10 Best Crampons For Hiking 2025 in the United States

The Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction is designed for winter hiking and ice-related activities. It's built to handle challenging conditions with 12 heat-treated stainless-steel spikes per foot, providing excellent traction on icy terrain. The spikes are strategically placed, with 8 at the forefoot and 4 at the heel, ensuring stability and grip. The material used is both durable and lightweight, featuring a tough elastomer harness that remains flexible in extremely cold temperatures, down to -22°F (-30°C).

The reinforced eyelets add strength and durability, making it reliable for various outdoor activities. Additionally, the welded stainless steel chains prevent snow buildup and are highly packable, which is great for portability. However, the product might be heavier than some alternatives, weighing 13 ounces, which could be a consideration for ultra-light hikers. It’s also essential to ensure compatibility with your specific hiking shoes or boots.

The anti-balling plates are effectively integrated to minimize snow accumulation, which is critical for maintaining traction. The product comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, reflecting its quality and durability. The Kahtoola MICROspikes Footwear Traction is an excellent choice for anyone needing reliable traction for winter hiking, ice-trekking, or even trail-running on icy paths.

The G12 New-Matic EVO crampons by Grivel are designed for mountaineering and climbing, offering robust performance across snow and ice conditions. Crafted from steel and plastic, these crampons are sturdy and durable. They feature 12 points, with 8 at the front and 4 at the back, providing excellent stability and grip, which is essential for tackling icy terrains.

The binding system is user-friendly, making it relatively easy to put on and take off, which is crucial for efficiency during hikes. These crampons also include anti-balling plates, which help in preventing snow buildup that can impede traction, adding to their effectiveness in snowy conditions. Weighing around 1.01 kilograms, they strike a balance between durability and manageability.

Compatible with a wide range of boot sizes from 36 to 48, they cater to a broad audience, ensuring a good fit for most users. The weight could be a consideration for ultra-light hikers as they might prefer lighter options for long treks. Also, while robust, the steel construction may require some maintenance to prevent rust over time. For those looking for reliable crampons for mountaineering and ice climbing, the G12 New-Matic EVO is certainly a strong contender.

The Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampon stands out for its stainless steel construction, which enhances durability and resists rust, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The material also helps prevent snow from sticking, a common issue in snowy terrains. Weighing 2.2 pounds, these crampons are relatively lightweight, which is advantageous for hikers who need to minimize gear weight during long treks.

The flexible toe strap is designed to fit most footwear, increasing its versatility and ease of use. Additionally, the crampon includes dual-density ABS (anti-balling plates), which further helps in preventing snow build-up, enhancing traction and safety on icy surfaces. However, the fixed size might be a limitation for users with very large or very small feet. The lower-profile fit is suitable for modern hiking boots, but it may not be compatible with older or more specialized footwear.

The product is compact and easy to carry, but some users may find it challenging to adjust the straps initially. This crampon is particularly beneficial for hikers who prioritize durability and ease of use in their outdoor gear, especially in snowy or icy conditions.