10 Best crampons 2025 in the United States

The Cimkiz Ice Cleats Traction Snow Grips are versatile crampons designed for various outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, walking, and mountaineering. They feature 19 stainless steel spikes per foot, ensuring excellent traction on icy and slippery surfaces, which can help you stay safe and prevent injuries.

The crampons are made from durable thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), which remains strong even in extremely cold conditions down to -45°C. This material is also stretchy, making the crampons easy to put on and take off with the adjustable strap, and they are built to last without tearing or snapping easily.

These crampons are unisex and can be used by everyone from teenagers to elders, making them a great option for families or groups. They are flexible and lightweight, allowing them to fit various types of footwear and be easily carried in the included bag without taking up much space. One thing to note is that the crampons are marked with 'L' for 'Large' size, not indicating left or right. However, they do not come with anti-balling plates, which might make snow or mud stick to the bottom in some conditions. If you need crampons for regular outdoor adventures in challenging conditions, these could be a reliable choice.

The Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampon stands out due to its stainless steel construction, which is rust-resistant, durable, and effective at preventing snow from balling up. This material choice makes the crampons a reliable option for various climbing conditions. With a lower-profile fit, these crampons are designed to work well with modern boots, enhancing stability and grip. The flexible toe strap allows for compatibility with most types of footwear, adding to their versatility.

The crampons are compact and user-friendly, making them easy to carry and put on when needed. Additionally, they come with dual-density ABS plates which further help in preventing snow buildup, a common issue in cold, snowy environments. Weighing approximately 2.2 pounds (1.01 kilograms), they are relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for climbers who need to minimize their gear weight.

However, it's important to note that these crampons might not be the best choice for extremely technical climbs or icy conditions due to their lighter build and strap binding system. They are ideally suited for general mountaineering and ice climbing activities where weight and ease of use are prioritized. In summary, the Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons are a solid option for climbers looking for durable, lightweight, and easy-to-use gear for moderate climbing and ice conditions.

The Kahtoola KTS Steel Hiking Crampons are designed for winter hiking and backpacking, especially suited for flexible hiking shoes and boots. Made from alloy steel, they provide durability while remaining relatively lightweight at about 1.7 pounds per pair. Featuring 10 spikes measuring 3/4-inch each, these crampons offer solid traction and stability on icy or snowy trails without being overly aggressive, which is ideal for non-technical terrain rather than steep mountaineering.

One of the standout features is the Leafspring Flex Bar, a patented dual-layer steel bar that allows the crampons to flex with your footwear. This means they move naturally with your feet, making them comfortable for long hikes and versatile over mixed terrain. The Quick-Fit Binding system with two buckles ensures a secure and customizable fit, maintaining consistent tension for stability. These crampons do not have specific anti-balling plates, which means snow can build up underfoot in wet or sticky conditions, potentially reducing grip unless you keep them clear. They are also quite packable, making them easy to bring on backpacking trips.

Designed for hikers looking to add safety and confidence when crossing snowy or icy trails, these crampons are not intended for technical ice climbing or very steep terrain. The KTS crampons offer a good balance of comfort, grip, and convenience for winter hikers and backpackers who use flexible footwear and want a lightweight, easy-to-use traction device.