It's essential that crampons are fitted only to stiffened mountaineering boots (referred to as B1, B2, or B3 following a ratings system devised by the mountaineer Brian Hall). Fitting a stiff crampon on to a flexible boot could lead to the crampon falling off mid-climb, with potentially disastrous consequences.

For ice climbing, an ideal set-up would be a pair of B3 rated mountain boots with C3 technical crampons. The more aggressive front points give extra bite. These styles can also often be adapted to a mono-point set up for even better penetration and precision on hard ice. Attachment is usually by a metal front bar and rear heel lever which will only work on a B3 boot.

When mountaineering – perhaps doing the easier Scottish winter gullies or alpine routes – a C2 crampon will be technical enough for the climbing while still being relatively low-profile. The attachment system will be a rear heel lever and front toe cage, strapped together on a B2 or B3 boot.

For snowy walking, such as winter Munro bagging or on the easiest routes on Mont Blanc, a C1 crampon will be ideal. These styles strap on and flex with B1 rated boots, though they can also be fitted to stiffer B2 or B3 boots. They have low-profile points which give excellent grip on snow but are also easy to walk in.

Crampons can last a long time if you look after them well. Make sure to check out our crampon accessories for protective bags and spare bars to keep your crampons in top condition for as long as possible.