How to Walk With Crampons

Crampons have been used since the time of the Roman empire. There have been many changes in materials and design over the centuries. The basic principle of crampons has remained the same, attaching points to the bottom of shoes or boots that will allow a climber or hiker to get traction on ice and hard packed snow. Walking with crampons is awkward and tiresome at first, but with practice you will find walking with crampons to be efficient and second nature.

Things You'll Need

  • Hiking or climbing boots
  • Crampons
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Walk across level ground by keeping with your feet hip width apart, lifting your foot straight up.

    • 2

      Lower your foot in front of you straight down, flat footed, so all of the bottom points of the crampon contact the surface at the same time.

    • 3

      Climb steep slopes by zig-zagging up the slope. Allow your ankle to turn so you can plant your feet flat with each step.

    • 4

      Descend slopes by facing down slope, keeping your knees bent slightly as you walk. Always step down flat footed to get a good grip on the ice or snow.

    • 5

      Ascend and descend vertical ice faces by kicking the toe points into the face, keeping your foot horizontal and straight.