Top 10 Best Crampons + Everything You Need to Know

Crampons are essential tools for mountaineers, ice climbers, and anyone venturing onto snow and ice.

These traction devices attach to the bottom of boots and provide grip on slippery surfaces, allowing you to climb steep ice, traverse glaciers, or tackle icy trails. Choosing the right crampons for your needs and boots can be challenging, as there are many different types, styles, and features to consider.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to choosing the best crampons for your next adventure. We'll cover everything from understanding crampon ratings to choosing the right brand, and answer common questions about crampons.

Whether you're a seasoned mountaineer or a novice climber, this guide will help you make an informed decision on the best crampons to suit your needs.

What is a Crampon?

Crampons are metal frames with sharp points that attach to the bottom of specialized mountaineering boots. They are designed to provide traction on slippery surfaces like ice and snow. They come in different types and ratings to suit different activities and terrains, with the most common types being C1, C2, and C3. The attachment system can be strap-on, hybrid, or automatic.

Choosing the right type of crampon for your activity and terrain is essential for your safety and success.

Understanding Crampon Ratings

Crampon ratings refer to the compatibility of the crampon with the boot's sole stiffness and shape. There are different types of crampon ratings, and the most common ones are C1, C2, B1, B2, and B3.

C1 crampons have flexible frames and are suitable for soft boots, such as hiking or approach shoes. They are ideal for light mountaineering and hiking on snow and ice.

C2 crampons have semi-rigid frames and are compatible with stiff-soled mountaineering boots. They are versatile and can be used for both snow and ice climbing.

B1 crampons are suitable for semi-rigid boots, such as trekking boots. They have a less aggressive design and are best for glacier travel and moderate mountaineering.

B2 crampons have a rigid design and are compatible with alpine boots with heel welts. They are ideal for technical mountaineering and ice climbing.

B3 crampons are the most rigid type and are compatible with stiff, high-altitude mountaineering boots. They are suitable for technical ice and mixed climbing.

When choosing the appropriate crampon rating for your specific activity and boot, consider the terrain you'll be climbing, the level of technical difficulty, and the boots you'll be using. Choosing the wrong crampon rating can result in a lack of support, instability, or reduced performance. It's crucial to match the crampon rating with the appropriate boots to ensure safety and maximum efficiency.

9 of The Best Crampons

To help you narrow down your choices, we've compiled a list of 10 of the best crampons that stand out for their unique features and benefits.

From the versatile Petzl Sarken crampons to the technical Grivel G20 crampons, these products offer a range of options for different terrains and activities.

Read on to learn more about each crampon and find the best one for your needs.

1. Petzl Sarken Crampons

The Petzl Sarken crampons are a versatile and durable option for mixed climbing and mountaineering. They feature 12 points, an interchangeable front point system, and a flexible linking bar for improved natural walking motion.

2. Black Diamond Serac Crampons

The Black Diamond Serac crampons are a classic mountaineering crampon with a stainless steel construction for long-lasting durability. They feature 12 points, a horizontal front point for improved stability, and a lightweight design.

3. Grivel G14 Crampons

The Grivel G14 crampons are a technical mountaineering crampon designed for steep ice and mixed terrain. They feature a 14-point design, interchangeable front points, and a flexible linking bar for natural walking motion.

4. CAMP C12 Crampons

The CAMP C12 crampons are a lightweight and versatile option for snow and ice climbing. They feature 12 points, a horizontal front point for improved stability, and an anti-balling system to prevent snow build-up.

5. Petzl Lynx Crampons

The Petzl Lynx crampons are a modular and adaptable crampon designed for ice and mixed climbing. They feature interchangeable front points, a flexible linking bar, and a toe bail for improved security.

6. Grivel G20 Crampons

The Grivel G20 crampons are a technical crampon designed for steep ice and mixed terrain. They feature a 20-point design, interchangeable front points, and a lightweight construction for improved performance.

7. CAMP XLC 490 Crampons

The CAMP XLC 490 crampons are a lightweight and versatile option for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. They feature 12 points, a flexible linking bar, and an anti-balling system for improved performance.

8. Black Diamond Cyborg Crampons

The Black Diamond Cyborg crampons are a technical mountaineering crampon designed for steep ice and mixed terrain. They feature a 12-point design, a lightweight stainless steel construction, and an adjustable front point.

9. Salewa Alpinist Pro Crampons

The Salewa Alpinist Pro crampons are a versatile and durable option for mountaineering and snow climbing. They feature 12 points, an interchangeable front point system, and a flexible linking bar for improved natural walking motion.

In summary, these 10 crampons are among the best options available for a variety of mountaineering, ice climbing, and snow climbing activities. Each crampon has unique features and benefits that make them suited for different terrains and activities.

Microspikes vs. Crampons

Microspikes and crampons are both traction devices used for climbing on icy or snowy terrain. While they serve the same purpose, they differ in their design, level of aggression, and suitability for different types of terrain.

Microspikes are lightweight and flexible traction devices that can be easily attached to hiking or trail running shoes. They feature small spikes that provide traction on icy trails, sidewalks, or roads. They are designed to be used on non-technical terrain, such as winter hiking, trail running, or walking on icy city streets. Microspikes are not aggressive enough for technical mountaineering or ice climbing and are not compatible with mountaineering boots.

Crampons, on the other hand, are specialized traction devices designed for more technical and aggressive terrain. They have sharper, more substantial spikes and come in different styles for various activities, from light mountaineering to technical ice climbing. Crampons require specialized boots with heel and toe welts and are not compatible with regular hiking shoes. They provide better grip on steeper, more technical terrain and are essential for technical ice climbing, mixed climbing, and steep mountaineering.

The pros and cons of Microspikes and crampons can be summarized as follows:

Microspikes:

Lightweight and flexible

Easy to attach to hiking or trail running shoes

Suitable for non-technical terrain

Ideal for winter hiking, trail running, or walking on icy city streets

Not aggressive enough for technical mountaineering or ice climbing

Not compatible with mountaineering boots

Crampons:

Specialized and aggressive traction devices

Come in different styles for various activities

Require specialized boots with heel and toe welts

Provide better grip on steeper, more technical terrain

Essential for technical ice climbing, mixed climbing, and steep mountaineering

Not suitable for non-technical terrain

Can be heavy and bulky

When deciding between Microspikes and crampons, consider the terrain you'll be climbing and the level of technical difficulty. If you're planning to hike on non-technical terrain or walk on icy city streets, Microspikes are an excellent choice.

If you're planning to climb steeper, more technical terrain, or engage in technical ice climbing, crampons are essential. Additionally, consider the boots you'll be using.

Microspikes are compatible with regular hiking shoes, while crampons require specialized mountaineering boots. It's important to match the appropriate traction device with the appropriate boots to ensure safety and maximum efficiency.

Types of Crampons (Strap-on, Hybrid, Automatic)

Crampons come in different types and styles, each designed for different activities and terrain. The most common types of crampons are strap-on, hybrid, and automatic crampons.

Strap-on Crampons

Strap-on crampons are the most basic type of crampon and are ideal for light mountaineering and hiking on snow and ice. They feature a simple design with straps that wrap around the boot and a flexible frame that allows for easy walking. Strap-on crampons are easy to use, lightweight, and affordable, making them an excellent choice for beginners or non-technical activities.

Hybrid Crampons

Hybrid crampons are a combination of strap-on and automatic crampons. They have a semi-rigid frame that provides better support and grip on steeper terrain, making them ideal for technical mountaineering and mixed climbing. Hybrid crampons have a more complex design than strap-on crampons and are usually more expensive. They are compatible with both strap-on and automatic boots, providing versatility and convenience.

Automatic Crampons

Automatic crampons feature a rigid frame and an automatic binding system that attaches directly to the boot's heel and toe welts. They provide excellent support and grip on technical terrain, making them essential for technical ice climbing and steep mountaineering.

Automatic crampons are the most advanced type of crampon and are usually the most expensive. They require specialized mountaineering boots with heel and toe welts, making them less versatile than strap-on or hybrid crampons.

Which Should You Choose?

When choosing the appropriate type of crampon for your activity, consider the terrain you'll be climbing, the level of technical difficulty, and your budget.

Strap-on crampons are best suited for light mountaineering and hiking on snow and ice, while hybrid crampons are ideal for technical mountaineering and mixed climbing.

Automatic crampons are essential for technical ice climbing and steep mountaineering but are the most expensive and require specialized boots.

Ultimately, the best type of crampon for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Choosing the Best Crampon Brand

When it comes to choosing the best crampons, it's essential to consider the brand's reputation, quality, and features. There are several top crampon brands on the market, each with its unique design, features, and benefits. Here's an overview of some of the most popular brands:

Petzl

Petzl is a well-known brand in the climbing and mountaineering industry, and they offer a range of high-quality crampons for different activities. Their crampons feature a modular design that allows for easy customization and versatility. Petzl crampons are durable, lightweight, and feature anti-balling plates that prevent snow buildup. They are suitable for technical mountaineering, ice climbing, and mixed climbing.

Black Diamond

Black Diamond is another reputable brand in the climbing and mountaineering industry, and they offer a wide range of crampons for different activities. Their crampons feature a modular design that allows for easy adjustment and compatibility with different boots. Black Diamond crampons are durable, lightweight, and have an anti-balling system that prevents snow buildup. They are suitable for technical mountaineering, ice climbing, and mixed climbing.

Grivel

Grivel is a popular brand in the mountaineering and ice climbing community, and they offer a range of high-quality crampons for different activities. Their crampons feature a robust, durable design and a variety of specialized features for technical ice climbing and mountaineering. Grivel crampons have an anti-balling system and are compatible with a wide range of mountaineering boots.

CAMP

CAMP is a lesser-known brand in the climbing and mountaineering industry, but they offer a range of high-quality crampons for different activities. Their crampons feature a lightweight, minimalist design and are suitable for light mountaineering and snow climbing. CAMP crampons have an anti-balling system and are compatible with a wide range of mountaineering boots.

Black Crows

Black Crows is a relatively new brand in the climbing and mountaineering industry, but they offer a range of high-quality crampons for different activities. Their crampons feature a modular design that allows for easy customization and versatility. Black Crows crampons are durable, lightweight, and feature an anti-balling plate that prevents snow buildup. They are suitable for technical mountaineering, ice climbing, and mixed climbing.

Which Crampon Brand Is Best For You?

When choosing the best brand of crampons for your activity, consider the terrain you'll be climbing, the level of technical difficulty, and your budget. Petzl and Black Diamond are popular and well-known brands that offer a wide range of crampons for different activities, while Grivel and Black Crows are best suited for technical ice climbing and mountaineering. CAMP is a good choice for light mountaineering and snow climbing.

FAQ's

What type of boots can be used with crampons?

Crampons require specialized mountaineering boots with heel and toe welts. These welts are necessary to attach the crampons securely to the boots. Regular hiking shoes or boots are not compatible with crampons.

Are crampons allowed on planes?

Crampons are allowed on planes, but they must be packed in your checked luggage. TSA regulations prohibit crampons and other sharp objects in carry-on luggage.

How do I sharpen my crampons?

Sharpening crampons is essential for maintaining their performance and safety. To sharpen your crampons, use a file or sharpening stone to sharpen each point individually. Be sure to remove any rust or corrosion before sharpening, and sharpen only the front points, not the secondary points.

Can I walk on pavement with Microspikes?

Microspikes are designed for use on ice and snow and are not recommended for use on pavement or other hard surfaces. Walking on pavement with Microspikes can cause the spikes to wear down quickly and can also damage the pavement.

Do I need Microspikes if I have crampons?

Microspikes and crampons serve different purposes and are designed for different types of terrain. If you'll be hiking on non-technical terrain or walking on icy city streets, Microspikes are an excellent choice. If you'll be climbing steeper, more technical terrain, or engaging in technical ice climbing, crampons are essential.

What is the best crampon?

The best crampon for you will depend on your specific activity, terrain, and preferences. Some of the most popular and reputable crampon brands include Petzl, Black Diamond, Grivel, and CAMP.

What is the difference between C1 and C2 crampons?

C1 and C2 are different crampon ratings that indicate the level of technical difficulty and terrain. C1 crampons are suitable for walking and light mountaineering on snow and ice, while C2 crampons are designed for steeper and more technical terrain.

How do I choose an ice crampon?

When choosing an ice crampon, consider the level of technical difficulty, the type of terrain you'll be climbing, and the compatibility with your boots. Automatic crampons are suitable for technical ice climbing, while hybrid and strap-on crampons are ideal for less technical terrain.

What kind of shoes do you need for crampons?

Can you put crampons on sneakers?

No, crampons cannot be used with sneakers or any non-mountaineering footwear. Crampons require specialized mountaineering boots with heel and toe welts.

Do I need microspikes if I have crampons?

When should you use crampons?

Crampons should be used when walking or climbing on snow or ice-covered terrain. They provide traction and stability on slippery surfaces and prevent slips and falls.

Why are they called crampons?

The word "crampon" comes from the French word "crampe," which means a hook or a barb. Crampons feature sharp metal spikes that hook onto the snow or ice for better traction.

Can I use hiking boots with crampons?

No, hiking boots are not compatible with crampons. Crampons require specialized mountaineering boots with heel and toe welts.

Are crampons good for hiking?

Crampons are excellent for hiking on snow or ice-covered terrain. They provide traction and stability on slippery surfaces and prevent slips and falls.

Do hiking boots work on ice?

Regular hiking boots are not suitable for walking on ice. They lack the specialized features and construction needed for traction and stability on slippery surfaces.

What are the lightest crampons?

CAMP and Petzl both offer lightweight crampons that are suitable for light mountaineering and snow climbing.

Can you ice climb with semi-automatic crampons?

Semi-automatic crampons are suitable for technical ice climbing and steep mountaineering. They feature a hybrid design that combines the ease of use of strap-on crampons with the security of automatic crampons.

What is the difference between automatic and semi-automatic crampons?

Automatic crampons feature an automatic binding system that attaches directly to the boot's heel and toe welts, providing maximum security and stability on technical terrain. Semi-automatic crampons feature a hybrid design that combines the ease of use of strap-on crampons with the security of automatic crampons.

Can you put crampons on any hiking boots?

No, crampons require specialized mountaineering boots with heel and toe welts. Regular hiking boots or shoes are not compatible with crampons.

What is a good brand for crampons?

Some of the most popular and reputable crampon brands include Petzl, Black Diamond, Grivel, CAMP, and Black Crows.

Are crampons good for walking on ice?

Yes, crampons provide excellent traction and stability on ice-covered terrain and prevent slips and falls.

What is the difference between Microspikes and crampons?

Microspikes are lightweight traction devices designed for non-technical terrain, such as walking on icy city streets or light hiking. Crampons are more robust and are designed for technical mountaineering, ice climbing, and mixed climbing.

How much do crampons weigh?

Crampon weight varies depending on the brand, type, and features. On average, crampons weigh between 1-2 pounds.

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