Monday Kit Tip - Crampons

First Monday Kit Tip of 2010, so let's make it a topical one - crampons, some rapid reminders.


First, don't reach for the crampons just because there's snow on the ground. One estimate is that wearing crampons reduces your speed across the hills by approximately 10 per-cent. Often good mountain boots, particularly those with stiffened soles will be solid enough to kick in to even quite hard snow.

Next, in some conditions, mostly when snow is quite damp, it will tend to build up between your crampon points and form snow-balls that eventually prevent your crampons from digging in. In the short term, tapping with your axe will clear the points temporarily, but a better solution is an anti-balling plate which should stop the snow sticking in the first place.

Next, next, carry your crampons somewhere away from falling snow. A crampon-specific bag works well but simply stowing them under the lid of your pack will also work. The aim is to minimise faffing with snow-encrusted crampons with cold fingers.

Finally, adjust your crampons to fit your boots before heading out - even if you did it last year, check the fit again just to make sure. Even tool-free crampons needing adjustment are a pain in the boot when the wind's trying to strip the skin off your face and your fingers are doing an impression of Captain Birdseye's finest produce...

For more about crampons see our Crampon Guide by Winter Mountain Leader, Paul Lewis.