Best crampons outdoor gear lab Mar 29, 2025 · Whether it’s your first time climbing or your 100th, when the slope is steep or there’s ice and hard pack underfoot, there’s one thing you need more than anything: crampons. What makes this boot a good value isn't just its low price. Our test pair, in size 43, checked in at 1 pound 10. Climbing packs may also have additional features such as daisy chain attachments on the outside for clipping gear. The unique aesthetic, feature, and performance of a Greenland style paddle have gained significant popularity in kayaking community thanks to distinctive streamline looks and optimized paddling efficiency for endurance and touring. Price: $160 List $160. rating 5/5. But when purchasing a hiking boot that is also a lifetime investment, they can be worth the expense, if they are the type you are looking for. We have compiled this list evaluating the features, specs, types, functioning mechanism, price, user reviews, and after-sales support. Apr 11, 2023 · Ski crampons are pieces of aluminum or steel that connect to a touring binding and provide added traction when touring on hard snow. May 13, 2021 · To spare you the loss of evenings such as these, or the heartbreak of failed gear or ruined climbs, we've spent years putting the industry's best mountaineering packs through their paces in the best (and worst) conditions alpine climbing has to offer. Not all crampons will be cross-compatible: Yes. While old-school thinkers may eschew these advances as unnecessary, we can't deny the increased possibilities that lighter, stronger gear provides. Aluminium is used to make very light crampons. Dec 16, 2021 · These boots are great for active winter activities like outdoor work and chores on dry surfaces, winter hikes, and general town use when the snow isn't deep. Hiking Gear Reviews. Broad front gear loops (and three other accessory loops) fit a full rack of alpine gear, and two lateral ice-clipper slots kept our screws organized on WI 5 ice leads. Jan 31, 2025 · The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour delivers exceptional comfort, features, versatility, and style, and is our favorite pant for backcountry skiing. For 7 years, our experts have been testing the best mountaineering boots for women. Apr 24, 2025 · The Best Winter Sleeping Bags. Best Warm Weather Hiking Shoe. Nov 18, 2024 · The Backland Tour from Atomic, in its tested configuration (with optional brakes), is nearly the lightest “full function” touring binding we have found. Lean towards wool or synthetic fibers for the best warmth and moisture-wicking capabilities. The photos above show the old Ion 12 (left) and the newest model (right). Secured and closed compartments are preferred over stretch pockets for climbing since there's nothing worse than dropping a crucial piece of gear halfway up a multi-pitch. Best technical crampons: Black Diamond Sabretooth Pro Crampons. Feb 23, 2022 · The La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX boot is a hybrid mountaineering-hiking boot that performs admirably in technical mountain terrain. Apr 30, 2024 · Best Overall: Black Diamond Distance Spike; Best for Patchy Snow: Yaktrax Walk; Best for Patchy Ice: Kahtoola Nanospikes; Best for Compact Snow: Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra; Best Budget: Due North Everyday G3 Traction Aids Oct 10, 2024 · With this in mind, I set out to try the best mountaineering boots and sort out which ones rise above the field to keep you climbing higher. Learn more about Trailspace Apr 4, 2025 · The Petzl Aquila features some of the best gear loops on the market, with two huge gear loops on each side and one extra-large loop that spans the back of the harness. Over months and sometimes years, we Dec 7, 2012 · Across the board, outdoor gear has been getting dramatically lighter, and crampons are no exception. Jan 25, 2023 · From mountaineering to slippery hikes, these top-rated crampons and microspikes are essential for your winter gear bag and hiking adventures. With deep research on over 25 models, we selected 20 women's specific and unisex options to compare side-by-side. Find everything you need for your next adventure at Backcountry. Learn more. Climbing. Credit: Jeff Colt We hope that this criterion places vests that are designed to be smaller race-oriented packs on a level playing field with larger packs that are designed with more storage space. Apr 1, 2025 · Our team of gear experts tested all the best crampons and traction devices on the market to make finding exactly what you need a breeze. 3 days ago · She knows firsthand the importance of having good gear for comfort and success. The proprietary KEEN. Nov 18, 2024 · The ATK Raider 13 Evo is a highly functional, incredibly sturdy touring binding. Tighten the firm upper part of the boot and prepare to send pillars of frozen water from New England to the Northwest. Crampons provide traction and security, making it easier to walk on snowy and icy terrain. Let’s not forget the runners, fastpackers, and Type 2 fun enthusiasts who like to run around the mountains in the snow but wear shoes too flexible for the standard crampon. It was born to climb steep ice. Dec 12, 2019 · First, let us get something out of the way. Aug 28, 2024 · For Delta 12. Steel crampons are generally the best for Jan 18, 2021 · Our top pick for the best crampons for ski boots is the Grivel G12 w/Antibot and Accordeon Crampons. These packs are best suited for light pack loads of 10-25 pounds but can work reasonably well for heavier loads too. Missing are ice clipper slots. "Standard" style. They vastly outperform micro-spikes in deep snow and on steep ground due to their longer spikes, which bite deeper into the snow, and the front points that can be used for uphill progression. Like the much-loved previous generation Kaha 2, this third version combines a slight rocker style with Hoka's unique split SwallowTail heel to give hikers a smoother gait while striding along. Mar 7, 2024 · Best Overall: Petzl Irvis Hybrid; Best Lightweight: Black Diamond Neve Pro; Best Technical All Mountain: Petzl Lynx; Best Steep Ice and Mixed: Black Diamond Stinger; Best for Use Without a Mountain Boot: Kahtoola KTS Hiking Crampon Nov 26, 2022 · The best mountaineering crampons are the ones that meet your needs the best, and that’s something that only you can decide. Sep 2, 2024 · For those diehards, I’ve got great news — the new Outdoor Research Cirque III Pants ($179) are the best ones yet. We just want the basics done well: easily adjustable length and release values, three heel lifters, and brakes. In both of these situations, the low cuff height enhanced ankle mobility. Of course, ultralight options like the Dynafit Mezzalama, Atomic Backland Ultimate, and La Sportiva Skorpius CR II blow away the competition, but these boots are so soft that maximum range of motion isn't super Jan 14, 2025 · The Outdoor Research Crocodile uses a three-layer Gore-Tex upper and a super thick foot panel — it's even more water-resistant (but also can get a little sweaty on the inside). Founded by rocket engineer-turned-product manager Kyle Siegel, this small garage company has finally made the pack that ski mountaineers have been waiting for. How to Choose The Best Bike Gear. Mar 1, 2022 · The Best Mountaineering Boots for Women. That should make climbing up waterfalls and ice-covered rock features faster, more fluid, and Nov 11, 2024 · We write mission-driven gear reviews. May 3, 2025 · As an outdoor professional with a IFMGA guide certification, Ryan spends 200+ days of the year hiking, either for work or for play, which has cemented the importance of having good quality and reliable gear. 3. 4 days ago · The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX is an outstanding boot that combines comfort with support for long days on the trail. And of course, what would we be if we didn't do our research on the best ski helmets on the market. Dec 24, 2024 · The best-performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Water resistance is more important for high gaiters than trail runners, but it is still nice when we come across a low cut pair that does it well like the Kahtoola 4 days ago · At Outdoor Tech Lab, we are passionate about exploring the great outdoors with the latest and greatest in technology. Sep 14, 2022 · Light gear is essential for challenging climbs in the mountains, and the Asolo Eiger XT Evo GV is the lightest weight boot in our review. For this update, we purchased 11 most regarded splitboards, which we put to the test from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the summit of Mount Shasta. The TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite provides excellent traction for firm or icy ground, “ rolling ” with your foot to adapt and grip with each step across varied terrain. Our team is committed to providing the world's best snow gear reviews to help you find the perfect item for your Jul 23, 2024 · The La Sportiva TX Guide is an all-around climbing and hiking machine, earning our approval as the top approach shoe on the market for users with narrow feet. Price: £59. Jan 22, 2025 · Best in Test: Grivel G10 Crampons. The Talon 22's avalanche gear stash, crampon stretch pocket, and ice axe loop make it perfect for winter warriors. On long, firm, but not-so-steep slopes, that ankle mobility was nice for proper French technique. Related: Best Approach Shoes for Men Apr 28, 2025 · High-scoring boots with the best range of motion include the Scarpa F1 LT and F1 XT, Dynafit TLT X, and Salomon S/Lab MTN Summit. This softshell pant is soft and stretchy, allowing for a wide range of motion while climbing the skin track, bootpack, or exposed summit ridgeline. Not all crampons will be cross-compatible: With aftermarket part. He has a decade of professional experience in the outdoor industry. “Paired with skins, they provide Scarpa has been making Phantom boots for a number of years now, and when it comes to mountaineering and alpine climbing on peaks and routes less than 6000 meters, this is the best iteration yet. of gear in your snowboard kit is the right pair of Apr 19, 2025 · The REI Trail 25 is a bag that can be worn from the office to the mountain trail, thanks to its spacious dimensions and versatile features. Mar 30, 2025 · A well-designed base layer can also become a trusted companion once spring hits, offering thermoregulation when outdoor pursuits take you high and nights remain cold. We'll discuss differences between materials and design features and review some of the top models. 3 lbs Sizing: S-L Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Lots of features ⊗ Not cheap. Firm TPE Band and. The bottom of the boot is too flexible to provide enough support while front-pointing, and strap-on crampons tend to break when kicking into vertical ice repeatedly. May 8, 2013 · This is a rigid boot that will acccept step-in crampons. It features a stiff sole with sticky rubber and a precisely fitting toe box for excellent climbing performance. Apr 25, 2024 · Winter hikers, backpackers, and mountaineers will appreciate technical features like aggressive crampons, long tails, and wide frames. To objectively pinpoint the best splitboard binding, we've tested a dozen models in recent years. Apr 2, 2025 · Comfortable and secure binding, wide weight range, natural stride, large crampons, heel crampon for descending: Traction technology grips any terrain, natural-feeling stride, Easy and comfortable BOA bindings large crampon and traction rails, pivot limiter for a natural stride, ergonomic elliptical shape, 19-degree heel lift Jan 28, 2022 · Assisting in ascending steeper snow is another one of the foundational jobs of a mountain axe and thus a category we weighted very heavily. The Corax has the standard four gear loops, two on each side, with the front ones providing rigidity that makes clipping and unclipping easier. We are 100% reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. To help kickstart your bike gear quiver, we've provided four important buying considerations, including budget, riding style, and must-have gear. Single leather boots often shine on steep ice but feel somewhat clunky on mixed ground or when rock climbing. Nov 14, 2024 · The front-side trekking pole carry feature allows you to go hands-free and get your poles out of the way without taking off the pack. The Lightning Ascent is average among the models in our test regarding surface area specs, but the lightweight aluminum frame and urethane Jul 9, 2024 · Luckily, the explosion of interest in outdoor activities has brought major advances in materials and design to outdoor gear of all types, including trekking poles. Nov 18, 2024 · When it comes to tackling icy terrains and winter mountaineering, having the right gear is essential for both safety and performance. The band incorporates double-reinforced rubber eyelets that make it firm and stretchy even in sub-zero conditions. Mar 28, 2020 · C1 crampons are flexible and thus comfortable to walk with. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best crampons for mountaineering. All of the shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding. These three experts researched and tested these award-winning products. Sharing your experience will support the outdoor community and help others find the best gear. It's pretty light and also one of the warmer boots in our test. We have tested 60 of the best winter sleeping bags side-by-side over the past decade to find the warmest, most reliable options available. 2 days ago · Your boot should also provide excellent breathability to vent moisture while you're in motion; dry feet are warm feet. Best Bang for Your Buck. It has all the attributes we look for in a snowshoe for technical terrain. Polar traction rubber excels on ice and snow, and a safety toe provides added Sep 19, 2024 · This design is advantageous for hikers who might transition between different kinds of boots. The Spantik is also the most supportive boot we reviewed. We tested the weight of each boot by weighing it with our trusty WeighMax 2822. Trailspace reviewers are outdoor enthusiasts like you: hikers, climbers, paddlers, backcountry skiers, and trail runners who share our experiences with the gear and clothing we rely on to get outside. Our reviews run the gamut from everyday backpacks to the top ultralight packs to a comparison of the best backpacking packs. Apr 28, 2025 · We tested 10 rain pants for women from Arc'teryx, Patagonia, Outdoor Research, and more to find the best for our next adventure. Yes. What We Offer: Dec 19, 2023 · Heavy, protective, and stiff, these boots are designed to securely accept modern crampons and keep your feet warm in frigid temperatures. Ensuring you have the best down sleeping bag for your budget is a game changer. "Standard" Dynafit/B&D style ski crampons can be lightly filed to work. The weight is right, the downhill skiing is smooth and supportive, and the overall form factor is familiar and proven. Crampons made of steel offer durability that makes them necessary for technical, steep and icy terrain. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the best crampons avaiBest-Crampons-on-the-Marketlable today. If your feet are high volume (and you don't want to do extensive modifications to narrower boots) the Radical will likely fit you just right. The La Sportiva G5 Evo is an almost perfect mountain boot for cold weather ascents. Our Analysis and Test Results The Scarpa Rebel Pro GTX was one of the early ultralight mountaineering boots that was compatible with an automatic (aka step-in) crampon binding and had a sole with enough fore-to-aft stiffness Feb 25, 2025 · We tested all-mountain and freestyle snowboard boots for the resort and backcountry to find the best options from Burton, Vans, K2 and more. What we consider “full function” is important to enumerate; our deep and strong team of expert backcountry skiers has clear values that inform our preferences. Let our team of climbing experts help you find the best climbing shoes, top climbing harnesses, and climbing ropes for your needs and budget. This model builds on the success of the earlier Quest models, with the addition of some notable new technologies that increase stability and durability, as well as a weight savings of nearly half a pound. Crampons with Antiballing Plates: These crampons come equipped with special plates that prevent snow from accumulating under the foot while hiking. Apr 29, 2025 · From the top harnesses and belay devices to the best-rated ropes, we've got the scoop on the market's best gear. The protection and traction of the S/Lab Ultra 3 are what make it such a versatile trail running shoe choice. Feb 7, 2023 · The best crampons. Ben Applebaum-Bauch is an avid thru-hiker and has traversed the Long, Pacific Crest, Oregon Coast, and Colorado trails, to name a few. We tested the Salomon S/Lab Shift. $399 at Raide. 8 ounces (760 grams) for one boot. The size is moderate, the binding and deck are joined with a hinge, there are extensive steel crampon points, and the binding is secure enough in most conditions. Best Applications. Our results were unanimous among male and female testers: the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rises to the top of the list as our favorite all-arounder. It seems that the boots with less rocker, particularly the Asolo Eiger XT, Scarpa Phantom Tech, and Mont Blanc Pro, are the easiest to fit with crampons. Nov 22, 2024 · I also write for Backpacker Magazine, covering their Deals of the Week, gear review pieces, and their Editors' Choice Awards for The Best Gear of the Year. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting your journey, our site is your go-to resource for everything related to outdoor gear, hiking, camping, backpacking, and communication technology. Because it is phenomenally waterproof, it works great for wet-weather activities with lots of mud and for winter dayhiking. Ryan Huetter and Ben Applebaum-Bauch are the brains behind our men's hiking shoe review. The Nepal EVO is our Best Buy Award winner due it's long term durability and solid performance as an all around mountaineering boot. Best Overall: Arc’teryx Acrux LT GTX Boot; Best for Glaciers: La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX; Best for Ice Climbing: Scarpa Phantom Tech; Best for Alpine Rock: La Sportiva Trango Tech Feb 11, 2025 · Our time-tested approach to gear reviews starts by doing market research on all of the available models, and comparing them to the products we have tested over the years. Find out more about how we test and compare products. And some of us did. Nov 7, 2023 · Updated Since Testing G3 updated the Ion 12 binding since our last test cycle. Not all crampons will be Jun 1, 2012 · These are the most compatible with a strap-on or instep crampon, and would be the most comfortable boots to wear if your hike necessitated kicking steps in snow. Today, there are various types of softshell jackets available, ranging from minimalist windbreakers to insulated options that feel like two jackets combined into one. Our experts have tested nearly 50 different models in the last decade. It is a versatile recreational kayak that bridges the gap between beginner-friendly stability and performance-oriented features. Aside from that, the arrangement prevents the build-up of snow. The 3 characteristics that you should take note of in a crampon frame are its material, weight and alignment. The heel crampon comprises six teeth parallel to the foot and offers moderate traction when walking downhill. 10 is a storage trojan swallowing more gear than you would expect in its slender profile. Specifications: All aluminum construction optimized for snow travel Ten points (with dual front points) assure traction on icy terrain Very lightweight 360 gm/12 ounces for pair CORD-TECH optimizes volume when packed in their included bag Tool free adjustment assures secure fit Binding system suitable for use with hiking and approach shoes, without heel or toe welts Boot sizes 36-46 EU/6-12 US Nov 18, 2024 · The Salomon MTN Summit 12 BR is an iterative improvement on the brand's more basic touring binding. Kahtoola Microspikes ($75) Category: Hiking/running Weight per pair: 11. These packs use high-quality foam that perfectly balances support and comfort. Tromping around in the soggy PNW temperate rainforest, one of our favorite activities, wearing the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain pants. Each crampon has 6 spikes on the heel and 12 spikes on the forefront. I lived in these pants last spring while skiing and mountaineering deep in Oct 15, 2023 · Best Overall Winter Traction Device 1. Check out our buying advice section below the main reviews to find out what you need to know and what to look for when buying crampons. When not guiding, he May 3, 2025 · High stretch fabrics allow you to store lots of gear, but the best minimalist vests fit great when empty and full. The cuff of the boot is slightly lower and Sep 19, 2023 · If you’re planning to conquer the snowy peaks, you need the right gear. Learn more about different types of crampons in this post from Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports. But it is identical in every way but color to the Atomic Shift. Since it is a double boot, it has two sets of laces that can be cranked tight, providing enough support to stand on front-points, even while wearing a pack Gearlab Outdoors is a maker of premium carbon fiber Greenland style paddles. This pack defies limits, shifting with ease from a gear-hauling machine able to carry several days' worth of equipment into basecamp to a svelte summit pack nimble enough to climb complex technical alpine routes without compromising on features and durability. He brings an extensive knowledge of Oct 25, 2023 · The Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX uses one of the best waterproof-breathable membranes to ensure that your feet stay dry on your hike. These are expensive boots. The 25L capacity is slightly larger than the previous two bags, and we can easily fit either hiking gear or office electronics into the main compartment, with additional pockets offering excellent organization regardless of the day's needs. For this update, we purchased 7 of the top splitboard bindings and tested them side-by-side to see how they stack up across our strategically selected metrics. Though it's the strongest at rock climbing, it also puts forth a satisfactory performance on steep ice or mixed ground. Conclusion The La Sportiva Trango Tower Extreme GTX is our Best Buy Award winner. Where to Start? Feb 13, 2015 · Fit The La Sportiva Baruntse’s design fits a variety of feet thanks to a heat-moldable inner boot. When you are in the mountains, the right gear is often the difference between a sufferfest and something you'd like to do again. Sep 14, 2022 · They did better on mixed ground and climbing rock without crampons. Best 12-point crampons Nov 18, 2024 · Not all crampons will be cross-compatible: With aftermarket part. Mar 13, 2023 · Most of our testers prefer a fully automatic crampon binding, as it gives a better and more secure fit. Value. With so many options available, it can be tough to know which ones to choose. “…[S]ki crampons have teeth on either side of the ski and provide ‘bite’ into the snow, like a boot crampon,” writes Rob Coppolillo in his book, The Ski Guide Manual. From what we can tell, BD has stopped making approach shoes. What about best backpacks for women? Got you Apr 2, 2025 · Now that winter outdoor recreation has become hugely popular, many hikers are tramping on groomed trails or tracks where sinking into the snow isn't the main problem. Learn more about Trailspace Sharing your experience will support the outdoor community and help others find the best gear. Behind each side-by-side review are countless hours of testing, note-taking, analyzing performance…and of course powder days. Oct 25, 2022 · The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a perfect example of a classic hiking boot. The newest iteration is a bit heavier, but includes a wider plastic stop for step-in guidance and now features brakes and associated anti-friction device. According to gear tests by the Outdoor Gear Lab (2022), hybrid crampons perform well in mixed conditions. Our test team doesn't ask that much from tech bindings. Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex Review. Traction: 12 stainless steel spikes (0. La Sportiva, Scarpa, and Asolo all advertise the weight of just one boot on their websites, but some of the other companies list the weight of a pair. Climbing crampons are stiffer because they need to hold the weight of the climber on steep slopes when traction is only provided by the front-facing points. this is one of the best options if you are looking for the GearLab provides the world's best reviews of outdoors gear based on in-depth side-by-side comparison and written by outdoor professionals. Apr 28, 2025 · Yes, “Standard” style (Not all crampons will be cross-compatible) Plum R170: With aftermarket part; best with Plum brand crampons: Dynafit Ridge: Yes, “Standard” style (Not all crampons will be cross-compatible) G3 Zed 12: With aftermarket part; only G3 brand crampons: Black Diamond Fritschi Xenic 10: Only Fritschi brand crampons Nov 24, 2022 · Best Crampons: Nortec Micro. It's very light, warm, and climbs well. All we say about the Salomon S/Lab Shift can be directly extrapolated to the Atomic Jan 31, 2025 · These light and protective hardshell pants are the best option for backcountry skiing: The best softshell pants on the market for ski touring and fair-weather resort days: These pants perform nearly as well as some of the best on the market, at a much lower price: These are great bibs that keep the weather out and fit well, at an affordable price May 1, 2025 · The best walkie-talkies provide dependable range and clear communication to keep you connected during outdoor activities. How we tested the best crampons Oct 27, 2022 · The Osprey Mutant 38 earns top marks again and retains our Editors' Choice Award. We tested the latest and the greatest from Black Diamond, La Sportiva, Garmin, MSR, Gregory and The North Face. Feb 26, 2025 · Ben Applebaum-Bauch got his start in the outdoor industry maintaining gear for guided trips, including plenty of backpacking tents. Oct 25, 2023 · The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX excels in mountain terrain where excellent traction and stability are essential to keep you safe and secure. Apr 25, 2025 · With some input from other team members and trail runners, these ladies offer a discerning eye for the best hiking footwear. Unfortunately, because they are massive, they don't slice into thick ice like smaller, sharper crampons or provide the broader traction of separated side rails. As much as a Dec 11, 2024 · We've now tested many iterations of this boot, comparing it to dozens of the other best backcountry ski boots on the market. Related Searches. We really wanted to love this boot. These two companies work hand in hand on many products, including this binding and one of our Editors' Choice bindings. The fabric is soft and stretchy, and the cut is close and athletic; the pants weigh just 10. Nov 8, 2024 · The Black Diamond Jetforce Pro has a lot of praise and is an award winner from Freeskier. We look at product specifications and design, and draw on anecdotal evidence to select the best products for side-by-side testing. For each product, we spend months using them across mountains, lakes, cities, deserts, and forests. That being said, we believe that the Petzl Lynx are the toughest and most versatile crampons out there, effectively meeting the needs of most mountaineers and hikers. 1 day ago · Mary Witlacil is an expert camping chef who led our reviews of camping stoves, backpacking stoves, camping coffee, and other gear like women's hiking shoes. Mar 12, 2025 · Loaded with days of camping gear, multiple tents, and a full trad climbing rack, we recently took the Gregory Baltoro 75 ($360) on a serious test drive in the Appalachian Mountains. The leather upper is more supportive than most, ideally suited for larger climbers or climbing with a pack. The Gore-Tex liner gives this boot a flood height of 4. 2 days ago · Features: Best for: Hiking and Trekking Crampon Type: Strap-on Number of points: 10 Frame: Chromoly Steel Teeth Type: Non-Modular Boot Size: 4 to 14 Weight (Ounces): 23. Oct 4, 2024 · Light, packs down really small, the best pad attachment system: Very light, packs down small, finely crafted: Light, minimalist, great for casual camping trips, quality DownTek and Pertex Quantum materials: Cons: Expensive, not as versatile as a quilt: A little constricting, small foot box, not the best neck draw cord design Feb 12, 2024 · Crampon frames depict the durability and strength of the overall crampon design. Feb 22, 2024 · The MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes are a top choice for snowshoers who value traction, durability, and versatility. Ben Applebaum-Bauch has been testing camping gear for OutdoorGearLab for six years. It also has an easy to clip rear haul loop. 9 oz. . Editor's Note: Our women's approach shoe review was updated on April 29, 2025, to remove some Black Diamond models from our lineup. Let's just get it out of the way right now: this boot is a front-pointing machine. Outdoor Oriented Crampons. 3 Changing the game a bit, we find the KTS Hiking Crampons by Kahtoola. Not all crampons will be cross Dec 19, 2016 · Rigid crampons are for use with rigid boots and shouldn’t be used with flexible footwear. Over the last decade, our team of experts has purchased and evaluated hundreds of best-selling base layers for men and women, putting them through their paces from Yosemite Valley With a fully rigid sole with the perfect amount of rocker, the Spantik is designed to be used with fully automatic step-in crampons. Outdoor Gear Lab calls this “a solid all-around pack design [that] creates one of the most user-friendly and touring-focused packs on the market. This improves your stability and balance. The first step in your shopping journey is to determine which type of softshell suits your needs best. Oct 29, 2024 · The Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex is one of our favorite men's hiking boots. Apr 5, 2024 · They are aggressively angled and perform best in packed and deep snow. We combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing to find the best gear—never native ads or sponsored posts. Apr 25, 2025 · The Outdoor Research Foray Pant is a compact, light protection layer made with excellent materials and careful attention to detail. It's one of our favorite boots for climbing ice, snow, and rock. Belaying Comfort 4 days ago · Ultralight Backpacks Ultralight backpacks are for experienced hikers that want to reduce weight and carry only the bare essentials. From mountaineering boots and women's mountaineering boots to the warmest winter sleeping bags and our favorite stormworthy 4-season tents, our comprehensive reviews can help you sift through the best products on the market and discover the right gear for your specific uses. A couple of years later, he became a guide himself, leading multiday and multi-week backpacking, cycling, and paddling adventures through Nova Scotia, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. 2 ounces and have a packed size similar to a one-liter water bottle. ” We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Jan 28, 2025 · High-modulus polyethylene fibers reinforce both the leg and gear loops, providing enough rigidity to make this lightweight harness functional on the wall. Weight: 2. I’ve written about countless outdoor companies, outdoor sports, and tested gear with publications including CompanyWeek, Outdoor USA Magazine (print), Elevation Outdoors, 5280, and more. Only G3 brand. They are designed for climbing not walking. Less than an actual mountain boot, this mid-weight hiking boot will handle trail miles with ease, whether on day hikes or extended distance backpacking trips. Not all crampons will be cross May 18, 2015 · The Grivel G1 is best for general mountaineering applications and is suitable for early season backpacking or ski mountaineering, but is a little heavy. Other Dec 18, 2023 · Ski Crampon compatible? With aftermarket part. ) Harness: Elastometer Mar 6, 2025 · We engage in hours of in-lab testing and outdoor rainy day play, all to gather the details and answers you need to find the best option for your climate and activity. Compared to most harnesses, the gear carrying capacity is quite large. A full-time IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide, Ryan spends over 200 days a year hiking as an outdoor professional. Mar 24, 2025 · We bought and tested the 23 top-rated ultralight backpacks from Gossamer Gear, ULA, Hyperlite, Zpacks, Six Moons Designs, and more to find the best pack Dec 5, 2023 · We've put in the work (and play!) to find the best mountaineering gear. Each foot has 12 spikes that protrude ⅜", making them perfect for winter hiking, chopping wood, and working on soft surfaces like dirt. 5 inches, meaning that you can slosh your way through some pretty deep stream crossings without worrying that they will wet out. No one tests climbing gear as extensively and thoughtfully as we do, and our review ratings make it easy for you to make smarter, more informed, purchase decisions every time. Ski Crampon compatible? Only Fritschi brand. 99 Weight: 320g a pair Best for: Outdoor running, trekking Compatibility: All trainers and boots. As a Oct 5, 2023 · Grivel G20+ EVO Crampon; The Reviews: The Best Ice Climbing Gear of 2024 Arc’teryx Alpha Hybrid Pant ($350) (Photo: Courtesy Arc’teryx) His work focuses on outdoor business development Outdoor gear and clothing from big brands to the small and undiscovered. In the end, it is easy to call the Tecnica Zero G Tour Pro the best touring boot in our test. With a sharp design, best-in-class anti-balling system, and aggressive front points, this unit is perfect for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. Crampons are an essential tool for mountaineers, providing grip and stability on icy terrain. Best Value: Elderid Spiderpick Crampons. Even though the older model is lighter and less expensive, the upgrades incorporated into the MTN Summit 12 were well-received and appreciated by our testers – they all agree that the improvements are worth the extra weight and cost. This is a great boot for backpacking if you value foot support more than ankle stability. Dec 19, 2024 · The Kahtoola MICROspikes are crampon-style winter traction cleats that provide excellent traction for deep snow and thick ice. 38 in. There is a clear correlation between surface area and flotation. Apr 10, 2025 · How to Pick the Best Softshell Jacket for You. Nov 29, 2021 · The product is designed to make our work easier and to make your shopping easier and effective we have made a list of the best crampons outdoor gear lab available in the market. Crampons are a series of sharp metal teeth that attach to your boot and bite at ice or hard snow for added traction. The precise, multidirectional lug pattern and grippy outsole rubber are equipped with various terrain types, and the socklike upper is Dec 28, 2020 · The Best Splitboards. The Mont Blanc Pro performed well on mixed terrain and rock climbing. These snowshoes feature aggressive steel crampons and a 360-degree traction frame, providing excellent grip on steep and icy terrain. Apr 23, 2024 · The Tubbs Flex VRT is a solid product that leans toward the high and wild. You can trust Advnture Our expert reviewers spend days testing and comparing gear so you know how it will perform out in the real world. We weighed one boot (½ of a pair). You need them when ice climbing and for rugged backcountry skiing because you may not be able to Crampons; Ice Accessories Mountaineering Boots; Gear Blog; Sales; Outdoor Gear Lab. After purchasing the top-selling models, we spent the winter months camping in the snow and howling wind to evaluate their performance firsthand. Photo: Ian Nicholson and Graham Zimmerman use their axes in mid-dagger position while traversing a steep slope while attempting to climb a new route in the Kichatna Range, AK. This boot isn't cheap, and we feel there are better boots out there at a similar price. Materials Steel is the standard material for crampons as it is hard-wearing and the points hold an edge well and are easily sharpened. Jan 23, 2023 · The Best Splitboard Bindings. Apr 2, 2025 · Flotation is the main reason to reach for a pair of snowshoes; the best models keep you on top of or just below the snow's surface. We especially like this harness for trad and multi-pitch climbing since we can fit a full double-rack with tons of cams, nuts, and slings on the front two gear loops. Featuring a tall ankle cuff, solid underfoot stability, and top-notch durability thanks to an all-leather upper, this boot embodies all of the attributes we think of in a tried and true boot. Our process: we purchase the top 10-20 products in each category (like backpacking tents and top sleeping pads) and then we send our expert testing team into the field. To find the best splitboard, we've reviewed over 25 boards in the last three years. They are a good choice if your objective requires a mix of train and cross-country hiking, a snowy approach, and easy to moderately difficult rock climbing terrain. Durability cannot be compromised in the backcountry as replacement or repair of gear may be hours or days away, so these models are built with more rugged materials. Best with Plum brand. If heat molding isn’t practical, the inner boot can be worn into a custom-fit shape over the course of a few climbing trips. Another important piece of gear is a solid pair of winter socks that can insulate even if your feet get wet. For these reasons we think this boot is best suited to spring, summer, and fall alpine climbing, and milder winter days. Our testers have a solid grasp on the strengths and weaknesses of these packs and some good Mar 25, 2025 · The CamelBak SnoBlast 22 Hydration Pack ($120) is one of CamelBak’s first-ever snow adventure packs, which the hydration-focused brand launched in the fall 2022, and it remains unchanged for Each boot's climbing performance was evaluated in three media: ice, mixed/dry tooling, and rock climbing without crampons. Among the must-have equipment for climbing enthusiasts are crampons, specifically the best automatic crampons that seamlessly attach to your boots, ensuring stability and confidence on slippery surfaces. 00 at REI: $180. Nov 26, 2024 · (Photo: Courtesy Raide) Best in Test Raide LF 30L. Affordable mountaineering crampons High-traction crampons for steep climbs Crampons for winter hiking Adjustable crampons for versatility Recommended crampon brands for mountaineering Best crampons for mountaineering Durable crampons for icy terrains Lightweight crampons for climbing Top-rated dual-point crampons Anti-balling plates for crampons Feb 14, 2025 · Rated to -25 F, the KEEN Revel IV Mid Polar Boots ($180) are built to withstand extremes. This boot does have a rear welt for a crampon bail, and works well with semi-automatic crampons for traveling over glaciers or ascending a snow couloir on the way to your summit. The main downside to winter hiking boots is that they compromise on warmth and weather protection to allow the user to walk with ease. The good news is that we can help, not only with deciding what type of backpack you need, but reviews that walk you through the various types, and the pros and cons of each. It has okay steep snow climbing ability for more difficult routes, but if you plan to climb steep snow and ice routes more regularly, we would recommend the Petzl Summit Evo or the Grivel Air Tech Evolution. Black Diamond - cams, tents, backpacks, crampons Petzl - ice tools, climbing hardware MSR - most things are quality Outdoor Research - gloves Arcteryx - harnesses (will pay retail because they are the best on the market and it’s not even close), backpacks La Sportiva - climbing shoes, mountaineering boots Patagonia - most clothing Whether you love hiking, backpacking, or camping, our team of backcountry experts has been testing products side-by-side for over 12 years. With aftermarket part. With grippy rubber and a stiff sole that is capable of accepting a crampon, these are excellent climbers both on rock and moderate snow. Nov 14, 2024 · Climbing gear isn't light and approaches may be long. May 3, 2025 · This version of the S/Lab is very similar to previous versions, making it a reliable favorite. 00 at REI The Radical Pro is Dynafit's latest “flagship” downhill oriented touring ski boot. Mar 11, 2025 · In winter, snow and ice can make movement difficult and hazardous. qedwdjhqgowxazynjzvufwtmtffnwjqjrzunbidyguzttwljkqnfjyrjslftvqripceda