10 Best crampons 2026 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 Black Diamond Equipment Sabretooth Pro Crampons are designed for mountaineering and ice climbing. Made from durable stainless steel, these crampons resist snowballing and rust, ensuring longevity and reliability in icy conditions. They feature versatile horizontal front points and technical secondary points, which provide excellent traction and stability on various terrains. The low-profile micro-adjust heel bail allows for a precise fit, making them suitable for prolonged use.

One of the standout features is the anti-balling plates (ABS) included in both the front and rear, helping to prevent snow build-up underfoot. These crampons come in two versions: the Pro version, which accommodates boots with a toe welt, and the Clip version, which has a flexible toe strap for boots without a toe welt. However, for ski boots, you will need to purchase wide toe bails separately, which is an additional cost and could be seen as a minor inconvenience.

Weighing 890 grams, they are relatively lightweight, making them easier to carry without adding much bulk. These crampons are best suited for those who regularly engage in mountaineering and need reliable equipment for various icy and alpine conditions.