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Choosing the right crampons
If you’re heading out in the winter, crampons can be an essential tool. They attach to your mountaineering boots and provide traction on ice and hard packed now. When choosing the right crampons for the job, your two key considerations are: is it going to be suitable for the terrain you’re in? And are they compatible with your boots?
Anatomy
The anatomy of a crampon
There are several main components to a crampon. Their composition and design affect their performance and how you should use them.
So, it's important to understand what each part does.
Binding system
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Base
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Crampon ratings explained
Crampon ratings
The crampon rating system primarily relates to how the crampons attach to your boots. Some crampon bases are available with a variety of binding systems for different ratings. For example, the Grivel G12 is available with either a New Matic (C2) or Cramp-o-Matic (C3) binding.
Crampon ratings
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Mountaineering boot ratings
For more information on mountaineering boots, read our full buying guide.
Crampon points
A crampon's points are the spiked teeth that bite into the snow and ice. They are situated at the contact areas beneath the forefoot and heel. Most crampon points are steel or stainless steel for strength and durability. Some lightweight styles use aluminium for less aggressive use, like ski touring.
Number of points
The number of points affects the variety of positions in which a crampon can find traction. Crampons for activities involving gentle gradients, like ski touring, will usually have 10 points. Those designed for more technical mountaineering will have 12 points. And those designed for technical ice climbing will often have 14. Almost all designs will have four points beneath the heel and the rest beneath the forefoot.
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Micro spikes
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How to use crampons
It is important to be familiar with your crampons and to practice fitting and using them at home or in-store. Fitting your crampons depends on their categorisation. Read our full guide for a breakdown.
“It’s a lot easier to adjust and set up your crampons at home and get some practice in so you’re prepared for when you are out in the cold and the wind on the hill.” – Simon
Caring for crampons
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Final thoughts
“If you’re unsure when to put crampons on in the winter. My best advice is to go with an instructor or a guide to get the best experience. As a rule of thumb, when you’re thinking the terrain is getting a bit technical and you’re needing more traction in the snow and ice, that’s going to be the time to get your crampons on. It’s important to note that if you do have your crampons on, you should be using your ice axe as well.” – Simon
If you’re unsure which crampons suit your boots or the terrain you’ll tackle, we offer expert expedition advice appointments. Our team can help you choose the right gear and ensure you’re fully prepared for icy conditions. In our Fort William and Aviemore stores, you are also able to hire a variety of crampons to test them out before you buy.
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