Crampons are attachments that attach to footwear to give traction and movement when negotiating ice-covered rocks, snowfields, glaciers, snow slopes, and/or icefields, or when ice climbing.
Check out our top selections for the best crampons below, as well as our buyer’s guide to help you discover a pair that’s right for you.
1. Petzl VASAK Crampons (C2)
The Petzl VASAK are excellent all-around classic mountaineering crampons that have been created with a variety of applications in mind. These are an excellent choice for traveling through glaciers or snow couloirs!
These crampons are designed for more advanced climbers; they are lightweight thanks to a thinner frame, easy to strap on and offer good grip and purchase.
The Petzl VASAK are excellent all-around classic mountaineering crampons that have been created with a variety of applications in mind. These are an excellent choice for traveling through glaciers or snow couloirs!
These crampons are designed for more advanced climbers; they are lightweight thanks to a thinner frame, easy to strap on and offer good grip and purchase. They have a revolutionary anti-snow technology that prevents harmful snow buildup and operates effectively even in knee-deep snow. When you use these crampons, you will feel stable and comfortable on your climbing journey.
C2 crampons are appropriate for technical winter scrambles, winter climbing, and alpinism. They are ideal for use with a B2 or B3 mountaineering boot.
Features:
- 12-point, tempered steel crampons
- The thinner frame reduces weight
- Horizontal front points
- Available in Flexlock or Leverlock Universal versions
2. Petzl Dart Crampons (C3)
Petzl Dart crampons are mono-point crampons that are commonly used in ice climbing and dry tooling. These dual-point crampons weigh only 745 grams and have a total of 11 points. It has a step-in function to provide safe footing. This is a lightweight, precise, and practical crampon solution that can be set up for single or dual points and comes in two lengths. These C3 crampons are ideal for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. They’ll go well with B3 mountaineering boots.
Features:
- Lightweight (745 grams)
- It is possible to change the length and direction of the front points.
- Anti-snow system
3. Camp Stalker Universal (C1)
The Camp Stalker Universal crampons are appropriate for hiking, trekking, mountaineering, skiing, and backpacking.
The 12 strong points offer outstanding traction and are made of sturdy Chromoly steel that will endure forever. These handcrafted crampons are designed to fit most hiking and climbing boots. They have thermoplastic heel and toe harnesses that wrap around your boot and are held in place by strong nylon straps. Furthermore, the adaptable linking bars with pre-shaped front platforms adjust as you walk! While these crampons are slightly heavier than others, they are also quite durable. They work well on rock beds and steep snow slopes.
Features:
- Carry case included
- Size adjustment requires no tools
- Affordable
Available at: https://www.alexfactory.it/en/camp-stalker-universal-crampon?SubmitCurrency=1&id_currency=24
4. Petzl Lynx (C2)
For vertical ice climbs, Petzl Lynx crampons are the best option. The Lynx is without a doubt one of the most popular ice climbing crampons on the market!
The front bindings are interchangeable, which means they may be used as step-in or a hybrid. Both models make use of the toe clip and strap, making this an exceptionally adaptable crampon that may be worn on mountaineering or hiking boots. It is adaptable with a single screw. It may be converted into a long mono-point for dry tooling, a long dual-point for gullies, an asymmetrical dual-point for mixed climbing, or a short dual-point for ice climbing. These crampons can be modified to be C2 or C3 and are suitable for ice and mixed climbing. They will look great with B1, B2, or B3 footwear.
Features:
- Comes with a carrying case
- Adaptable
- Versatile (can be used with almost any mountaineering or hiking boot)
- Includes a tote bag for storage
Available at: https://www.a.ubuy.com.kw/en/search/index/view/product/B01BHXPWHE?inf=769c3bce651ce5feaa01ce3b75986420&utm_source=uglow
5. Grivel G12 Cramp-O-Matic Crampon (C3)
Our favorite pick for general mountaineering trips is the Grivel G12 Cramp-O-Matic Crampon.
It is an older crampon, but it has withstood the test of time and has proven to be effective! It’s the ideal all-arounder, and it’s plastic-coated to melt snow. This, paired with the anti-balling plates, ensures that snow will be a non-issue.
It has a semi-rigid shape that allows for compatibility with a wide range of boots and is made of lightweight Chromoly steel to keep you moving freely. It’s also handing adjustable and folds up simply! This is a high-quality, long-lasting crampon with 2+2 front points, 3D relief stamped for increased strength, and a horizontal frame to reduce flex. The Grivel G12 Cramp-O-Matic crampon is a C3 crampon that is ideal for ice climbing and demanding mountaineering. They will only work with B3 boots.
Features:
- Very durable
- Hand adjustable and easy to pack away
- Anti-balling plates coated with plastic
Crampons are absolutely required if you intend to climb glaciers or treacherous terrain. What type of crampons you buy should ultimately be determined by the activity for which you intend to use them, and there are various factors to consider for each activity.
