Curious about the best crampons for mountaineering? We’ve researched and tested various crampons to identify the ones that provide the best traction, durability, and versatility.
Crampons are traction devices that attach to the bottom of your boots, providing grip on ice and snow for more rugged conditions. If you’re just going on a hike, microspikes may be a better option.
There are different types of crampons, each designed for specific activities like glacier travel, ice climbing, and mixed climbing.
In my experience, finding the best crampons for your specific needs is crucial. The type of crampons you choose will depend on the terrain you’ll be climbing, the boots you’ll be wearing, and your level of experience.
Some critical factors to consider when purchasing crampons are the type of bindings, the number of points, and the material.
Lets get to it!
What are the Best Crampons for Mountaineering?
If you’re planning to conquer the snowy peaks, you need the right gear. Crampons are an essential tool for mountaineers, providing grip and stability on icy terrain. With so many options available, it can be tough to know which ones to choose.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best crampons for mountaineering. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, you’ll find a pair that meets your needs.
Black Diamond Sabretooth Pro Crampons
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable crampon for mountaineering, the Black Diamond Sabretooth Pro Crampons might be a good fit for you.
Pros
- The redesigned stainless steel construction is durable, resists snowballing, and won’t rust.
- The versatile horizontal frontpoints and technical secondary points provide excellent traction on a variety of terrain.
- The low-profile micro-adjust heel bail offers a precision fit, ensuring that the crampons stay securely attached to your boots.
Cons
- The clip version of the crampons features a flexible toe strap for boots without a toe welt, but if you plan to use the crampons on a ski boot, you’ll need to order wide toe bails separately.
- The pro version of the crampons accommodates boots with a toe welt, so if your boots don’t have this feature, you’ll need to go with the clip version.
- The price point of these crampons may be a bit steep for some budget-conscious buyers.
These crampons are a great choice for mountaineers who need a reliable and versatile piece of gear that can handle a variety of terrain. The redesigned stainless steel construction is a major improvement over earlier versions of the Sabretooth crampons, and the horizontal frontpoints and technical secondary points provide excellent traction on everything from ice to rock. The low-profile micro-adjust heel bail ensures a precise fit, so you won’t have to worry about the crampons slipping off your boots.
One potential downside to these crampons is that the clip version features a flexible toe strap for boots without a toe welt, which may not be ideal for some users. Additionally, the pro version of the crampons accommodates boots with a toe welt, so if your boots don’t have this feature, you’ll need to go with the clip version.
Black Diamond Neve Pro Crampon, BDL Orange
If you’re looking for a lightweight crampon that can handle moderate snow climbing, the Black Diamond Neve Pro Crampon might be just what you need.
Pros
- Lightweight, aluminum design with spring steel center bar
- Two attachment configurations for technical and non-technical footwear
- Aggressive yet flexible construction for confident movement on steep, snowy terrain
Cons
- May not be suitable for more advanced mountaineering
- Aluminum bails in the rear may not be as durable as steel
- May not fit all types of boots securely
The Black Diamond Neve Pro Crampon is a great choice for those who need a lightweight crampon for moderate snow climbing. Its aluminum design with spring steel center bar makes it easy to carry, while the two attachment configurations accommodate both technical and non-technical footwear. The aggressive yet flexible construction also ensures confident movement on steep, snowy terrain.
However, if you’re an advanced mountaineer, the Neve Pro Crampon may not be suitable for more technical routes.
The aluminum bails in the rear may also not be as durable as steel, which could be a concern for some users. Additionally, the crampon may not fit all types of boots securely, which could be an issue for those with larger or wider feet.
Grivel G10 Crampon Classic One Size
If you’re looking for a lightweight, versatile, and affordable crampon, the Grivel G10 Crampon Classic One Size is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The New-Classic attachment system is easy to use and fits a wide range of boots.
- The Active anti-balling system clears snow with every step, providing maximum traction on slippery terrain.
- The G10 is fully adjustable and suitable for children and people with smaller feet.
Cons
- Some users with larger boot sizes may need to purchase a longer flex bar separately.
- The G10 has only two front points and minimal points underneath, which may not be suitable for more technical mountaineering.
- The Classic color may not be everyone’s preferred aesthetic.
The Grivel G10 Crampon Classic One Size is a lightweight and durable crampon that is suitable for a variety of mountaineering activities. The New-Classic attachment system is simple to use and fits a wide range of boots, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experts alike.
The Active anti-balling system clears snow with every step, providing maximum traction on slippery terrain. The G10 is fully adjustable thanks to its flex bar, but some users with larger boot sizes may need to purchase a longer flex bar separately.
The G10 has only two front points and minimal points underneath, which may not be suitable for more technical mountaineering. However, for most mountaineering activities, the G10 is an excellent choice that won’t break the bank.
Cassin Skimo Pure Nanotech Crampon
If you’re looking for the lightest steel crampons in the world, then the Cassin Skimo Pure Nanotech Crampon is the perfect choice for you. Its innovative design and use of Sandvik Nanoflex stainless steel make it an ideal option for ski mountaineering and competitive ski mountaineering racing.
Pros
- The use of proprietary Sandvik Nanoflex stainless steel provides a solid grip on hard snow and ice.
- The micro-adjustable linking bar with large and small range settings delivers a precise fit for all boot lengths.
- The linking bar can be replaced with the optional Dyneema linking strap (sold separately) to reduce weight and allow the crampons to be folded onto themselves for tighter packability.
Cons
- Semi-auto toe bails are available separately for boots without toe welts.
- While the proprietary T-Stop toe system provides an automatic binding, it may take some time to get used to.
- The price point may be a bit steep for some consumers.
The Cassin Skimo Pure Nanotech Crampon is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality, lightweight crampon that can handle a variety of different terrain and conditions. Its use of Sandvik Nanoflex stainless steel ensures that you’ll have a solid grip on hard snow and ice, while the micro-adjustable linking bar provides a precise fit for all boot lengths. Additionally, the option to replace the linking bar with the optional Dyneema linking strap means that you can reduce weight and pack the crampons more tightly when you’re on the go.
While the semi-auto toe bails are available separately for boots without toe welts, the proprietary T-Stop toe system may take some time to get used to. However, once you do, you’ll find that it provides an automatic binding that is both secure and reliable.
The only downside to the Cassin Skimo Pure Nanotech Crampon is its price point, which may be a bit steep for some consumers.
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampon
If you’re looking for a reliable crampon for winter hiking and backpacking, the Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampon is a great choice.
Pros
- The 10 spikes per foot provide increased stability on and off mountain trails.
- The Quick-Fit-Binding system with independent front and rear bindings allows for a customizable fit and increases overall stability.
- The patented dual-layer stainless steel Leafspring Flex Bar is specifically designed for use with flexible footwear, allowing users to move fast and light over a wide range of non-technical terrain.
Cons
- The crampons are best for hiking shoes and boots, so they may not work as well with other types of footwear.
- The X-Small size may not fit all users.
- The price point is higher than some other crampons on the market.
The Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampon is a reliable choice for winter hiking and backpacking. The 10 spikes per foot provide increased stability on and off mountain trails, while the Quick-Fit-Binding system with independent front and rear bindings allows for a customizable fit and increases overall stability. The patented dual-layer stainless steel Leafspring Flex Bar is specifically designed for use with flexible footwear, allowing users to move fast and light over a wide range of non-technical terrain.
One potential downside of the crampons is that they are best for hiking shoes and boots, so they may not work as well with other types of footwear. Additionally, the X-Small size may not fit all users. Finally, the price point is higher than some other crampons on the market.
TIMINGILA 26 Spikes Crampons
If you’re looking for crampons that can handle various terrains, the TIMINGILA 26 Spikes Crampons are a great option.
Pros
- The 26 multi-directional spikes provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
- The stretchy and flexible TPE material makes them easy to put on and take off.
- The crampons are universal and can fit a range of shoe sizes.
Cons
- The spikes can be a bit uncomfortable when walking on flat surfaces.
- The rubber straps may not fit securely on all shoe types.
- The crampons may not be suitable for very icy conditions.
These crampons are perfect for hiking, mountaineering, and other outdoor activities. The 26 spikes provide excellent traction on various terrains, while the TPE material makes them easy to put on and take off.
However, the spikes can be a bit uncomfortable when walking on flat surfaces, and the rubber straps may not fit securely on all shoe types. Additionally, these crampons may not be suitable for very icy conditions.
Petzl VASAK Crampons
If you’re looking for a reliable pair of crampons for mountaineering, the Petzl VASAK crampons are a great choice.
Pros
- The 12-point configuration provides good stability and bite on a variety of terrains, from glaciers to snow couloirs.
- The Petzl ANTI-SNOW system limits snow buildup in a variety of snow conditions.
- The VASAK FLEXLOCK crampons are designed for boots without toe and heel welts, making them versatile and easy to use.
Cons
- The VASAK crampons may not be suitable for more technical ice climbing.
- The crampons are relatively heavy, which may be a concern for some climbers.
- Some users have reported difficulty adjusting the crampons to fit their boots properly.
In my experience, the Petzl VASAK crampons are a reliable and versatile option for mountaineering. The 12-point configuration provides good stability and bite on a variety of terrains, and the Petzl ANTI-SNOW system helps prevent snow buildup in a variety of conditions. The VASAK FLEXLOCK crampons are also easy to adjust and fit to a variety of boot sizes, making them a versatile choice for climbers.
It’s worth noting that the VASAK crampons may not be suitable for more technical ice climbing, as they are designed primarily for classic mountaineering.
These crampons are relatively heavy, which may be a concern for climbers who prioritize weight savings in their gear. Finally, some users have reported difficulty adjusting the crampons to fit their boots properly, so it’s important to ensure a proper fit before heading out on a climb.
Amarine Made Mountaineering Cleats
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use crampon for your mountaineering adventures, the Amarine Made Mountaineering Cleats may be a good choice for you.
Pros
- The high-density manganese steel and imported TPU material provide excellent durability and traction on icy and snowy terrain.
- The quick-adjust sizing mechanism and adjustable straps make it easy to put on and take off the crampons.
- The included portable bag makes it easy to store and transport the crampons.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the hex bolt holding the crampon together coming loose or falling out.
- The crampons may not fit well on larger shoe sizes.
- The crampons may not be suitable for more technical mountaineering routes.
These crampons are designed to reduce the risk of walking on icy or slippery surfaces, making them suitable for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, walking, climbing, hunting, and trail running. They are made of high-density manganese steel and imported TPU material, ensuring long-lasting comfort and durability. The crampons provide excellent traction on angled terrain, ice roads, icy driveways, mud, and wet grass.
The quick-adjust sizing mechanism and adjustable straps make it easy to put on and take off the crampons, and they can fit all kinds of sports shoes, mountaineering shoes, and mountaineering boots. The included portable bag makes it easy to store and transport the crampons.
Some users have reported issues with the hex bolt holding the crampon together coming loose or falling out, so it may be necessary to tighten the bolts before and during use. Additionally, the crampons may not fit well on larger shoe sizes, and they may not be suitable for more technical mountaineering routes.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best crampons for mountaineering, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Material
Crampons are typically made from either steel or aluminum. Steel crampons are more durable and better suited for technical climbing, while aluminum crampons are lighter and better for general mountaineering.
Compatibility
Make sure your crampons are compatible with your boots. Most crampons are designed to fit specific types of boots, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before making a purchase.
Type of Points
Crampons come with either horizontal or vertical front points. Horizontal points are better for general mountaineering, while vertical points are better for technical climbing.
Type of Binding
There are two types of bindings: step-in and strap-on. Step-in bindings are more secure and better suited for technical climbing, while strap-on bindings are easier to use and better for general mountaineering.
Length
Make sure your crampons are the correct length for your boots. Crampons that are too long or too short can be dangerous and difficult to use.
Flexibility
Some crampons are more flexible than others. More flexible crampons are better for mixed climbing, while less flexible crampons are better for ice climbing.
Weight
Consider the weight of the crampons, especially if you will be carrying them on long approaches. Lighter crampons are generally better for general mountaineering, while heavier crampons are better for technical climbing.
Final Verdict
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use ice climbing crampons for mountaineering?
While ice climbing crampons may work for mountaineering, they are not ideal. Ice climbing crampons are designed for vertical ice, while mountaineering crampons are designed for steep snow and ice slopes. Mountaineering crampons have longer points, which provide better traction on snow and ice. Additionally, mountaineering crampons are typically lighter and more flexible, which makes them more comfortable for long approaches.
How do I choose mountaineering crampons?
When choosing mountaineering crampons, consider the type of climbing you will be doing. If you will be climbing steep ice, you will want crampons with longer points. If you will be climbing mostly snow, you can get away with shorter points. Additionally, consider the type of boots you will be wearing. Some crampons are designed for certain types of boots, so make sure you choose a pair that will fit your boots properly.
Do you need mountaineering boots for crampons?
Yes, you will need mountaineering boots for crampons. Mountaineering boots are designed to be compatible with crampons, with a rigid sole and a heel welt for attaching the crampons. Regular hiking boots are not designed for use with crampons and will not provide the necessary support and stability.
What are the Best Crampons for Mountaineering?
The best crampons for mountaineering depend on the type of climbing you will be doing. For general mountaineering, the Petzl Sarken or Black Diamond Sabretooth crampons are popular choices. For steep ice climbing, the Petzl Dart or Black Diamond Cyborg crampons are good options.
What are Crampons?
Crampons are metal spikes that attach to the bottom of mountaineering boots to provide traction on snow and ice. They come in different shapes and sizes depending on the type of climbing you will be doing. If you’re not sure, read my post about the difference between crampons and microspikes.
What are the best crampons for 14ers?
For 14ers, which are mountains over 14,000 feet in elevation, the Petzl Vasak or Black Diamond Contact crampons are good choices. These crampons are designed for general mountaineering and will provide the necessary traction on snow and ice.
More Winter Outdoor Buying Guides
My Gear Review Process
At Crave the Planet, I’m all about honest and relatable reviews of outdoor products. As a physical therapist, downhill skier, hut to hut hiker, and mom, I’m constantly trying new gear to make my outdoor experiences more comfy and fun but with science in mind.
I’ll be real with you, I’m not an expert in every outdoor activity. But, who is? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet. Perfectionism is my enemy and I hope to help you ditch that vibe too.
My review process involves testing each product in real-life outdoor situations, but if it’s a really horrible day I’ll probably find a hotel in the valley. I’ll let you know what worked for me and what didn’t, so you can make informed decisions about your gear choices.
I don’t do sponsored reviews or take payment for my reviews. All comments are based on my personal experience. Sometimes I’ll test something and then send it back for a refund. Usually there’s a hefty fee. Bummer. So, if you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.
Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.
I hope this no-nonsense guide to the best crampons for mountaineering helps you make the decision that is right for you.