Crampons

About

Crampons are the difference between safe and unsafe travel on ice and hard snow. For NZ alpine tramping, glacier travel, and winter mountaineering, a quality pair of crampons matched to your boots and the terrain is non-negotiable kit. Getting this wrong — wrong type, wrong fit, or wrong technique — has serious consequences in alpine environments. Our crampon range is led by Grivel — Italian-made ice and snow equipment trusted by alpine guides across NZ and internationally. Crampon Types C1 — Flexible crampons: Compatible with most hiking and tramping boots (flexible sole). Suited to glacier travel, firm snow, and winter day walks. The most versatile option for general NZ alpine use. C1 crampons use strap bindings and fit a wide range of boot types. C2 — Semi-rigid crampons: Require a boot with a semi-stiff sole and a rand (lip) at heel and/or toe for the bail binding to grip. More performance-oriented — suited to technical alpine routes, ice climbing approaches, and mixed terrain. C3 — Rigid crampons: Require fully rigid mountaineering or ice climbing boots with front and rear welts. For technical ice climbing and serious winter alpine routes — not for general tramping. Getting the Right Fit Crampons must be sized and adjusted to your specific boots. A poorly fitted crampon can come loose in critical terrain — potentially catastrophic. If you're new to crampons, bring your boots in-store so we can confirm compatibility and fit correctly. Key checks: the crampon frame length matches your boot sole, the bail or strap binding is secure with no movement, and front points align with the toe of your boot. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need crampons for NZ tramping? For most NZ Great Walks and three-season tramping on well-formed tracks, no — crampons aren't required. They become necessary for: glacier travel (Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman Glacier), winter alpine routes with icy terrain, any route above the snowline in shoulder season or winter, and technical mountaineering.