Do you enjoy hiking in the snow and ice? Are you looking for a way to increase your traction when hiking or climbing? Crampons are metal spikes that you can attach over your shoes to increase your traction when walking on icy surfaces.
If you're wondering which crampons you should buy, you've come to the right place. In the article below, we'll review five of the best products on the market to help you make your decision. Read through our reviews to pick the right product to meet your needs.
Top 5: Crampons Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
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The Petzl Leopard Fl Crampons are designed to be using with hiking or approach shoes that do not have heel or toe welts. They can be adjusted to achieve the right fit without using any tools. This option is designed to be used for snow approaches.
Each crampon has 10 points to help you achieve traction on snowy and icy terrain. They only weigh 360 grams, so you'll be able to wear them comfortably without having a negative impact on your ability to move easily. The lightweight design will also make it easy for you to carry them in your backpack when they are not needed.
A storage/packing bag is also included with your purchase. The crampons include a CORD-TEC linking system. This system is designed to make them more compact when stored, so they'll take up less space in your bag.
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The GRIVE G12 Cramp-O-Matic Crampons are a one-size-fits-all, so you won't need to worry about finding the right size for your boot. The adjustable design will slide to accommodate boots of all sizes.
You'll be able to customize the fit for your specific shoes without needing any tools. This option is designed to be used with boots that have toe and heel welts.
They have anti-balling plats that are designed to prevent snow or ice from sticking to their bottoms. There are also horizontal front points to help you when walking in slush or on other surfaces that are not completely frozen. This product has 12 points, so they would be a good option technical mountaineering as well as hiking over the snow.
When you aren't wearing these crampons, they can fold up to make them more compact. This will help you fit them easily in your backpack and will make them easy to store at home.
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The Cimkiz Ice Cleats each have 19 stainless-steel spikes to help you maintain traction when you're out on ice or snow. The base of the cleats also has a firm chain system to help add to your traction on various surfaces.
You can stretch this clean over your shoe. Their stretchy material is made from a thermoplastic elastomer which is 5 millimeters thicker than traditional rubber. This will help ensure the cleats stay on and prevent the material from getting damaged or torn.
The flexible design will allow this product to be used with different types of shoes and boots. A few examples of the types of shoes you can use them with include hiking shoes, hiking boots, and mountaineering boots.
This product is available in three different sizes to accommodate shoes of various sizes. This will allow men, women, and adolescents to use this product to help them when walking in wintery conditions.
These cleats are designed to be very portable and lightweight. When you aren't using them, you can put them in the included carrying bag. This bag should fit easily in your backpack.
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If you are looking for a 10-point crampon, consider the Black Diamond Compact Strap Crampon. This product is designed to be used when traveling over ice or snow, making them a great option for skiers, hikers, and mountaineer.
They are made from a durable stainless-steel material that will not rust. This material also prevents toxic materials from wearing off as you hike or climb in this product.
You'll find it easy to put this product of your boots or shoes. It features a fast-adjust attachment system. These crampons also include dual-density ABS plates.
They are designed to be compatible with most types of boots and shoes. This option also offers a lower-profile fit, making them a good product to use with various boot designs.
Each pair weighs one pound, 13 ounces, so they won't add too much weight to your feet or your bag when you aren't wearing them. If your feet are between size 36 and 46 (European size), you'll be able to use this product as is. If you have larger feet, you'll need to purchase the long center bar to use with them.
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Our final option to consider is the Vdealen Crampons for Hiking Boots. This option has 19 teeth to help you stay secure in icy and snowy conditions. This product uses a tension fit system to help you attach them to your shoes. Because of this design, you'll be able to use this option with just about any shoes or boots.
They can be used by both men or women on a variety of shoe sizes. You can purchase them in three sizes: medium (36-40), large (41-44), and extra-large (44-50).
You'll be impressed with the quality of this product. They are made using a strong, elastic-plastic material, manganese steel jaws, a strong steel change, and a silicone rubber band. These materials work together to keep the crampons securely on your shoes and make sure you are able to keep your traction and avoid slipping.
When you purchase this product, you will also receive a carrying bag that you can use to store the crampons or hold them while you're not wearing them. In addition to helping you maintain your traction under icy or snowy conditions, this option can also be used when you are hiking in muddy conditions.
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Buying Guide
If you'll be hiking or climbing on snow or ice, having a good pair of crampons is very important. They'll help provide the traction you need to help you through slick spots and make sure you don't slip and get injured. There are a few different factors you will want to consider before purchasing a pair of crampons.
The type of activity you plan on doing, will impact the type of crampons you need. Crampons are often recommended for snow walking, mountaineering, technical mountaineering, and ice or waterfall climbing.
If you'll be walking in the snow, you can choose crampons made from either aluminum or steel. 8 or 10 points should be sufficient for this type of activity.
For mountaineering, technical mountaineering, or waterfall/ice climbing, you will want to choose a more durable crampon made from steel. At least 10 points are recommended for mountaineering, 12 for technical mountaineering, and 14 for ice or waterfall climbing.
Another factor to consider before purchasing a pair of crampons is how easily it will be to put them over your boots and adjust them. Some may require special tools, so be sure to pick an option that you feel like you'll be able to adjust when out in the field.
Also, consider the weight of each item. Aluminum crampons are the lightest option, but you won't want to use them if you'll be climbing on rocks, since they will get worn down much more quickly.
Finally, you will want to ensure that the product you select will work with the boot type you have. Read the description for each product to verify if it will be compatible with your boots. It is possible that you'll need to purchase new boots to work with some types of crampons.
Top Pick
While we think all five of the products we reviewed above would be an excellent choice, the Petzl Leopard Fl Crampons are our top pick. This product is designed to be used for snow approaches.
They are made from a lightweight aluminum material, so you'll be able to move freely when wearing them. They lightweight design will also make it easy to carry this product in your backpack when you aren't wearing them. They only weight 360 grams.
You will also receive a bag for packing and storage with your purchase. These crampons feature a CORD-TEC linking system that will help make them more compact, so they'll take up less room in your bag.
You'll also find that this option is easy to put on and adjust over your boots. You won't need to use any tools to ensure the right fit. They can be used on hiking or approach shoes without a heel or toe welt.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Use Crampons?
Crampons are designed to provide you more traction when you are hiking or climbing icy surfaces. You will likely want to put your crampons on if you'll be walking or climbing over icy rocks or angled surfaces. If you feel like you need more traction, it is a good idea to attach your crampons to your shoes.
Do You Need Special Boots for Crampons?
Yes, you will likely need to purchase a special boot to use crampons. They need to be attached to a very stiff-shanked boot to ensure a proper connection. You will not be able to attach most crampons to a pair of hiking boots since they are not stiff enough.
How Many Points Do Crampons Have?
Most crampons have 10 points. This style is designed for walking on a gentler slope. If you'll be doing more technical mountaineering, you will likely want to look for an option with 12 points. For ice climbing, crampons will have 14 points.
Final Verdict
The Petzl Leopard Fl Crampons will be the perfect addition the next time you're out hiking in snow. Order them today so you'll be prepared and ready to go!
