Mountaineering is an activity that requires not only courage and determination, but also equipment adapted to the rigors of mountain environments. Crampons are an essential part of this equipment. They ensure traction and stability on icy or snow-covered surfaces, which are essential for the climber's safety. This guide will provide you with technical advice on choosing the right crampons for your mountaineering needs, taking into account the diversity of models and the specific features of each. Find our best crampons for mountaineering and other mountaineering equipment.
The first step in choosing crampons is to understand the different types of binding available:
Strap crampons: These crampons are universal and can be fitted to almost any type of shoe. They are particularly useful if you use several pairs of shoes. However, they may be less stable on rigid mountaineering boots.
Semi-automatic crampons: These require shoes with at least one rear overhang. More stable than strap crampons, they are a good option for most alpine ascents.
Automatic crampons: Designed for mountaineering boots with front and rear overhangs, they offer the best stability and are ideal for ice climbing and technical terrain.
Crampons are mainly made of steel, aluminum or a combination of the two:
Steel: Durable and robust, ideal for technical mountaineering and mixed terrain. Steel resists wear and tear on rock and hard ice.
Aluminum: Lighter than steel, perfect for ski touring and snow mountaineering where little contact with rock is expected.
Hybrids: Combination of the two materials, often with steel front points for better ice penetration and an aluminum body to reduce weight.
The number and arrangement of spikes directly influence crampon performance on different types of terrain:
10 to 12 points: Suitable for glacier trekking and classic mountaineering, offering good weight distribution.
14 points and more: Best for ice climbing and technical terrain, extra points improve grip on more demanding surfaces.
Antibotts are plates that prevent snow from accumulating under crampons, which can create a slipping hazard. Most modern crampons are equipped with anti-slip plates, but it's important to check their quality and effectiveness.
A good crampon should fit perfectly on your shoe, without pressure points or excessive movement. Adjustability is crucial, especially if you wear different shoes for different activities.
Durability depends largely on the material and quality of manufacture. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, drying and sharpening of spikes, is necessary to maintain spike performance and safety.
Choosing the right crampons for mountaineering is essential to guarantee your safety and performance in the mountains. It's important to consider the type of binding, the material, the number of spikes, as well as other features such as anti-boot and adjustability. By taking the time to carefully select your crampons, you can ensure a safe and rewarding mountain experience.
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