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 Kahtoola K-10 Hiking Crampons in black are designed for winter hiking and backpacking, offering a customizable fit and high packability. One of their standout features is the 10 spikes per foot with a 3/4-inch spike length, which enhances stability for all-day hiking. These crampons are best suited for hiking shoes and boots and can be used both on and off mountain trails, making them versatile for various terrains.

The stainless steel material ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, while the patented dual-layer LEAFSPRING FLEX BAR is specifically designed for use with flexible footwear, allowing users to move quickly and lightly over non-technical terrain. The two buckle closure Quick-Fit-Binding system helps maintain constant tension, adding to the stability of the crampons. Additionally, these crampons are lightweight, weighing only 1.2 pounds, which makes them easy to carry and pack.

These crampons are ideal for those who enjoy winter hiking and non-technical mountaineering, offering good performance and reliability. However, they may not be suitable for technical climbing or extremely icy conditions. The packability and customizable fit make them a practical choice for adventurers looking for dependable and lightweight traction aids.

The G12 New-Matic EVO crampons by Grivel are a robust and versatile choice for mountaineering enthusiasts. Made from a combination of steel and plastic, these crampons are designed to deliver durability and reliability in various snow and ice conditions. They come equipped with 12 points, with 8 in the front and 4 in the back, to ensure optimal stability and performance during climbs. This makes them a strong contender for all types of mountaineering activities. Weighing approximately 1.01 kilograms per pair, they are a bit on the heavier side, which could be a consideration for some users.

The crampons include anti-balling plates to prevent snow build-up, which is a critical feature for maintaining grip and safety on snowy terrains. The New-Matic binding system allows for a secure fit that can accommodate a wide range of boot sizes (36-48), enhancing its versatility. The heavier weight could be a potential drawback for those looking for ultra-light gear. The G12 New-Matic EVO crampons are well-suited for serious mountaineers looking for reliable and stable crampons that perform well across various conditions.