Crampons

What activity will you primarily use crampons for? 

• Mountaineering
• Ice climbing

Types of crampon bindings 

• Strap-on: Typically feature nylon webbing straps; compatible with most hiking boots and shoes
• Hybrid: Use a heel lever and toe strap; require boots with stiff soles and a heel groove or welt

• Step-in: A wire bail holds the toe, and a cable with tension lever attaches to the heel; requires specialized boots with rigid soles, specific toe and heel welt

Number of crampon points 

• 10-point crampons are great for ski touring and glacier travel
• 12- and 14-point crampons are better for technical ice climbing

Boot compatibility 

• Is the sole flexible, semi-flexible or rigid? 
• Does it have toe and/or heel welts? 
• Is your shoe a hiking boot or specialized mountaineering model?