is close to no movement between the crampon and the boot.
Keep in mind that step-in devices require a heel and toe welt or groove. The PETZL Sarken LeverLock is an example of this type of traction device.
Bolt-on
Highly specialized, screw-on or bolt-on crampons are the least popular type. Only fruit boots use this kind of traction device.
These have two separate sections that you manually bolt-on, like Spark R&D 20/21 Ibex Crampons. One for the toes or ball of the foot and another for the heel.
Hybrid
Splitting the middle between strap-on and step-in, we have hybrid crampons. These only require a heel groove.
These traction devices are compatible with many technical hiking boots with heel grooves. And it is suitable for a wide range of scenarios. Nevertheless, it is no match to step-in crampons when it comes to dangerous climbs.
 CAMP Stalker Universal Crampons | PETZL Irvis Hybrid Leverlock |
Stainless Steel or Aluminum frame?
Most either have an aluminum or stainless-steel frame. Some brands also offer regular steel versions, which are cheaper than stainless steel. But you don’t get to enjoy the corrosion-resistance capabilities.
So, which is the best crampon material? It depends on what your needs are. Say, for example, that you’ll mostly do alpine climbs.
To clarify, an aluminum crampon would be the best bet. They are lighter than stainless steel. Thus, they won’t weigh you down as much. On the other hand, they wear out quicker.
In contrast, chromoly steel crampons are more suitable for general mountaineering. They won’t wear out as quickly as aluminum models.
BRS Professional Outdoor- Aluminum Crampon |  Grivel G14- Chromoly Steel |
Hiking Boots vs. Mountaineering Boots Compatibility
Not all hiking boots have the same construction. Thus, the stiffness changes depending on the materials and build. So, people started to sort them according to their flexibility.
Hiking boots come with a BX label. The X is a number from 0 to 3. The higher the number, the stiffer the boot.
Also, the same goes with crampons. They have a rating that ranges from C1 to C3, with C3 being the stiffest. So, which one goes with which?
- C1 Crampons are compatible with B1 to B3 boots
- C2 Crampons are compatible with B2 and B3
- C3 Crampons are only compatible with B3 hiking boots
 Mountaineering Boot Salewa Men’s MS Condor EVO GTX |  Hiking Boot Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX |
Crampons Point Layout
The spike count and layout change from one crampon to the next. Most models come with 10 to 12 points/spikes distributed around the heel and toe areas. However, not all have the same point configuration. Let’s see:
- Mono-Point: As the name suggests, these crampons have a single spike at the front. Mono-point crampons are more precise. Thus, they are ideal for delicate moves, like those you would encounter on technical routes.
The Cassin Blade Runner is, arguably, among the best mono-point crampons you can find.
- Dual-Point: These crampons come with two points at the front. Quite obvious, right? These offer more support and tend to be more durable. Also, dual-points are compatible with a wide range of ice routes, long climbs, low-angle routes, and when the ice is soft.
- Horizontal Points: These look more like fangs than actual spikes. The front points are not as aggressive and are shorter than the previous two. They are ideal for non-technical ice climbing.
Modular Vs Non-Modular Crampons
There are two types of crampon teeth: Modular and Non-Modular. The first kind is movable. You can replace them once worn or change their disposition according to the climb. People doing mixed climbing are the ones who will benefit from this purchase the most.
In contrast, non-modular teeth, like those found on the PETZL VASAK, are fixed in the same position. As a result, they get dull and shorter with use. Thus, you have to sharpen them often to keep them functional.
It doesn’t seem like a good deal, right? Well, the thing is that modular crampons are usually lighter. As a result, there are fewer moving parts. Thus, less likely to break.
| PETZL Lynx LL – Modular- has interchangeable front points |  PETZL VASAK- fixed, non-modular teeth |
How to properly care
Crampons will last for a lifetime, provided you take care of them. So, here you have some bits of advice:
- Inspect them after each use. Make sure that the flex bar and bindings are not worn. Sharpen or replace teeth as needed.
- Wipe down and dry off after each use
- Store in a dry place.
- Don’t use your crampons on rocks.
By following these simple tips, you will enhance the durability of your crampons.
Recommended read: What Are The Best Pocket Knife Brands?, Propane vs Butane: Decoding the Camping Stove Fuel Debate, Best Energy Bars for Hiking to Keep Hunger at Bay
How Much Do Crampons Cost?
You can get budget options around $60 bucks. These are more suitable for beginners or people who don’t do a lot of ice climbing.
But if you’re a mountaineer climber who gets a thrill from technical climbing or glacier hiking, you are better off with premium models. Remember that these traction devices keep you from falling while climbing or walking on ice.
So, better get something reliable. Overall, you don’t want to go cheap.
In short, you can find anything from 60 dollars, like the Hillsound Trail Crampons, to $350 bucks for a pair of Cassin Blade Runner crampons.
Crampons: Secure Your Path Through The Ice
Ice climbing, ski mountaineering, and glacier travel have a couple of things in common: High altitude and slippery surfaces. That’s why bringing a traction device such as a climbing crampon is critical. Overall, their sharp teeth will enhance your grip, allowing you to walk or climb as you please.
Keep in mind that not all crampons are compatible with any mountaineering boot. Remember that B3 goes with all three (C1, C2, and C3), B2 only with C2 and C3, and B1 and C1 belong together. You may need mountaineering boots for mountaineering adventures.
Now, it is time for you to hit the market and find the best pair of crampons for you!
Need More Backpacking Gear and Hiking Boots?
Here are some links to our most popular articles:
- Climbing Mountains- Guide to Start Mountaineering
- 15 Best Men’s Mountaineering Boots
- Beginner’s Guide to Buying Mountaineering Boots
- Best Women’s Mountaineering Boots
- Hiking Shoes & Trekking Poles
- Top 5 Pro Tips for Choosing the Proper Men’s Winter Hiking Pants
- Fall Hiking Outfits – What to Wear When Hiking in the Fall
Last update on 2024-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API