Crampons Ben Ingram

Overview Introduction Crampon Types Fitting Crampons Using Crampons Caveats

Introduction What are crampons? – Metal spike that attach to your feet What are they good for? – Give traction on ice or steep snow

Crampon Types: Number of Points Instep crampons (about six points on instep) - Improve traction, but not good for mountaineering 10 point crampons (no front points) – better traction, but still not good for steep climbs 12 point crampons (front points) – the standard for mountaineering

Crampon Types: Flexibility Hinged: More comfortable Tiring to front point Use with any boot Rigid: Less comfortable Less tiring to front point Can only be used with rigid boots

Crampon Types: Point Orientation Horizontal Front Points: Better in snow and soft ice Less balling Best for general mountaineering Vertical Front Points: Better in hard ice Dangerous balling

Crampon Types: Attachment Straps: Work with any boot Harder to put on in cold Step-in: Only work with welted boots Easy to put on

Crampon Types: Summary With mouse boots, use hinged, horizontal point, strap-on crampons like the black crampons with yellow straps or the “old school” crampons With Sorels, only the “old school” crampons fit

Fitting Crampons Fit is the extremely important. Crampons that fall off cause accidents and slow down the group. Adjust crampons at home Adjust length and instep width so that crampon holds boot without straps Strapping pattern Test crampon fit Practice putting on at home, so can put on with gloves or in cold

Crampon Use Two approaches: Get as many points as possible into ground Front pointing

Caveats They’re sharp and put holes in clothing and packs Balling causes many accidents Don’t glissade in crampons!