Crampons

Crampons, from slip-on spikes to twelve-point frames

Crampons in this range cover two different tools that share a name. At one end sit elasticated spike grips that stretch over a walking boot or a trainer and bite into packed snow and icy pavement. At the other sit rigid twelve-point frames with front points, built for frozen ground and steep snow where a slip has consequences. Picking between them is a question of terrain first and boot second.

What separates walking spikes from mountaineering crampons?

Point length and how the frame is held on. Slip-on spikes use short studs or a chain harness spread under the sole, they weigh little, they go on in seconds and they work on frozen paths, farm tracks and low-level winter walks. A twelve-point crampon has long steel points arranged around the edge of the sole plus two projecting forwards, and it is attached with a heel lever or straps so that it cannot shift under load. Foot traction only solves part of the problem on ice, which is why a pair of hiking sticks is so often carried alongside: two extra points of contact change how a slip ends.

Which boots can take them?

Flex the boot by hand. If the sole twists and bends easily through the middle, it suits flexible spike grips only, because a stiff frame fitted to a soft sole works itself loose as the foot rolls through each step. A boot with a stiff shank underfoot, a defined heel and a solid toe holds a rigid crampon properly. Check the heel welt too: heel-lever bindings need a lip to clamp onto, while strap-on bindings are more forgiving and fit a wider spread of footwear.

What should be checked before a first outing?

• Fit: adjust the length on the boot at home, in the socks that will be worn, until the frame sits flat with no rocking.
• Points: hardened steel holds an edge on rock and ice; softer alloy studs suit snow and gritted paths.
• Binding: straps go on over anything, heel levers are faster and more secure but demand the right boot shape.
• Anti-balling plates: the rubber panel underneath stops wet snow packing into a platform under the sole.
• Carry bag: points shred pack fabric, so something to sheathe them in is part of the kit rather than an extra.

How is walking in them different?

The stride shortens and the foot is placed flat rather than rolled, so that as many points as possible engage at once. Feet are kept slightly wider apart, since a point catching the opposite gaiter or trouser leg is the common cause of a fall. On rolling ground where crampons come on and off repeatedly, nordic walking poles help hold a rhythm and take weight off the knees on the descents between icy sections.

How should crampons be looked after?

Rinse the salt and grit off with fresh water when the day ends, dry the frame fully and check the fastenings before storing, because steel left damp in a pack pocket rusts at the joints. Straps stiffen with age and webbing frays at the buckle, so both deserve a look each season. A file brings a blunted point back, taking metal from the sides rather than the tip.